FAQs

A brief overview of the primary information

Booking, Deposits & All the Important Stuff

How do I book an appointment?

To book an appointment with me, you can either email me directly, or use the 'Book An Appointment' section of my website. I will respond via email.

MechanicalKayla@Gmail.com

Please note: I check emails once to twice a week. Please be sure to include as much information as possible to streamline booking your appointment. After submitting an inquiry or emailing me, you should receive an automated email. Please ensure you included all the information requested in the automated email, and if not, please reply to it directly with any additional information needed.

How do I pay my deposit?

Deposits can be paid via Venmo, CashApp, or cash. If prompted, please pay deposits as Friends & Family, otherwise it will be refunded minus any fees that are charged.

CashApp - $MechanicalKayla

Venmo - @Mechanical_Kayla Last four digits of pone number - 3445

Cash - Please email me to confirm a day and time to stop by the shop in person to leave a deposit.

Please continue to the Deposit Policy portion of my FAQs for my full deposit policy.

What is your cancelation and rescheduling policy?

Appointments generally can be rescheduled without issue with at least 72 hours notice to your appointment date and time.

In the event you need to cancel your appointment, I would be unable to refund your deposit, however it will still remain valid for whenever you are ready to re-book.

Please continue to the Rescheduling and Canceling An Appointment portion of my FAQs for more information.

I'm a minor, can I be tattooed with parental consent?

No. Anyone looking to get tattooed in New York State, must be at least 18 years of age with valid ID.

What happens if I miss my appointment or forget to let you know?

If you need to reschedule, please do so with 72 hours notice prior to your appointment. Not doing so will result in forfeiting your deposit.

More information can be found under the Rescheduling and Canceling an Appointment section.

Information on my deposit policy, rescheduling and canceling appointments

Deposit Policy

Why is a deposit needed?

A deposit acts as a commitment for the date and time of your appointment and will go towards the cost of your tattoo. An appointment is not confirmed until a deposit is received.

How do I pay my deposit?

Deposits can be paid via Venmo, CashApp, or cash. If prompted, please pay deposits as Friends & Family, otherwise it will be refunded minus any fees that are charged.

CashApp - $MechanicalKayla

Venmo - @Mechanical_Kayla Last four digits of pone number - 3445

Cash - Please email me to confirm a day and time to stop by the shop in person to leave a deposit.

How much is the deposit?

The amount of the deposit varies on how long the tattoo will take, but is generally between $50-$100.

When is the deposit due?

Deposits are due as soon as possible after we confirm a date and time that works for your appointment. If I do not receive your deposit within (7) days of confirming an appointment slot, you risk losing the date and time. Please reach out to me prior to sending your deposit if that is the case to ensure the appointment slot is still available. If not, we would find a new date and time that works for the both of us.

Is my deposit applied toward my tattoo?

Yes! If your tattoo will be $500, and you leave a $100 deposit, the deposit will go towards the price of the tattoo and $400 will be the remaining balance due during the tattoo appointment.

Is my deposit refundable?

No. Deposits are non-fundable.

Is my deposit valid if I reschedule?

As long as you contact me at least 72 hours prior to your appointment to reschedule, you're deposit will still be valid.

More information can be found under the Rescheduling & Canceling portion of my FAQs

Information to know when booking

Booking an Appointment

How do I book an appointment?

To book an appointment with me, you can either email me directly, or use the 'Book An Appointment' section of my website. I will respond via email.

MechanicalKayla@Gmail.com

Please note: I check emails once to twice a week. Please be sure to include as much information as possible to streamline booking your appointment. After submitting an inquiry or emailing me, you should receive an automated email. Please ensure you included all the information requested in the automated email, and if not, please reply to it directly with any additional information needed.

What information do I include when booking an appointment?

When booking an appointment, please include as much information as possible as I only check emails once or twice a week. Including as much information as possible will streamline the process!

Information that should be included is -

  • Tattoo idea
  • Placement
  • Style
  • Size (Please use measurements to estimate size)
  • Availability

After submitting an inquiry from the Booking an Appointment tab of my site or emailing me directly, you should receive an automated email within 10 minutes. Be sure to check your spam folder if you do not receive it. You can also save and favorite my email address to prevent it going to your spam folder.

