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Tattoos by Femke

Tattoo Q&A

General Tattoo Questions

Q: Does getting a tattoo hurt?

A: Yes, but the level of pain depends on the placement, your personal pain tolerance, and the tattoo’s size and detail.

Q: Which body part hurts the most?

A: Pain varies for everyone, but ribs, spine, and inner arms are usually more intense. Areas with more flesh, like outer arms and thighs, tend to hurt less.

Q: How much does it cost?

A: Pricing depends on size, detail, placement, and whether it’s custom or flash design. I can give an estimate after we discuss your tattoo idea.

Q: Do you have a minimum price for a tattoo?

A:Yes the minimum price for a tattoo is €80. This can be different for guest spots in other cities.

Q: Do you do custom designs?

A: Yes, I create designs based on your ideas, references, and style preferences. Send me as many pictures, drawings and idea suggestions as possible, so we can make something cool together.

Q: Can you copy this tattoo I found online?

A: I don’t copy another artist’s exact work, but I can create something inspired by it with my own touch.

Q: Can you cover up an old tattoo?

A: Yes, depending on the size, color, and placement of the old tattoo, we can design something to cover it.

 

Health, Safety & Legal

Q: Do you tattoo people under 18 with parental consent?

A: Sadly I do not tattoo anyone under 18 years old even with parental consent.

Q: Do you tattoo over scars, stretch marks, or moles?

A: Scars and stretch marks can be tattooed if they are fully healed (at least 1–2 years old). I don’t tattoo directly over moles for health reasons.

Q: Are you licensed artist?

A: Yes, I follow all local hygiene and safety regulations as assigned in the government of the Netherlands and Barcelona, and I work in a professional and clean environment.

Q: Can I get a tattoo if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

A: No, it’s safest to wait until after pregnancy and breastfeeding.

 

Booking & Design Process

Q: What should I write in my message when I want to book an appointment?

A: It is important that you mention what tattoo you want, so a flash or a custom design. Where you want the tattoo on your body and what size you want the tattoo to be. This would be a good layout for a message:

Hi I would like to get a tattoo from you in (City). I would like to get (design) about (size) on my (placement). I would be available (dates).

Q: I have a budget, what would be the best thing to do?

A: If you let me know your exact budget we can figure out together what is the best solution. I truly do not mind working with a budget but just make sure to tell me in time.

Q: How long does it take for you to design a tattoo?

A: It depends on the complexity, so a simple designs might take a few days, detailed ones longer. I’ll give you a timeline when we plan your piece. I always try to send a draft of the design about 24 hours before the appointment.

Q: Do you require a deposit? Is it refundable?

A: Yes, deposits secure your booking and go toward the final price. They’re non-refundable but can be transferred to a new date with enough notice.

Q: What’s your policy if someone arrives late or cancels last minute?

A: If you’re more than 15 minutes late, we may need to reschedule so I can respect the next client’s time. But this also means losing the deposit. Last-minute cancellations mean losing the deposit.

Q: Can I see my design before the appointment?

A: Yes, I usually send it about 24 hours before the appointment so we can make small adjustments if needed.

Q: Can you make last-minute changes to the design?

A: Small tweaks are fine, but big changes may require a new appointment so I can prepare properly.

Q: Do you tattoo intimate areas?

A: No, I focus on areas where both the client and I can work comfortably and professionally.

Q: Do you refuse tattoos that don’t fit your style?

A: If I feel a design isn’t a good match for my skills or style, I’ll let you know and recommend another artist who could do it justice.

Preparation & Appointment

Q: Do I need to book in advance?

A: Yes, I work by appointment only.

Q: What should I do before my tattoo appointment?

A: Eat well, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, get a good nights rest and wear comfortable clothing.

Q: Can I bring a friend?

A: Yes of course, but if possible do mention it before the appointment. Additionally if you bring someone make sure they respect the space and can sit quietly for a couple of hours without describing the tattoo process.

