Annie is not currently taking tattoo clients.

Thank you for your interest!



 
self_portrait_ocf_2019_web.jpg

Annie & her husband Ian, 2019

Annie Blem (she/her) is The Bashful Goat. She is an artist of many trades and has been tattooing professionally since 2005. Annie graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Artist Practices with a minor in Arts Education from Portland State University in 2015.

Currently Annie is creating art in her own sense of style. Her work spans many styles and mediums, her focus now revolves around creating art pieces to decorate your life through stickers, shirts, pet portraits, and anything else that peaks her interest. She will also happily work with your unique ideas and concepts to create beautiful custom art that fit perfectly.

Please contact her via email with your artistic requests to have Annie make art for you!

 

Tattoo Aftercare

Annie has listed out her best practices and methods for healing a new tattoo. This process is absolutely critical for your health and the long term quality of your tattoo and must be taken seriously, it is essential that you care for your fresh tattoo. Healing is a unique and personal experience and happens at different rates for everyone. If you are worried or need advice at any time after your tattoo, you can always send a message and she will respond as quickly as possible.


What To Wear

Clothing choices for getting your tattoo and during healing are important. For your appointment wear clean comfortable clothing that makes the area you're getting tattooed accessible. 

After your appointment something loose fitting that also gives you a bit of coverage is best. You do NOT want your new tattoo to get rubbed or pulled on by tight fitting clothing, so pick something that will protect your newly tattooed skin, be comfortable in, and still allow you to navigate the world.

Also don't wear your favorite outfits because its possible in the first few days to have some spots of fluid leak from the bandage or have the fabric get stuck to your clothing. If this happens use warm water to gentle release and remove the fabric from your skin.

It is a big open wound and you must be very gentle with that area and your body because your skin will need some time to properly heal. 


Bandages

Annie will wrap up your tattoo in the studio for you to go home in. She uses two types of bandages based on the placement of the tattoo and client needs.

  • Second Skin and Saniderm - is a medical-grade, transparent, adhesive barrier that protects new tattoos while they are healing. It is latex-free, waterproof, breathable, and hypoallergenic. It is manufactured under quality-controlled conditions that have been CE-marked and FDA-registered.

  • Dri-lock pad- is a breathable bandage applied to the tattooed area to absorb the extra fluids your body creates during the first phase of healing.


Tattoo Healing Products

You will need to purchase products to assist your tattoo healing process.

“Traditional” Healing Products-

  • Dr. Bronners, unscented and diluted- 1/4 soap 3/4 water.

  • Aquaphor

  • A & D ointment

  • Lubidrem unscented lotion

  • High quality sunscreen

“New” Healing Products-

  • VEGAN- Wild Rose Herbs- Ink Balm & Ink Spray. Wild Rose Herbs *Link*

  • Hustle Butter- Deluxe Tattoo Aftercare Tattoo Balm, Hustle Butter- Hustle Bubbles Green Soap Replacement Tattoo Wash and Tattoo Cleanser.

  • INK-EEZE Tattoo Enthusiast Aftercare Bundle Kit: Includes Foam Soap + Ointment + Lotion, Ink Lock Technology

  • Mad Rabbit Repair - Tattoo Aftercare Soothing Gel

  • Second Skin and Saniderm

  • Tattoo specific sunscreen


Step by step, Tattoo Aftercare Instructions

Annie will wrap up your tattoo in the studio, she will also give you verbal and written tattoo aftercare instructions. To ensure your health and the longevity of your tattoo, diligently follow these after care procedures. Taking proper steps to care for your tattoo is now a part of your life as your new tattoo is an extension of you.

  • Avoid any direct sunlight on the tattoo for two weeks. Note that direct sunlight is never advised on tattoos for the entire life of the tattoo, the more sun, the more it fades as the pigment spreads. Long lasting crisp, bright tattoos are well hydrated and protected. When you will be exposing your skin to sunlight always use a good tattoo sunscreen to help minimize sun damage.

  • Do not soak and/or submerge your new tattoo in ANY body of liquid for at least one month. Regular showering for hygiene is of course recommended, but do not soak or scrub your new tattoo.

  • Always wash your hands thoroughly with hot water and liquid soap prior to moisturizing or handling your tattoo.

