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Tattoo FAQs: Ocala & Belleview, FL

Find answers to common questions about tattoo appointments, walk-ins, consultations, pricing, artist retainers, studio policies, aftercare, and more at The Tattoo Gallery of Ocala and Stranger Flowers Yet in Belleview.

Booking & Pricing

How do I book a tattoo at The Tattoo Gallery of Ocala? Request a free consultation online, or contact The Tattoo Gallery by phone, text, social media, or in person. Walk-ins are also welcome when artist availability permits. Appointments are recommended for custom tattoos, larger projects, and requests for a specific artist. A non-refundable artist retainer is required to secure a tattoo appointment.

Where is The Tattoo Gallery of Ocala located? The Tattoo Gallery of Ocala is located at 1037 NE 14th St, Ocala, FL 34470, inside the 14th Street Plaza. Free parking is available in the plaza.

How do I book a tattoo at Stranger Flowers Yet? Request a free consultation online, or contact Stranger Flowers Yet by phone, text, social media, or in person. Walk-ins are also welcome when artist availability permits. Appointments are recommended for custom tattoos, larger projects, and requests for a specific artist. A non-refundable artist retainer is required to secure a tattoo appointment.

Where is Stranger Flowers Yet located? Stranger Flowers Yet Tattoo & Art Collective is located at 10119 SE Highway 441, Belleview, FL 34420, in the plaza at the top of the hill next to Mojo’s. Free parking is available.

Do you accept walk-ins? Yes. Both studios accept walk-ins when artist availability permits. Walk-ins are first-come, first-served. For custom tattoos, larger projects, or appointments with a specific artist, we recommend scheduling a consultation in advance.

How much does a tattoo cost? Tattoo pricing varies based on the artist, size, placement, detail, style, and time required. Each artist sets their own rates, so there is not one standard studio rate. A consultation is the best way to receive accurate pricing for your tattoo.

Do you have a shop minimum? Yes. Shop minimums may vary by artist and location and help cover the artist's time, setup, and disposable supplies required for every tattoo, regardless of size.

Can I get a tattoo price quote online? Because tattoo pricing depends on the design, size, placement, detail, and artist, we do not provide personalized tattoo estimates by phone, email, or social media. A free consultation allows the artist to review your project and provide accurate pricing.

Are consultations free? Yes. Tattoo consultations are free and typically take about 30 minutes. During your consultation, you can discuss your tattoo idea, placement, size, design, pricing, and scheduling with an artist. In-person consultations are preferred, but virtual consultations are also available when appropriate.

Do you require an artist retainer to book a tattoo? Yes. A non-refundable artist retainer is required to secure a tattoo appointment. The retainer reserves your artist's time and is applied toward the final cost of your tattoo. Retainers also compensate the artist for time reserved and preparation associated with your appointment.

What happens to my artist retainer if I cancel or reschedule? Artist retainers are non-refundable. With at least 7 days' notice, a retainer may be transferred one time to a rescheduled appointment at the artist's discretion. Retainers cannot be transferred to another client or artist. Late cancellations, no-shows, or insufficient notice will result in forfeiture of the retainer, and a new retainer will be required to book another appointment.

What happens if I'm late to my tattoo appointment? Please contact the studio as soon as possible if you're running late. Depending on the artist's schedule and the amount of time available, your appointment may need to be shortened or rescheduled. Significant lateness may result in forfeiture of your artist retainer.

Do you offer a cash discount? Yes. Tattoo prices are quoted at the discounted cash price. Clients who pay with cash receive the cash-discounted price. Major debit and credit cards are also accepted; the 4% cash discount does not apply to card transactions.

Do you offer tattoo financing? Yes. Tattoo financing is available through a third-party financing provider and is subject to approval. You can learn more and apply through our website or ask our team about financing during your consultation.

Do you offer tap-out tattoo sessions? No. We do not offer tap-out tattoo sessions. All tattoo appointments are priced and scheduled based on the design, size, placement, and time required to complete the tattoo properly and safely.

