FAQ + Aftercare
General Shop Policy
These policies apply to both Homeward Bound Tattoo locations and are enforced at all times.
• Any and all clients must be at least 18 years old to receive a tattoo. No exceptions.
• A valid (non-expired) photo ID must be brought and shown before receiving a tattoo. No exceptions.
• Cash is our preferred payment method, but credit cards are also accepted. We DO NOT accept checks!
• We do not do piercings of any kind at either shop location.
• Children are not allowed at either tattoo shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Don’t see an answer to your question here? Head over to our contact page and send us a message!
How much will my tattoo cost?
We give general quotes and hourly rates over the phone but these are just estimates. Every tattoo is a custom piece and each requires a different amount of time and skill to complete. Your tattoo could end up being a little more or a little less due to size, placement, complexity, and level of technical expertise it takes to give you the best result. Your estimate does not include gratuity.
Does your shop have a piercer / do piercings?
We do not do piercings at either shop location. We get this question on a daily basis and we understand that our Facebook page is listed as a “Tattoo & Piercing Shop” but that is only because Facebook does not have a “Tattoo Shop” only option. Homeward Bound does not have any plans to provide piercings in the future.
Can I bring someone to my appointment with me?
For the safety of our staff and clients alike, we are not allowing anyone to accompany you to your appointment as a precaution against COVID-19. This includes friends / relatives / significant others / spouses / etc.
Can I bring my child / children to the shop with me?
A tattoo shop is not kid-friendly. Children (any persons under the age of 18) are not permitted at either tattoo shop, especially during your tattoo appointment.
Can I drink alcohol or take pain killers before getting my tattoo?
No, do not drink any alcoholic beverage or take pain killers that can thin your blood, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, before receiving a tattoo. When your blood is thinned due to alcohol or pain killers the tattoo process will cause the client to "bleed out" the ink that is trying to be laid down by our artists. This will cause the tattoo to look extremely poor (i.e. blurry, not saturated, etc).
The pain that is felt during the process of receiving a tattoo is part of the process and thus giving emphasis to the permanent nature of the art.
Aftercare Instructions
We’ve been in the tattoo business a long time, and these aftercare instructions are what we think works the best.
We recommend our clients follow these instructions to the best of their ability, however if you choose not to follow them, Homeward Bound Tattoo is NOT responsible for any extra discomfort or tattoo damage that may occur during the healing process.
Remove bandages after 4 hours.
Gently wash your tattoo with antimicrobial soap and warm water at least 6 times a day. Soap should be fragrance free and without glitter or dyes.
Gently pat your tattoo dry with a clean towel or paper toweling, every time.
Apply a thin layer of "Aquaphor Healing Ointment" after each wash for 2 weeks.
Use common sense during the healing of your new tattoo, such as staying away from hot tubs or any swimming for the first 2 to 4 weeks to avoid infection.
Don't have any common sense? Give us a call with your tattoo aftercare instructions.