ZillahMakesTattoos@gmail.com

I tattoo at Penumbra Tattoo in Lexington, Kentucky. I moved to Lexington from upstate New York in 2024. I’ve been tattooing since 2015. Outside of tattooing, my partner and I do an ecological podcast about insects called There Will Be Bugs! I’m non-binary and passionate about safe, inclusive, body positive tattooing. During our appointment, I will probably talk to you so much about my cats.

I love tattooing animals, machines, plants, scientific stuff, pet portraits, gemstones and shiny things, as well as anything esoteric, silly, or weird. With my near-decade of experience, I have lots of strategies to make your tattoo dreams come true - and if you’re asking for something thats outside of my scope I’m happy to recommend other artists who can accomplish your goals. I get especially excited about projects where I can draw the design directly on your body.

Inquires can be submitted via email to zillahmakestattoos@gmail.com.

Please include as much information as possible in your email, including the size (a measurement in inches), placement, and any photo references.

Cash strongly preferred, there is a credit card fee. Per Kentucky state law a 6% sales tax will be applied to the final cost of your tattoo.

 FAQs

  • Yes! My books are always open. I usually work Wednesday through Saturday from noon to six.

  • Start by reaching out! You can send me an email to zillahmakestattoos@gmail.com . Please include a description of what you’re looking for, where you’d like it on your body, and the size of the tattoo as a measurement in inches. You can also stop by Penumbra tattoo Wed- Saturday from noon to six to speak with me in person.

    You can include reference pictures if you have them! These pictures don’t have to be of tattoos, but can be illustrations, photographs, sculptures or anything else. You don’t have to have an exact representation of what you’re looking for - I love working with you to create custom, bespoke pieces.

  • Generally not. I will have a design ready to share with you at the time of our appointment. I leave time for us to make any adjustments together before we start tattooing. I also ask a lot of questions to clarify what you’re looking for before I ever start drawing, and I’m usually pretty good at getting it right the first time. If not, I’m happy to redraw. It’s very important to me to make beautiful, lasting tattoos that you will cherish for your whole life!

  • $200/hr with a $100 minimum.

    The shop charges a small credit card fee, so cash is strongly encouraged. KY also requires us to collect 6% sales tax.

    I’m also happy to work with you and your budget! I’m a fast and efficient tattooer. The cost of your tattoo will never be a surprise, we will definitely discuss budget ahead of time.

  • Flash are pre-drawn designs you can choose from. I have a book of designs at the shop you can look through, or if you shoot me an email I can send over some designs.

  • In exchange for $100 of your dollars, I will draw anything you'd like directly on your body and tattoo it in full color or in black and grey. You can book an appointment directly through this website without even sending me an email - although I do require a $50 deposit.

  • Totally up to you! My booth is in a tucked away corner of the shop, and we have privacy screens to make sure nobody can get a peak at us. You can choose clothing that allows you to be covered up, while still allowing me to access the part of you getting tattooed (although don’t wear anything you care too much about, because it might get ink on it). It’s important to me that you feel safe and comfortable during our session.

  • You’re in good hands! I’ve done thousands of first tattoos over the years. The most important thing is to eat before your appointment. You are welcome to bring snacks and drinks, or even blankets and pillows if you want to be extra cozy. After your tattoo, be prepared to avoid swimming and sunlight for at least a couple of weeks.

  • It does hurt! I prefer that you don’t use numbing cream, but we can definitely talk about it.

    I have lots of years of experience helping you through the pain. I try to tackle the tattoo in a way that helps with pain management, and I have a lidocaine spray available if needed. If you’re having a bad time, we can break the tattoo up into sessions to do little bits at a time. I’m in your corner.

  • Ample free parking in a lot directly outside the building!

Reach out!

Shoot me an email if you have an idea for a tattoo! You can also get in touch with this contact form. Please give me a few days to respond :)

Penumbra Tattoo

A queer-owned, LGBTQ+ friendly space in downtown Lexington, KY.

West Maxwell St, Suite 120 Lexington, KY 40508

(859)368-7435