Artist Information

How do I find the right tattoo artist for my tattoo? Each of our tattoo artists has their own style, specialties, and portfolio. Browse our Artist pages to explore their work and find an artist whose style fits your tattoo idea. Each artist's page also lists whether they work at The Tattoo Gallery of Ocala or Stranger Flowers Yet in Belleview. If you're unsure who to choose, our team can help match you with an artist during your consultation.

Do tattoo artists work at both studio locations? No. Our tattoo artists are based at their respective studio locations and do not routinely rotate between The Tattoo Gallery of Ocala and Stranger Flowers Yet. When booking with a specific artist, your appointment will be at the studio where that artist works.

Are all tattoo artists available every day? No. Artist schedules and availability vary. Some artists may also be away for conventions, guest spots, or other events. Contact the studio or submit a consultation request to check availability for a specific artist.

Can I request a specific tattoo artist? Yes. You're welcome to request a specific artist when booking, including a female artist if that is your preference. Artist requests are based on availability and whether the artist's style and experience are a good fit for your tattoo. We recommend browsing our artist portfolios before submitting your consultation request.

Can I change tattoo artists after booking? Possibly. Artist changes are handled case by case and depend on availability, the tattoo project, and where you are in the booking process. Artist retainers are non-refundable and are paid to the artist you originally booked with. If you believe another artist may be a better fit, contact the studio as soon as possible so we can discuss your options.

Do you have award-winning tattoo artists? Yes. Artists from our studios have received awards at tattoo conventions and industry events, and The Tattoo Gallery of Ocala has also received multiple local community awards. You can learn more about individual artists, their experience, awards, specialties, and work through their artist portfolios.

Studio Policies

What identification do I need for my tattoo appointment? A valid physical government-issued photo ID is required for all tattoo and permanent makeup services. We cannot accept photos or digital copies of identification. If you do not have an acceptable physical ID with you, we cannot perform the service.

Are your studios and tattoo artists licensed in Florida? Yes. Both of our tattoo studios and our tattoo artists maintain the licenses required to perform tattooing in Florida. Our studios follow applicable state and local health, sanitation, and safety requirements.

Are your studios LGBTQIA+ friendly? Yes. Both studios are welcoming and inclusive spaces. We are committed to treating every client with respect regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, race, religion, disability, or background.

Can the studio refuse service? Yes. We reserve the right to refuse service when necessary for health, safety, legal, artistic, or studio-policy reasons. This may include intoxication, illness, unsafe skin conditions, failure to meet age or identification requirements, inappropriate or disruptive behavior, or a tattoo request an artist is not comfortable performing.

Do I need to tip my tattoo artist? No. Tipping is never required, but it is always appreciated. There is no required percentage or amount—tip whatever you feel is appropriate for your experience. Leaving an honest review, referring others to your artist, and supporting their work are also greatly appreciated.

Can I take photos or videos during my tattoo appointment? Yes, with your artist's permission. Photos and videos must be limited to you and your tattoo. Please do not photograph or record other clients, artists, or work areas without their consent. Your artist may ask you to stop recording if it interferes with the tattoo process, privacy, safety, or studio operations.

Can I take breaks during my tattoo session? Yes. Reasonable breaks for comfort, stretching, or restroom use are completely fine. For longer sessions, your artist may also plan breaks throughout the appointment. Excessive or extended breaks may affect the amount of tattooing that can be completed during your scheduled time.

How is privacy handled for tattoos in intimate areas? Your privacy and comfort are important. For tattoos in intimate or sensitive areas, your artist will use appropriate draping, positioning, and privacy barriers when needed. Only the area necessary for tattooing will be exposed. If you have privacy concerns or need specific accommodations, please discuss them with your artist before the appointment.

What is your policy for finger, hand, toe, foot, and ear tattoos? Tattoos on fingers, hands, toes, feet, and ears are considered high-wear placements and may fade or lose ink more quickly than tattoos in other areas. Not every design is suitable for these placements, and some artists may choose not to tattoo certain areas. These tattoos are handled case by case and are not guaranteed. Any future touch-ups for these placements are performed at the client's expense.

