Tattooist Stevi Lee Alver opened the doors to her own tattoo and piercing shop, The Ink Atelier, in Goonellabah late last year. In this week's Sunday Profile, she answers some of the burning questions we had about her life, her passion for tattooing and the experience of getting a tattoo. Read more about Stevi Lee opening her shop

What tattoos do you have and when did you get them?

Stevi Lee: I have various tattoos from tribal to Japanese, cover-ups and realism. Most of my tattoos were done in Australia and Brazil but I have also been tattooed in south-east Asia. Most have been done by fellow artists. Most recently by Kate at K. T Tattoos and Mac at Iron Mind, both who I've worked within the past. 

What inspired you to like tattoos – family, friends?

I've always been drawn to tattooing. When I was a kid I thought it was a kind of magic taking place, some kind of alchemy. I had my first tattoo at 17. It was an off-the-wall-or-nothing-at-all type of studio. So I ended up with a big tribal dolphin on my left foot. I'm not too fond of it these days although it does represent a certain time of my life and a certain curiosity. I remember asking the tattoo artist what it would take to get an apprenticeship. 

What do you like about being a tattoo artist?

I love to create. I've always been a creative but to have a career creating is amazing. The dynamic and collaboration with clients are also very rewarding. Every day is different, it's never boring. 

Why did you open your own tattoo shop business? 

I've always dreamed of having a studio and saw an opportunity to start something different in Lismore. In the beginning, I was apprehensive about starting a business but I had good support from my partner, my friends and Kate at K. T Tattoos.

(name your shop, location and your availability, how clients find and book you)

The Ink Atelier is in Lismore Heights, 405 Ballina Road, we're currently open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am until 5pm. Most client's book via Instagram @the.ink.atelier or Facebook @the.ink.atelier.lismore

What else have you done in your life and career?

I am a registered nurse. While at studying nursing, I worked as an artist for a gallery in Broome. I also have a background in creative writing, predominantly fiction and poetry. 

What are your plans for the future?

At this point I'm not thinking too far ahead, just trying to stay on top of the work for the week ahead. A second artist, Brett, who specialises in large-scale Japanese and traditional tattoos, will be working Saturdays.

I've also taken on an apprentice, Griffin, who is extremely talented. He’s in the process of becoming a licenced tattoo artist and learning the ins and outs of infection control, cross-contamination, managing clients and general shop life. Once he is accepting clients, we might look into having guest artists feature at the studio.

What are the most common tattoos people ask for/ that you have done?

This is a hard question. I think, perhaps, memorial tattoos are the most common tattoos. They're all different but have a similar sentiment. 

Where are the most common places people want to be tattooed?

It depends on the design of the tattoo. You want the tattoo to fit, flow, and compliment, the body part. Placement is essential and often discussed at length with each client.

 How long does getting a tattoo take?

Sessions are anywhere from 30 minutes to 6 hours. Bigger, more involved tattoos can take several 6-hour sessions to complete. 

Do some tattoos last longer than others?

Yes. Finger tattoos don't usually last long. They often fall out after a couple of weeks, particularly on the side of the finger.

What is the process of doing a tattoo?

We start by discussing the design concept, size, placement. We then find a suitable time and date, the client then pays a deposit. The tattoo is drawn up before the appointment. 

When the client arrives, they check over the design and complete a consent form. If needed, final tweaks are made to the design. We make a stencil and apply it to the skin. Again, the client reviews the design and placement and agrees to go ahead. 

While the stencil is drying the station is set up using an aseptic technique. We make sure the client is comfortable and then start the tattoo. 

Are tattoos reversible? What’s the process?

Some tattoos can be removed via laser. Others can be covered up. It depends on what the client prefers. Sometimes laser is recommender before the cover-up. 

What should people consider before getting a tattoo?

Think before you ink! Design and placement, it's worthwhile taking time to think about this before committing. Most importantly, people should find a professional, licenced tattoo studio and an artist that suits the style they want. 

Is getting a tattoo or tattooing addictive?

Almost anything can be addictive. There is something extremely satisfying in watching a tattoo come to life on your body. So, yes, I would say it is addictive. 

Does it hurt? Where hurts the most and why?

It does hurt, generally not as much as people first think. 

Different people experience pain differently. Some places can be excruciating for one person and almost ticklish for the next. Throat, ribs, sternum, back of the knee, over the kidneys are all sensitive. Arms and legs hurt the least. 

Why do people do it?

People get tattoos for different reasons. To mark a transformation. For sentimental reasons, names, dates. Memorial tattoos. As a form of self-expression or individuality. To rebel or even to fit in.