Getting inked is cool, but for the first-timers, it can be terrifying. Sticking and poking needles into your skin is a pretty enormous deal, and you would avoid going to anything bad, right?

Certain tips and tricks should be kept in mind while choosing the perfect tattoo artist for you.

1. How to Choose a Tattoo Artist

1.1. Talk it Out With People

Most of us see our friends or people nearby who have tattoos. This is a matter of trust. So, you should consult with a friend and talk to them about how they learned about their previous tattoo artist.

Talking to people who have tattoos clears your doubts and whatever misconceptions you might have about them. You will learn from their experience and be careful not to repeat the mistakes they might have made in their case. This will cause you to feel more open to the idea and inspire you to explore.

1.2. Choose Your Style of Tattoo

Again, exploring is cool, but you should have some points to help you better in your search. Be rational about what type of style you want to get.

Many tattoo artists excel in specialized techniques. Several tattoo methods are in play here.

1.2.1 Traditional Style

If you want to play safe for your first tattoo, traditional tattoos can be your go-to choice. Conventional tattoos are exclusively known for their thick, black outlines and bright colour palettes.

They are classy; you can never be wrong about going with them. If you’re old school, this style will look great on the upper arm, forearm, and thigh.

1.2.2. Realistic Tattoos

If you want to create something alive, it can be a portrait or other lively depictions you closely relate to, so go for realistic tattoos. They can be in black, grey, or a mirage of colours. Realistic tattoos catch your eye with their abstractness, as shown by the intricate shading done by the artist.

They vary from realistic portraits to geometric patterns. However, it’s important to note that messing up a tattoo is extremely easy, so it’s essential to understand your artist clearly.

1.2.3. Watercolour Tattoos

Are you an artist at heart? Then you’d love watercolour tattoos. Think of your body as a canvas; your artist can reproduce paintings out of it dressed up in splashes of colours. Also, they’d be a great fit if you’re thinking of something funky that outlines your upbeat personality.

Your tattoo artist can create delicate and blended structures on your skin. This style is most popular among women for its chic and painterly look, but you must know that these tattoos fade out the quickest. If you like to live in the present and don’t mind a little adventure, watercolour tattoos will suit you. They beautify your design with blurs, fades, and shades.

1.2.4. Anime Style

Now, anime fans, don’t be sad. You won’t be left behind. You can incorporate many styles to show your love of anime and manga. As a fan, you already know that you want your ink to symbolize a specific concept.

Choose a design that speaks to you and move accordingly. For an epic anime tattoo, new school nails it! Packed with colours and depth, it perfectly matches the anime’s style. Imagine bold characters bursting off your skin–find an artist who aces this 3D “comic book” vibe! But if pure manga feels right, illustrative style delivers, staying closer to the original 2D look.

Try the Japanese style – sharper lines and bolder features for horror anime with a bite, bringing those chills to life.

1.2.5. Customized Style

The ultimate question is, do you want to create a unique design that speaks to your personality? It can be your niche. Don’t stick to the customs and rules. Be your muse and blend tradition with a modern flair.

They boast bolder colours, intricate shading, and dynamic compositions. Think of detailed flowers, animals, or mythical creatures leaping from the skin with symbolism and style. Dive deep into full sleeves or explore smaller pieces; this exciting style caters to all tattoo tastes. It’s tradition, reimagined, and ready to rock your world.

1.3. Do Proper Research

If you search for the top or best tattoo artists in your area, you will get many artists, but how can you choose the perfect fit?

All of them look extremely talented from afar. It would be best if you were specific. Use the internet and social media to your advantage.

1.3.1. Online Research

Go through their social media handles and inspect each post. Please read the comments and feedback from their customers. If you see even the tiniest flaw in the online reviews that makes you feel uneasy, move on to other artists.

After all, you’re here for the best tattoo experience and can’t compromise.

1.3.2. Look at Their Portfolio

Most tattoo artists have websites to showcase their portfolios. Their portfolio will give you a concrete idea of how well-versed they are with their techniques.

A number of artists are skilled in specific styles. You can check them out according to the style you want.

1.3.3. Book an Appointment

Apart from this, ask your friends who they were inked from. That will help you in finding out more about the tattoo artists. Don’t be shy when speaking your mind. Get an appointment with the tattoo artist and go to their studio.

If you don’t want to limit yourself to distance, widen your search and look around for tattoo shops.

1.3.4. Check Their License

Do not get inked without confirming whether the shop is legit. Look for an obvious display of the state–issued tattoo license, ensuring it is current and valid. This verifies that they adhere to safety regulations crucial for your health.