What is your tattoo touch-up policy? If your tattoo has light spots or areas that need attention after healing, contact the studio or your artist with clear photos. Touch-ups are handled case by case. When our aftercare instructions have been followed, one touch-up is typically included within six months of the original tattoo. High-wear placements such as fingers, hands, toes, feet, and ears are excluded from complimentary touch-ups.

Tattoo Designs & Custom Work

What tattoo styles do your artists specialize in? Our artists work in a wide range of tattoo styles, including realism, fine line, black and grey, color, illustrative, neo-traditional, anime and pop culture, floral, watercolor, geometric, abstract, and more. Each artist has their own specialties and artistic style. Browse our artist portfolios to find an artist whose work fits what you're looking for. If you're unsure who would be the best fit, our team can help match you with an artist during your consultation.

Do you create custom tattoo designs? Yes. We are a custom tattoo studio, and our artists create original designs based on each client's ideas, placement, style, and project. During your consultation, you can discuss your ideas and provide reference images to help your artist understand the direction you're looking for.

Can I bring reference photos for my tattoo? Absolutely. Reference photos are encouraged and can help your artist understand the style, subject matter, composition, colors, or details you like. References are used as inspiration and a starting point for creating your tattoo rather than something that will automatically be copied exactly.

Can I bring an AI-generated image as a tattoo reference? Yes. You're welcome to bring an AI-generated image as a reference for your tattoo. Your artist will review the image with you and discuss which elements can translate successfully into a tattoo and which may need to be changed. AI-generated images can contain details, proportions, textures, or design elements that do not translate well to skin. Your artist will use their experience and artistic judgment to create a tattooable design based on the direction and ideas you like from the reference. Our artists create and adapt their tattoo designs themselves rather than using AI-generated artwork as the finished tattoo design.

Will you copy another tattoo artist's design? We will not directly copy another tattoo artist's original work. You're welcome to bring photos of tattoos you like as references, and your artist can use them to understand the style, composition, or elements you're drawn to while creating an original design for you. If there are specific elements you want to preserve, discuss them with your artist during your consultation.

Can I see my tattoo design before my appointment? Tattoo designs are generally not sent to clients before their appointment. This protects the artist's time and original artwork and allows changes to be discussed directly with the artist. If you would like to review your design before your tattoo appointment, a separate design review appointment may be scheduled with your artist. Any necessary adjustments can also be discussed before tattooing begins.

Do you do tattoo cover-ups and reworks? Yes. Several of our artists specialize in tattoo cover-ups and reworks. Whether an existing tattoo can be covered or reworked depends on its size, color, placement, age, and the design you would like to create. A consultation is required so the artist can evaluate the existing tattoo and discuss realistic options with you.

Will you finish a tattoo started by another artist? Possibly. Tattoos started by another artist are considered case by case. An artist will need to evaluate the existing tattoo, its condition, the original design, and what work remains before deciding whether they can take over the project. Schedule a consultation so we can look at the tattoo and discuss your options.

Preparing for Your Tattoo Appointment

What should I do before my tattoo appointment? Get a good night's rest, eat a full meal before your appointment, and stay well hydrated. Avoid alcohol or recreational drugs before your appointment, and arrive with clean, healthy skin in the area being tattooed. If you're feeling sick, have a sunburn, rash, irritation, or another issue affecting the tattoo area, contact the studio before your appointment.

Should I eat before getting tattooed? Yes. Please eat a full meal before your tattoo appointment, especially for longer sessions. You may also bring a small snack and a non-alcoholic drink with you. Food and drinks must be kept away from the tattoo procedure area and should not interfere with the artist's workspace.

Can I drink alcohol before my tattoo appointment? No. Please do not consume alcohol or recreational drugs before or during your tattoo appointment. We cannot tattoo a client who appears intoxicated or unable to provide informed consent. If you arrive under the influence, your appointment will be canceled and your artist retainer may be forfeited according to our cancellation policy.

