FAQ






At Rock City Tattoo, Lila is selective about the projects she takes on, focusing on work that aligns with her style, standards, and long-term vision for the piece.


ONLINE CONSULT:

All bookings start with the online consultation form. Please include your tattoo idea, style, placement, size and budget. Providing complete and accurate information helps ensure your inquiry can be properly reviewed. Incomplete or unclear submissions may not receive a response. This allows time and attention to be reserved for projects that are a good fit.

All consultations are conducted virtually or by phone. In-person consultations are not offered at this time.


PRICING:

Every tattoo and every body is different, so pricing is based on the individual project, not exact time estimates. The ranges below are meant to give a general sense of investment, not a guaranteed quote.

BUDGET-DRIVEN CUSTOM Projects; NEW FOR 2026

Custom projects are priced as a flat rate based on the overall scope of the piece and the clients stated budget. Some projects may be completed in a single session, but pricing is based on the piece itself rather than time.

Portraits start at $900

Smaller custom pieces: starting around $1,200–$1,500

Medium custom pieces: $1,800–$2,500+

Large-scale projects / sleeves: $3,000+

Final pricing is discussed and agreed upon before any design work begins.

A budget is required for all custom tattoo inquiries. This allows us to determine whether a project is feasible and how best to approach the design.

Pre-Drawn / Available Designs (Hourly)

Pre-drawn design designs are existing designs from my available work; $200hr.


DEPOSITS:

A $200 deposit is required to book.

We accept Venmo or CARD.

Deposits are nonrefundable and non-transferable.

Deposits are valid for 60 days. After that they are forfeited.

The deposit is applied at the final tattoo session (if multiple).
Deposits cover design time and holding your spot on the calendar.

If you cancel, no-show, change your mind or do not get tattooed at your appointment, the deposit is forfeited.

RESCHEDULING:

7+ days notice: you can reschedule, deposit carries over.

4+ days notice for inclement weather: deposit carries over.

Less than four days notice deposit is forfeited.


SERVICES NOT OFFERED:

COVER UPS, FIX UPS, FINISHING OTHER ARTISTS WORK, LETTERING, RIB CAGE TATTOOS. Projects requiring tiny details (fingers, toes, etc.) or overly specific instructions aren’t accepted, as they limit creative freedom. Preferences are welcome, but exact list of flowers, elements, or placements are not. Names can be added with portraits.


APPOINTMENT OVERVIEW

Rock City Tattoo is a private studio— each session is one-on-one, in a relaxed, focused setting. Lila will have everything prepped and ready when you arrive. Sessions typically include a short break every couple of hours to stretch and refuel, so please bring lunch or snacks. She’ll guide you on placement and sizing to ensure your tattoo looks it’s best for years to come.


ARTWORK PREVIEW POLICY:

We do not provide artwork prior to the appointment. We understand the desire to visualize the final product in advance, however the policy is set up in a way that reveals the design at the time of the appointment. This approach helps ensure that any final adjustments are made together, ensuring the best possible outcome. There is a blog post that covers this topic more in depth.


HELPFUL TIPS

Eat a solid meal two hours before your appointment and bring snacks— sugar, and caffeine help. Pack a simple lunch; sandwich and chips works great. Come alone. Avoid drinking the night before. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that gives access to the area being tattooed. Don’t tan or sunbathe 48 hours before, or take aspirin/ibuprofen or use numbing cream. Appointment start at 11 AM. For large sessions, rest and eat well the day before— treat it like prepping for an athletic event. There’s free parking in the lot behind and be beside the building, plus on street parking. Payment is cash only at your appointment. Most importantly— have fun!

PORTRAIT TIPS: SEE BELOW




Portraits



A high quality photo is essential. Low quality/ low contrast photographs are difficult to tattoo and as a result, may be turned down. Preferred body placement is a flat area (forearm, calf, etc), so the photo will not be distorted when the stencil is placed. I will request 3 photo references and let you know which one is ideal for a tattoo. We will factor in the lighting, pose, expression and detail. Portrait sessions are a minimum of 4+ hours ($900+)





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