How to Hire a Tattoo Artist

Body adornments are all the rage and tattoos top the list. It’s exciting picking out your first tattoo but make sure you go to someone knowledgeable and professional.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Make sure the tattoo artist you choose is a professional and has had the proper training. Ask if you can see a certificate.

2. Examine the artist's sterilization certification. You can even ask to see the autoclave, which is the standard pressure cooker used to sterilize instruments. It should be set to at least 246 degrees.

3. Review pictures of the tattoo artist’s work. Note whether it looks clean and attractive or smudged and distracting. Determine if he does the kind of art work you want.

4. Discover if the cost includes any follow-ups that may be necessary.

5. Check for hygiene. Find out if the artist disposes of all unused inks and needles. All products used for each customer should either be disposed in an autoclave bag or a sharps container.

6. Insist that the tattoo artist remains gloved when working on you.

Tips & Warnings

• If you see a tattoo you admire, ask the subject for the contact information for the artist.