It can be carelessness to get inked without first finding a safe and trusted tattoo shop. When it comes to getting a tattoo, you can’t just go to any tattoo shop without first doing your diligent research.
Here are some tips to help you find a safe and trusted tattoo shop.
Collect the names of the best tattoo artists in your area
Begin your search by gathering names of tattoo artists in your town or city. Ask the people you know for referrals. You can also conduct an online search to find the names of top tattoo artists in your area.
For instance, if you need to find the best tattoo shops in Miami then start by making a list of the top artists in the city. Start by at least five good names on your list if not more. It is best to conduct your research in small batches so as to not become overwhelmed with the whole thing. To find the best tattoo shops in a city like Miami is certainly not easy. So, it is best to begin the search with a limited number of names on your list.
Visit their websites or social pages
Now that you have the names of the best tattoo artists in the city, it is time to conduct your research. Be as thorough as possible. Check the websites of the artists on the list. Browse through their social pages. Look for client testimonials on the websites and reviews on social pages. You can gather good information through comments and other chat activities on an artist’s or a business’s social networking platforms.
At the end of your research, you will be left with fewer names on your list than you began with initially. Simply strike out the names of the artists if you don’t feel inclined towards them based on your assessment of the reviews available online. Make sure that when you set aside a name, you base it on your good judgment rather than baseless allegations. The good reviews will outweigh the not-so-good ones if the artist is really good. Even when a top artist has a bad review or two, it doesn’t mean they are not good. It can be a client’s viewpoint about the work, which can be subjective. Unless there is a real red flag, use your own discretion.
If you like the work of an artist, it is best to give them a chance despite a few bad reviews of their work. Unless the reviews are glaringly upset or something to do with safety concerns then you can definitely proceed to the next step.
Send your inquiry
You can send your inquiry to the tattoo artists still on your list using their emails or online forms available on their websites. Depending on your specific requirements and the availability of the artists, you will be then able to take your search a bit further. If you find an artist’s schedule and skills matching your requirements, it is best to meet them in person to discuss your requirements.
Schedule an in-person visit
When you decide to get a tattoo, it is very important to check out the artist’s workplace or shop before scheduling a session with them. Top artists ensure that their shop is completely safe for their clients in terms of equipments, pigments, seating, and the overall vibe.
Top artists ensure that when their clients enter their shop, they feel comfortable with everything in their immediate environment. Assess the behavior of the support staff and also the artists. Do you feel comfortable in their presence? Is the support staff helpful and courteous?
Ask your questions.
The right time to ask any questions about the artist’s work or process is during the in-person visit or your initial consultation. Inquire about the quality of the ink used and discuss allergy information if it is a concern with you.
Don’t hesitate to inquire about the tools used for tattoos if you have any questions in mind. Don’t be shy about inquiring a little more about the artist’s work.
You need to make sure that the end result will be as promised and expected.