Drea Darling Tattoo

Author: Drea

  • Tattoo Healing: How to Tell Normal Irritation from Infection

    This guide breaks down what is normal healing irritation and what might be a genuine infection, so you can make the right call without panicking.

    Fresh tattoos can sometimes look a bit chaotic while they settle in with redness, warmth or a bit of ooze. Most of the time it is just your skin reacting to the trauma of being tattooed. Sometimes it can develop into something more serious. They can look similar early on, so it helps to know what is normal and what is not.

    When I say a tattoo is irritated, I simply mean the skin got a bit more work than usual. Maybe that spot needed a few extra passes, or it is just an area that reacts more strongly.

    What an irritated tattoo looks like (normal healing)

    You will usually see:
    • Redness that sits right around the lines or shading
    • Mild tenderness and swelling that does not spread
    • Warmth, not proper heat
    • A tight, sunburn-ish feeling
    • Clear or pale yellow plasma for the first day or two
    • Looks a bit worse in the evening, calmer in the morning
    • Improves each day

    What it means:
    Your skin is basically saying, “I am sore, but I have got this.”

    What to do:
    Gentle wash, light ointment, keep it clean, avoid rubbing or sweating on it, and let it settle. Hypochlorous wound solutions (like Microdacyn) can also be used if you prefer an antiseptic option. They are gentle, effective and do not irritate fresh tattooed skin.

    Most healing concerns fall into the “irritated” category, not infection.

    What an infected tattoo looks like (possible infection)

    These signs are different:

    • Redness spreading outward past the tattoo
    • Skin looks angry, hot, shiny
    • Swelling that increases rather than settles, or swelling that spreads beyond the tattoo
    • Pain increasing instead of easing
    • Yellow or green pus (not just cloudy plasma)
    • Hot to the touch
    • A bad smell
    • Hard lumps forming under the skin
    • Feeling feverish or unwell in more serious cases

    What it means:
    Your skin is going, “Something is wrong. Please get help.”

    What to do:
    Start by cleaning the area with a wound-safe antiseptic.
    If you are confident the tattoo is infected, you can step up to a stronger antiseptic for short-term use. Chlorhexidine washes and diluted Dettol (chloroxylenol) provide broader antimicrobial coverage and can help until you see a doctor. They are too harsh for routine tattoo aftercare but appropriate in this situation. You can then apply a mild antiseptic wound cream, such as Bepanthen Antiseptic.

    Follow up with a GP as soon as you can. Infections sometimes need antibiotics, and early treatment stops them from spreading or becoming more serious.

    Two quick checks that usually give you the answer

    1. Is it getting better or worse each day?
    • Irritated → slowly improving
    • Infected → worsening each day

    2. Is the redness staying put or creeping outward?
    • Irritated → stays around the tattoo
    • Infected → spreads further out

    Common things that look scary but are not infection

    • Purples and yellows from bruising
    • Heat in the first 48 hours
    • Thicker scabs if you are a dry healer
    • Sticky plasma build-up
    • Tenderness around areas that were worked harder
    • Pink, red, brown or grey fluid under the film in the first 24 hours (usually normal wound serum mixed with a little blood or excess ink)

    All of these can be completely normal in the first couple of days.

    High-movement areas can look worse than they are

    Places like the elbow ditch, behind the knee, inner arm or inner thigh — anywhere the skin bends a lot — often heal more dramatically. As the tattoo dries, that top layer does not stretch well, so normal movement can make it pull or form tiny micro-tears. It can look very red and angry, but it is not infection.

    These spots usually settle quickly with a bit more ointment than usual or a short stint of wet healing (wrapping the tattoo in film) to keep the skin flexible while it repairs.

    If you are not sure which way your tattoo is heading, you can always send me a clear photo and I can help you work it out. Fresh tattoos can do a lot of strange things, and most of them are harmless. It is always better to ask than to sit at home stressing.

  • Where Should I Tattoo Next? Australia Tour 2026 – 2027

    Where Should I Tattoo Next? Australia Tour 2026 – 2027

    Australia Tour 2026 — Tattoo Travel Plans

    My fiancé and I are heading back on the road in our 1965 GMC and 1975 Viscount caravan, and I’ll be tattooing around Australia as we travel.