Day 1 after getting tattooed:

In the first 24 hours expect some swelling and redness to persist. There may be buildup of liquid (a combo of ink, blood, and plasma) under the bandage and may weep slightly, this is totally normal and expected. This fluid will stain your clothes and bedding, so be aware and don't use your favorites.

Removing the bandage-

Dri-loc pads are attached with medical tape or wrapped and will need to be removed in the first 24 hours, gently peal away bandage once the medical tape is removed. Immediately gently rinse with warm water and wash with clean hands and mild liquid soap. With a clean new towel, pat dry the tattoo area, let your tattoo air dry and breathe for 20 to 25 minutes. Once your skin is dry, you should apply a very small amount of tattoo cream/balm. Keep this layer exceptionally thin to let it absorb and allow plenty of ventilation for the tattoo area.

Second Skin or Sandierm when sealed to the skin can be left on for 3 to 6 days. However in the first 24 hours depending on the wrap location and how it is settling onto your skin, you may wish to remove it. Second Skin/Saniderm breathable film bandages are easier to remove in the shower with warm water and mild liquid soap to slowly loosen the adhesive. Find an edge and gently peel back the bandage against your skin, do not pull away from your body as the film will stretch. Immediately gently rinse with warm water and wash with clean hands, and mild liquid soap. With a clean new towel pat dry the tattoo area. Let your tattoo air dry and breathe for 20 to 25 minutes.

  • You may experience some redness around the tattoo where Second Skin/Saniderm was applied to the un-tattooed skin. This is also completely normal and may occur with any type of medical adhesive. If you are experiencing a pulling sensation or blistering, remove the bandage. If you do develop any type of adverse reaction, discontinue use immediately.

After the 3 to 6 days of your new tattoo being wrapped in Second Skin/Saniderm, the film can be completely removed and you can begin the next steps for healing your new tattoo.

Day 2 and 3 dry healing- You will see the color of your tattoo begin to dull or loose its gloss as the skin recovers. You may also see scabs forming around and over the area of tattooed skin, do not fret- your body is healing. Cleanliness is essential, washing in the morning and evenings is best while being sure to pat and air the tattoo as described. If the tattoo isn’t dried properly, it can cause the water to trap between the layer of the skin and the lotion you apply. This leads to gooey scabs and can ruin the beauty of your tattoo. Apply a thin layer of tattoo ointment to your dry tattoo 2, to 4 times a day. Note that excessive usage of cream can cause the scab to become thick and suffocate the wound. Using the correct amount for your sized tattoo will ensure you do not clog your pores or create an overly moist area. Don't touch any scabs unless you absolutely need to. DO NOT PICK AT OR SCRATCH YOUR NEW TATTOO!

Day 4 – Day 6 healing your new tattoo-

You are done wearing SecondSkin/Saniderm and no more bandaging is needed. As the redness fades and the swelling returns to normal. Likely the tattooed area has or will form a scab or light crust at this point. Do not pick your scab as it can pull color out, expose the tattoo to infection, and could result in permanent scars. Gently apply tattoo ointment once or twice a day to assist the recovery process.

Day 7 – Day 14 healing your new tattoo-

While you continue your healing regimen, the scab will become hard and begin to peel by itself. Do not touch the scab! This can lead to exfoliation of the inked area. While the skin may feel itchy you must resist scratching or picking at it, however you may occasionally lightly 'pat' it to relieve the itch. Note that proper moisturizing (not too much) will also relieve the itching. It is totally safe and important to continue to apply tattoo aftercare products during this time, just be extremely gentle.

Day 15 – Day 30 healing your new tattoo-

Now that you have reached the point where your new tattoo is mostly recovered from the outside remember the under layers of your skin still needs time to recover. Continue to apply tattoo ointment and clean with your trusted aftercare products to ensure that your skin condition will return to normal. By the 14th day of healing your new tattoo almost all the flakes will have disappeared, keep your freshly tattooed skin lightly moisturized as it can easily become dry during this phase. In the second and third week as you see the outer layer of your skin recover the colors of your tattoo will become vivid and bright again. It is absolutely critical to keep your new tattoo out of any situation where its being soaked or exposed to sun.


*A detailed description of your tattoo care is outlined above. However, when it comes to the tattoo recovery process, the rate of a tattoo recovery can vary depending on the condition of the skin and the specific area of your body where you have ink. Each skin type and location has a different degree of sensitivity, which contributes to the recovery process of a fresh tattoo. It is important to note that the recovery process also varies from person to person.