What should I wear to my tattoo appointment? Wear clean, comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that gives your artist easy access to the area being tattooed. Dark or older clothing is recommended because tattoo ink or other products may stain fabric. Depending on placement, shorts, a tank top, button-up shirt, loose pants, or other easily adjustable clothing may be helpful. If you're unsure what to wear for your tattoo placement, ask your artist before your appointment.

What should I bring to my tattoo appointment? Bring your valid physical government-issued photo ID and any items you may need to stay comfortable during your appointment. For longer sessions, you're welcome to bring headphones, a tablet or laptop, a small pillow, blanket, jacket, snacks, and a non-alcoholic drink. Please keep personal belongings contained and away from your artist's work area.

What if I'm prone to feeling faint during tattoos? If you know you're prone to feeling lightheaded or faint during tattoos, please tell your artist before the session begins. Make sure you've eaten, are hydrated, and communicate with your artist if you begin feeling unwell. If you feel faint during your appointment, your artist will stop the tattoo and give you time to recover. Depending on how you're feeling, the session may need to be paused or rescheduled.

What if I'm sick or my skin isn't ready for my appointment? Contact us before your appointment if you're sick or if the area being tattooed has a sunburn, rash, open wound, irritation, infection, or other skin issue. We will not tattoo skin that is sunburned, broken, inflamed, infected, or otherwise unsafe to tattoo. Depending on the situation, your appointment may need to be rescheduled.

Tattoos for Minors

How old do you have to be to get a tattoo in Florida? In Florida, you must be at least 16 years old to receive a non-medical tattoo. Clients who are 16 or 17 may be tattooed only when Florida's requirements for tattooing a minor are met, including parental or legal guardian consent and required identification. We do not tattoo anyone under 16.

What is required to tattoo a 16- or 17-year-old? For a 16- or 17-year-old to receive a tattoo, the minor must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. Both the minor and parent or legal guardian must provide valid government-issued photo identification, along with documentation showing the parent or legal guardian's relationship to the minor. A completed Florida Department of Health minor tattoo consent form DH 4146 is also required. The same parent or legal guardian who signs and has the consent form notarized must be present with the minor for the tattoo appointment. Another parent, relative, or adult cannot bring the minor in on behalf of the person who completed the notarized consent. If you're visiting Florida from another state, please contact us before having the form notarized so we can make sure you have everything required for your appointment.

Does the parent or legal guardian need to be present? Yes. Florida requires a 16- or 17-year-old receiving a tattoo to be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. The parent or legal guardian must also provide the required identification, proof of relationship, and notarized consent.

Can someone other than a parent or legal guardian give permission? Only a parent or legal guardian who can provide the required proof of their relationship or guardianship may provide consent. Permission from another adult does not replace Florida's parental or legal guardian requirements.

Do you tattoo minors at flash events? No. Our flash events are for clients 18 and older. Although Florida law allows qualifying 16- and 17-year-olds to receive tattoos under specific conditions, our flash events are 18+.

Can a tattoo artist refuse to tattoo a minor? Yes. Meeting Florida's legal requirements does not guarantee that an artist will accept a tattoo project for a minor. Our artists may decline a tattoo based on the design, placement, size, subject matter, or other professional considerations. We recommend scheduling a consultation before completing the notarized consent process so the artist can discuss the tattoo with both the minor and parent or legal guardian.

Guests, Children & Service Animals

Can I bring someone with me to my tattoo appointment? Yes. Clients may bring one guest with them to their tattoo appointment. Space in our tattoo areas is limited, so additional guests may be asked to wait outside the procedure area. Guests must respect the artist's workspace, other clients' privacy, and studio policies.

Can my guest sit with me while I'm being tattooed? Usually, yes. One guest may accompany you in the tattoo area when space and the procedure allow. Your artist may ask your guest to move or wait outside the procedure area if necessary for safety, privacy, or access to the tattoo.

Can I bring my children to the tattoo studio? Please arrange childcare before your tattoo appointment. Children are not permitted to wait in the studio while a parent, guardian, or other adult receives a tattoo or permanent makeup service. Minors who are at the studio as the client receiving an approved tattoo service are handled according to our minor tattoo policy.

