How to Choose A Tattoo Artist for Your Design

Have you decided to get your first tattoo? What’s next? Finding a good tattoo artist in your area. When it comes to choosing an artist, it’s important to select someone who is both professional and experienced. After all, a tattoo is permanent artwork that will remain on your body for life. Unlike temporary designs, these symbols stay with you forever.

That’s why it’s essential to choose the right design and the best artist to ensure a perfect tattoo, so you can feel satisfied with your new ink. This article will guide you through the process of selecting a artist. By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of the key factors to consider when making your choice.

How To Choose A Tattoo Artist

Don’t Be Harry

The first step in getting a new tattoo is to carefully consider its location, design, size, and color pattern. However, this doesn’t mean rushing into a decision. If you want a perfect piece of ink, you need enough time to think about these details before choosing the artist. Once you’ve selected your desired tattoo design, start searching for an artist. However, if you’re unsure about your design choice, take some time to explore different options.

Take Recommendations from Friends and Family Members

We often enjoy discussing various aspects of life with our friends and family, and the same principle applies when selecting a tattoo artist. If you have a friend or family member got ink design, they can be a valuable resource in finding the right artist.

They can share their experiences, whether positive or negative, about getting a tattoo. Additionally, when you’re in public and see someone with impressive tattoos, don’t hesitate to ask which artist they used—many people enjoy talking about their body art.

Go To Several Tattoo Shops

Many people, myself included, compare prices at various shops before making a purchase. You can do the same when choosing a ink artist. Visit different tattoo shops or studios in your area, inquire about the artist’s previous work and designs, and discuss the pricing for your tattoo. Additionally, ask questions to assess whether the artist is approachable and friendly. This will help you find the perfect beginner or experienced tattoo artist for your needs.

Use Social Media Sites

Social media platforms are more than just places to pass the time; they’re also great sources for finding artists. Most professional tattoo artists have social media accounts, such as on Facebook and Instagram. Instagram, in particular, is an excellent platform to find a tattoo artist.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to find a tattoo artist on Instagram:

1. Open the Instagram app and ensure you have an account.
2. Search for relevant hashtags, such as #tattooartist, #tattoo, #inked, or use a hashtag finder tool.
3. When you find a post that catches your attention, open the profile to learn more about the artist. Be sure to check reviews about the ink artist by browsing different posts on their profile and looking through comments to see if clients have left feedback about their experience.
4. Check for additional information: Most artists include details about their location, studio name, and contact information on their Instagram profiles. You can use this information to contact the artist or inquire about the booking process.

Cleanliness And Hygiene

Tattooing is not as simple as applying a temporary tattoo that can be easily put on and removed. Instead, it involves breaking the skin to inject tattoo ink into its deeper layers. As a result, this creates an open wound, and if the studio fails to follow cleanliness and hygiene protocols, the tattooed skin can become susceptible to infections.

Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the artist uses a clean tattoo machine, wears gloves, and utilizes single-use tattoo needles. Additionally, confirming that the studio properly sanitizes other tattooing equipment is important in preventing infections.

It is also essential to mention that after getting a ink design, one should follow the proper aftercare guidelines to protect it from infections.

Don’t Forget About Tattoo Pricing

Price is an essential factor to consider when selecting an artist. Typically, artists charge the price of a tattoo depending on their experience and studio location. Additionally, the cost is influenced by the ink design’s size and level of detail. For example, the price of a forearm tattoo differs from that of a half-sleeve tattoo. 

Therefore, when choosing a tattoo artist, it is important to inquire about the pricing for your desired design from different artists and visit various studios to compare prices. This will help you find an artist who fits your budget.

FAQs

How do I know if a tattoo artist is good?

There are several ways to confirm an artist’s professionalism. For example, you can consider factors such as:

• Artist’s portfolio
• Experience and qualifications
• Cleanliness and professionalism
• Attitude towards aftercare
• Artist reputation

What are the Signs of a Bad Tattoo Artist?

Various things can indicate a bad tattoo artist, such as:

• Poor Portfolio
• Unsanitary Conditions
• Lack of Communication
• Limited Design Abilities
• Rushed or Careless Approach
• Negative Reviews or Reputation