Do you take walk-ins?

As of right now, I do not currently take walk-ins. If you're looking to get tattooed by me, please book an appointment.

How far in advance can I book my appointment?

Generally it is at least a 2 week wait for an appointment, but I do not restrict how far out we can book an appointment for. Any appointment booked more than 12 weeks out will be considered a 'tentative' appointment. You will still be scheduled, however I ask for grace an understanding if I need to change your appointment date or time as other commitments outside of tattooing may come up. Once it is 8 weeks prior to your appointment, if you don't hear from me, it is safe to assume you are good to go for the appointment date and time we set up.

When are you available?

I am available Wednesdays-Saturdays. The earliest appointment slot is 1pm and the latest is 5pm. If this does not work with your availability, please still reach out and I'll attempt to work with your schedule.

Note: Saturday appointments do book quickly, please book in advance for a Saturday appointment.

Can you send me the design?

Your design will be ready the day of your appointment. I do not send out the artwork prior, however I allow time during the appointment to make any changes if necessary.

Life happens, here's what you need to know

Rescheduling & Canceling an Appointment

What if I need to reschedule my appointment?

If you need to reschedule, please reach out at least 72 hours before your appointment. Your deposit will still apply.

If the same appointment is rescheduled more than twice, a second deposit may be required to hold the new date, both deposits will still go toward your tattoo.

What happens if I’m late to my appointment?

If you’re running late, please message me as soon as possible. Most of the time we can make it work.
If you arrive more than 20 minutes late without notice, it’s considered a no-call/no-show. In that case, your deposit will be forfeited.
If lateness requires us to reschedule, an additional deposit will be needed, but both will still count toward your tattoo total.

What happens if I miss my appointment?

Missing your appointment without notice is considered a no-call/no-show, and your deposit will be forfeited.

If I no-call/no-show, can I reschedule?

If it’s your first time missing an appointment, you can still reschedule, but your original deposit will not apply. A new deposit (double the original amount) will be required to rebook.

After a second no-show, the full cost of the tattoo session will be required as a deposit to reschedule.

After three no-call/no-shows, you will no longer be able to book with me.

What if there’s a storm or snow the day of my appointment?

Safety always comes first, no tattoo is worth risking travel in bad weather.

If inclement weather makes it unsafe to get to the shop, we’ll simply reschedule and your deposit will still apply.

If you’re coming from out of town and the weather is bad where you are (even if it’s fine here), just reach out so we can make adjustments. I always err on the side of caution, especially during snowstorms.

What if you have to reschedule my appointment?

I rarely need to reschedule, but if I do, it’s because I’m genuinely too sick to tattoo safely. I’ll always reach out as soon as possible and do my best to find a new time that works for you, even if that means coming in on one of my days off.

If I cancel my appointment, can my deposit be refunded?

Deposits are non-refundable. If you cancel your appointment with at least 72 hours notice prior to your appointment, your deposit will still be valid for whenever you decide to get tattooed. Alternatively, I can give you your deposit as a gift certificate if needed.

How to come in ready to take on the day

Before Your Appointment

How should I prepare for my tattoo appointment?

Make sure you’re well-rested, hydrated, and have eaten a good meal before your appointment. Avoid caffeine and any medications that thin your blood (like aspirin). Moisturize the area you’re getting tattooed daily starting at least a week prior to your appointment. If you take prescribed medication, please check with your doctor to make sure it’s safe to get tattooed while taking it.

Should I eat before my appointment?

Yes! Please eat a full meal beforehand. Getting tattooed takes energy, and your body will thank you for it.

What should I wear?

Wear something comfortable that you don’t mind getting ink on, just in case. Choose loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed. For more private areas, string bikinis that can be untied are helpful so we can work around them while keeping you covered.

Can I bring someone with me?

Yes, you’re welcome to bring a friend or two for support!

Should I shave the area beforehand, or will you do it?

Please don’t shave the area yourself. If you nick or irritate the skin, I won’t be able to tattoo it that day. If the area is very hairy, you can use clippers to trim it down, and I’ll take care of the rest at your appointment.

What should I avoid before my appointment?

