Gypsy Sisters Tattoo
Empowering Art and Community
A Life Rich in Cultures and Perspectives
A Life Rich in Cultures and Perspectives
When Teena, a U.S. Navy veteran, and her sister Myria first opened their tattoo shop in Madison, WV, they had a clear mission: to create the kind of shop they wished had existed when they got their first tattoos. Teena recalls her first tattoo experience, feeling nervous in a shop full of men who dismissed her tattoo idea as silly. That
When Teena, a U.S. Navy veteran, and her sister Myria first opened their tattoo shop in Madison, WV, they had a clear mission: to create the kind of shop they wished had existed when they got their first tattoos. Teena recalls her first tattoo experience, feeling nervous in a shop full of men who dismissed her tattoo idea as silly. That experience motivated the sisters to build something different—a place where every client feels valued and uplifted.
Now, years later, Gypsy Sisters Tattoo in Logan, WV, has become exactly that—a welcoming and empowering space, filled with feminine and bohemian vibes. Teena proudly describes how people who walk through the doors consistently comment on how bright, comfortable, and inviting the atmosphere is. The shop has grown into a place where clients don’t just come for tattoos; they come to hang out, catch up, and feel at home.
"My favorite thing is when people tell me they feel so comfortable here," Teena says. "Whether they’re getting a tattoo or just stopping by to say hi, we’ve created a space where everyone feels welcome."
The tattoo experience at Gypsy Sisters isn’t just about the ink—it’s about the connections made during long tattoo sessions. Teena describes it as therapy, similar to the deep conversations people often have in salons. Over the years, she has shared some of the most emotional moments with clients, from memorial tattoos that brought them both to tears, to lively conversations about conspiracy theories, and even spontaneous karaoke sessions.
"There’s never a wrong time for a dance party," Myria always says, adding to the shop's laid-back, fun atmosphere.
Teena is also passionate about art and its power to bring communities together. Before reopening Gypsy Sisters Tattoo in Logan, she had the opportunity to launch the "Main Street Art Walk" in Madison. The shop also encourages local artists to display and sell their work commission-free, helping foster a supportive artistic community.
"Art is good for the soul," Teena says. "We want to see more art programs and growth in Logan, and I hope we can help make that happen."
A Life Rich in Cultures and Perspectives
A Life Rich in Cultures and Perspectives
A Life Rich in Cultures and Perspectives
Teena’s experiences and perspective have been deeply shaped by a life filled with travel and a profound appreciation for diversity. Growing up in the Midwest with constant moves, she gained an amazing appreciation for the variety of people, landscapes, and cultures that make up the world around her.
Her travels in the Navy took her even
Teena’s experiences and perspective have been deeply shaped by a life filled with travel and a profound appreciation for diversity. Growing up in the Midwest with constant moves, she gained an amazing appreciation for the variety of people, landscapes, and cultures that make up the world around her.
Her travels in the Navy took her even further, visiting countries like Iceland, India, and Guam, where she connected with people from vastly different cultural backgrounds.
Of all her travels, India stood out, leaving a lasting impression with its vibrant art, colors, and bohemian aesthetic—an influence now seen in the eclectic, free-spirited decor at Gypsy Sisters Tattoo.
Teena’s journey took another detour during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she shut down her original shop in Madison and spent two years traveling the country with her wife and sister Cathy.
Their road trip was a soul-enriching journey across iconic places like Roswell, the Grand Canyon, and the Badlands. When Teena returned to West Virginia, she knew she wanted to open Gypsy Sisters Tattoo again—this time in Logan, the place she now calls home with her wife, April.
As Teena continues to grow with the Logan community, she has big plans, including the possibility of starting an art walk right here in town. She and her licensed piercer and tattoo apprentice, Tiffanie, love when other artists visit the shop to talk about their craft and collaborate.
At Gypsy Sisters Tattoo, it’s not just about the tattoos—it’s about creating a supportive, artistic community where everyone is welcome.
Whether you’re there for ink, conversation, or just to hang out, Teena and her team are dedicated to making every visit an uplifting experience.
For Teena, it all comes down to one thing:
"Art is a connection, and I hope we can continue to build those connections in Logan."
Inked
Pierced
Preparing for a tattoo:
What happens in the body during the process of getting a tattoo?
The experience of getting a tattoo can also be cathartic, providing a way to release pent-up emotions and create a sense of relief. This is partially due to the release of Serotonin and Dopamine flooding the system at once.
