The process begins by clicking the “Book Now” button and completing the consultation form. Please include:

• Your tattoo idea

• Placement

• Approximate size

• Reference images, if available

After reviewing your form, I’ll contact you to discuss your concept, sizing, placement, artistic direction, and estimated pricing. Consultations may be conducted by email, text, phone, or video, depending on what works best for your project.

I approach tattooing with both an artistic and psychological perspective. My goal is not just to create a tattoo that looks good, but one that feels intentional and personal to the client.

I focus heavily on:

• Bold, clean designs

• Strong color saturation

• Tattoos that age well over time

• Client comfort and communication

• Custom artwork instead of copy-and-paste designs

The studio is designed to feel private, professional, and welcoming — especially for first-time clients or anyone who may feel nervous about the process.

Pricing is calculated using a $70 hourly rate, but every tattoo is quoted as a flat, all-inclusive price based on the estimated time, size, placement, detail, and overall complexity of the design. Most tattoos fall between $400 and $750 total.

This flat-rate approach gives you peace of mind because you’ll know the full cost before booking. If your tattoo takes longer than estimated, you won’t be charged anything extra. It also allows me to work carefully without feeling pressured to rush, ensuring your tattoo receives the time and attention needed for the best possible result.

A non-refundable $50 deposit is required to secure your appointment and is applied toward the final cost. Your exact quote and all pricing expectations will be discussed upfront before you pay your deposit and are locked into my schedule.

Presently, I accept cash, Zelle or Venmo only.

I try to make the process straightforward, collaborative, and comfortable from start to finish.

Everything begins with a simple consultation, which can take place by email, text message, phone call, or video chat. During this consultation, we'll discuss your ideas, inspiration, goals for the tattoo, placement options, sizing, and any other important details. I'll offer recommendations and professional guidance when appropriate, and together we'll finalize a design concept that we're both excited about.

Once your appointment is scheduled, I'll send you a welcome email containing everything you'll need to know before your session, including appointment preparation instructions, studio information, and what to expect on the day of your tattoo.

You can expect:

• Honest communication
• A clean and professional environment
• Thoughtful design guidance
• Attention to placement and flow
• Patience throughout the process
• A focus on creating tattoos that hold up well over time

On the day of your appointment, we'll begin by reviewing and signing all required consent forms and making a copy of your government-issued identification. I'll then walk you through what the day will look like, answer any last-minute questions, and ensure you're comfortable before we begin.

My studio environment is intentionally calm and relaxed. I typically play classical music during sessions, and it will generally be just the two of us in the room. We can take breaks whenever needed, and complimentary Starbucks coffee is always available.

Throughout the tattoo process, I'll explain what I'm doing, monitor your comfort level, and make adjustments as needed to ensure the experience is as positive as possible.

I also routinely photograph and video record portions of the tattooing process and the completed tattoo to document my work and showcase my artistic process. Once the tattoo is finished, we'll take professional photos and videos of the completed piece.

After the session, I'll verbally review detailed aftercare instructions with you and provide a complimentary aftercare kit containing the essentials you'll need to properly care for your new tattoo during the healing process.

To help commemorate the experience, I'll also send you copies of the photos and videos from your appointment that you can keep for yourself and share on social media if you'd like.

I’ll also be upfront and respectful if a request does not align with my artistic style or current abilities. My goal is to give clients the best possible outcome, and in some cases that may mean recommending another artist who is a better fit for the project.

Whether it’s your first tattoo or your tenth, the goal is to create something meaningful, readable, and wearable for years to come.

Yes. I have previously worked as a guest artist at other tattoo studios and remain available for select opportunities. Studio owners may contact me at derekreamtattoos@gmail.com with their location, proposed dates, and relevant details.