~ Chris Murphy ~ @NyChrisTattoo
FAQ & ETIQUETTE
HOW OLD DO YOU NEED TO BE TO BE TATTOOED?
You must be 18 yrs. or older. There is no parental consent in the state of NY. No matter your age you must present a valid government issued I.D. - (Passport/License) at the time of the tattoo.
WHAT SHOULD I DO BEFORE MY APPOINTMENT?
Always come with your valid I.D.- I can’t tattoo you without one. Make sure you've eaten something good and are well hydrated. Doing anything on an empty stomach isn't fun. Your body goes thru a lot while getting tattooed, best to be well rested, fed and feeling 100%. Do not drink alcohol the night before or day of, alcohol in your blood and a hangover will just make the process less fun for the both of us. Please be clean, respectful and have a good attitude and we will make a amazing memorable experience for us both.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
Government issued I.D. (passport, drivers license) Clean clothes appropriate for exposing the tattoo area. A resealable beverage like water, juice or gatorade. Headphones if you’d like to zone out. A good attitude.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
Dress in CLEAN, comfortable clothes you wouldn’t mind getting ink on. Ink can stain so wearing black is always best. Wear something loose that allows easy access to the area that will be tattooed. If you are walking around all day bring a change of clothes before you get tattooed. If you have any questions you can always email me.
CAN I BRING A FRIEND?
Absolutely, moral support is important but choose wisely! You want a friend who is fully supportive and won’t be distracting or disruptive to the process. They should bring something to entertain themselves it gets boring to watch and wait especially during longer sessions. I only allow one friend in the tattoo area with you, anyone else can be seated in the waiting room for the big revel at the end. It can be distracting and the shop gets crowded so we need to accommodate and respect everyone.
CAN I BRING MY KIDS?
No, tattoos are “you time” leave the little ones at home!!! Tattoo shops are not a kid friendly place and kids can be distracting or exposed to things they shouldn’t be. Biohazards, language, music and nudity are often explicit and children are not invited.
CELLPHONES, PHOTOS WHAT IS OK?
Just be respectful of those around you, it is a communal space. Phones must be on silent or used with headphones. Absolutely no calls or facetime in the tattoo area. Photos are fine, video is not allowed, unless asked, do not use flash. This is a serious moment and any unnecessary movement or distractions can be hazardous to the tattoo. Be mindful and in the moment ask your friend to take a pic or ask me n we can pose but don’t move during the tattoo. I will take a nice photo at the end for you on your phone. Tag or email me any photos you take please!
DOES IT HURT?
Yes it hurts, but it’s gonna look cool, so relax you're gonna be just fine! Just focus on your breathing and keeping calm. If you need a break or need to adjust your position or are ever uncomfortable please make me aware and we can figure out something that works. Put in headphones or ask for my stress ball, I’ll throw on a movie for you if you need anything just let me know. Most importantly sit still and communicate whatever you feel and we’ll get thru it just fine, you’ll probably even like it!
WHAT DOES IT FEEL LIKE?
For everyone and every body part it is different and I’ve heard it described as so many things... A cat scratch, isolated rug burn, Stingy, Spicy, A hot pinch, If you had a bad sunburn and someone drew on you with a ballpoint pen. Whatever it is, it’s magical and I promise you it’s worth every second. The power a tattoo holds lasts long after the memory of the pain. Just go for it, you’ll feel more alive.
TIPPING ?
Yes, it's very much appreciated. I always remember and appreciate those who do.