How to Find a Tattoo Artist

So you've decided to get a tattoo. Here's your chance to display some absolutely amazing art right on your body. But how do you choose a tattoo artist? After all, you're going to have to wear the artist's work on your skin forever, so you want to make sure you select someone who's not only talented, but that you're comfortably with. After all, there are no "do-overs" with body art. Here are some ways to find a good tattoo artist.

Instructions

1. Talk to friends and family members who have tattoos. Ask them who did their work and what they think of the end result. Try to find out specifically what they liked about the experience, and what--if anything--they didn't. It's also a good idea to ask strangers where they got their ink done. Most people who have tattoos are happy to talk about them, so there's nothing wrong with saying, "I love your tattoo! Where did you get it done?"

2. Use the information from Step 1 to compile a basic list of tattoo artists and studios. Call the local health department and see if anyone on your list has been cited for health code violations, such as unsterilized conditions, re-use of needles or other problems. If the studio or artist has any such citations, scratch them off your list.

3. Visit each of the artists you're interested in in their studios. Ask to see their portfolios. A good tattoo artist will have no problem at all with showing you photos of their completed work. A good portfolio will include custom designs, flash work and even cover-ups. A cover-up is when someone has a bad tattoo and they ask the artist to create a new design to place over the old one. It's a great way for new tattoo artists to learn their skill and hone their craft, so most artists will have several cover-ups in their portfolio.

4. Talk to the artist and let them know what you’re considering, and see how accommodating they will be. Do you want a custom design, created just for you and no one else? Do you want a piece of pre-designed flash? Have you already created an image yourself and just want the artist to ink it onto your skin? Find out what sort of things the artist is willing to do, and if they have anything they won't do. Some artists refuse to do work on certain body parts, so be sure to tell him exactly where you want the tattoo placed. This is also a good time to talk about pricing, but don't let the cost factor determine where you get your work done. Unlike buying a toaster or a pair of socks, cheaper is not better when it comes to body art.

5. Make sure you're comfortable with the artist and their studio. If there's anything about the artist or his shop that makes you uneasy, thank him for his time and go on to the next one on your list. Take the time to shop around, because your end result is something you'll be looking at for the rest of your life.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure any tattoo studio you visit has a business license and health department certification. These should be displayed in a prominent location.

• Ask if you can watch the artist work on another client. Typically, if the client doesn't mind, the artist won't either.

• Be cautious of tattoo artists who don't think it's necessary to discuss aftercare. A good tattoo artist will sit with you and explain all the things you'll need to do to take care of your tattoo after it's been completed.