subscribeFrequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it true the artists at Iron Brush helped write the body art laws?
Yes! We are proud to say that we helped spearhead the implementation of safety standards for the tattoo and body piercing trade. We worked with the governing bodies to help them write a much needed body art code. We first worked with the Lincoln Lancaster Health Department to write the health code which is in place for Lancaster County. Then, we helped the State of Nebraska to write the state laws for body art and safety standards that are now in effect state wide!
Do you use new needles and pigments?
Absolutely. All needles are new. Always. All equipment is single service, which means that each needle and tube set is individually packaged, dated, sealed and sterilized. Ointments, pigments, needles, gloves, razors, plastic barriers, and ink caps used in applying your new tattoo are discarded after use. After the tattoo is finished, the artist disinfects the work area with a chemical that kills all viruses and bacteria.
How do you sterilize your equipment?
An autoclave. It is the only acceptable means of equipment sterilization in the tattoo shop. We have two autoclaves in our sterilizing area. They work by using a combination of heat, steam, and pressure to kill all pathogenic microorganisms known to man. We keep detailed logs of the autoclave use, and our autoclave’s efficiency is tested and monitored by an outside laboratory.
For more information, see our sterilization procedures page.
Do I need an appointment for a tattoo or piercing?
It is a good idea to make an appointment and walk-ins are always welcome. If you would like an artist to make an appointment for you, we do require that you consult with the artist about the design, how long the tattoo will take and leave a deposit. Otherwise, you can just walk-in.
How do I chose a studio and artist?
Next to safe tattoo procedures, the artists reputation and portfolio is crucial. Our Reputation is Outstanding! Our portfolios are proudly displayed on the lobby walls to show our diversity, our originality, our experience, and quality of tattoos. This is very important. Find an artist whose style and technical aspects appeal to you, and look closely for crisp application of the tattoos. Tattooing is incredibly difficult. Without years of study, the correct knowledge, and application experience, a tattooer cannot apply a good tattoo. Always ask to see the artist’s work — they should be proud to show you. There is no better way to see the art work than see the tattoos. Look closely at the line and color quality of the tattoos. Ask people where they got tattooed, especially if you really like the work you see. We are proud of our reputation!
Do you have to be licensed to be a tattooer in Lincoln?
Yes. We worked with the health department to develop health regulations for practitioners and studios. Getting a tattoo by an amateur in their home can be very dangerous, especially if they have no knowledge of sterilization or safe operating procedures. Bacterial infections, hepatitis, and syphilis are prevalent in a dirty work environment. The money spent on a professional tattoo studio is well worth the assurance that the only thing you will get is a tattoo.
How much does it cost?
Designs are priced on the size of the tattoo, the time involved to complete the tattoo, the complexity of the design, and other technical aspects of the tattoo. The price is also up to you because most designs can be made larger, more complex, or made simpler and smaller to fit your tattoo budget. Just let your artist know what you would like and how much you have to spend, and he will show you exactly what you can get. Whether it is a large custom piece or a small symbol, you are purchasing a hand crafted and unique piece of art that can never be lost or stolen. This is something that will outlast all of your other purchases. You get what you pay for — a good quality tattoo will not be cheap and a cheap tattoo will not be good.
Should I shop around for the best price?
Well, you may not ask the tattoo shop this, but you may be thinking about it. The best thing I can tell you is it is a buyer beware market with shops popping up everywhere and very few people willing to undertake a true apprenticeship. Sterilization and protecting your health is extremely important and one of the primary things you need to look for. The artist’s portfolio is also very important — this would be a fundamental place to look before getting a tattoo. You will want to find an artist you feel comfortable with, and my advice is to take the time to research your artist, you will be glad you did. All of these questions will help you on your journey.
Can I bring in my own design?
Of course. Just bring it in and talk with one of the artists about the particulars of the design, and they can draw it up for you.
Will my tattoo fade or blur out?
If it is too small, it will blur out. The sun can fade your tattoo over years. The quality of pigments and the initial application of the tattoo will directly affect how long a tattoo will stay bright. A top quality tattoo will last a lifetime with good initial aftercare and a little sun block.
Is there anything I should I do before I get tattooed or pierced?
Yes, be well rested and eat well. Drink plenty of fluids. Bring your ID and wear appropriate clothing. Mostly though, just relax and have a good time.
Is there anything I shouldn’t do before I get tattooed or pierced?
Do not drink alcohol, or take drugs other than prescribed by you doctor. Do not be sunburned.
Does it hurt?
This is a very popular question. In a professional environment it is annoying, and it does sting a bit. The more relaxed you are the easier the process, and within a few minutes your body will release endorphins (which are natural pain killers) that ease your discomfort. The experience is different for everyone and everyone’s definition of the discomfort will be different. It is impossible to say exactly how it will feel for you. Generally, everyone does just fine. Some spots do hurt worse than others. A few general rules do apply. The more muscular areas (upper arm or calf) will hurt less than the bonier areas (elbow or ribs). Sensitive parts of your body will sting a bit more to get tattooed: “If you are ticklish there, it’s probably going to hurt a bit.” It really is best to get tattooed where you want it, based on your aesthetics. The placement of the tattoo is solely up to you, because the tattoo will be there long after the pain fades. If it were that painful, people wouldn’t keep coming back for a second, and third, and fourth, and, on and on …
Can you make this tattoo smaller?
Yes, we are skilled enough to make a tattoo really small and detailed, but that will not make a good tattoo. No matter who applies the tattoo, or how a tattoo is applied, the ink will migrate a bit over time. A tattoo is inside of skin cells and not on top of paper. Lines applied too close to one another will blur together, and in some cases alter lettering or destroy a design a few years or even months down the road. Your tattooer is a professional and we want your tattoo to look good. Of course we will make money doing your tattoo, but not at the expense of doing a bad tattoo. Listen to your tattooer’s advice and make your tattoo a size that will last and be enjoyed for years.
Do people just pick designs off the wall?
Sure. That is a great way to pick a good design that will make a great tattoo. All of the designs we have here are hand painted by tattooers. It used to be that you could tell how good a tattooer was by looking at the designs on his walls, because there were no color copy machines, he had to draw all of them himself. Most shops no longer take the time to learn the skills needed and invest the time into drawing their own designs. Thus, they all carry the same commercially bought designs and leave the clients to question the skills of the tattooer and the originality of the design. Read on.
What is flash?
This is the term for the designs on the wall. All of the flash at Iron Brush is hand painted by tattooers. Almost all of our flash is drawn, inked, and watercolored by the tattooers at Iron Brush, the ones who will be doing your tattoo. Which means your tattooer has taken the time to develop his skills, efficiency, designing ability, and artistic prowess in tattooing. This is the sign of true craftsmanship. Our walls and books are filled with quality hand painted flash we proudly use daily in the tradition of all the good tattooers before us.
How do you become a tattooer?
Years of study under an accomplished artist. There are no shortcuts.
Will you tattoo or pierce under 18?
Sorry, no. Not even with parental consent. You must be 18 with a valid state issued ID to be tattooed or pierced. No exceptions.
What are your hours?
Professional hours, no late nights, no drunks.
Monday-Thursday 2pm-10pm.
Friday-Saturday noon-10pm.
Where are you located?
We are conveniently located in downtown Lincoln, NE at 1024 ‘O’ Street. See our contact page for more info.
How can I get in touch with you?
Lots of ways: stop by the shop, give us a call, or drop us an email. Check out our contact page for the specifics.