  • Please contact Annie Blem directly with any questions or concerns you may have about healing your new tattoo.

Tattoo appointments

How it works-


Annie (she/her) is an artist and has been tattooing professionally for over 15 years. She now operates from her own tattoo studio in Lebanon, Oregon. While making beautiful custom tattoos, Annie is proud to provide friendly service and an inclusive space to make the tattoo process a little easier. 


Insight into the process

Appointments and design requests are made through the embedded form on the front page and this page. Appointment dates are booked and secured with a deposit. All work is original and custom created by Annie.

Please be as clear and concise in your request regarding design elements and specific ideas you have. You may attach reference images and images of the area to be tattooed. When the design has been agreed on, the deposit paid, and the date is booked, your appointment is now set. Annie draws your design in the days leading up to your appointment, she also enjoys free-handing (drawing directly onto the skin) pieces with your trust. Small reasonable changes can be made on the day of your appointment, however any major changes to design may require a reschedule.

All appointment scheduling details will be sent to you via email, please use the booking link Annie provides.

  • Fill out the form and send Annie your design request details.

  • Annie will respond in 2-5 business days with possible questions and her current schedule.

  • Select a date & place your deposit with the link Annie provides to you.

  • Dates only held with deposit.

  • Designs only started with deposit.

  • Changes can be made when requested with reasonable time.

  • Once you arrive at the studio for your scheduled appointment, you will fill out a release form and your ID will be copied.

  • The healing process will be fully explained and there will be time for questions before and after tattooing.


Pricing

Timing, and therefore pricing, depends on many factors. The time spent tattooing is variable and unique to each client; how detailed your tattoo is, placement of the tattoo, how well your skin takes the ink, and more. Drawing designs often takes hours and escalates quickly based on the design and placement. Your hourly rate covers tattoo time and materials, safety and cleanliness procedures.

  • Hourly for tattooing is $150.

    • 1 hour minimum is required.

  • There is a $100 deposit to book appointments.

    • This non-refundable deposit. Sending your deposit confirms you have read and understand the appointment rules.

      • 48 hours is required to change your appointment time or you forfeit your deposit.

    • Tattooing is limited to 6 hours at a time to keep Annie's back and mind healthy.

  • Cash & cards accepted.


Rules

Thank you for being considerate while you are at The Bashful Goat studio.

  • No one under the age of 18 will be permitted in the tattoo studio.  

  • Anyone who is currently pregnant or nursing is not able to receive a tattoo. Enjoy time with your little one and come see Annie after! 

  • Annie will only be able to tattoo healthy people, if you are sick please reschedule. Due to the nature of tattooing and the closeness required, all precautions will be taken.

These are rules are for everyones safety, if you do not want to comply, you will not receive a tattoo from Annie.


Payment

Options

Deposits-

  • Deposits are paid through the scheduling link Annie sends in your email communication.

    • If you would like to pay your deposit in cash with Annie in person, please include that in your email communication to set up a time to do that.

Tattoo appointment-

  • Annie only accepts cash or card transactions, all payments must be paid at the shop before you leave so please make sure you are prepared to do this.

    • Annie will NOT accept PayPal, Venmo, Cash app, or any other kind of third-party payment for your tattoo appointment.

    • There is no cash machine in the building so please plan accordingly. 


Rescheduling & Cancellation

Tattoo artists rely on clients to show up for appointments. Failure to show leaves Annie out of work for the day, plus time spent drawing your design.

  • 48 hour notice- Minimum of 2 days notice is required to maintain your deposit. Rescheduling with less than 2 days notice will forfeit your deposit. To book again you need to place a new deposit.

  • You can reschedule and keep your deposit!!! Simply email Annie in the same email thread we have been talking through.

  • Annie would vastly prefer you let her know if you cannot come. The reason doesn't matter, she won't judge. By letting her know it gives her the chance to fill your spot and she won't worry about you. 

    • Annie understands that life gets in the way sometimes and things happen. Just respect her time and she'll be more than happy to reschedule you back at a later date. 

  • Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, Snapchat, text messaging and other social media platforms are not used for professional communication and are not valid ways of scheduling, rescheduling, or cancelling appointments.