Avoid alcohol, excessive caffeine, blood-thinning medications (like aspirin), tanning, and sunburns. I can’t tattoo over sunburned or damaged skin.

Can I use numbing cream?

If you choose to use numbing cream, I recommend Doctor Numb only. Apply a thick layer to the area and cover it with plastic wrap 1 hour before your appointment. Please let me know in advance if you plan to use it. Other numbing creams are used at your own risk—please research them carefully before applying.

How long will my appointment take?

It depends on the size and placement of your tattoo. Feel free to contact me for an estimate.

What if I’m not feeling well the day of my appointment?

If you’re feeling sick or unwell, please reach out as soon as possible so we can reschedule if needed.

What if I want to change my design or placement last minute?

Small adjustments are totally fine! We can make minor edits or placement tweaks at your appointment. However, if you want a completely different design, we may need to reschedule to ensure the best results.

What should I do if I’m running late?

Please send me an email or message me on Instagram to let me know. If you’re more than 20 minutes late without contact, it may count as a no-call/no-show. For full details, check the Rescheduling and Cancellation section of my FAQs.

Where is your shop located, and is there parking nearby?

Outlaw Ink is located at 5271 Route 9W, Newburgh, NY.

We have a parking lot! If your car sits low, enter from the pizza shop side of the lot, the front entrance has a bit of a dip.

Do I need to bring ID?

Yes! Please bring a valid government-issued photo ID that shows your name and date of birth (driver’s license, passport, or state ID).

What forms of payment do you accept?

I accept cash, CashApp, and Venmo. I can’t process credit or debit cards, but there’s an ATM at QuickChek, just up the road.

Cash is preferred but not required!

What to expect when you come in

During Your Appointment

What should I expect when I arrive?

When you arrive, we’ll go over your design and placement together. I’ll have the artwork ready for you to review, and if you’d like to make any tweaks, just let me know! Once the design is approved, I’ll create the stencil while you fill out a quick consent form. Then we’ll get started on your tattoo!

Do I need to fill out any paperwork?

Yes, you’ll need to fill out a consent form for every tattoo appointment.

Can I see the stencil or design before we start?

Absolutely! You’ll always see the design before I make the stencil. Once the stencil is applied, I’ll have you check the placement and we can move it as many times as needed until you’re happy.

How do you make sure everything is clean and sterile?

I take every precaution to maintain a safe, sterile environment. All needles are single-use and pre-sterilized by the manufacturer, and I open them in front of you. All equipment is properly wrapped, disinfected, and sanitized before and after each tattoo. You’re always welcome to ask to see expiration dates or sterilization indicators on any of my supplies.

Does it hurt?

Yes, tattoos do hurt, though the level of pain varies by placement and your personal tolerance. Most clients describe it as a mild burning or scratching sensation. I compare it to scratching a sunburn, annoying and uncomfortable, but tolerable. Areas with thinner skin or less sunlight exposure (like ribs or inner arms) tend to be more sensitive.

Can I take breaks during the session?

Of course! I usually take a short break every hour or so, but if you need one sooner, just let me know.

Can I have my phone or music during the tattoo?

Yes! Feel free to listen to music or watch something. I just ask that you bring headphones so the sound doesn’t disrupt the atmosphere.

Can I record or take photos/videos during my tattoo?

Hell yeah, tag me @mechanical_kayla

Do you allow guests in the tattoo area?

Yes, you can bring a guest! I just ask that they’re respectful of the workspace and avoid touching equipment or distracting you during the tattoo.

What if I need to stop mid-session?

You’re always in control. If you need to stop due to pain or discomfort, just let me know before it gets too intense so we can plan a good stopping point. If we need to continue another day, we’ll schedule a follow-up session to complete it.

How long do tattoos usually take?

It depends on the size, detail, and placement of the design. Feel free to reach out ahead of time for a time estimate.

What if I faint or get lightheaded?

If you start to feel dizzy, clammy, or lightheaded, let me know right away! I have snacks and drinks on hand, and usually a quick break and some hydration fix the issue. If you faint, we’ll stop for the day. Your safety always comes first. If you’re prone to fainting, please let me know beforehand so I can keep an extra eye out.

