Choosing A Tattoo Artist

Selecting a tattoo artist should not be a spontaneous decision.  Your tattoo is something that will be with you forever; therefore choosing a tattoo artist that will do a great job in a safe manner, is highly essential.  Too many people get overly excited when they make the final decision of getting a tattoo, that they rush to the nearest tat shop to get inked.  However, choosing the right tattoo artist for you involves several steps. 

The very best way to choose a tattoo artist is by word of mouth.  If a friend has recently gotten a tattoo that they were completely satisfied with, maybe they can recommend the tattoo artist that did such a good job.  Maybe you will come across some people in the streets with some great body art-it wouldn’t hurt to ask them where they got it.  On a contrasting note, if they were dissatisfied with a tattoo recently, make sure to stay away from that same mistake! 

Visiting several tattoo parlors is highly recommended before you choose your tattoo artist, and it is important to do this on a day before you are actually planning to get your tattoo to avoid nerves and time crunches getting in the way of this decision.  Once you have made a list of the local tattoo parlors near you, visit them one by one.  First, get a feel for the employees and look around the walls at the flash art.  Friendly, helpful workers and unique flash are two things to look for when searching for a quality studio. 

Don’t forget to ask questions.  Ask about the sterilization processes that they go through.  Inquire about the experience levels of the tattoo artists.  Ask to see portfolios of past work they have done.  This will give you an idea of their level of talent and skill.  Ideally, you will be able to meet some of the artists to be certain that you feel comfortable with them. 

You may have to visit multiple tattoo parlors and meet various tattoo artists before you meet one that you feel confident in.  But once you get your new tattoo and it is executed to perfection, you will thank yourself for taking the time to choose a tattoo artist that you were happy with.