  • No shows- If you don't show up or fail to reschedule with 48hrs notice, your deposit will be lost. Annie reserves the right to not book you again. If she accepts you back, you may need to pay 50% of your appointment to book. 

  • On the rare occasion Annie will need to reschedule your tattoo appointment, please be understanding as this is the last thing she wants to do. If this happens, your deposit will not be lost- simply moved to a new date we both agree on.


Appointments

  • Arriving on time and well-prepared will endear you to your artist. Please be respectful of the studio space and time, come with an open mind and light heart.

  • Dress appropriately for receiving your tattoo. The area should be easily accessible and you should be comfortable. More instructions on clothing choices in Tattoo After Care.

  • Eat a good meal before your appointment, this is extremely important even if you’re getting a small tattoo! Be well hydrated and free from stresses (hungover, intoxicated, recently sick). Bring a snack/meal/water and prepare a loose timeline. After a tattoo session you should be ready to care for yourself and rest.  

  • Do not wear perfume to your appointment.

  • Do not use any numbing products on your skin on the day of your tattoo appointment. However you may wish to prepare the skin by applying lotion in the days prior to the tattoo, especially if you have dry skin.

  • If you shave or remove the hair from the tattoo area please be VERY cautious not to damage the skin! Wounds, even small ones cannot be tattooed.

  • Prepping and applying the stencil can be a time consuming process, please be patient and understand that getting the tattoo size and location is critical. Annie will often stencil sections and draw directly on the skin to flow the design with the body. 

  • It is impossible to tattoo sun burned skin!!! Please be cautious and proactively protective of your skin, especially in the days and weeks before and after your appointment.

    • ALWAYS PROTECT YOUR SKIN & TATTOOS FROM THE SUN!

  • Avoid blood thinners 48 hours before your appointment - such as Alcohol, Ibuprofen, Aspirin, these products can cause excess bleeding.

  • If you show any signs of being drunk, intoxicated, or inebriated during your appointment- I will have to ask you to leave no matter the state of your tattoo.   

  • Accept that no matter how tough you are, getting tattooed hurts and your body will react. Breath through the pain, DO NOT HOLD YOUR BREATH!


Considerations

  • The Bashful Goat is a LGBTQIA+ positive space! She is a strong ally and is in solidarity with the queer community.

All bodies and skin tones are welcome in Annie's studio-

  • She will always give her expert and honest advice about which colors will work best for your skin tone to ensure you have a tattoo you'll love for many years!

Taking pictures of yourself for drawing/placement references-

  • When sending your email request it can be extremely helpful to include pictures. Annie will need a clear photo of the area to be tattooed so she can see the way the body flows while taking into consideration moles, scars, marks, and other tattoos you have. The best photos are taken with daylight to capture your natural skin tone and textures. Take the picture as straight on as possible. Please avoid selfies.

Sleeves and large tattoos requiring multiple sessions-

  • These pieces are wonderful and exciting! To prepare, Annie can spend hours referencing, drawing, and reworking ideas. These pieces are a huge commitment for both artist and client. Once started, projects will need to be finished within months to make sure they get completed before life moves on. Several appointments may be booked at once with deposits placed for each appointment.

Cover ups & Reworks-

  • Annie wants everyone to be happy in their skin, she is delighted to do cover-ups and reworks as long as it is within her ability to make the tattoo better, each case will be individually reviewed. Reach out to discuss your situation and see what Annie can do for you!

    • Please include clear daylight photos, not too close up and not too far away- Annie needs to see how big it is, the located on your body, and overall condition of the tattoo. 

Tattooing over other skin oddities-

  • Scars, stretch marks, surgery scars, or blemishes are gorgeous and can be included, covered, and/or worked into your design as you like. Annie will need to see what she’s working with before hand- please include good photos so we can talk through all the options. Some conditions and medications make it unsafe to get tattooed, occasionally a medical professional will need to be consulted prior to your appointment. 

    • All scars must be completely healed prior to any tattoo work.

Tattoos that are 'personal/private'- 

  • If you are interested in getting tattooed in a 'personal/private' place on your body there are a few things to keep in mind. Annie is happy to do this kind of work, however it can not be your first tattoo with her. There must be established trust between artist and client for this work to proceed safely and with everyones comfort in mind. Every precaution must be taken with this sensitive and delicate skin and healing this type of tattoo will take extra care. Please do NOT send photos of this personal nature until the artist requests it. 


