How do you pick a tattoo artist
Nov 30, 2022
Come up with a concept for a tattoo you'd like to get and identify the main style you're going for (Americana, British antiquities, etc.).
Wait six months. This is possibly the best advice on tattoos I've ever gotten. Certain ideas stand the test of time; Many others do not.
Do research on the internet for artists that are well known for the style of tattoo you'd like to get. For instance, if you want an Americana style tattoo, you should go find someone that that is all they do. This is especially important for portrait tattoos. Portraits are arguably the hardest type of tattoo to really nail; you will pay through the nose for a good portrait artist, but it's worth it.
Do not limit your pool of artists by location. This thing is for life so spend the coin to fly/drive to the best artist you can afford.
A few red flags to watch out for:
If your artist largely makes their money from walk-ins he/she is probably not a very good artist nor has enough experience to really nail any specific style. This is because their days are filled with every random ass drunk tattoo idea.
If your artist charges less than $100/hr., they're likely not a very senior/sought after artist.
If the wait time is less than 90 days, they're likely not in high demand.
You'll notice that the key to getting a great tattoo is to take your time. You're making a lifelong commitment so don't rush it and whatever you do don't skimp on a cheap artist.
