Tattoo FAQ
Everything you need to know before getting tattooed at Son of Eden in Bloomington, Indiana.
Tattoo Styles: A Quick Guide
New to tattooing? Here's a simple introduction to some of the styles you'll find across the tattoo world.
Fine Line
Fine line tattoos use delicate, precise linework to create minimal, elegant designs. Popular for botanicals, script, and small personal pieces, they heal soft and subtle — perfect for a first tattoo or a quiet statement.
Traditional (American)
Also known as American traditional, this style features bold, clean linework and saturated, limited color palettes. Classic motifs like roses, eagles, and daggers are designed to stay crisp and readable for decades.
Japanese-Infused
Inspired by traditional Japanese tattooing, this style builds flowing, large-scale compositions — dragons, koi, florals, and waves — designed to move with the body's natural contours.
Abstract
Abstract tattooing trades literal imagery for shape, flow, and line. Each piece is a one-of-a-kind composition, often blending geometric elements with expressive, freeform mark-making.
Alternative Illustrative
Alternative illustrative work draws on unconventional linework and imaginative subject matter. The results feel like artwork pulled straight from the page — unique, expressive, and a little outside the mainstream.
Do you take walk-ins or do I need an appointment?
We are strictly an appointment-preferred studio. While we occasionally accommodate walk-ins based on daily availability, we recommend calling ahead or booking online to secure your spot—especially for larger or custom pieces.
How much does a tattoo cost, and do you require a deposit?
Pricing varies based on the size, detail, and placement of the piece. A deposit is required to secure your appointment time, which goes toward the final cost of your tattoo.
How old do I need to be to get tattooed in Indiana, and what ID do I need?
You must be at least 18 years old to get tattooed in Indiana. A valid, government-issued photo ID (such as a driver's license or passport) is strictly required. Minors are legally permitted to get tattooed only if they have direct parental consent, and the accompanying parent/guardian must present a matching last name on their ID or birth certificate.
Does it hurt, and how much do tattoos hurt?
Pain levels vary depending on placement and personal tolerance. Areas with more muscle and fat—like forearms, upper arms, shoulders, and thighs—are typically pretty tame. More sensitive areas with thinner skin or close to bone—such as joints, inner arms, ribs, and feet—tend to be more painful. We recommend eating a good meal beforehand to keep your blood sugar up, staying hydrated, and practicing steady breathing and mindfulness during your session. As an option, we can also apply Bactine once the skin has been broken and the stencil is safe.
How do I take care of my new tattoo?
Keep your bandage on for the recommended time, wash gently with mild unscented soap, pat dry, and apply a thin layer of recommended aftercare ointment. Avoid soaking, swimming, and direct sun exposure until fully healed. Most importantly, do not pick any scabs—let them fall off on their own.
Still have questions? Contact us.