Russ Abbott FAQ
Where do your clients get their ideas?
My clients are inspired by many different things. Many of them are already experienced tattoo collectors, so they are familiar with the kinds of images people typically get as tattoos. Some useful resources for ideas include tattoo magazines, tattoo conventions, tattoo artist's websites, and a good ole-fashion Google search. It is important to use these resources for inspiration but keep in mind that I will never duplicate the custom work of any other tattooer that you may find on the internet or in magazines. I own an expansive collection of reference books and tattoo flash that can be extremely useful when searching for ideas. Many of the most interesting tattoos I have done were inspired by movies, short stories, or song lyrics that the client brought in. Probably the best way to come up with ideas is to simply sit down with me and talk. A majority of the most impressive tattoos I have done were the direct result of the client giving me the freedom to run with their ideas and come up with a completely original piece of artwork for them.
Do you only specialize in large work?
While most of my schedule is filled with larger custom projects, I do occasionally find time for smaller tattoos and flash reproductions. Most clients usually book somewhere between two and six hour sessions, with the average session usually lasting around four hours.
How much do you charge?
The cost of the project is related to the time it takes to complete and includes four main factors: color vs. black & gray, skin type/ area, previous tattoos/ rework/ cover-up, and size of project. If you are working with a limited budget, please inform me of the maximum amount you can afford for the session and I will be sure to accomodate you.
Time estimates per (average) body part:
Full back piece: 40-50 hours
Full-sleeve: 25-35 hours
Half-sleeve: 12-18 hours
Quarter-sleeve: 6-10 hours
Full ribs/chest: 25-30 hours
Full chest: 20-25 hours
Leg/ outside calf: 10-14 hours
Ultimately, most tattoo projects can cost thousands of dollars. Fortunately, the cost can be spread out over time. Payments are due at each session, not in full at the start or finish of the project.
How do I set up an appointment?
These days, my schedule is already quite full and I am forced to sometimes turn down potential projects. With that in mind, I ask that all new clients fill out the web form found on this website. I will try to respond to all inquiries in a timely manner and, depending on a number of factors, will either work you into my schedule, or I will recommend another artist that I think will be well-suited to your idea.
Do you have any suggestions for out-of-state travelers?
Atlanta is home to one of the country's largest international airports. Another convenient feature is the city's mass transit system. MARTA (specifically the light rail train) can take you from the airport to a station within a few blocks of the studio. Also nearby is a hotel with affordable nightly rates. Unless you plan to explore the city or prefer to be more mobile, there is no reason to rent a car during your visit. If possible, I am willing to provide airport pick-up/drop-off service; so between that and the MARTA system, you will be covered.
Most clients who travel from out-of-state will schedule a two-day session in order to maximize tattoo time. We can get more of the project finished in this manner. For larger projects, the first day will include approximately seven to eight hours of tattoo time. The second day usually consists of a shorter session of four to six hours. Some clients like a day off between sessions in order to make day two more tolerable.
Listed below is information that might help you better arrange your travel plans. If you plan a few months ahead, then you can usually purchase less expensive airline fare and hotel accommodations.
Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport
Administrative offices: 404-530-6600
General airport information: 404-530-6830
www.atlanta-airport.com
Car Rental
www.atlanta-airport.com
MARTA
Information: 404-848-4711
Customer Service Center: 404-848-4800
www.itsmarta.com
Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau
Main office: 404-521-6600
Tourism information: 1-800-285-2682
www.atlanta.net
Highland Inn
644 North Highland Avenue
Atlanta, GA 30306
404-874-5756
www.thehighlandinn.com
MapQuest
www.mapquest.com
My friends at Off the Map Tattoo in Easthampton, Mass. put together an awesome
description of how to get the perfect tattoo.
Check it out here.
