General:
Can you do any kind of tattoo, in any style?
I specialize in detailed, photorealistic black and gray tattoos, and I also do color tattoos whenever possible. I have extensive experience with biomechanical, flora and fauna designs, and of course, I have a lot of experience with tribal and calligraphic tattoos as well. While there are very few things I can't draw, I strive to create unique and original tattoos for each individual.
Can you do multicolored tattoos?
Yes, of course.
Can you imitate or reproduce tattoos done by other artists?
Yes, I can, but I try to do it less often. All tattoos should be original, unique, and specially created for each individual.
Do you have tattoo catalogs for me to choose from?
I do, but I keep them in a drawer like artifacts. Each tattoo should be or should be unique, original, and unmatched, specifically designed for you and intended to naturally fit the part of the body where you want to place it. The designs in catalogs are often of very poor quality and small amount of original.
Can I bring my own design?
Absolutely! If it's a good quality and original design, I would be very happy to learn it and use it as a starting point for your tattoo. Otherwise, I will take it as a suggestion and create a completely new design for you.
Is it possible to do tattoos with white or skin-colored ink?
In theory, yes. But in practice, it's a lot of hassle and a waste of time for a whim. I don't consider these things to have much to do with the art of tattooing.
Does the tattoo become more faded or pale over time?
As the skin and the tattoo age, it's normal for colors to fade. The aging of the skin and the tattoo will result in less vivid colors. However, this process takes decades, not just a few years. The intensity of the colors and the clarity of the lines will decrease, but it's such a slow process that it's almost impossible to notice. On the other hand, I have recently seen tattoos that I did almost 10 years ago and they looked as if I had done them just last week, with no color loss or blurred lines. This tells me that it also depends on other factors, such as your overall health, frequency of tanning, etc.
Can you repair or complete incomplete tattoos or cover up tattoos done by other artists?
Usually, it depends on the tattoo you already have, and I can't give you a definite answer until I see it. But, in general, whenever possible, I won't refuse touch-ups and cover-ups; I understand the feeling of having an unsightly tattoo that you're ashamed of and I want to lend a helping hand, no problem. As for completing incomplete tattoos, I also need to see them before making a decision. It's difficult to adapt my style to the way the tattoo was initially started, but if there's a chance of success, I'll give it a try.
I have a vague idea about the tattoo I want, but I can't decide on the details... What should I do?
Come in for a consultation. If you have sketches or any other examples, bring them with you, they will be helpful. I have a lot of ideas and can give you plenty of advice and suggestions. We'll have a relaxed chat, look through your examples and mine, make some sketches, listen to music, and have a coffee or tea. I don't give up easily, and as I mentioned before, I'm good at these things; trust me, and I'm sure we'll find a design that you'll love.
About Pain:
Does it hurt? How bad?
It does hurt, but not badly. In any case, it's not nearly as painful as you imagine. Tattoos are permanent, so we have to use needles on your skin. But don't worry, the needles don't go too deep, and usually, the whole procedure is not as unpleasant as it may seem. Look, think of it this way: anyone can get a tattoo, it's not just for tough guys and masochists ;). And here's another thing: I have many clients who doze off while I'm tattooing them; they've gotten so used to tattoos that they hardly even notice the needles. Honestly.
Has anyone ever given up due to the pain?
No, never. Honestly, it's not that painful.
Where does it hurt the most? Where does it hurt the least?
Generally, it hurts more in sensitive areas. Very sensitive places like the inner arms, the back of the thighs, or the sides of the abdomen hurt more than, for example, areas we bump into furniture all day long, like forearms, calves, outer arms, or shoulders—places that are used to pain. Also, near joints (armpits, elbows, etc.) and bony areas (shin, upper shoulder blade, collarbone), it's a bit more painful than "usual." I always advise against choosing a tattoo location based on pain, but if you're concerned that it might be too much to bear, ask me, and we'll think of an alternative.
Does it continue to hurt after it's finished? For how long?
The actual pain stops as soon as we stop inserting the needle into the skin. It may swell and sting a bit, but not more than a superficial cut or sunburn that someone slaps on. And it won't last more than a day or two. As it heals, the unpleasant sensation gradually diminishes and will disappear within a few days. Proper tattoo care will expedite the healing process and reduce the stinging, so it's always a good idea to follow the instructions I provide.
About skin:
Is it possible to get a tattoo if I have atopic dermatitis?
Generally, yes. I have tattooed many people with atopic dermatitis, and so far, I haven't encountered any issues. It can be a bit more challenging to tattoo in areas where the skin is more affected (such as joints), but it's not impossible. During flare-ups, if the lesions are too pronounced or bleeding, we postpone the session until the skin calms down a bit; otherwise, it shouldn't be a problem.
Can you tattoo over scars or burns?
Yes, but there are certain unpredictable factors. The ink may not take evenly, and there is a risk of injuring the scar and reopening the wound.
Can you tattoo over moles or freckles?
No, it's impossible. Some moles and freckles contain cancerous cells, and the last thing you want is to make them bleed. Generally, we either move the tattoo to an area without moles or freckles, or we modify the design in such a way that we tattoo around them.
Can you tattoo on tanned skin?
In theory, it's possible, but I try to avoid it as much as possible. Peeling skin can get in between the needles and clog them, causing the ink to flow unevenly and impeding my work pace. It's too much hassle for something that can be easily avoided; usually, when there's room for rescheduling, I postpone the session until the skin is fully healed.