Book your Appointment

Thanks for your interest in working with Annie! This form streamlines the process and gives her all the info she needs to get you booked. This informations insures Annie can prepare to give you the absolute best custom piece of artwork possible. Annie does her best to respond generally within 2-5 business days depending on her schedule. Thanks again!!

Your tattoo idea-

  • If you have a specific idea please include all necessary details. Feel free to include photos or reference images to help communicate your idea. Keeping to a reasonable number of elements to your design is best for composition.

Placement on your body-

  • Please attach a clear daylight photo of the location for your future tattoo so Annie can design it to fit your body perfectly.

Rough size-

  • All sizes of tattoos are welcome. Smaller tattoos will be simple, while larger tattoos can have more detail and can expand into multiple sessions.

Budget-

  • Annie is happy to design work to fit a specific budget, just let her know what will work for you.

Coverup / Rework / Scar cover / Other skin considerations-

  • Please include a clear daylight photo for Annie to assess.

Allergies or Medications to be aware of?

  • Some medications cause thinning of the blood, can cause the skin to tear, or other side effects that can adversely affect the tattoo processing or healing. Please be aware of the side effects of the medications you are taking.

Frequently Asked Questions


Accessibility

  • The studio is a single level building with no steps. There is a bathroom inside the studio with a large handrail. There is no handicap parking, however we can find a space in the lot for you if side entry is needed.

  • Snacks and drinks are provided, please feel free to bring your own food as well.


Q & A

Do you take walk-in’s/same day appointments?

  • No. Annie's studio is private and is designed for appointment based work only. However, if you ask and there is a scheduling opportunity to book-in quickly, Annie is happy to make that happen whenever possible.

  • If you are in a hurry to get work done, a rush fee can be applied.

Can I DM you?

  • Annie will likely refer you to her website and/or will ask you to email directly so we can have a real conversation.

Does Annie use numbing cream during the tattoo procedure?

  • No. Annie uses traditional/known methods for soothing skin during the tattoo but nothing that would be considered a topical anesthetic cream or numbing agent.

Will you design my tattoo?

  • I will happily create a design for you! Checkout how to book an appointment with Annie for more details.

Will you create a design for someone else to tattoo?

  • Nope, sorry!

Will you tattoo someone else’s design?

  • Nope, sorry!

Can you just draw something and I’ll get it tattooed if I like it?

  • I draw all the time! Check out Annie’s Instagram for the latest designs that are up-for-grabs.

When can I see my design?

  • Artwork for tattoos will be ready directly before the appointment, small changes can be made in-person during design placement and stenciling. 

  • Annie will never email designs. 

Vegan inks?

  • YES! All of Annie's inks are vegan. 

Are your other products vegan?

  • Ointments and skin cleaning products are indeed vegan!

    • However sanitation drapes and plastic barriers are not. Annie is working to convert all her tools and products to being as cruelty free, eco-friendly, and sustainable as possible.

Can I pay in advance?

  • Aside form the deposit to secure your appointment date, No. Annie would like you to pay on the day of your appointment before you go home. 

What if I change my mind about the design or placement?

  • Annie is happy to move the stencil and make sure the placement of your tattoo is to your satisfaction. If you have a new idea for your tattoo that requires lots of drawing please be aware this may required your appointment to be rescheduled. If your idea has changed to something Annie is not comfortable doing then cancellation will be discussed.


More

Acceptable payments-

  • Cash or cards are the only ways to pay Annie for her time and work.

  • Annie can NOT accept Venmo, PayPal, Cash app, or any other kind of payment. There have been too many inconsistencies, fees, and other issues relating to these app type payments and Annie is not willing to deal with them.

Taking photos-

  • Annie likes to document the tattoo process for her records. She may take lots photos and videos of the tattoo process. Please let her know if you are uncomfortable with this and/or do not want your photos shared.

Posting on social media-

  • There is a box on your release form asking if you consent to your photos being shared. If I do not post your tattoo, please do not be offended. Annie puts a hug amount of love and care into her tattoos, do not be concerned if you don't see your piece on her page. 

Guest Spots & Conventions- 

  • Annie rarely travels, she prefers to work close to home to be near her family. However, the future is full of possibilities.