    Last time I didn’t end up doing many guest spots because adjusting to full-time travel took more than we expected. We’ve found our rhythm now, and with NSW dropping their tattoo licence fee, I’m hoping to visit a lot more places this time.

    What I need for a workable stop

    • A studio willing to host
    • A nearby camp spot that fits a big van, allows dogs, and isn’t crazy expensive
    • A short, simple commute between the camp and the studio
    • Enough bookings to make the stop worthwhile

    Note for Big-City Folks (Sydney, Melbourne & Perth):
    The surrounding regional towns/areas will probably be as close as I can get.

    When will you know where I’ll be?

    I’m not going to post a detailed schedule or guess where I’ll be months in advance. Every time I try to map it out, something changes.

    Once I’ve officially locked in dates with a studio and found somewhere to camp nearby, I’ll share those dates and locations here and on my socials. Until then, please treat everything as flexible and “in planning”.

    How to get me to your town

    If you want me to visit, camping info is the most useful thing you can give me. Affordable or free camps—or private property with space for a van + dog and access to water/power—make a huge difference to whether I can stop somewhere to work.

    Comment the town you’d like me to visit below. If someone has already mentioned your location, reply to their comment to second/third it. That helps me see where the strongest interest is.

    About Tassie:
    I’m dying to get to Tasmania, but the Spirit of Tasmania costs for a large van are steep and we have to book around six months in advance. To make it worthwhile, we’d need a longer stay. Realistically, Tassie will probably happen after we finish a mainland lap and have the funds set aside.

  • Numbing Cream & Tattooing: What You Need to Know

    Numbing creams can sound like an easy fix for tattoo discomfort, but they come with important limitations and risks, particularly during linework. Please read this carefully before deciding to use them.

    1. How numbing creams work

    Over-the-counter numbing creams (such as Numit or Emla) are topical anaesthetics that contain lidocaine and prilocaine. These ingredients temporarily block sodium channels in nerve endings, preventing pain signals from being transmitted from the skin to the brain.

    The numbing effect is local and limited to the upper layers of the skin. Numbing cream does not change how deep a tattoo needle goes or how ink settles in the skin, but it can alter blood flow and skin temperature. This can affect how the skin behaves and feels during tattooing.

    When applied correctly, numbing effects usually last between one to three hours, depending on the product, application, and individual response. As the anaesthetic wears off, sensation returns gradually.

    2. The downsides of numbing cream

    The main issue with numbing cream, particularly during linework, is stencil breakdown. It can soften the stencil and cause it to rub away faster than usual, making it harder for the artist to clearly see what they are working from. This slows the process and increases the risk of errors.

    If the stencil fades to the point where normal black linework would erase the remaining guide, the artist may need to change technique and lightly greywash-line what is still visible before returning to permanent black linework. This effectively means outlining parts of the tattoo twice.

    Numbing cream can also alter local blood flow and fluid levels in the skin. When this happens, the skin may feel swollen, spongy, or rubbery, disrupting the tactile cues artists rely on to accurately judge depth, pressure, speed, and technique.

    Together, these effects disrupt the flow of the session, increase how long the tattoo takes, and affect overall cost. Skin changes may also influence how the tattoo is applied and heals, which can result in touch-ups or rework that would not qualify as a free touch-up.

    Because of these factors, I prefer that numbing cream is not used unless it is genuinely necessary. More on what constitutes “genuinely necessary” is outlined in Section 6.

    3. Approved vs black-market products

    When numbing cream is used, the type of product matters. If you do choose to use it, the only products I am comfortable working with are TGA-approved and purchased over the counter from an Australian pharmacy:

    Numit 5% Cream: This is the product I’ve had the best experience with.
    EMLA 5% Cream: Acceptable if Numit cannot be sourced.

    I will not tattoo clients who have used unregulated or “extra strength” products purchased online due to the following safety risks:

    Unsafe concentrations of lidocaine: Excessive doses increase the risk of lidocaine toxicity. Higher percentages do not provide better numbing. Once accessible nerve endings are saturated, additional lidocaine only increases systemic absorption and associated risk.

    Epinephrine (adrenaline): This ingredient is never safe for casual use. It constricts blood vessels and restricts oxygen to the skin, directly affecting healing and skin response. Epinephrine is a prescription-only drug and should only ever be administered by trained medical professionals.

