Frequently Asked Questions
Where are you located?
I work out of Lucky’s Tattoo and Piercing at 696, Massachusetts Ave. Cambridge, MA. Second Floor.
Make sure you put in “Cambridge” not “Boston” if using a map app.
How can I book an appointment?
When I open my books, a form will go live on my website. It will be under a tab at the top of the page and be titled “tattoo proposal form”. That form will serve as your proposal, and if accepted, I will contact you via email and we will start the booking process.
When will your books be open again, and how will I know?
I am currently working on setting up a more regular booking system, until I get that set up, I will be opening my books sporadically when I am able to. The best way to know exactly when the books will open is to keep an eye on my instagram story around the beginning of every other month. I know that this is not ideal for everyone. If you would like to be added to my email list to be notified when my books are opening, send me an email with the subject line "Email List".
How far in advance do you book?
I try to only book a month or two in advance. So when I open my books in January, the appointments will be for February and some of March. While this means that I cannot accept as many proposals in a round of booking, it makes sure that more people have a chance to book in case they miss a booking announcement. It also allows me to work with you on projects that we are both currently excited by!
How long do your books stay open for?
The form is only live for a few minutes! So if you want that tattoo, keep a close eye to see exactly when it will open.
That said, once you have to form open, you have as much time as you need to fill it out (as long as you do not close the page, refresh the page, or let your computer sleep). So please don't feel like you need to rush, a complete proposal has a much better chance of getting accepted.
What should I have prepared for the proposal?
You should have a pretty good idea of what you want to get tattooed, and an understanding of the kind of projects I am taking on (which you can find here on my website). You should also have an idea of the budget you want to operate within (see pricing details below). You will need an image of the area you want tattooed, this will have to be in jpeg format, and is best if it is in a relaxed, neutral position. An idea of the size is helpful as well.
Why didn’t my proposal get accepted?
The most likely reason is because of the high volume of appointments and the limited amount of space. That said, because of this high number, I have to be selective when choosing projects. I choose projects based on the concept. Here on my website is a page with projects I am interested in, and projects I am less interested in, as well as projects I will not accept. Taking a look at that page will give you an idea of what kind of work I prioritize.
I’ve tried to book several times, and still haven't been accepted! Why?
While I try to prioritize people who have submitted before, I am not always able to. Make sure to check back on my Prioritized Projects page and see if your proposal fits. If it does, be patient, and you will likely make it soon. After your first time proposing you can put “refer to prior proposal” in the description section of the form if your idea hasn’t changed.
What do you charge?
I charge $200 an hour, with a $200 minimum.
Is a tip included in the cost of my tattoo?
If you’re new to getting tattooed, there can be that awkward moment when you aren’t sure if you’re supposed to tip on this already expensive piece of adornment. I do not include tips in my price. People often tip similar to what they would tip in a restaurant (15-25%). Tattoo artists put many hours into the tattoos that we do, both during and before the appointment. At Lucky’s we split the final price with the shop, so tips help make up the difference. That said, tipping is not required to get a tattoo, and if you are financially unable to tip, or can’t tip that much, don't let that be the barrier to getting a piece (maybe just let me know why you’re not tipping, so I don’t think it’s because you had a terrible experience with me).
Does booking require a deposit?
We do require you to leave a deposit, so that if there is a last minute cancellation, we are still able to get compensated. This deposit ranges from $80-$200 depending on the length of the appointment and will come out of your final price at the end of the appointment.
Can I get an in person consultation before my tattoo?
Yup! Just mention in your proposal form that you would like a consultation. I especially recommend in person consultations when we are planning a larger piece, like a sleeve, chest or back piece. I only book consultations for tattoos that I accept.
Do you send out designs in advance?
Nope, I don’t send out designs ahead of time. You will see your design at the beginning of the appointment and there will be time to make small changes if needed. If you need a complete redesign, we will reschedule the appointment.
How should I prepare for my appointment?
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Make sure that you’re well rested, well fed, and well hydrated. You can definitely bring water and snacks, although we can provide you with these if you forget.
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Make sure to wear clothing that allows me to tattoo the area you want tattooed without clothing tugging at the skin.
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If you don’t normally shave the area, please do not do so in advance. It doesn’t actually help, and can create bumps that make it difficult to tattoo.
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Don’t come in hungover, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
How should I care for my tattoos?
If you go to www.luckystattoo.org, you will find complete instructions on tattoo aftercare. I will also explain the aftercare process at the end of the appointment and provide you with an aftercare card. If you want to get stuff ahead of time, just grab some unscented antibacterial soap, unscented mild lotion, and paper towels.