Are service animals allowed in the tattoo studio? Yes. Service animals are permitted in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable health and safety requirements. Service animals must remain under the handler's control while in the studio. Pets and emotional support animals are not permitted inside the studio.

Can I bring a pet or emotional support animal to the studio? No. Pets and emotional support animals are not permitted inside either studio. Only qualifying service animals are permitted in accordance with applicable law.

Health & Safety

How do you keep the tattoo studios clean and sanitary? Both studios follow required sanitation and infection-control procedures for tattooing and permanent makeup. We use single-use disposable supplies where required, properly dispose of sharps and biomedical waste, disinfect procedure areas and equipment between clients, and follow appropriate handwashing and glove procedures. Our goal is to maintain a clean, professional environment for every client and artist.

Do you reuse tattoo needles or cartridges? No. Tattoo needles and needle cartridges are single-use and are disposed of in approved sharps containers immediately after use. They are never reused between clients.

Can I get tattooed if I have eczema, psoriasis, or another skin condition? Skin conditions are handled case by case. We will not tattoo over skin that is actively irritated, inflamed, broken, infected, or otherwise unsafe to tattoo. If you have eczema, psoriasis, or another condition affecting the area you want tattooed, let us know before your appointment. Depending on the condition, we may ask you to speak with your healthcare provider before being tattooed.

Can I get tattooed while taking medication or antibiotics? Some medications or medical treatments may affect whether it is appropriate to tattoo you or how your skin responds during the tattoo and healing process. Please tell your artist about anything that may be relevant before your appointment. Do not stop or change a prescribed medication in order to get tattooed. If you have questions about whether a medication or medical treatment makes tattooing appropriate for you, speak with the healthcare professional who prescribed or manages it.

Can I get tattooed before or after surgery or a medical procedure? If you have an upcoming surgery or medical procedure, or are currently recovering from one, speak with your healthcare provider about when it is appropriate for you to get tattooed. We may postpone a tattoo if there are concerns about healing, infection, the tattoo location, or your ability to safely complete the appointment.

Do you tattoo clients who are pregnant or breastfeeding? No. We do not tattoo clients who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Tattoo appointments will need to be scheduled after pregnancy and breastfeeding have ended.

Can I use numbing cream before my tattoo? Please talk with your artist before applying a numbing product. Some artists may have specific products they recommend or may prefer that certain products not be used for their tattoo process. Do not apply a numbing product before your appointment unless you have discussed it with your artist and followed the product directions.

What if I have a reaction or concern while my tattoo is healing? Contact your artist or the studio if you have questions about how your tattoo is healing. We can help determine whether what you're seeing appears consistent with normal tattoo healing and review your aftercare instructions with you. If you develop severe or rapidly worsening symptoms, signs of infection, difficulty breathing, or another urgent medical concern, seek appropriate medical care.

Tattoo Aftercare

How do I take care of a new tattoo? Your artist will give you aftercare instructions based on your tattoo and the type of bandage used. Follow those instructions carefully and keep your tattoo clean while it heals. For complete instructions, including traditional aftercare and adhesive bandages such as Second Skin or Recovery, visit our Tattoo Aftercare Guide.

How long should I leave Saniderm or an adhesive tattoo bandage on? How long an adhesive tattoo bandage should remain on depends on the product used and your artist's instructions. Follow the directions your artist gives you at your appointment. If the bandage begins leaking, comes loose enough to expose the tattoo, or is otherwise compromised, it should be removed rather than left partially covering the tattoo. Follow our traditional aftercare instructions after removal unless your artist tells you otherwise.

Is fluid under Saniderm normal? Yes. It is common for a fresh tattoo to release a mixture of plasma, excess ink, and a small amount of blood beneath an adhesive bandage. This can create a fluid pocket and may make the tattoo look blurry or distorted underneath the bandage. If the bandage is leaking or the seal has broken and the tattoo is exposed, remove it and follow your artist's aftercare instructions.

