How do I book a tattoo with you?

It’s easy! Fill out the booking form, and I’ll reach out to you in 1-3 days with a link to schedule your appointment. Once a date has been booked, a deposit is required to secure your spot.

Where are you based?

I am currently in Chicago. Occasional guest spots and travel remain part of my practice. Follow me on Instagram for updates on where I'll be next.

How far in advance should I book?

My books open on a rolling basis 3 months out. If you’re looking to book further in the future, just send me an email pokoapokotattoos@gmail.com

Do you offer consultations?

Yes! You can schedule a consultation here.

What is ‘Ethereal Ornamentalism’?

I never really felt like my work fit into an established tattoo art category. I’d describe it as an intersection between ornamental, fineline, handpoke, the occational blackwork… but more specifically, ethereal ornamentalism integrates my exploration of organic and abstract movement that emerges throughout my designs.

What techniques do you work with?

I work with both handpoke and machine, chosen deliberately for each piece based on the design, placement, and what the moment calls for. Handpoke brings intimacy and presence. Machine work brings precision where the design demands it.

What is a handpoke tattoo?

Handpoke is made manually, without a machine. It is generally gentler on the skin, heals more quickly, and carries a more meditative quality to the experience. The result tends to have a softer, more organic aesthetic that suits certain designs beautifully.

Will I see my design before the appointment?

Your design comes to life at the start of our session, not before. This is intentional as the energy of the day informs the final stencil, and those conversations happen best in person. Time for adjustments is always built into the session. Trust the process.

How should I prepare for my appointment?

Sleep well the night before. Eat a nourishing meal at least a few hours beforehand. Stay well hydrated as well-hydrated skin takes ink more beautifully and heals more easily. Moisturize the area in the days prior. Shower before you come in. Wear dark clothing that allows easy access to where we're working.

Avoid alcohol, recreational drugs, and blood thinners like painkillers in the 24 hours before your session. Limit caffeine to one coffee on the day of. Come as you are. You're in good hands.

Are there any conditions that would prevent us from working together?

Out of care for you and the integrity of the work, I'm unable to tattoo anyone who:

• Is pregnant or recently postpartum

• Is currently on antibiotics, cortisone, or steroid treatments

• Has been vaccinated within the last 48 hours

• Is under the influence of alcohol or any substances

• Has active skin irritation or atopic dermatitis on the intended area

• Is under 18 years of age

• Is unable to provide valid government-issued ID

If you're unsure whether something applies to you, please reach out before your appointment rather than after.

What is your deposit and cancellation policy?

A deposit is required to confirm your appointment and is applied toward your session total.

Rescheduling & Cancellations One reschedule is welcome with at least 72 hours notice. Your deposit transfers to your new date. Less than 72 hours notice requires a renewed deposit before a new date can be confirmed.

In the event of a full cancellation or no-show, deposits are non-refundable. That said, unexpected things happen and every situation is considered with care. If something comes up, please reach out. Communication always matters more than silence, and it keeps the door open.

Repeated missed appointments may mean we are no longer the right fit for working together.

How much do you charge?

Price despends on size, detail, and placement of the design. My minimum is $222.

Pricing is confirmed after your consultation, once I have a clear picture of the design, placement, and time required.

How long does a tattoo take to heal?

There are two stages worth understanding:

1. The surface heals within two to four weeks - redness and tenderness subside, peeling occurs, and the tattoo begins to settle.

2. Full healing, where the ink truly integrates into the deeper layers of skin, can take up to three months. During that time, the tattoo may look slightly dull or uneven. This is normal. Be patient with it.

Handpoke tattoos generally move through the first stage more quickly, but still benefit from the same attentive care.

What does aftercare look like?

After your session, I'll send you home with detailed aftercare instructions tailored to your piece and technique. The essentials: keep it clean, apply a fragrance-free moisturizer, and avoid sun exposure and submerging in water until fully healed. How you care for it in the first few weeks directly affects how it looks for the rest of your life.

Do you do touch-ups?

Touch-ups for my own work are assessed on a case-by-case basis. If your tattoo has healed and something needs attention, reach out, and we'll take a look together.

Can I bring someone to my appointment?

My space is intentionally intimate. I ask that clients come alone unless prior arrangements have been made. This protects the energy of the session for both of us.

What about tipping?

Tipping is never expected, but always deeply appreciated. If you felt seen, held, and taken care of, and you'd like to express that, a tip of 15–20% is a meaningful gesture. Cash is preferred. A kind word or a review goes just as far.

Do you tattoo all skin tones and body types?

Always. My practice is built on the belief that tattooing should be inclusive, safe, and empowering. I appreciate that every skin tone is unique, and I work with that specificity intentionally - adjusting ink selection and technique to honor the skin I'm working with. All bodies and identities are welcome here.

Can I see your available Collection Pieces?

You can find my current collection here. I also share new pieces regularly on Instagram. Collection Pieces are one-of-a-kind.