FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS


GETTING A TATTOO WITH NAH MATE

How DO I BOOK A TATTOO?

I need to cancel/ reschedule my bookING, will I lose my deposit?

The $50 deposit is a non-refundable drawing and booking fee. I am happy to reschedule your appointment given a min 48 hours notice. With sufficient notice, your deposit will carry over to your new appointment. Cancellations, no-shows and failure to give notice will void your deposit.

HOW TO I CHOOSE TO GET A TATTOO DESIGN?

My tattoo designs or ‘flash’ can be viewed on my instagram. You can choose from a pre-designed piece of flash or request a custom piece. I am also happy to personalise a flash piece from my existing designs.

WHERE CAN SEE YOUR FLASH?

The best place to see my latest and available flash can be found on my Instagram account here.

Can I make changes to a design?

Yes, I am happy to make minor adjustments to flash or your custom design. This will be done in one round of changes. If you want another round of changes or a major design change, you may be asked to pay another drawing fee or I may need to reschedule your booking.

I’ve requested custom, WHEN WILL I SEE MY DESIGN?

Once we’ve discussed your custom piece and I feel it works for my style, I will ask you to pay a deposit/drawing fee. This will also secure the date and time of your appointment. Your custom design will be sent a day before. I am happy to do 1 round of changes.

how are my tattoos priced?

My tattoos start at $150. The price will vary based on size and placement. Custom work may cost more than flash artwork. A single piece can range from $150-$450, depending on the design. My work is priced per piece. If you’ choose’d like to get more than one tattoo during your appointment, the subsequent piece will be offered at a discounted rate. I also offer pick n’ mix rates on small flash, please ask to see this flash if you are interested!

do you take eftpos?

You can make cash or card payments.

how long will my tattoo take?

If you are worried about time, please ask for an estimate during the booking process. My tattoos generally range between 1-3 hours depending on design and placement.

How should I prepare for my tattoo session?

It’s important to eat a decent meal and drink plenty of water before you arrive. If you feel unwell at any point during your appointment, let me know and you can take a breather.

How old do I have to be to get tattooed?

18+ only.

how do i look after my new tattoo?

You can find directions on tattoo aftercare here.


HAND POKE TATTOOING

what is hand poke or stick and poke tattOOing?

Hand poke tattooing, also know as ‘machine-free tattooing’ is a traditional method where ink is manually inserted into the skin without a tattoo machine. Using a single needle attached to a handle, the artist creates designs by puncturing the skin, forming dots or lines. It’s known for its intimate, artisanal approach, often used for smaller tattoos with delicate details.

what is hand poke or stick and poke tattOOing?

Distinguishing between machine tattooing and hand poke lies in their execution time, pain perception, and resulting aesthetic. Machine tattooing involves rapid needle movement, creating closely spaced dots for clean, precise lines. In contrast, hand poke relies on manual needle manipulation to form a series of dots, resulting in a softer, more organic appearance.

Machine tattooing is optimal for:

  • Larger and intricate designs
  • Extensive areas of solid colour or intricate shading
  • Crisp lines and vibrant colour
  • Detailed work, even on small scales

Hand poke is suited for:

  • Smaller, uncomplicated designs
  • Embracing a gentle, imperfect look
  • Black and grey work or subtle touches of color
  • Delicate placements like fingers or ears
  • Hand poke tends to be less painful but more time-consuming, with a milder discomfort that lingers. Machine tattooing, while quicker, may cause more intense but shorter-lived discomfort.

Both methods utilise the same needles and ink, with similar longevity if properly cared for during healing and shielded from sun exposure. Hand poke tattoos typically heal faster and with less skin trauma, though individual healing experiences vary. Touch-ups may be necessary for either style if ink loss occurs during the healing process.

WHY STICK AND POKE TATTOOING?

Stick and poke tattooing best captures my drawing style when transitioning to tattoos. I appreciate the hand-drawn effect it imparts, creating a perfectly imperfect aesthetic that resonates with me.

HOW LONG DO HAND POKE TATTOOS LAST?

Similar to machine tattoos, stick and poke tattoos are permanent, as the ink penetrates the second layer of the skin. Without proper care, they can fade over time. Hand-poked tattoos on high-traffic areas like hands may have extended longevity for some individuals. Conversely, due to their delicate technique, some may notice a lighter appearance from the outset, owing to the tattoo’s composition of tiny dots.

HOW LONG DO HAND POKE TATTOOS TAKE?

Hand poke tattoos generally take more time than machine. I’ve adjusted my drawing style, keeping in mind this longer process. Typically, my designs take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to complete.