Can I shower or swim with a new tattoo? Yes. You can shower while your tattoo is healing, but avoid prolonged soaking or swimming and follow the instructions provided for your specific bandage. Do not submerge a healing tattoo in a bathtub, pool, hot tub, lake, ocean, or other body of water until it is fully healed.

Can I exercise after getting a tattoo? Exercise may need to be limited depending on the size and placement of your tattoo. Avoid activities that cause excessive rubbing, stretching, pressure, or contamination of the tattoo while it is healing. Ask your artist about your normal workout routine if you're unsure whether it could affect the tattooed area.

Can my new tattoo be in the sun? Keep a fresh tattoo protected from direct sun exposure while it is healing. Once the tattoo is fully healed, regular sun protection can help reduce fading and preserve the appearance of your tattoo over time.

How do I know if my tattoo is healing normally? Some redness, tenderness, swelling, itching, flaking, and changes in appearance can occur during normal tattoo healing. Healing varies depending on the tattoo, placement, and individual. If you're concerned about how your tattoo is healing, contact your artist or the studio and send clear photos if requested. If you develop severe or rapidly worsening symptoms or believe you may have an infection or serious reaction, seek medical care.

Accessibility & Accommodations

Are your tattoo studios wheelchair accessible? Yes. Both The Tattoo Gallery of Ocala and Stranger Flowers Yet are wheelchair accessible. If you have specific accessibility needs or concerns about navigating the studio or positioning for your tattoo, please contact us before your appointment so we can help make appropriate arrangements.

Can you accommodate clients with disabilities or mobility limitations? We will make reasonable efforts to accommodate clients with disabilities, mobility limitations, or other accessibility needs. Tattoo placement and positioning can sometimes require specific body positions, so please let us know about any accommodations you may need when scheduling your consultation or appointment. We can work with you and your artist to determine the safest and most comfortable setup for your tattoo.

¿Hablan español? / Do you have Spanish-speaking tattoo artists? Yes. Some of our tattoo artists speak Spanish. Availability varies by artist and studio location. Browse our artist profiles to find Spanish-speaking artists, or contact us and we'll help connect you with the right artist. Sí. Algunos de nuestros tatuadores hablan español. La disponibilidad varía según el artista y la ubicación. Visita nuestros perfiles de artistas para encontrar tatuadores que hablan español, o contáctanos y te ayudaremos a encontrar el artista adecuado.

What if I need an accommodation for my tattoo appointment? If you need a reasonable accommodation for your consultation or tattoo appointment, please contact us in advance when possible. We'll work with you to understand what you need and determine how we can best accommodate you while maintaining a safe tattooing environment. You are also welcome to discuss accommodations privately with our staff.

Services & Gift Cards

Do you sell tattoo gift cards? Yes. Gift cards are available for purchase online and in our studios. They make a great option for someone planning a tattoo but allow the recipient to choose their own artist and tattoo project. Gift cards can be purchased through our Gift Cards page or by visiting the studio.

Do tattoo gift cards expire? No. Our tattoo gift cards do not expire and can be used toward eligible tattoo services according to our gift card terms.

Do you offer Get What You Get tattoos? Yes! Both studios offer their own version of Get What You Get for clients who want to add a little surprise to their tattoo. At The Tattoo Gallery of Ocala, choose your design from our claw machine. At Stranger Flowers Yet, pick a flower to reveal your design. Get What You Get is available for clients 18 and older and is limited to arms and legs.

How much are Get What You Get tattoos? Get What You Get starts at $60 for the first linework design. Want to try again? Re-picks are $20 each, and color can be added for an additional $20. Availability may vary, so ask the studio when you visit or check our Get What You Get page for more information.

Do you offer permanent makeup? Yes. Permanent makeup is available at Stranger Flowers Yet in Belleview, FL. Services include nanoblading, powder brows, combo brows, lip blush, and cosmetic freckles. Browse our Permanent Makeup portfolio to learn more about available services, view work, and request a consultation.

Do you offer body piercing or other body modifications? No. We do not offer body piercing, eyeball tattoos, or other body modification procedures. Our studios specialize in professional tattooing, and Stranger Flowers Yet also offers permanent makeup services.

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