Can I eat or drink during my appointment?

Yes! You’re welcome to bring snacks and drinks, as long as they’re not messy. We’ll also take breaks where you can eat, drink, or stretch.

How do you price tattoos? By piece, time, or size?

Most tattoos are priced by the piece, based on size, detail, placement, and style. Larger projects may be booked at a flat day rate.

Shop minimum: $100

Day rate: $900 (typically 1 PM – 8/9 PM)

Everything you need to know to care for your new tattoo

Tattoo Aftercare

How do I care for my new tattoo?

For the first 2–3 days, gently wash your tattoo 2–3 times a day with an unscented antibacterial soap. Rinse with lukewarm water, pat dry with a clean paper towel, and apply a thin, even layer of Aquaphor. Wipe off any excess with the back of your hand.

Starting around day 3 or 4, continue the same cleaning routine, but switch to an unscented lotion (Aquaphor lotion, Lubriderm, or a similar fragrance-free option). You can apply lotion 4–6 times a day as needed. Use a normal amount, more isn’t better.

Continue this for about two weeks. Once healed, moisturize daily to keep your tattoo looking vibrant, and always apply SPF when exposed to the sun.

How long should I leave the wrap on?

I typically don’t use long-term adhesive wraps (like Saniderm) because some people have allergic reactions to the adhesive, and a fresh tattoo is not the place to find out!

If you’ve used a specific brand before and would like to use it again, you’re welcome to bring it to your appointment and I can apply it for you. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for wear time and removal.

What soap or moisturizer should I use?

Soap: Any unscented antibacterial soap works well. I recommend Castile Soap. A little goes a long way, and it’s great for multiple uses (not sponsored, just a fan).

Moisturizer:

First 2–3 days: Aquaphor

Following 2 weeks: Lubriderm or another unscented lotion

Once healed: any moisturizer you like — just keep your tattoo hydrated daily

How often should I wash my tattoo?

Wash your tattoo each time before applying moisturizer, about 2–3 times a day for the first few days, and 4–6 times a day during the next week. Once your tattoo is no longer an open wound and any scabbing is gone, you can reduce washing to a normal routine.

What should I avoid during healing?

Avoid sun exposure, swimming, soaking, and gyms until your tattoo is healed.

  • Gyms: Avoid for at least 3–4 days, ideally a full week.
  • Sun: Keep your tattoo completely out of the sun until it’s healed. Once healed, frequently apply SPF when it the sun.
  • Water: Avoid pools, hot tubs, baths, lakes, and oceans for 10–14 days. Showering is fine, just keep your tattoo out of direct water pressure, avoid scented soaps, and pat dry with a clean paper towel afterward.

What’s normal during healing?

  • Days 1–3:

Tenderness, warmth, and slight swelling are normal. You might see light bleeding, plasma, or ink on the surface.

  • Days 3–7:

Scabbing, dryness, or tightness may begin. Light itching is normal — don’t scratch or pick! The tattoo may look dull or cloudy.

  • Days 7–14:

Peeling and flaking begin (like a sunburn). Scabs fall off naturally. Continue moisturizing.

  • Weeks 2–3:

The tattoo smooths out and color begins to brighten again.

  • After 3 weeks:

Most tattoos are healed. Larger or high-friction areas may take longer.

How long does it take to fully heal?

Most tattoos take about 2–3 weeks to heal, though larger pieces or tattoos on areas like knees, elbows, or feet may take longer.

Can I rewrap my tattoo?

No, do not rewrap your tattoo, especially not with plastic wrap. Plastic traps moisture and heat, creating the perfect environment for bacteria. Tattoos heal best when they can breathe.

If you’ll be in a dirty or dusty environment, wear clean, loose-fitting clothing that covers the area. Afterward, gently wash your tattoo with mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water, pat dry, and apply a thin layer of moisturizer.

If you’re unsure or work in an environment that’s hard to avoid (like with animals or outdoors), contact me and I can suggest a safe temporary protection method based on your tattoo’s stage of healing.

If you’re using a second-skin or adhesive bandage, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

What if my tattoo looks cloudy, shiny, or scabbed?

