Frequently Asked Questions

I work digitally, so changes such as resizing something or changing colour scheme for example are generally very easy to make.

We will have a very thorough consultation to avoid any design issues with your tattoo. We hash out all the details verbally and with references so no part of your design is second guessed during any part of the design process. But, I will reach out if I have any questions during. I will keep you involved as much as possible.

That all being said, trusting the process and artist’s experience will yield the best results. (Please review portfolio and feel confident about our work before inquiring)

Numbing cream is not as straightforward as it sounds. Many of the products out there change the surface of the skin to a spongy consistency making the tattoo process much more difficult, usually resulting in a terrible heal. Contact us for more info on numbing creams. Advil also works well and doesn’t interfere with the process. If you can do it without, that is best.

Often this is the case. I am happy to schedule around your cycle as best I can, if its a on a particularly bad day, this is a perfectly acceptable reason to postpone/reschedule.

Coverups are a pleasure to do and have yielded some of my favourite tattoos. I am always happy to look at what you have and discuss options.

Absolutely.

Short answer: cultural imagery…yes. Cultural tattoos…no.

This is an area I give a lot of thought too. Appropriation is rampant in tattooing and I see a lot of situations where it is problematic or I don’t feel comfortable or educated enough. Cultural imagery which is very common in tattooing such as Japanese folklore and Asian deities are fascinating, rich in narrative, and beautiful in imagery. Take Buddhism for example, it has become a spirituality/religion practiced around the world. It’s about what it means for you and isn’t about the actual tattoo practice of receiving that certain image from a monk or specific practitioner. Dragons, foo dogs, koi, Ganesh, etc…all have narratives and meanings developed outside of tattooing and have become common imagery in the industry. I am not looking to make my living off cultural imagery, but as tattooing is commission work, if it means something special to the wearer, and getting work by an artist who practices those same cultural beliefs is unrealistic due to location then I feel safe doing the research to honour the imagery and the clients wishes.

Cultural/traditional tattoo practices like Maori or Sak Yant from Thailand should not be, in my opinion, performed by anyone outside of that culture, especially for the sake of vanity. I don’t know enough about either of these practices or their cultural ties to do them justice.

Typically with hypafix. It is a term widely used in the medical community.

We use Hustlebutter for the process (ingredients upon request) and Fusion ink. Distilled water, green soap and alcohol.

On occasion. This is usually due to high anxiety or blood sugar crash from lack of eating. If you’re in the chair and feeling light-headed let me know, stay sitting. It passes quickly with some food and water.

I use a cartridge system. Each cartridge has a membrane which prevents the backflow of contaminated fluids and are single use. Keeping the process as clean as possible and in line with health board recommendations. If it’s not single use disposable, it goes into the autoclave for sterilization after every session. All surface barriers are biodegrade. Nearly the entire set up is made using biodegradable products made for the industry.

Yes, I use Fusion ink, it is all vegan and has been around for years used widely in the industry. I have been using it for over 6 years.

Yes!! This is near and dear to our heart, 99% of the set up of is biodegradable thanks to the good work of Canadian companies like GoodJudy and Northern Tattoo Supply.

No, but you can cancel with the required 72 hours notice and I will fill the spot.

What?! I’m so sorry. I usually reply within a week but if you haven’t heard anything, email again. I am a one person operation and sometimes things get read and I forget to reply.

Having a safe space where all peoples are welcome and comfortable is paramount to us. If you have any concerns or questions feel free to reach out.

*If you are hateful towards people because of race, gender, culture, sexual preference or religion, you’re not welcome.*

Begin by completing the consult request form. Then Ray will contact you by email at his earliest convenience to arrange an in person consult (for out of town clients this can be done by other means). Consults are so we can meet in person, thoroughly discuss ideas, ask questions, take measurements, and go over references. Then, for a general idea of scale and placement, make a visual plan together that we both feel confident with. Once that is agreed on, the final design will be refined and rendered by the artist. Then dates will be booked for your appointments.

10 am is my preferred time, please do not arrive any more than 5 minutes before that for your appointment.

We do everything we can to keep you comfortable. Pillows, comfortable chair/bed etc. But, expect it to hurt. Pain varies person to person and its as much time getting tattooed as it is location. Eat well before, get a good sleep. No alcohol in excess the night before. Dress for comfort not fashion, come showered, and bring snack(s) and drink(s).
*For a full explanation of the tattoo process feel free to ask during your consultation.

Dress in something that will allow for access to the area while still keeping you comfortable. With backs, a button up shirt backwards works well, a housecoat for large side projects. Discuss this with Ray during the consultation, he will surely have great input. No one will walk in on you, this is a private studio. Currently there is another artist on the same floor who understands and respects the process and privacy required and the spaces are separate and closed off to each other.

We charge an hourly rate of $160 (tax included) and a $20-30 set up fee.

Our focus is on custom work, all shapes and sizes. We do not charge for designs, as it ranges from 2-12 hours on average, and it would not be financially feasible. However, if numerous changes are being requested throughout the design process, charges will be discussed.

Since I charge hourly, we can simply book you a set amount of hours a month or every other month to work within your budget. Not a problem at all.

See the aftercare sheet.

The reasons vary, but typically it hasn’t been cleaned/cared for properly. If its a large scab, be gentle with it they usually heal fine. If there is still seepage or puss a few days after the tattoo, contact me and we will look at it.

Sunscreen when in the sun, moisturizer if you want it to look nice and fresh.

Non-scented. At the Well has a soap specifically manufactured and on hand for this purpose.