    Common unregulated or black-market numbing products: This includes online creams such as TKTX, Numb Numb, Dr. Numb, J-Cain, and similar “tattoo numbing” products sold outside Australian pharmacies. These products are not TGA-approved and are not permitted.

    Red flags for unregulated products include:

    • Purchased online or through tattoo supply sites rather than a pharmacy
    • Marketed as “extra strength” or “maximum strength”
    • No Australian AUST L or AUST R number
    • Ingredients not clearly disclosed or containing epinephrine (adrenaline)
    • Inconsistent packaging or multiple “versions” of the same product

    If a product is not TGA-approved and pharmacy-dispensed in Australia, it must not be used.

    4. Safety and application guidelines

    Systemic safety considerations
    When used correctly, over-the-counter numbing creams are generally safe. However, lidocaine is still a medication, and excessive use or use over large areas can lead to systemic absorption. In rare cases, this may affect the nervous system or heart, particularly in people with certain medical conditions or on specific medications. Correct dosing, surface area limits, and pharmacy-approved products are essential.

    General requirements:

    • You must purchase and apply numbing cream yourself. I cannot provide or apply numbing agents.
    • Use the product strictly as directed by the manufacturer.
    • Check for any factors that may increase sensitivity to lidocaine, including relevant medical conditions or medications. If unsure, consult your pharmacist or doctor.
    • Patch-test the product the day before your appointment to rule out allergic reaction

    Application timing and preparation:

    Begin numbing cream application 2 hours before your booking.
    Applying it earlier or leaving it on for longer does not improve results.

    1. Before application, take a warm shower to cleanse the area, remove surface oils and dead skin cells, and gently warm the skin. Dry skin before the next step.
    2. Rub in a thin initial layer of numbing cream, then apply a second thick layer on top, like frosting a cake.
    3. Wrap the area in plastic film and secure it so it does not move.
    4. Keep the area comfortably warm, as cold skin reduces effectiveness. A warm (not hot) heat pack may be used. The area should never feel hot or uncomfortable.
    5. Leave the cream & plastic on. I will remove it when preparing the skin for the stencil. Removing it early can cause the numbing effect to wear off prematurely.

    Thickness and surface area: For numbing cream to be safe and effective, the amount of cream must match the size of the area being numbed. See below. Do not spread the cream thinner to cover more area. This only reduces numbing effectiveness and increases the risk of lidocaine toxicity due to greater systemic absorption.

    Surface area guide (when applied correctly):

    • An A4-sized area (≈ 600 cm²) requires two 30 g tubes and represents the maximum recommended surface area
    • An A5-sized area (≈ 300 cm²) typically requires one 30 g tube
    • An A6-sized area (≈ 150 cm²) (postcard/credit card size) is suitable for one 10 g tube for a small, targeted application

    5. Natural alternatives

    Biotat: During sessions I use Biotat, a professional glide and green soap containing eugenol (from clove oil), which has a mild natural analgesic effect. It helps take the edge off without affecting skin integrity or healing. Because it is used continuously throughout the tattoo, the effect builds gradually and lasts for the duration of the session.

    Most clients report that Biotat noticeably helps. Some experience a strong numbing effect, while others feel a milder benefit. But I find even clients who report it “didn’t work” will sit more comfortably and for longer than usual.

    Be sure to check the tattoo preparation guide before your appointment. Good sleep, food, and hydration have a far greater impact on pain tolerance than most people realise.

    6. When numbing cream is genuinely necessary

    In some cases, numbing cream is genuinely necessary to complete a tattoo safely and to a high standard. This applies when pain responses cause involuntary reactions such as severe twitching, constant movement, or excessive sweating that make controlled tattooing impossible.

    In these situations, numbing cream can improve the outcome of the tattoo by reducing involuntary responses and allowing accurate, consistent application.

    Numbing cream does not make a tattoo quicker or easier overall. Sessions using numbing often take longer and may increase cost, as the process is limited by the duration and effectiveness of the numbing.

    Numbing cream should not be treated as a convenience or comfort aid. Using it unnecessarily introduces risk without improving results and should be reserved for situations where pain would otherwise prevent the tattoo from being completed properly. Clients should weigh the potential benefits against the risks, including health considerations and the possibility of extended tattoo time.