Completely normal! Just continue your aftercare routine as directed, the tattoo will clear up as healing progresses.

What should I do if my tattoo feels swollen or red?

Redness and slight swelling are normal for 3-5 days. Larger tattoos or sensitive areas might stay red a bit longer. If it persists or worsens, check that your products are unscented and that you’re not reacting to them. You can also reach out to me if you’re concerned.

When should I contact you if something seems off?

Always! I’m happy to help and would rather you ask than worry.

If you notice excessive redness, swelling, warmth beyond a few days, pus, odor, severe itching, rash, blistering, fever, or chills, contact a medical professional as well.

Can I apply ointment or petroleum jelly?

Yes: A&D or Aquaphor (first 2–3 days)

No: Petroleum jelly, Neosporin, or triple antibiotic ointments — these can affect your tattoo’s healing and color.

Can I wear tight clothing over my new tattoo?

Avoid it when possible. Tight clothes can rub, irritate, or pull off scabs, which can lead to pigment loss or scarring. Stick with loose, breathable fabrics.

If clothing sticks to your tattoo, run lukewarm water over it until it gently releases, don’t pull it off dry.

Do I need a touch-up, and is it included?

If your tattoo needs a touch-up, it’s free within two years of your original appointment.

Tattoos done during flash or discounted events (like Friday the 13th) can be touched up at no cost if done alongside another tattoo, or on their own with a $40 supply fee.

What should I do if I’m going swimming soon after getting tattooed?

You’re doing one or the other. You’re not doing both.

If you're still reading, here's a little about me!

About the Artist

What styles do you specialize in?

I specialize in Neo-Traditional, American Traditional, mandala work, and black and gray realism. These styles share strong fundamentals that keep me well-rounded as a tattoo artist while I continue refining and developing my own style.

Can I see examples of your work?

Absolutely! You can view my portfolio here, and check out my Instagram for my most recent tattoos and updates. I post recent work there more frequently than my website.

How long have you been tattooing?

I’ve been tattooing for 8 years! I started my apprenticeship in early 2017 and began tattooing in Liberty, NY. In late 2019, I moved to my current home base, Outlaw Ink in Newburgh, NY.

What’s your shop environment like?

Very laid-back and relaxed! My station is in an open-concept shop with a comfy waiting area and couches on one side, and my tattoo setup on the other.

You’re welcome to bring a friend! They can hang out on the couch while you’re getting tattooed. It’s close enough for conversation but far enough to keep the tattoo area clean and focused.

I also keep snacks and drinks available for anyone who’d like them!

Do you take guest spots or attend conventions?

Guest spots: Yes! If you’re interested in having me as a guest artist, please send me an email.

Conventions: Not yet, but I plan to start attending at least one or two in 2026–2027.

Can I bring you anything?

I always get asked this before appointments, and while I never expect it, it’s always appreciated! If you did want to bring something, here are a few of my favorites:

☕ Coffee: Iced caramel coffee with cream, liquid sugar, and no ice. (I don’t drink caffeine before tattooing, but I’ll enjoy it after we’re done!)

🍫 Candy: I have a major sweet tooth, especially for chocolate + peanut butter or mint combos.

🥤 Drinks: Water or a protein shake.

🍗 Fast food: Chicken nuggets with ranch or a Taco Bell Cheesy Gordita Crunch never disappoint!

What’s an appropriate tip?

Great question, and honestly, even after 8 years, I still don’t have a solid answer. Nothing is expected, but anything is appreciated.

Tips don’t have to be monetary! Other thoughtful ways to show appreciation include:

  • Leaving a review about your experience
  • Sharing and engaging with my work on social media
  • Recommending me to friends and family
  • Bringing in oddities, shiny rocks, handmade gifts, or small art trades

Those mean just as much to me as a cash tip.

Do you offer silent appointments?

Yes! If you’d like a quiet, relaxing session, just let me know in your email or at the start of your appointment.

Once we confirm your artwork and stencil placement, I’ll refrain from conversation unless needed.

It’s never rude, your comfort and experience always come first.

How can I contact you with questions?

Feel free to email me anytime!

📩 MechanicalKayla@gmail.com

Cool Things That I Designed That I Think You'll Like

View all