Frequently Asked Questions

Contact Questions

  • The best way to contact me is through Instagram. This allows me to review your ideas, references, and placement details efficiently. If not Instagram? Email is on contact form.

    Instagram: @tatertot_art

    When messaging, please include:

    1. Tattoo idea and description

    2. Placement on the body

    3. Approximate size

    4. Reference images

  • The Hive Body Art Collective

    107 Washington St NE

    Gainesville, GA 30501

    (770) 535-0006

  • I work Monday through Thursday from 12 PM to 7 PM. I am OFF on Fridays, Saturdays from 12 PM to 9 PM, and we are CLOSED on Sundays. I am usually booked, but I always accept walk-ins if I finish early, have a cancellation, or have nothing scheduled.

  • Deposits are typically taken in person. However, phone payments may be accepted with my approval. If you have received the okay, please call the shop and inform the manager, Kendal, that I have approved the deposit. I have most likely already notified her.

  • Deposits protect the artist’s time and cover the work done before your appointment, including:

    • Designing and preparing your tattoo

    • Scheduling and reserving your time slot

    • Turning away other potential bookings

    1. No-Call, No-Show

    Failing to arrive for your appointment without notifying your artist results in an automatic forfeiture of your deposit.

    2. Late Cancellation

    Cancelling without providing at least 48 hours’ notice leads to a lost deposit, as the time cannot be filled on short notice.

    3. Repeated Rescheduling

    Deposits are typically transferable once. Multiple reschedules may require a new deposit.

    4. Arriving Late

    Showing up more than 15 minutes late may result in cancellation and loss of your deposit, depending on the day’s schedule.

    5. Booking and Not Following Through

    If you decide not to proceed with the tattoo after booking, the deposit is forfeited.

    6. Failure to Communicate

    Ignoring confirmation messages or failing to respond to scheduling inquiries may result in cancellation and loss of the deposit.

  • I have shirts, Tot-Basco Hot Sauce, and stickers available for purchase at the shop. These items must be purchased in person. Preferred payment methods are Cash App or cash.

aftercare questions

  • Traditional wrap: Remove after 2–4 hours.

    Second Skin (Saniderm/DermShield): Leave on for 24 hours unless it leaks, peels, or becomes irritated. Follow your artist’s specific instructions.

  • Proper moisturizing is essential for a smooth healing process and vibrant, long-lasting ink. Use light, breathable products that hydrate without clogging your pores.

    Recommended Products

    Once your tattoo begins to dry and peel, switch to a gentle, unscented lotion. Apply a thin layer 2–3 times daily.

    Trusted Options:

    • Lubriderm Daily Moisture Fragrance-Free Lotion

    • Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion (Fragrance-Free)

    • CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion

    ✔ Keeps skin hydrated

    ✔ Prevents excessive itching and cracking

    ✔ Safe for sensitive, healing skin

  • 1. Wash Your Hands

    Before touching your tattoo, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water to prevent contamination.

    2. Remove It in a Warm Shower

    The easiest and least painful way to remove Saniderm is in the shower. Warm water helps loosen the adhesive and makes removal smoother.

    Tip: Let the water run over the bandage for a minute or two before peeling.

    3. Peel It Off Slowly

    Gently lift one corner and pull the bandage back over itself, keeping it low and parallel to your skin—like removing a Command Strip.

    ❌ Do NOT pull straight up.

    ✔️ Stretch and peel slowly along the skin.

    This minimizes trauma and protects the ink.

    4. Use Warm, Soapy Water if Needed

    If the adhesive is stubborn, apply a small amount of fragrance-free soap and warm water to help loosen it. Take your time—never rip it off.

    5. Clean the Tattoo Immediately

    After removal, wash the tattoo gently with:

    Lukewarm water

    Fragrance-free antibacterial soap

    Use your fingertips to remove any plasma or adhesive residue.

    6. Pat Dry and Let It Breathe

    Pat the area dry with a clean paper towel. Allow it to air dry for a few minutes before applying a thin layer of fragrance-free lotion.

  • Apply a thin layer—your tattoo should never look shiny or greasy.

    Moisturize 2–3 times per day or whenever the skin feels dry.

    Always wash your hands before touching your tattoo.

    If the tattoo feels sticky or overly saturated, you're using too much.

    1. Scented lotions

    2. Petroleum-heavy products (except light Aquaphor use initially)

    3. Alcohol-based products

    4. Neosporin or antibiotic ointments

    5. DIY remedies.

  • Aquaphor can be used during the first few days of healing if recommended by your artist.

    • Apply a very thin layer 1–2 times daily for the first 2–3 days.

    • Transition to fragrance-free lotion as your tattoo begins to peel.

    ⚠️ Do not overapply! - Too much can suffocate the tattoo and delay healing.

  • Light activity is fine after a couple of days, but avoid intense workouts that cause excessive sweating or friction for about 5–7 days, depending on placement.