    7. Final notes on numbing cream

    I prefer to work without numbing cream and generally discourage its use, as it often creates more complications than benefits.

    That said, in certain cases numbing cream may be genuinely helpful when pain responses would otherwise make it difficult to tattoo safely or effectively. The information above is provided so clients can make an informed decision.

    If you believe you genuinely need to use numbing cream, please let me know before your appointment so we can plan accordingly. Only approved pharmacy products should be used, and clients choosing to use them must understand and accept the associated risks.

  • How to Prepare for Your Tattoo Appointment Like a Pro

    1. Skin Prep: Exfoliate, Moisturise & Clean

    In the days leading up to your appointment, gently exfoliate the area to remove dead skin cells and keep it hydrated with moisturiser. If you’re getting your elbow, knee or any naturally rough area tattooed, urea cream or glycolic acid can help soften the skin.

    On the day of your appointment, take a shower and gently wash the area with soap and water to remove oils, dirt and residue. Do not apply moisturiser afterwards, as it can interfere with stencil application.

    2. Sun Protection

    Keep the area out of the sun before your appointment. Even a mild sunburn traumatises the skin, and any peeling or flaking will pull the stencil off. Sunburned or peeling skin cannot be tattooed until it is fully healed.

    If you do go outdoors, use SPF 50+ sunscreen and keep the area covered as much as possible.

    3. Hair Removal

    Hair removal is not required, but it can save considerable time, especially on areas with dense or coarse hair. It only helps if done gently and correctly, so if you are unsure, leave it to your artist. If you’re confident with hair removal and want to prep the area yourself, follow the methods and tips here.

    4. Rest and Fuel Your Body

    Getting tattooed takes more energy than most people realise. Even while you’re sitting still, your body is working hard to process the sensation, and that uses up a surprising amount of fuel. Coming in well-rested and well-fed gives your body what it needs to cope comfortably.

    Get a good night’s sleep, and have a proper protein and carbohydrate rich meal before your appointment to keep your energy steady. For long sessions, carb loading the day before can give you an extra buffer.

    5. Bring Snacks and Drinks

    Bring snacks or sugary drinks to keep your blood sugar steady and prevent fatigue.

    For longer appointments, you will also need a proper lunch, even if you don’t feel hungry. Sitting for extended periods can create an adrenaline response that switches off your appetite, but your body still needs fuel to keep your energy and pain tolerance stable. If a full meal feels hard to manage, protein bars or shakes are an easy way to keep yourself topped up.

    6. Clothing and Comfort

    Wear clean, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed, and choose items you don’t mind getting a little ink on. Bring a jumper or hoodie too, as the adrenaline can make you cold.

    For areas that require partial undressing, it helps to wear clothing that is easy to move or remove. Loose or stretchy garments, strapless tops, button-up shirts worn backward, stick-on bras, string bikinis, sarongs, split-leg pants or wrap dresses all work well because they give access without leaving you feeling exposed.

    7. What to Bring (and What to Avoid)

    Bring headphones and something to watch or listen to. Podcasts, audiobooks or shows help the time pass easily.

    Avoid alcohol, recreational drugs and too much caffeine beforehand, as they can thin your blood and make you more sensitive. Arrive clear-headed, hydrated and comfortable.

    Most tattoo studios are cash only, so bring some cash.

    Proper preparation makes the process smoother and your tattoo experience more comfortable from start to finish.

    Got any other prep tips of your own? Drop them in the comments below!

  • Hair Removal Before & After Your Appointment

    A Guide for a Smooth Experience

    Hair removal is an essential part of the tattooing process, as it’s necessary for clear visibility, proper stencil adherence and infection control. For this reason, your artist will always shave the area with a single-use razor at the start of your appointment.

    That said, single-use razors can be irritating on sensitive skin and are slow to get through dense or coarse hair. Because of this, some clients choose to remove hair themselves before their appointment to save time and minimise irritation.

    Removing hair before your appointment is not required, but it can be beneficial if done correctly. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to leave hair removal to your artist. If you do choose to remove hair beforehand, the following methods and tips will help you do so safely.

