Do you know that over 36% of Americans have at least one tattoo? If you’re thinking about getting inked, you’re far from alone. But with such a large number of people getting ink these days, the question isn’t whether or not you should get one. The real question is: how do you find the best artist to make your vision a reality? There are over 20,000 tattoo parlors in the United States. Every day, this number increases by one.
When it comes to find a tattoo artist, the options can feel endless. Some websites offer listings of professional artists in your area to make it easy to find someone nearby. You can simply set the location and put the shop type to get instant results within your dimensions.
They will also include reviews from people who have gotten ink from that artist. These platforms offer you to search for a particular website to check their work. In addition, the type of tattoo and piercing they offer will also be listed on their website.
So, where do you even begin? This article will help you to provide five essential tips to find the best tattoo artist for your next tattoo:
- Do Your Research
When finding a tattoo artist, doing your research is vital. Before settling on a particular professional, take the time to look through their portfolio and read reviews from past clients. It will give you a clear idea of their style and skill level.
It’s also essential to make sure they are appropriately licensed and insured. This will protect you in case of complications during or after the tattooing process.
- Expertise and Skills
Many professionals specialize in certain styles or techniques. When looking for an ink expert, finding one with the expertise and skills to create the design you want is essential.
For instance, if you want to get a traditional Japanese tattoo, you’ll want to find an artist who is well-versed in that particular style.
The same goes for any other type of design you might be interested in. Do your research and find the one who specializes in the style you want.
- Work Portfolio and Images
When you’re looking at their work portfolio, pay attention to the overall quality of their work. Is the tattoo well-designed and proportional? Are the lines clean and sharp and the colors vibrant?
In addition to looking at their portfolio, you can also ask to see photos of their previous clients’ artworks. This will give you a good idea of how their work holds up over time.
- Cleanliness and Hygiene
One of the critical things to look for is cleanliness and hygiene. Make sure they use sterile needles and disposable gloves. The work area should be clean and free of debris. They should also wash their hands thoroughly before startig the tattooing process.
It’s also a good idea to ask about the artist’s aftercare instructions. They should give you clear and concise instructions on how to take care of your tattoo after you leave the studio.
- Prices
When you’re looking at prices, it’s important to remember that you get what you pay for. A cheap artwork might save you money in the short term, but it could cost you more in the long run. If they are charging significantly less than their competitors, it’s a good idea to find out why.
It’s also vital to remember that a tattoo is a long-term investment. You should be prepared to pay a fair price for a high-quality ink that you’ll be happy with for the rest of your life.
These tips will help you find the best tattoo artist for your next ink. With your own research, you can find one who will create a beautiful and unique design that you’ll cherish for years.