Studio hygienic practice standards
All VADERS.DYE X ATELIER EVA artists and associates are thoroughly trained in the practiced standards set by state law and industry. Our goal is to exceed these standards and establish our own. All stations are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected by the artist/associate after each session. Through consultations with California state Health Department, we have ensured that all surfaces (walls, floors, furnishings, equipment) comply with sterility standards. The professional execution of our disinfection/sterilization routine is continuously reviewed to improve standards. All equipment is “single-use” and provided with an expiration date.
Equipment sterilization standards
We only use “single-use” equipment. That means that all items that come into direct contact with skin/the tattooing process are securely disposed of after each session.
We follow a strict procedure regarding our tattooing process, carried out by trained and certified artists/associates:
- Disinfection
- Cleaning
- Sterilization
All artists works with disposable equipment/supplies (gloves, needles, ink containers, paper towels, razors, and spatulas). Sterile equipment is unpacked in front of the client. Each artist’s station is organized and optimized for workflow.
We require a detailed declaration of consent, where clients are informed of all possible concerns and clauses. We strive to adapt to the needs of each client, should there be any health concerns.
Recommended checklist for an appointment
- General:
- The studio is clean and tidy- the staff is welcoming and helpful.
- It’s recommended to attend/set up a consultation session before setting up an appointment to further discuss details. Do research on the artist and studio to ensure it’s the right fit for you
- You are presented with a thorough consent form with written information and agreement
- You are fully informed about all risks involved in the tattoo process
- You are asked to present a government issued I.D. and disclose any information (health concerns, conditions) that the artist should be aware of
- You are welcome to ask any questions you may have about materials/equipment, safety procedure in case of emergency
- The artist clearly explains and presents preferred aftercare procedure
- It is illegal to tattoo any minor under the age of 18, regardless of parental consent
- Hygiene
- The artist/associate must wear washable work clothing
- Maintain a sterile workstation and sterilize hands/wear gloves
- Properly disinfect your skin and prevent prolonged exposure
- Workstations are properly spaced apart and separated from high-traffic areas
- All furnishings along with floors and walls are washable and easy to disinfect
- Multiple disinfectants are in close proximity to stations
- Strict smoking ban
- All direct surfaces used in the tattooing process are wrapped with a sterilization barrier that is disposed of after each session (plastic wrap, dental bib, bed sheet). The surface is then sterilized for the following session
How to set up an appointment
If you have an idea for your tattoo, general or precise, with or without references, please contact us through our appointment request form or phone number provided on our site.
If necessary, a non-binding consultation with your preferred artist can be arranged.
It is illegal to be tattooed if you are under the age of 18, regardless of having parental / gaurdian consent.
In order to book an appointment, a non-refundable deposit of $100 USD is required. Depending on size, location, and detail, this amount may be subject to change. In certain situations, clients can make an appeal for a refund (subject to artist/staff review).
The tattoo design will be seen in person at the start of your session. Our artists allocate time in their quote to allow any changes/alterations.
At the end of your appointment, the artist will provide a detailed description for their preferred aftercare process.
Additionally, we are happy to offer complimentary touch-ups within a 6 month period. Afterwards, a small fee will be necessary (up to the artist’s discretion).
Risks associated with tattoos
A tattoo is a piece of art that will last forever. Currently, there is no known method to remove a tattoo completely.
While tattoos are becoming more popular/accepted in general culture, they are not welcome everywhere. It’s important to consider how tattoos will affect how you are perceived, especially in certain professions or cultures.
A tattoo will always differ slightly from the drawing/stencil. There are many factors that determine this; skin type, color, and body shape.
Complications, allergies, infections, and inflammation are all possible risks. Despite our compliance with the utmost hygiene/sanitation standards, there is always the risk of a reaction. We strongly recommend consulting with a doctor/dermatologist to assess personal risks before scheduling an appointment. Artists will provide their detailed aftercare procedure, but it is up to you to maintain that regimen. Should you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us.
The science of tattooing
The procedure of tattooing consists of the puncturing of skin with a very small needle, wherein the motion carries ink from the capsule in the machine into your dermal layer. It’s important to make sure that the procedure is placed neither too shallow or deep. If it’s too shallow, the ink will only be placed in the cellular layers of the epidermis. Over time, your body’s natural shedding of cellular layers would result in the eventual washing out/shedding of ink. If it’s too deep, it can lead to ink bleeding out and blurring under your epidermal layers. The ink placed in the dermal layer are permanently durable and stored between cells called fibroblasts.
The most common method of tattooing today is done using an electric tattoo machine. Fore example, a coil machine uses an electromagnetic field to generate motion between the coils and needle bar, where the needle moves up and down. The speed depends on the machine and power supply, as well as the technique and desired effect (lines, dotwork, or shading). A needle generally moves ~800 to 7,500 movements per minute.
The history of tattooing
Tattoos have always been an important part of human history. It’s presumed that every cultural community has practiced and known the craft at some point in their history.
The origin of the word “tattoo” is derived from the Tahitian word “tattau”. The word stems from “ta” meaning drawing, while the full word means drawing in skin. Captain Cook’s diary from 1769 contains the following entry about the natives: “Both sexes paint tattau on their bodies as it is called in their language; this is done by inserting black color under the skin in such a way that it is indelible. Some have horrible looking pictures of male birds or dogs… In short, in applying these pictures they show such variety that their quantity as well as their position seem to depend on the mood of the individual. Men and women show it with great pleasure”.
Since the invention of the electric tattoo machine in 1890, the art has boomed. In times of war, soldiers would be tattooed so that their bodies could be identified. During World War II, prisoners of war were tattooed as a means of identification as well. In the 1960s, the tattoo culture experience a resurgence. The fad of tattooing penetrated into the world of urban youth culture alongside the “flower children”.
Nowadays, tattoos have reached all levels of society and culture. Many celebrities have striking tattoos that influence a broad range of followings. Modern studios have also broken down the facade that all studios are grimey and unwelcoming- by being sleek, clean, and welcoming!