    Shaving
    Shave on the day of your appointment, not earlier. Use a brand new razor blade or cartridge, as used ones can harbour bacteria. Lather generously with shaving cream or soap, and take your time to avoid nicks or razor burn. After shaving, wash the area thoroughly with soap and keep the skin clean until your appointment.

    Waxing
    If you plan to wax, do so at least 3–7 days before your appointment. Waxing before a tattoo is only recommended if the area has been waxed before. First-time waxing, or waxing after a long break, often causes more irritation because the hair is removed at its full growth cycle. If you’re new to waxing an area, plan to start 3–4 months ahead to allow time for multiple waxing sessions, spaced 4–6 weeks apart.

    Depilatory Cream
    You can use hair removal cream the day before your tattoo appointment if you have previously tested it before on your skin to check for sensitivity.

    Trimming
    Dense or coarse body hair can be trimmed with electric clippers before your session to make shaving quicker and easier for your artist.

    Beard/Head Hair
    Single-use razors are not designed for beard or head hair, so your artist will not be able to shave these areas for you. Please remove this hair yourself or visit a barber before your appointment.

    Laser Hair Removal
    Laser hair removal works on the same principle as tattoo removal lasers by targeting pigment. It’s a long-term process, with treatments spaced to match hair growth cycles and typically taking 12–18 months (sometimes longer), so this timeframe needs to be considered before planning a tattoo in the same area. Once an area has been tattooed, laser hair removal cannot be performed there, as the laser would interact with the tattoo pigment and damage the tattoo.

    Important:
    Whichever method you use, remove the hair well beyond the tattoo area. At least a full hand-width of extra space around it works best

     

    Aftercare: What to Do Once You’re Tattooed

    After your tattoo session, it’s important not to remove any hair in the tattooed area while it’s healing. Avoid shaving, trimming, or using depilatory cream until your tattoo has finished peeling, which usually takes around 2 – 3 weeks.

    Even when the outer layer of skin might seem healed, the tattoo continues to heal beneath the surface for up to a couple of months, so avoid waxing the area for at least 6 weeks after getting tattooed.

    Conclusion

    Ultimately, it comes down to what works best for your skin and how you’d like your appointment time used. Understanding your options allows you to choose the approach that’s most comfortable for you, whether that’s preparing the area yourself or leaving it to your artist.

  • The Tattoo Process: A Guide for First-Timers

    If you’re new to tattoos, it can be a bit overwhelming knowing what to expect. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, so you feel prepared and confident when you come in for your tattoo appointment.

    Before We Start

    1. Arrival & Design Check
      • When you arrive, I’ll greet you and ask you to fill out a consent form.
      • After that, I’ll show you the design I’ve drawn based on our discussions. If you need any changes, we can make adjustments right then.
      • Once you’re happy with the design and size, I’ll get to work on the stencil.
    2. Stencil Placement
      • I’ll suggest the best spot for the stencil, but ultimately, I’ll follow your preferences.
      • Once the stencil’s on, you’ll have a chance to check it out in the mirror.
      • Not happy with the placement? No problem! We can move the stencil around until it’s just right.

    During the Tattoo

    1. What It Feels Like
      • Yes, it will hurt, but the pain varies for everyone. It could feel like a hot sting or be barely noticeable.
      • Most people find the sensation manageable, even during longer sessions.
      • The pain tends to build up toward the end of a long session, but you’ll be able to handle it—promise!
    2. Staying Still
      • It’s important to stay as still as possible to help with precision. But don’t worry about holding your breath! Breathing normally actually helps with the pain.
      • If you need to adjust your position or sneeze, just let me know first so we can work through it smoothly.
    3. Twitching Happens
      • Sometimes, your body will respond with involuntary twitches, especially in areas like the legs. Don’t stress—it’s totally normal and nothing to be embarrassed about!
      • Just try to relax and let me handle it.
    4. Talking vs. Quiet Time
      • Feel free to talk during the tattoo, but be mindful of how much your head or hands move while chatting.
      • During outlining, staying quiet helps me focus on getting the lines just right. Once we’re shading or coloring, it’s easier to chat if you prefer.
      • If you’d rather not talk at all, that’s perfectly fine too! Bring headphones, zone out, and enjoy the experience. I won’t be offended!