Bringing a friend is not always possible at guest spots, make sure to ask me because the appointment so we don’t have any misunderstanding.

Q: Do you allow clients to bring snacks or music?

A: Yes, just keep snacks tidy and music at a comfortable volume so we can both focus. Ofcourse we can always take a break if needed!

Q: Do you talk during the tattoo session or focus quietly?

A: I’m happy to chat if you are, but I also don’t mind working quietly if you prefer to relax.

Q: How do you handle nervous first-time clients?

A: I take the time to explain the process, answer any questions, and make sure you feel comfortable before we start. Feel free to let me know when booking the appointment that it will be your first tattoo, so I can make sure you understand all the steps of the process.

 

Tattoo Aftercare

Q: How do I take care of my tattoo afterwards?

A: Keep it clean, avoid picking or scratching, moisturize lightly, and keep out of direct sunlight and open water (pools, oceans and lakes) until healed. For more details check out after care instructions on my page.

Q: How long does it take to heal?

A: Typically 3–4 weeks for the surface to heal, but full skin healing takes around 2–3 months.

Q: Can I work out after getting a tattoo?

A: Avoid heavy sweating, stretching, or friction in that area for at least a few days.

Q: What should I do if my tattoo gets infected?

A: It’s rare if aftercare is followed, but if you notice redness, swelling, or pus, contact a doctor immediately and let me know.

Q: Do you offer free touch-ups? If so, within how long?

A: Yes, touch-ups for normal healing are free within the first 3 months. If you get a touch-up I'm happy to give a little discount if you get a tattoo in the same session.

 

Lifestyle & Maintenance

Q: Can I swim, tan, or go to the beach after my tattoo?

A: Avoid swimming and sun exposure for at least 3–4 weeks after getting the tattoo, water and UV light can cause fading and infection.

Q: How do I protect my tattoo from the sun long-term?

A: Always use SPF 50+ on your tattoo once healed to keep colors vibrant.

Q: How will my tattoo look in 10 years?

A: All tattoos fade slightly, but with good aftercare and sun protection, they’ll age beautifully.

Q: Can I get a tattoo if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

A: No, it’s safest to wait until after pregnancy and breastfeeding.

 

Question about me

Q: What tattoo styles do you specialize in?

A: I work in both machine and hand-poked styles, with a focus on textured fine line illustrative style. Working with a lot of textures and contrast.

Q: Do you refuse certain designs? Why?

A: I don’t tattoo anything that promotes hate or discrimination. I also avoid designs that I believe won’t heal or age well. Additionally, I won't tattoo another artist designs.

Q: Do you do stick-and-poke tattoos?

A: Yes, but I work mostly with a tattoo machine. We can choose the method that best suits your design.

Q: How long have you been tattooing?

A: I’ve been tattooing for about two years, and I have been working in a studio fro about a year. I work mostly with machine but I can also work with hand-poked techniques. I’m always learning and creating new things.

Q: What inspired you to become a tattoo artist?

A: I’ve always loved drawing and creating personal art, tattooing felt like the perfect way to make something meaningful that people can carry with them forever.

Q: What styles or subjects do you love tattooing most?

A: I’m drawn to nature-inspired designs, fine lines, and illustrative styles, but I love exploring different themes and creating pieces that tell a story.

Q: Do you draw all your designs yourself?

A: Yes, I create every design by hand. I can work from your ideas or references, but I always add my own style to make it unique.

Q: Where do you get inspiration for your tattoos?

A: A lot comes from nature, travel, and art history.

Q: Do you have tattoos yourself?

A: Yes! I think having tattoos helps me understand the client experience from both sides of the chair.

Q: Do you travel for tattooing or attend guest spots?

A: Yes, I work in Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Barcelona (check my schedule for availability), but I’m open to traveling for guest spots or special projects. I try to visit different places so if you feel like I missed your city feel free to reach out.