FAQs

All you need to know about how I work.

  1. What do you charge?

    My hourly is $200. The booking deposit is $100 and comes out of the eventual tattoo cost. I accept Venmo, PayPal and Zelle for deposits. You can also pay through my booking platform Porter, but they will take a 7% service fee.

  2. Are you cash only?

    Yep! This is new for me, and many of you have paid in Venmo before. I will continue to accept deposits digitally but for full tattoo payments I prefer cash. I can accept card payments but there is a service fee.

  3. How much will my tattoo cost?

    There are a lot of factors that determine how long the tattoo will take. When I respond to your booking request I will let you know if your budget and idea are in alignment. I will have the most accurate idea once the design is finished, and once more when we determine the size and placement at the studio! All quotes are ballpark and we can discuss if I think your design will take longer than we initially thought.

  4. Is there an ATM at the shop?

    There is a Chase across the street as well as a Wells Fargo and a Bank of America 10 minutes away walking.

  5. Will I see my design in advance?

    Unfortunately this isn’t something I can promise, but it’s always something I attempt to do. Typically I will send your design 24 hours ahead of the appointment for your approval. I allow for two adjustments via email and anything further well handle when you come into the shop. Sometimes things come up that make it hard for me to get a design sent out ahead of time, but rest assured we’ll make sure you love it before it gets tattooed!

  6. Can I change my custom idea?

    I normally start sketching my custom tattoos a week or so before you come in. If your idea changes and you can let me know before I start drawing I’m happy to adjust! If I’ve already drawn it up for you and you’re thinking of going in a totally different direction I might have to ask for another deposit.

  7. Can I reschedule?

    Deposits fully roll over for reschedules with 72 hours notice. Deposits cover two reschedules.

  8. What should I bring to my appointment?

    Make sure to bring your ID and wear loose fitting, comfy clothes. If we’ll be doing a leg or thigh piece it is a great idea to bring a pair of shorts to change into. Try to eat beforehand or bring some snacks for longer sessions.

  9. Can I bring a friend?

    While friends and love ones are welcome in our shop, they are not allowed in the tattoo area unless they are also getting tattooed. Your friends will be asked to stay in our comfy waiting area if they come with you but they’re welcome to take a look at the stencil and placement before we start.

  10. Where is the shop?

    310 Valencia Street in the mission district. More info about location and parking can be found here: https://blackserum.com/home/#our-studio

  11. Anything else?

    I recommend arriving hydrated and well rested. Please avoid shaving, scratching or messing with the area you’re thinking about getting tattooed. Try to keep your skin moisturized leading up to our appointment. Sitting for longer sessions can be a lot on the body so keep that in mind, it can be good to stretch or roll out before. Please do not show up drunk, high or under 18. Do not apply numbing products prior to coming in unless we’ve discussed it first.