    If You Feel Unwell

    Sometimes, people can feel faint, dizzy, or overheated during a tattoo. This is usually due to a drop in blood pressure caused by adrenaline, low blood sugar, dehydration, or a combination of factors. If you start feeling nauseous or lightheaded, just let me know immediately!

    Here’s what to do if this happens:

    • Lay down or sit with your head between your knees to get your head lower than your heart.
    • These feelings usually pass quickly, and we can continue once you’re feeling better.
    • To avoid this, make sure you eat well, drink plenty of water, and get enough rest before your appointment.

    Wrapping Up

    When we finish the tattoo, I’ll clean and wrap it up, then go over the aftercare instructions with you. Don’t worry—everything you need to know is also available on the website for future reference.

    Once that’s done, we’ll settle up, and you’re free to go!

    After the Tattoo

    Tattoos can be more exhausting than you might expect, so plan to keep your schedule light afterward. Even if the pain wasn’t too bad, you’ll likely feel wiped out. All I want after a long tattoo session is a good meal and a nap!

    If you’re still unsure about any part of the tattoo process, feel free to drop your questions in the comments below. I’d be happy to clarify anything!

  • Travel notice – Australian Tour 2023

    Travel notice – Australian Tour 2023

    Big news! I will be touring regional Australia in 2023 with my fiancé Camo in a 1965 GMC pickup. Over the next year we will build our car as we wait for our caravan to be built and I will hopefully finish up everyone’s tattoo work here in Brisbane. So heads up, this is the official callout to come and get your work finished!

    We will also be roughly plotting the course of our trip over the next year. Yes! I will have my tattoo kit with me and plan to do guest spots around the country. I am also open to other kinds of work such as commercial artwork, painting etc. If my intermediate horse riding/handling skills can be put to work I am hella keen. Who knows what I’ll end up doing. This will be fun!

    To follow our travels, and the preparation in the lead up to the trip – see our instragram @GMCingAUS

    Please leave a comment below if you have any suggestions for places to visit, your location if you would like to get tattooed, or any tattoo shops I could guest at.

  • Not Just A Girl Charity Flash Day 9th July 2017

    Not Just A Girl Charity Flash Day 9th July 2017

     

    Raising Money for Women in Need.

     

    Not Just a Girl Flash Day logo by Melanie MilneNot Just a Girl Flash Day is a Charity event being held in two Australian cities to raise money to support women in Need. The Brisbane event is being held at With Love Tattoo and the Sydney Event at The Darling Parlour in Sydney. 10am till late.

    All Proceeds will be going to two local Brisbane women’s charities. “ZIGZAG” A resource centre for victims of domestic violence and abuse. And “CHILDREN BY CHOICE” A pro-choice clinic empowering women to take control of their own sexual health.

    We will also be taking donations of women’s clothing, children’s clothing, toiletries and non-perishable foods for “WOMENS HOUSE” A Safe house for women and families escaping domestic violence, so if you have anything to donate please bring it along!

     

    [button]10am – Late, With Love Tattoo, 284 Lillian Avenue Salisbury, Brisbane QLD 4107[/button]

     

    Not Just A Girl Flash Day Merchandise PinsThe Day will operate on a first in best dressed basis. If your chosen artist is already tattooing when you reach the front of the line, you will leave a deposit and be given an approximate time to return. The tattoos will be priced from $150-$450 CASH ONLY! Artists will be tattooing from their own original flash designs only. We will be posting everyone’s designs in the week leading up to the event, so keep your eyes out.

    There will be prints, merchandise, entertainment and plenty of food available on the day and we will also be holding a silent auction of paintings generously donated by the best of Australia’s Tattooers. Whilst everyone who is tattooing on the day is female identifying, please know that we are welcoming EVERYONE to get tattooed! It’s going to be an amazing day.

