How do I book an appointment? You can inquire about booking an appointment by clicking the "Book Now" link at the top of the page and submitting a consultation form. I usually respond within a week of each request. Please use an email address that you check often. I prefer to correspond via email through out the submission, design and tattoo process.
How long is the wait before I can expect to see you? The first step will be an in person consultation where we will go over your ideas, take measurements, pictures and collect the drawing fee. This appointment usually takes about 5-10 minutes and we will also set your appointment at this time. I usually have consultation appointments available within a couple of weeks of your submission. I currently have a 3 month wait for the first tattoo appointment but am open to scheduling 3 appointments at a time for larger pieces so that the wait in between appointments is closer to 2-4 weeks if preferred. Clients often cancel or reschedule appointments which leaves me with spaces to fill so please let me know if you would like to be added to my cancelation list.
What is your rate? Do you have a minimum? My rate is $175/hour, my minimum is $200 for tattoos that take less than an hour. I prefer cash but also accept Venmo, debit and all major credit cards. I typically do not accept pre-payments for large tattoos, I prefer that you pay for each appointment as you go. I usually work in sessions of 3-4 hours but am open to longer sessions upon request.
Where are you located? 5505 SE Woodstock Blvd 97206 in Portland, OR. My studio is located in the basement but I will meet you in the main lobby for your consultation appointment and initial tattoo appointment. Our studio is a collective of 6 tattoo artists that run their own business and rent rooms in the building. We are a very laid back group so please feel free to reach out to any of the artists if you need anything.
Do you require a drawing fee or a deposit? I require a $20 "concept" fee that is collected at the in person consultation appointment. This fee is non-refundable and covers my time creating your design. It is not a deposit and will not be credited towards your tattoo appointment. This fee includes any changes to your original design idea once the initial design is sent to you. I do not create full color and full detail designs. I like to decide on the colors and details at the appointment to allow for creative freedom outside of the initial design process.
What is the design process like? I will contact you via email around 1 week before your appointment to confirm. Once I hear back from you, I will start working on your design. I usually provide you an initial draft around 4 days before your tattooing appointment. I will send you a first draft and expect any feedback or changes that you would like to the design. It is important that you reply clearly and in a timely manner to make the design process go as smoothly as possible. Once I have your initial feedback, I will make any changes or finalizations to the design and send you another draft. I will send these draft via email or text based on the information you give me on your consultation form. If we do not come up with a design that you are satisfied with, we can reschedule your appointment to my next available opening to give us more time to work on the design.
What should I bring to the appointment? Please feel free to bring any electronic entertainment devices along with headphones to keep you occupied. I tend to be on the quieter side when I am tattooing but don't mind conversation. You are welcome to bring a snack and we can take breaks as often as you prefer. I like to take a 5-10 minute break every hour or so to stretch and get fresh air. I will occasionally take short consultation appointment during your tattoo. I will coordinate these with our breaks so that they interfere with your tattoo as little as possible.
What are your policies due to Covid? Masks are not required but you are welcome to wear one. Use the hand washing sinks and hand sanitizer before and during your visit when you feel they are needed. Do not come in if you have a fever or think that you might be sick or have been in contact with someone who is sick. If you need to reschedule, I will do my best to get you in as soon as possible once you are feeling better.
What should I do if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment? Please contact me via text (503)437-4781 or email as soon as you know that you need to cancel or reschedule. Since I don't charge a deposit, there is no monetary attachment to your appointment but it is respectful to give me as much notice as possible. If you need to reschedule, I will try to get you in as soon as possible but there is no guarantee that I will be able to fit you in before my next available appointment.
What type of equipment do you use? I typically use needle cartridge rotary machines, single-use disposable materials, and various reputable inks and tattooing products. Most of my materials are Vegan but please let me know if this is important to you and I will make sure that I can accommodate you. The aftercare products that I recommend can be found at your local grocery store and pharmacy. There are many lotions and products that will work for healing, please let me know if you have any questions about specific products that you have used previously or prefer.
I think my tattoo is infected, what should I do? If you think your tattoo may be infected, please contact me immediately via text (503)437-4781 or email: Tattoosbyjessward@gmail.com. Send pictures and a description of your concerns.