Tattoo Parlors

Tattoo Parlors are typically funky stores in busy areas of a beach town, busy city, or any cool neighborhood.  It is not a difficult task to locate a tattoo parlor, as they are everywhere.  What is difficult is finding a tattoo parlor that 1) you feel comfortable with 2) follows all necessary safety and sterilization procedures and 3) employs experienced, professional tattoo artists that work there. 

It is always best if you can get a recommendation for a tattoo parlor or tattoo artist from a friend.  This way, you know that they have done reputable work in the past, and someone you know was satisfied with their work.  However, it does not usually work out this way.  So most likely, you will have to do your own research.

Start by getting together a list of local tattoo parlors nearest you.  Visit them before the day you want to get the actual tattoo done.  If you wait until the day you want to get it done, you may be nervous, in a hurry, or not thinking clearly.  So you have just entered a local tattoo parlor.  Look around.  Is the facility clean?  Are they attentive to their customers?  Meet some of the employees to get a feel for the place.   

The most important step in selecting a tattoo parlor is asking questions.  Ask about the sterilization processes they go through.  Ask about the experience levels of the tattoo artists, as well as the certification they are required to have.  Ask if you can meet the artists.  In a perfect world you would be able to chat with some of the artists themselves to determine if you feel comfortable with them.  However, this may not be possible.  If not, try striking up conversation with some of the customers there.  They may be able to offer you some insight or tell you about their experiences.  Maybe they will even recommend a tattoo artist!  You may also be able to ask if any of the artists have any portfolios you can look through.  This will give you a chance to see their past work and skills. 

You may have to visit several tattoo parlors before you find the one that suits you best.  Once you have selected a tattoo parlor, the only thing you have to do is make an appointment or show up for your chosen artist to do their job in giving you your much-anticipated tattoo.