We get it: The last couple of years have felt desperate. We have been there with you,  focused on surviving unprecedented and unpredictable times. We're still there in many ways as a collective, given the current state of the world.  But what good are we if we are constantly trying to pour from an empty cup? We believe that it is time to shift the narrative–to start thriving again, not just surviving. While this looks different for everyone, a major component involves something we can all agree is critical to our individual well-being: self care. And we believe that tattoos qualify a ..read more

With summer in full swing, it's the perfect time to show off your ink and catch some sun! But before you hit the beach, be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen if you want your tattoos to look good all year long. Today we're considering the ways the sun can impact your tattoos, whether they're brand new or decades old—and we're offering some easy solutions both to prevent and deal with sun damage. Phase 1: The Sun and Your New Tattoo Aftercare is a critical time for your new tattoo, for a number of reasons. A fresh tattoo is essentially an open wound, which means that cleanliness is imperative; mo ..read more

Floral tattoos like this blue and red chrysanthemum by Mikey Vigilante are timeless for a reason. Floral tattoos are easily one of the most popular requests we get—and for good reason. Whether you’re interested in color or blackwork, realism or abstract art, bold or subtle, floral tattoos can be rendered in a wide variety of stunning styles. That’s why they are among our top choices for your next tattoo. Learn how you can create a piece you’ll love for a lifetime below. Chrysanthemum by Mikey Vigilante 1. Choose Your Flower(s) Are you sentimental about sunflowers? Do peonies make your heart g ..read more

Pinterest and Instagram have made a huge impact on the tattoo industry. As certain designs or styles become trendy, we see an increase in requests for those particular pieces. When clients are open to our creative interpretation of a particular piece, we can have a lot of fun with these requests. Sometimes, though, we are faced with trends that are intensely problematic. Let's talk about one of these trends: Micro tattoos. Micro Tattoos by Ben Gida aka Edit Paints Micro Tattoos Online The definition varies from artist to artist, but micro tattoos are typically highly detailed pieces that are ..read more

You finally got to come in for that new tattoo, after months and months of patiently waiting during lockdown. Congratulations! We know you're excited to show your new work off--but unfortunately, you're going to have to wait a little bit longer. Why? Because tattoo aftercare is going to be your focus for the next ten days. Be fierce with your tattoo aftercare! New Tattoo = Open Wound Tattoo application involves injecting ink into the dermis, which results in an open wound wherever the needle pierces the skin. Keeping this wound clean and protected is essential, whether you have a small or lar ..read more

When it comes to tattoo cost, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. There are a number of factors to consider—and as a result, it is a multi-step process to get an estimate from an artist. To help you help us, we’re breaking down some of the elements that contribute to the cost of your tattoo. Tattoo cost varies based in part on size. This Ganesh back piece by Mikey Vigilante is a multi-session piece. Tattoo Cost #1: Your Artist At Paper Crane Studio, our artists set their own hourly rates based on experience, ability, and speed. Generally, our rates range from $160-$225 per hour. Because of ..read more

COVID Update Please read below for the latest COVID update regarding our studio closure...Due to the most recent COVID update to statewide orders, our studio is currently closed.We understand how frustrating this is if you finally just got rescheduled or if you booked a new appointment with us in the past week. We apologize for the inconvenience and will be in contact with you as soon as we can tattoo you.We will be honest: This is a frustrating and frightening cycle for our family of artists. We implore everyone to please do whatever you can to help minimize the further spread of this virus ..read more

COVID tattooing protocols have been updated so we can create beautiful tattoos while keeping you safe. At Paper Crane, our top priority is safety. This has always been the case, even before the COVID crisis: Tattooing requires a specialized level of care to ensure we all stay well while creating beautiful art. That's why we undergo blood-born pathogen training, use disposal tools, and follow strict sanitation protocols. COVID Tattooing Updates In light of the unique nature of the current pandemic, we have adapted and updated our protocols in order to protect our clients, artists, and families ..read more

We've all seen ugly tattoos: Whether it's something that hasn't aged well or a piece that was executed poorly to begin with, some tattoos just are not a joy to show off. As a result, a tattoo coverup is something you or someone you know may have considered. On today's blog, we're sharing some of our inside perspective on the art of the tattoo coverup--so if you're wearing long sleeves to hide a piece you hate, read on! Consideration 1: Tattoo Coverup vs. Touchup Sometimes tattoos fall victim to circumstances. If you've experienced significant sun damage or have never moisturized your tattoo po ..read more

To help curb the spread of COVID19 and comply with both state and local guidelines, our studio is currently closed. We look forward to re-opening as soon as officials declare it safe to operate non-essential businesses. In the meantime, we are finding new ways to connect with our creativity and our clients, including virtual tattoo consultations. Virtual Tattoo Consultations In order to observe social distancing and soothe your concerns, we are proud to offer virtual tattoo consultations. You can get scheduled by emailing us at info@papercranetattoo.com or clicking here. Our artists will ..read more