     

    Artists for BRISBANE:
    -Malika Rose (www.malikarose.com)
    – Mimsy (www.trailertrashtattoo.com)
    – Alison Manners (www.mannerstattoo.com)
    – Sharna Lee Turner (https://www.facebook.com/sharnalee.turner)
    – Drea Darling (http://www.dreadarling.com)
    – Tahnee Claire (https://www.facebook.com/Tahnee-Claire-245298252148380/)

     

    Artists for SYDNEY:
    Sasha Mezoghlian, Melanie Milne Tattoos, Eddy Lou, Sophie Lewis, Kaitlin Greenwood, Thao Tran, Nerida Nicolson, Ellie Thompson, Lauren Melina, Som Nakburin, Lauren Winzer, Carly Kroll, Avalon Desu, Miss Quartz, Shell Valentine, Rachie Rhatklor, Zoe Wisdom, Ebony Mellowship, Stacey Ann, Elizabeth Huxley May , Sarah K, Alexis Hepburn, Napier Blue.

    Charities confirmed for SYDNEY are One Girl Org and The Rough Period.

     

    Not Just a Girl Flash Day Brisbane Womens Charities

  • We Raised $5,830! With Love Tattoo Flash Day for Salisbury State School.

    We Raised $5,830! With Love Tattoo Flash Day for Salisbury State School.

    My flash for the With Love Valentines Flash Day, Australian themed, of course.

    Saturday the 11th of February With Love Tattoo held a valentines themed flash day at With Love Tattoo with all proceeds donated to the local Salisbury State School.

    Malika, Mitch, Jesse and myself pre-prepared an A3 sheet of small flash designs for flash day customers to choose from. Along with these we had a small sheet of little designs. For those who didn’t want a tattoo we had a big raffle of goodies donated by local businesses in the area.

    Come flash day we had a line up out the door! Mitch and Malika were booked out in a few minutes. I ended up tattooing a couple of Mitch’s designs because of this which I found fun and quite the learning experience as I don’t usually tattoo straight traditional. Jesse was incredibly helpful suggesting traditional colours to me. Turns out traditional is a lot harder than your think. At least for my brain that is all about detailed designs and lots of colour blends. It was a huge and humbling learning curve.

    After I punched out a couple of Mitch’s flash designs I tattooed two of my willy wag tails on the ribs, minus the heart and ribbon as it was for a bloke. I ended the day with a couple of the little designs for some lovely ladies who waited very patiently for their turn.

    To hear at the end of a good 12 hours of tattooing that we had raised just under $6000 was hella rewarding!

     

    The funds raised will be going toward air-conditioning for the school classrooms. I was shocked to learn that Queensland state schools have the same budget for air-conditioning as the southern, more cooler states. Anyone local to Queensland knows how brutal and humid our summers can be, and being stuck with sweat to a plastic chair in a 40 degree classroom doesn’t make for ideal learning conditions. I know, as I went through that myself! (I wonder if my grades would have been better with aircon? Hah … probably.)

    Many thanks to Mike and Chloe for helping on the counter. Also a big thanks to the many local businesses who supported the event. Shout out to Melinda’s Gluten Free Goodies, Mark Ward Property, Feeling Peachy, Few & Far Collective, Death Before Decaf & Salisbury Barbers.

    Last but not least thank you to everyone who came and got a tattoo, bought a raffle ticket and helped spread the word!
    I  have lots of designs on my flash sheet I would still love to tattoo. If you are interested in a cute little Australian design please send me a message through my enquiry page.

  • Drea Darling has moved to With Love Tattoo!

    Drea Darling has moved to With Love Tattoo!

    It’s a new year with new beginnings, so I am very excited to announce I have relocated and am now working at With Love Tattoo, a brand new studio to Brisbane. With Love Tattoo is family owned and operated tattoo studio offering expert tattooing, owned and operated by Malika Rose and Mitch Love.

    Located in the leafy suburbs of Salisbury just 20 minutes south of the Brisbane CBD, With Love Tattoo is set amongst a small & friendly group of shops complete with onsite parking, a vietnamese restaurant and chemist to buy all your aftercare supplies. There are regular bus services down the street and the Salisbury Train station is a 14 minute walk away.

    The studio interior is spacious and beautifully decorated with artwork by world renowned tattooers. I am super stoked for this opportunity to tattoo you all here in 2017 here alongside the absolute legends Mitch, Malika and Jesse!

    If you would like to book in a tattoo, send me an email  to discuss your ideas or call the shop on (07) 3276 8718. I’ll be in the studio Tuesdays to Saturdays 10 – 6pm. With Love Tattoo is a street shop so walk ins are welcome!