- Adrenaline: The anticipation and anxiety of getting a tattoo triggers a rush of adrenaline, which can make you feel excited and a little scared. Adrenaline can also help mask some of the pain of the tattoo.
- Endorphins: The body releases endorphins in response to the pain of the tattoo, which can create a feeling of euphoria. Endorphins are natural pain and stress relievers that interact with opiate receptors in the brain.
- Serotonin and dopamine These chemicals often release once the tattoo starts and you realize that "it's not that bad” and the anxiety and adrenaline wear off.
Hydrate and Eat:
Drink plenty of water the day before so your skin is hydrated and can take the ink better. Eating before your tattoo can help with your stomach and feeling shaky. Getting a tattoo for the first time, or even if you have not had one in some time, can leave you anxious. This is very normal.
Preparing Area:
Shower as close to the appointment as possible to remove bacteria and germs that build up on the skin. Remove hair in the area the tattoo will be. Do not apply creams or balms to the area unless you have discussed this with the Artist. This includes numbing cream. Some things can affect and interact with the process of getting a tattoo.
Payment:
The types of Payment we accept at the shop are: Cash and Cash App.
We do not accept any form of card or check. There is an ATM across the street at Exon.Tips are always appreciated but not required.
Things that will help:
*Chewing gum: Mastication (Chewing) during stressful conditions suppresses stress-induced activation of the autonomic nervous system, causing sympathetic nerve terminals to locally release catecholamines such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine (adrenaline).
*Listening to music: Music can provide a distraction and help get your mind off the pain and into the “zone”. Consider bringing in headphones for longer sessions.
*Breaks: Taking breaks when you need one can help with long sessions. Just keep in mind that every time you break, you will also need a readjustment period to get back into the “zone”.
*Drinks & Snacks: Bring in a sealable drink and snacks for long sessions. Although you can not eat on the work floor you can have a snack during your breaks or as needed.
*Conversation: Talking is a great distraction. Consider bringing a friend that likes to talk.
Pricing and Fees:
Prices:
*Prices are based on the amount of details, placement, colors and size. It is very hard to get an idea of the price until we have all that information.
- Placement: It will cost more on places like Brest/chest, inner thigh, hands, face, neck and stomach. Places it is to get to and get a good stretch.
- Colors: The more colors the more needle changes.
- Size and Details: This affects how long the tattoo will take.
*The standard rate is about $100 per hour.
*Artists tend to price things they are excited about a little lower because we are artists and do not always get to tattoo in the style that we most like.
*In general the bigger and more detailed the tattoo the higher the price. Something that only requires one sitting is also going to be priced lower.
*The exception to this is pre-made flash and deals.
Fees:
*Numbing cream: $20 per application
*UV ink: $20 per color
*Scheduling outside of posted business hours: $50
*Aftercare bags: $10
*Private tattoo party: $100 non refundable deposit
(retuned if group spends $300 or more)
*Tapping out: $50
(If you can not finish your tattoo, you will still be required to pay for the full tattoo as well as pay a $50 fee for your next session)
**Although we do not have a no call/no show fee, we have lost money and will remember when we price any future tattoos. To avoid this, PLEASE communicate any issues with scheduling so we can reschedule or cancel as needed.
Payment options:
The types of Payment we accept at the shop are: Cash and Cash App.
We do not accept any form of card or check. There is an ATM across the street at Exon.
***Tips are always appreciated but not required.
Aftercare
Aftercare
Tattoo Aftercare and Potential Complications:
-----First Day/Night: Initial Care
Bandaging:
Keep the bandage (Saniderm Second Skin) on for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight if it feels comfortable.
The first application of Saniderm Second Skin can remain on for up to 24 hours. A second application can be worn for 3-5 days. Do not wear Saniderm for more than 7 days consecutively. *per Saniderm's directions.
If you remove it early, follow these steps for cleaning:
Cleaning the Tattoo:
Use unscented antibacterial soap without fragrance, moisture beads, or scrubs. Create a lather with luke warm water and gently clean in a circular motion. Rinse well and pat dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
Dab, Don’t Wipe:
During the first few days, your tattoo may “weep” plasma and ink. Dab gently with a paper towel to remove excess, but don’t rub.
Handling Stuck Fabric:
If bedding or clothes stick to your tattoo overnight, avoid pulling them off. Moisten the area with lukewarm water and gently ease the fabric away.
