Having a tattoo is about more than getting tattooed—it’s a choice you’ll have for the rest of your life. How do you know then that you’re picking the right tattoo artist who has your vision, follows proper hygiene, and has the quality you want? This in-depth guide will take you step by step through every part of the choice, from reviewing portfolios to preparing for consultations.
Selecting the right artist is critical not only from an aesthetic perspective but also in terms of safety. A tattoo done incorrectly can lead to infections, scarring, and dissatisfaction that lasts a lifetime. That’s why there is this guide: to enable you to make a thoughtful, well-reasoned choice leading to a satisfying experience.
What Are the First Things You Should Consider?
What Do You Want in a Tattoo?
Prior to looking for an artist, know what you want in your tattoo design:
- Design style: Realism, minimalism, traditional, neo-traditional, blackwork, geometric, watercolor, and so on.
- Placement: Various places have varying pain levels and healing times. For instance, ribs and feet are more painful than arms or thighs.
- Size and complexity: Large tattoos usually require several sessions. Detailed designs demand expert hands.
- Color or black-and-grey: This decision influences the choice of artists since most specialize in either color or monochrome tattoos.
Why Is Clarity Important?
Being specific assists in limiting your choices. Tattoo artists specialize in a certain type of design, and if you have a specific preference in mind, it will lead you in the correct direction. Clarity saves time, minimizes misunderstandings, and permits the artist to contribute input that fine-tunes your idea.
How Do You Assess a Tattoo Artist’s Portfolio?
What Do You Need to Look for in Their Work?
- Line work: Tidy, uniform lines are an excellent way to judge control.
- Shading and color: Look for smooth gradients and rich, even tones.
- Healed tattoos: These show how the work ages over time.
- Variety: A mix of styles shows adaptability, but consistency in your desired style is key.
You should review multiple examples of their past work in your desired style. A well-maintained portfolio should highlight recent projects with close-up shots of details like color blending, texture, and line work.
Should You Only Use Social Media?
No. Instagram and Facebook are useful resources, but they tend to display new tattoos in optimal lighting. Where possible, inspect:
- Their personal website or online portfolio
- Client feedback
- Studio exhibition of healed tattoos
Request to view healed pieces during consultations. A tattoo that appears flawless when new might not age well unless executed correctly.
Why Is a Studio Visit Important Before Booking?
What Should You Notice When You Walk In?
- Cleanliness: Floors, equipment, and chairs should be squeaky clean.
- Organization: Sealed sterile tools should be cleanly divided from soiled materials.
- Certification: Seek licenses, bloodborne pathogen training, or health inspection reports.
How Can You Spot Red Flags?
Steer away from studios that:
- Smell of chemicals or dirty materials
- Don’t have gloves or sterile equipment
- Appear rushed, messy, or evasive
- Have basic essentials such as soap and clean facilities
Remember: if you wouldn’t feel comfortable having a medical procedure done in the environment, it’s not safe for tattooing either.
How Do You Judge the Tattoo Artist Themselves?
What Questions Should You Ask?
How many years have you been tattooing?
What styles are you most experienced with?
Can I see healed versions of your work?
What does your aftercare advice include?
Have you handled designs like mine before?
What safety protocols do you follow?
How Should They Respond?
Find someone who:
- Responds freely and assuredly
- Welcomes your inquiry without annoyance
- Offers good aftercare instructions
- Respects your input in terms of design and provides good advice
- Expresses interest in your concept and not as an assignment
Their attitude says a great deal. You need to have someone you can approach, someone who knows their stuff, and someone respectful.
What Does a Consultation Involve?
- Discuss your design, size, and position
- Present references or sketches
- Request professional opinion
- Review pricing, session length, and healing expectations
- Inquire how to prepare your skin before your appointment
How Does This Assist You in Making a Decision?
It allows you to judge:
- Their communication style
- Willingness to work together
- Respect for your feedback
- Comfort level between you and the artist
A good consultation is a two-way conversation. You should feel understood and heard.
Should Price Be a Determining Factor?
Is Cheaper Always Better?
Not necessarily. Tattoos that are cheap upfront might be more expensive in the future if you need cover-ups or fixes. It’s your body — don’t shop for permanent art on sale.
How Can You Understand the Pricing?
The cost of a tattoo depends on:
- Artist experience
- Size and detail of the tattoo
- Studio location
- Time investment required
Request a breakdown and check whether it fits within your budget. Be wary of evasive responses or aggressive upselling.
What Aftercare Advice Should an Artist Provide?
Do They Care After the Tattoo Session?
A professional artist will describe:
- First care: How to keep the tattoo clean and when to rewrap
- Products to use: Fragrance-free lotions, antibacterial soaps
- Healing phases: What to anticipate at each stage (scabbing, itching, peeling)
- What not to do: Direct sunlight, soaking in water, tight clothing
Why Does This Matter?
Correct aftercare avoids:
- Infections
- Premature fading
- Scarring
- Color loss
Some artists also provide printed aftercare instructions. Keep them on hand and follow them exactly.
How Do You Know If You’re Comfortable With Your Choice?
What Feelings Should You Trust?
Do you feel respected during discussions?
Does the artist listen to your vision and concerns?
Are you confident in their ability and hygiene standards?
Do you sense passion for the craft?
If something feels off, trust your gut. It’s better to wait for the right artist than to settle.
What Other Practical Tips Can Help You Choose?
What Are Some Do’s and Don’ts?
Do:
- Check for healed results.
- Read multiple reviews.
- Compare 2-3 artists.
- Ask lots of questions.
- Be open to feedback.
Don’t:
- Choose an artist because they’re cheaper.
- Skip the consultation.
- Get tattooed in dirty or non-pro stuff places