I have very sensitive skin. Can I still get a tattoo?
Yes, of course. Your skin may redden and swell a bit more than usual, and it may hurt a little more, but it is still possible to tattoo without any major issues.
Аftercare:
What does "aftercare" mean when it comes to a tattoo?
Depending on the specific tattoo, I will explain to you in detail what you need to do as soon as we finish the session, but in general, it is important to know the following instructions: During the healing period, which is approximately one week, maximum 10 days, it is crucial to keep the tattoo clean and protect it from anything that could make it bleed. The tattooed area should be washed three times a day with soap - any kind of soap is fine and lukewarm water. Taking a shower is okay, but avoid bathing in a tub. If scabs form, let them fall off naturally! Do not pick at the scabs, and if there is any itching, do not scratch directly on the tattoo. I will recommend an ointment that you need to apply very thinly on the tattoo twice a day. There is no need to overdo the ointment "just to be safe," and I do not advise it. Twice a day, very thinly, is sufficient and exactly what the tattoo needs to heal quickly and beautifully. Let the skin breathe; do not bandage it and do not cover it with plastic film as much as possible; do not keep it covered all the time. For approximately one month, avoid sunbathe. It is okay to expose the tattoo to sunlight, but it is better to allow the skin to fully regenerate before going to the beach. I understand that it requires some effort and it is not easy, but trust me, proper aftercare is crucial during this 7-10 day period. The healing period is when the tattoo is most vulnerable, and your effort is what makes or breaks it. A tattoo is not finished when I finish tattooing; a tattoo is complete when it is fully healed.
How long does it take for a tattoo to heal?
For most people, it takes about a week. It depends on the tattoo itself, of course (areas with gray shading heal much faster than areas filled with black), its placement, age, and overall health condition, but on average, it shouldn't take more than 7-10 days.
Can I go to the beach, sauna, pool, or gym right after getting a tattoo?
If you absolutely must hit the gym daily, it wouldn't be a problem to go right after getting a tattoo, as long as you avoid direct contact of the tattooed area with the floor or equipment. However, you should avoid the beach, pool, sauna, and bathing in a tub for about a week or two, especially while the tattoo is scabbing.
Hygiene:
Are the needles single-use?
Yes, of course!
Are the inks single-use? What about the rest of the equipment?
Yes, not only the inks but also the ink caps, ointments, surgical gloves, razor blades, stencils, machine covers and protective foils, wipes, all are single-use.
Appointments and Reservations:
Is an appointment necessary, or can I visit anytime?
Yes, I only work by appointment; a reservation is necessary before the visit, whether it's for a tattoo session or just a consultation. If I am with a client at that moment, an unannounced visit can be a little inconvenient, but I will take a few minutes to provide you with some information. It's best to give me a phone call or send an email so that I can allocate time and attention for you.
How long do I have to wait for an appointment?
For a tattoo session, on weekdays it takes around 1-2 months; Saturdays are usually very busy. For consultations, the wait time is not long. The schedule changes frequently, and there may be earlier openings, even on weekends, so please contact me anyway, and I will do my best to schedule you.
Can I cancel or reschedule an appointment?
Certainly, no problem. The only thing I ask is an email or a phone call at least 3 days before the scheduled date for the tattoo session or anytime before the consultation reservation. Unannounced cancellations are something I frown upon, and there is a high chance of refusing future appointments.
Can I watch when you tattoo someone else?
No, nobody besides the client has access to the studio during the session. However, this can be an exception if you both came together.
Can I bring a friend with me when I come for a tattoo?
Of course, no problem. But please let me know in advance.
Pricing:
How much does a tattoo cost? Can we negotiate?
The starting price is 700 lei, and generally, that amount is sufficient for smaller tattoos or ones that are approximately the size of a business card. For larger works, the cost depends on the size, complexity, and duration, but as a rough estimate, something the size of a cigarette pack would cost between 2000-3000 lei, and something the size of a greeting card would cost between 4000-6000 lei. In the case of even larger tattoos that cannot be completed in a single session, the price is calculated based on duration at a fixed rate of 5000 lei per session (a session lasts the entire day). We do not negotiate or haggle; it is not about greed, but simply the fact that I am an artist, not a merchant.
Do you calculate prices based on size or duration?
For relatively small tattoos that can be completed in a single session of up to 4 hours, I determine the prices subjectively based on my experience with similar tattoos, taking into consideration the size, complexity, and approximate duration of the work. For larger tattoos that require multiple sessions, I calculate prices objectively based solely on the duration at a fixed rate of 5000 lei per session. In this case, you will not have to pay the full amount at once but gradually, each time for the duration of the respective session.
Cash or credit card?
Cash in Moldovan currency or web banking transfer.
Other questions:
Can you tattoo me if I'm under 18 but have parental consent?
No. The minimum age is the minimum age. The only exception is if you come with one of your parents.
I don't have any identification documents handy... What should I do?
If you are clearly over 18 and it is evident, you don't need any identification documents. I only ask for documents in cases where I need to verify that you are indeed above the minimum age.
Do you have parking at the studio?
I don't have any parking space in front of the studio, but there are parking spots in the area. Take a look at the map I've provided, and I've marked possible parking locations there. Details: Contact Information