-----Ongoing Care (First 2-3 Days)
Clean Clean Clean:
Wash your tattoo often to prevent infection and scabbing. Both infection and scabbing will pull ink out of your new tattoo.
Light Application of Ointment:
After drying, apply a thin layer of Aquaphor. Avoid heavy layers; a thin coat allows the tattoo to breathe. Repeat this routine at least once daily.
Clean, Dark Bedding and Clothes:
Plasma and ink can stain, so use dark, clean towels and wear dark clothing to avoid visible staining.
-----Daily Tattoo Aftercare Routine (Days 3-7)
Switch to Lotion:
Once your tattoo begins peeling, similar to a sunburn, use a fragrance-free lotion like Lubriderm.
Avoid Re-Bandaging:
Leave the tattoo uncovered to allow it to heal naturally, but be cautious of bacteria. Only touch your tattoo with clean hands.
No Picking or Scratching:
Peeling and itching are natural as the tattoo heals. Avoid picking or scratching, as it can pull out pigment and cause scarring.
-----Important Dos and Don’ts
Dos:
Showering is fine, but avoid soaking in baths, pools, or hot tubs for at least 2 weeks.
Avoid hot water or high heat sorces.
Wear loose clothing to prevent irritation and promote airflow.
Don’ts:
DON'T apply Alcohol, Neosporin, A+D, Vaseline, or petroleum jelly (they can trap dirt and germs and cause infection).
DON'T apply a heavy coat of lotion (remember the skin must breathe in order to heal).
DON'T expose your tattoo to direct sunlight, swim, use a sauna, or tub for 2 weeks.
DON'T use harsh clothing like tight waistbands or bra straps that can press on the tattoo.
-----Potential Complications to Watch For
Tattoos are generally safe but can carry some risks. Awareness is key to minimizing complications. Remember a Tattoo is an open wound.
-----Infection Risks:
-Redness and Swelling:
--While mild redness and swelling are normal for new tattoos, significant or spreading redness may indicate an infection.
-Heat and Tenderness:
--The tattooed area may feel warm or tender to the touch if infected.
-Pus or Discharge:
--A yellow, green, or foul-smelling discharge is a common sign of infection.
-Fever and Chills:
--Systemic symptoms, like fever, chills, or body aches, can indicate that the infection is spreading.
-Increasing Pain:
--An increase in pain or a throbbing sensation that doesn’t subside could signal an infection.
-Red Streaks from the Tattoo:
--If red streaks are moving away from the tattoo site, this could indicate that the infection is spreading to other parts of the body.
*Contact a healthcare provider if you feel that you have an infection.
-----Allergic Reactions:
Some people have sensitive skin that may react more aggressively to tattoo ink, especially to red ( iodine), yellow, or blue (sodium, aluminum, silicate, or azurite) pigments, which are known to cause allergic responses in some cases. This reaction can result in itchy, raised areas that last well beyond the initial healing period.
****We use Eternal Ink. Please visit their web site for SDS Information on all their Ink Colors. https://www.eternaltattooink.com/pages/sds-information
-----Scarring:
-Keloids: Some people are genetically predisposed to developing keloids—raised, dense scar tissue that extends beyond the original wound. Keloids can develop even after a minor skin injury, such as a tattoo. People with a family history of keloids, particularly those with darker skin tones, are more susceptible.
-Hypertrophic Scars: Unlike keloids, hypertrophic scars remain within the tattoo area but appear as raised, thicker skin. This can happen if the tattooed area experienced prolonged inflammation or if the tattoo penetrated too deeply into the skin layers.
-----Immune System Response:
Sometimes, the body reacts to tattoo ink as a foreign substance, causing a prolonged immune response. This can result in raised skin or granulomas (small nodules) that remain even after healing. This effect may occur if the body tries to "wall off" certain pigments it cannot process easily.
-----Tattoo Regret:
Consider your tattoo choice carefully, as removal and coverups are costly and painful.
-----Final Tips for Long-Term Care
Sunscreen:
Sun exposure can fade and damage tattoos, so apply SPF 50 or higher whenever in direct sunlight.
Moisturization:
Once fully healed, regular moisturization with a fragrance-free lotion keeps the skin hydrated and maintains the tattoo’s appearance.
Bottom Line
Taking care of your tattoo in the initial healing phase and maintaining it over time will ensure your tattoo stays beautiful and minimizes complications.
As Dr. Vij from the Cleveland Clinic emphasizes, "Ink is forever, but the outcome depends on the quality of your aftercare as much as on your artist’s skill."