Why the cost difference amongst shops

Picking The Right Shop And Artist For Your Tattoo

Why Some Artists and Shops Are More Expensive Than Others 

 In this day and age it seems like the price of everything is rising and it is sometimes hard to determine who is being legitimate and who is simply trying to gouge their customers. Tattoos can be expensive but, you get what you are paying for in the world of tattoos and when you're making a permanent addition to your body, it is important to have all of the facts. Often times we hear of people who are price shopping for their tattoos, looking for the cheapest artist and this can lead to problems as there are a variety of reasons that an artist or shop may charge more than some of their competitors. 

Tattoo artist typically charge by the hour and everyone's rate is different. Those that have lower hourly rates also typically have much less experience. Those with higher rates have likely been in the business for an extended period of time. Many artists whom charge more spent a large number of years apprenticing, learning different and intricate techniques and styles, and honing in their skills where as someone with a lower rate may have not completed an apprenticeship at all. Artists with a higher hourly rate often times have a formal art education and a long background and history of art training whereas someone with a lower rate may have artistic skill but, they may not have all the necessary training to make their art crisp and unique and the best it can be. Artists that charge more are often capable of drawing and creating their own unique creations while someone who has less experience might only be capable of tracing and recreating the work of others. In addition, some styles of tattoos require special expertise and skill that may be rare even amongst artists. An example of this is portraits. It is very difficult to recreate a realistic replica of a photo and it is common to see people agree to get these types of tattoos from less experienced artists because they charge less and immediately regret it after they see that their new ink doesn't really resemble the picture of their beautiful infant they brought in as a reference. It then can cost the customer a lot more money in the long run when the tattoo needs to be fixed and redone by a more skilled artist. It is a safe statement to say that an artist's hourly rate directly correlates with their experience, skill, and popularity. These artists often have a strong reputation both amongst other artist and consumers. 

So what do you do if you really want to get that tattoo that you've had on your mind  but you don't have the money for? Certainly don't settle for an artist that will not be able to provide you with the end result you want simply because the tattoo will be more affordable. One option that we have for our clients is the ability to place money on their account to save up for later. This allows the customer to get the piece they want, done correctly, and if it is a big piece then the artist and customer may be able to start on sections of it. 

In the end it is best to be patient and take the time to find the artist that fits your needs and to be aware that a higher price per hour is really only ensuring that you get exactly what you want and and you get it done safely. 

sun screen blog

 

How To Protect Your Tattoo from the Sun And Keep It Looking Young

       There are many options out there that can protect your skin and your artwork from the damaging effects of the sun and here at Lucky Bamboo Tattoo, we want to make sure that you have all of the tools you need to keep your artwork looking pristine. Unprotected time in the sun can zap the life out of any tattoo. The UVA rays of the sun can fade the colors in any tattoo by penetrating the skin and breaking down the pigment of the ink.. This is particularly true for recent tattoos or those that are still in the midst of the healing process. Special care should be taken for new tattoos as the skin can burn and peel much easier than normal, which can not only increase the amount of time it takes to heal but, it can also drastically effect the finished product. In these early stages, the best course of action is to keep your ink covered up and out of the sun. This is helpful for older tattoos as well. In fact, this may be the easiest and most effective way to keep your art looking young. Draping a towel across your tattoo while enjoying your time on the beach or wearing a t shirt rather than a tank top while out in the sun can greatly reduce your risk of sun damage. 

For those that prefer a more natural approach, one of the safest and most effective forms of sun screen in the mineral compound Non Nano Particle Zinc Oxide. This compound sits on top of the skin rather than being absorbed and reflects the suns rays rather than allowing them to be absorbed into the skin. Another trick to keeping exposure to a minimum is to avoid certain times of the day when UVA rays are the highest. It is a common misconception that all of the suns rays are harmful when it is actually the UVA that is the most damaging. UVB is beneficial for the absorption of Vitamin D. Throughout the day the levels of both of these sun rays vary, meaning there are times of the day where the risk is higher than others. There is an app available called "Dminder"  that pinpoints your location and tracks these levels for you. Finally, traditional sun block with an SPF of 30 to 50 can effectively keep your tattoos protected. 

We know that you love your artwork as much as we do and with the right care, your tattoo can retain it's youth for years to come. 

 

 You Deserve an Exceptional Experience

 

 Getting a tattoo should be a wonderful experience beginning to end. We hear many stories about terrible tattoo experiences not only on the internet, but in our local area as well. Lucky Bamboo tattoo not only focuses on their artwork and business model, but our interpersonal relationships as well. We want each client to feel comfortable and cared for. It's not enough to simply make great tattoos. We want you to make great memories, eager to share those experiences and to come back for more.  

 

At other shops, you may call with no response. You may show up to your appointment and be stood up. You may complete your first session and have no idea when your next session might be, let alone when it will be completed. You may wait until the very end to find out the. You may be surrounded by loud and rowdy individuals that make a point to make you feel like an outsider that does belong there. This is just so very sad and shouldn't be acceptable practices.   

Here is the experience you deserve. You walk in the door and are greeted by name by our front desk associate. She always takes a moment to make you feel like you are joining a loving family. She will assist you with your consent form and answer any questions you may have. As you wait in the lobby for your artist to call your name, they always come around the corner with smiles on their faces. They have been preparing for this appointment and are excited to see the look on your face when you see the design. You'll make your way to your room and will always be advised to "watch your step" as you pass the threshold. You enter your room and are given one on one treatment. You're sitting with them for a few hours, they might as well take an interest in who you are. If you're nervous, they will answer any questions, and offer a fun distracting conversation. All the staff here are supportive and encouraging. If someone sees your tattoo, chances are they will tell you, with glee, how beautiful and wonderful it is. And when you check out, the front staff will let you know what a pleasure it was working with you. And the best part, everyone is so sincere. 

 Sometimes, in order to appreciate a good experience, you must first experience the bad parts of anything.  But I say, bypass the nonsense and visit a shop that will make you feel cared for. We are here for you.