# Ms. Gia > I am Gia, an illustrator and tattoo artist creating expressive, story-led tattoos and custom designs. My work draws from Filipino heritage, playful ideas, nature, and the places that shape me. I help clients turn personal meaning, cultural connection, and creative sparks into artwork they can carry with confidence. Every appointment is private, collaborative, and thoughtfully designed around the person behind the tattoo. - Email: graceg.dxb@gmail.com - Phone: +12482171419 - Address: 2 S Potomac St, Hagerstown, MD 21740, USA - **How do I choose the right tattoo design?** A professional tattoo artist can help shape your ideas into a design that reflects your meaning, style, and placement. Sharing references, themes, and personal details gives the artist a strong foundation for creating thoughtful artwork. - **Can a tattoo artist help with placement and sizing?** Yes, tattoo artists can offer guidance on how a design may suit different areas of the body. They consider the shape of the placement, the level of detail, and how the artwork can complement the body's natural form. - **What should I consider before getting a tattoo?** It is helpful to think carefully about the design, placement, and how you want the tattoo to fit your personal style. A professional can explain the process, answer questions, and help you make an informed decision before the work begins. - **How should I prepare for a tattoo session?** Arriving well rested, hydrated, and ready to communicate clearly can help create a more comfortable experience. Following the artist's guidance and discussing any concerns in advance also supports a smooth, respectful session. - **How do I care for a new tattoo?** TATTOO AFTERCARE Gia Art and Tattoo Studio Keep it clean — Gently wash with mild, fragrance-free soap and pat dry with a clean paper towel. Moisturize lightly — Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free moisturizer when needed. Avoid — Swimming, soaking, direct sunlight, excessive sweating, and tight clothing that rubs the tattoo. Don’t pick or scratch — Peeling and itching are normal. Let your tattoo heal naturally. Protect your tattoo — Once fully healed, use SPF 30+ sunscreen to protect your tattoo. ⚠️ Important: If redness, swelling, or pain worsens, or you notice pus or develop a fever, seek medical advice. ## Services - [Custom Tattoo Designs](https://giaartandtattoo.com/services/custom-tattoo-designs.md): I create personalized tattoo artwork based on your ideas, story, and style. - [Tattoo Sessions](https://giaartandtattoo.com/services/custom-tattoo-sessions.md): I tattoo original and custom designs in my private, appointment-only studio. - [Tattoo Flash Designs](https://giaartandtattoo.com/services/tattoo-flash-designs.md): I offer ready-to-book flash designs, including Filipino-inspired artwork and themed ideas. - [Tattoo Commissions](https://giaartandtattoo.com/services/custom-tattoo-commissions.md): I illustrate custom tattoo concepts and standalone artwork for personal commissions. ## Contact & Social - [instagram](https://instagram.com/garden_lab_tattoo) - [tiktok](https://www.tiktok.com/@giaatattoist) ## Pages - [Home](https://giaartandtattoo.com/index.md) - [Custom Concept Artwork](https://giaartandtattoo.com/services/custom-tattoo-commissions.md) - [Personalized Tattoo Artwork](https://giaartandtattoo.com/services/custom-tattoo-designs.md) - [Custom Tattoo Appointment](https://giaartandtattoo.com/services/custom-tattoo-sessions.md) - [Filipino-Inspired Flash](https://giaartandtattoo.com/services/tattoo-flash-designs.md)