Tattoo businesses deal with delicate equipment like needles and razors, so a licensed shop prioritizes hygiene, sterilization, and proper disposal of hazardous materials, minimizing risks of infection and complications.

1.3.5. Feel The Vibes

Picture yourself getting tattooed: music playing, adrenaline pumping, needles buzzing. Now, imagine doing it in a tense, uncomfortable environment. It’s not ideal, right? After all, you’re not just getting inked but creating a memory. And if you’re not excited enough for it, it can tamper your entire experience.

Therefore, choose a place where the artists are welcoming. Remember, even small tattoos take an hour, and large pieces require multiple sessions. A studio where you feel at ease can make a difference.

1.3.6. Believe in Your Gut

Never finalize the first artist that you see. Remember, stepping into a studio makes you a potential client, so their enthusiasm might not be genuine. Take your time. Meet multiple artists, discuss your vision, and gauge the connection.

See if their style or overall aura resonates with you. Excitement is good, but it’ll be over if something messes up your tattoo experience. Do not force a connection. If you’re unsatisfied, go for other artists on your list. What matters here are your priorities, not the other party.

1.3.7. Enquire About Their Expertise

Choosing a tattoo artist is like finding the light switch in a darkened room. It’s a risky business, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a fun experience. You are asking for their commitment to the investment in permanent art that reflects your soul.

Ask the artist about their specializations. Uncover their preferred styles and see if their expertise aligns with your desired design. See if they have a curated list of sample designs. Have two or three designs in your mind and see what kind of style fits into those designs. Once you show them the design you want, they will suggest the placement and technique.

1.3.8. Take Their Feedback into Account

Please don’t shy away from asking their opinion on your tattoo design. Tattoo artists love it when their clients value their expertise. Do not hesitate to clarify any doubts, no matter how trivial they seem.

Remember, tattoo artists are expected to answer countless questions. So, don’t fret and embrace their insights.

1.4. Build Rapport

Remember, you will have multiple sessions with your tattoo artist, so your personalities must match. Plus, they should know your preferences. You should feel confident talking to them and telling them about your needs. If they don’t consider your liking, you should drop them immediately.

Even if they’re not a good fit for you, they will most likely refer you to an alternative artist who might match your current needs. Please don’t go for artists in their comfort zones who dislike experimenting. Professional artists never run away from an enjoyable challenge.

1.5. Experience Matters

Tattoo design requires years of practice. Choosing the most experienced hand is completely understandable, but the studio owner doesn’t need to be available to cater to your needs.

As long as you know which artist specializes in your desired style and has the most relevant experience, it’s okay for them to fill in instead of their bosses. You can also mention your preference for a more suitable artist and see if they match your tastes.

1.6. Payment Plans

Tattoos can be expensive, but only if you make them. You can keep various tactics in hand and get a good deal. Search for artists that provide cost-friendly services. It doesn’t mean you have to compromise on your tattoo experience. Countless artists offer relatively cheap and efficient deals on tattoos.

If you are budget-conscious, ask them if they want to break down higher tattoo costs into manageable instalments. They will charge you based on the size and placement of the tattoo. Here’s a secret: artists get bored when clients come with cliched and unoriginal designs, but they love challenges. If you present them with a fresh and unique style, they will probably lower the cost just for the sake of that thrill.

1.7. Flexible Scheduling

Yes, tattoo artists also have peak hours. The thought of someone poking your skin around is enough to make you anxious. On top of it, imagine being boiling inside a soup of people. Not a desired place to be, right? Don’t worry, though. Some artists offer appointments outside regular hours for those with anxiety or busy clients.

Just communicate your thoughts before you get into this. You don’t want to mess it up just because you were hesitant.

1.8. Other Amenities

Your tattoo experience is not complete without certain amenities. Getting a tattoo requires lots of aftercare, so look for artists who provide aftercare facilities, such as aftercare brochures, antiseptic solutions, unscented lotions, moisturizing spray, antibacterial soap, and other essential items. Tattoos often start to fade away, but it’s no problem since artists also offer touch–ups for minor adjustments. Just make sure if you’re getting charged or if it’s free.

For instance, you want to get a tattoo removed. Laser technology can remove permanent tattoos. Make sure to ask the artist if they offer services for the same. Check their website and social media handle, or call and ask them directly. They often have advanced equipment, but it’s your job to ask them if they have experienced technicians who specialize in removal.

Ultimately, you decide to get a tattoo wherever and whenever you want. Getting tattooed is a memory you will always have tucked away in your heart. It’s your duty and right to make the best of it. Remember to research, ask questions, and feel confident before proceeding.

Last Updated on March 21, 2024 by Annanya Chakraborty