Northwest Indiana’s Premier Tattoo Studio
Tattoos: We can provide you with tattoos based out of our Flash Library or you can work with one of our artists on custom artwork that they will draw up and work with you on the design. Both of our tattoo artists have many years of experience and can provide you with the finest quality tattoos. Atom, our in-house graphic designer can also work with you on completely custom computer generated tattoo art. You will need to make an appointment to meet with Atom.
At Ancient Ink Tattoo Studio you'll find talented tattoo artists, with years of experience, who will create the finest quality tattoos. Whether you want traditional, custom, new school, or color or gray, we can bring your ideas to life, and design a tattoo that you will be proud to have chosen for your body. Ancient Ink tattoo Studio is a drug free, family owned and operated establishment. We believe our goals are the same: To find and give you the perfect tattoo. We are committed to making your experience a positive one. With a little etiquette, from everyone, it’s not hard to do. Here’s some helpful hints on etiquette and expectations for your visit to Ancient Ink Tattoo Studio: Going to a tattoo studio is no different than having dinner out at a good restaurant. You are the customer / client and we aim to please. In fact, there are guidelines for patronizing a tattoo studio. Ancient Ink Tattoo Studio has a “Client Bill of Rights” which assists you in knowing your rights as a Tattoo/ Piercing client when visiting our studio. Remember it goes both ways --we too have the right to expect your conduct to be civil, polite and respectful.
DO try to have some kind of idea what you’re looking for before you come to the studio- impulse buying isn’t, usually, a very good way to find a tattoo that you’ll be able to live with for the rest of your life. Of course, we are willing to help you explore ideas; but you should have some kind of idea that led you to the decision to get tattooed in the first place.
DO remember to tip your tattoo artist! Tattoo artists DO NOT get paid an hourly wage - they work on a percentage rate of the money you pay for your tattoo. They depend, heavily, on tips to support themselves. Your tattoo artist is marking you for life and committed to your happiness in this process. If you receive exceptional service, show your appreciation by tipping. As a general rule, tipping 10% is a MINIMUM. If you don’t have the extra money to tip, at least explain that to your artist (they’ll understand and appreciate it). If you didn’t know that tipping a tattoo artist is customary, YOU DO NOW!
DO pay maintain personal hygiene and physical decorum. There’s nothing more unpleasant than having to work on someone who smells. The same goes for bodily functions. If you’re having some difficulties with your stomach (i.e. gas) it might NOT be a good day to get tattooed. You get the idea.
DO tell your artist about:
• Feeling ‘green’ or ‘funny.’ Tell your artist right away (don’t try to tough it out) so that he/she can deal with it- your artist is prepared for it and knows how to handle it.
• Any concerns you might have about getting tattooed. Your artist is there to work with you and make the experience as easy as it can be.
• Any medical issues you have (i.e. pregnancy, diseases, medication).
DO get comfortable. You want the best tattoo you can get so allow your artist work in a relaxed setting, if breaks are needed say so! Don’t squirm and wiggle to get the artists attention that you are in need of a break. Just tell your artist. Your artist will appreciate it and accomodate your natural needs. Don’t expect a break every ten minutes. The artist has a schedule to keep.
DO NOT try to bargain with your tattoo artist like you’re at a garage sale or flee market. You wouldn’t try to bargain for a lower price with your dentist or store clerk. If all you have is a certain amount of money available tell the artist and see if he can assist you with that budget or save up until you have the full amount. Bargaining in a tattoo shop is an exercise in bad taste; and the quickest way to tick you artist off. The last thing you want is your tattoo artist mad at you when he starts sticking you with needles. Bargaining is offensive. If you’re going to get something that you’re going to wear forever, do you want to go into this experience with a “flee market ” expectation or the top of the line” mind set.
DO NOT go into a tattoo studio if you’ve been drinking or if you’re under the influence of drugs. Show your artist and studio some respect. Come sober- nobody likes dealing with drunks. If your breath smells of alcohol you’re not going to get a tattoo - not from anyone reputable, anyway.
DO NOT ask your artist to draw something just to see if he can. There are people who come into the studio and ask for one thing to be drawn after another without every getting a tattoo. This is why Ancient Ink requires a deposit on drawings.
DO NOT bring a “cheering section” to the studio. Many shops will not let ANYONE accompany you into the tattoo area and it is prohibited by many state laws. You’re free to ask about bringing A ( as in one) friend but, not many artists want 3 to 5 of your friends crowding around and disturbing the work area.
DO NOT bring children to the tattoo studio without asking first- call ahead if you have to. Your tattoo artist will really appreciate it if you can find a ‘sitter’ for the kids so that you can come to the studio alone. There are hazards that children can be exposed to, and you will not be able to appropriately supervise your child while getting a tattoo or piercing. This is your time to relax. Children can be very distracting to everyone in the studio.
This may all seem to be common sense but the reality is that tattoo artists deal with breaches of this etiquette all day, every day. A little common courtesy and etiquette can go a long way towards making your entire tattoo experience much more rewarding and pleasant. It’s a small price to pay for a big reward.
