Getting a tattoo is easy. But getting a tattoo that works for you in terms of design and safety requires some consideration on your part. A bit of research can help you to find the perfect tattoo shop for your requirements.
Here are things to look for while choosing a tattoo shop.
The Reputation of the Shop
It is important to choose only reputed shops for your tattoos. You need to ensure that you only visit licensed tattoo shops with proper safety protocols in place.
Utilize online searches to find reputed shops in your area. Use keywords with your location in the mix such as tattoos shops in Raleigh or something similar. Such searches will help you find leading tattoo shops in your area. You can check the websites of the shops to know more about their business. Feel free to inquire if they are a licensed tattoo shop or not. Reputed tattoo shops will not operate without a license. They will also use tools and inks of superior quality only.
The Artists at the Shop
You need to also carefully select your tattoo artist. You can check the website of tattoo shops and go through their artists’ profiles before scheduling your session without due thought with just anyone.
Read about each artist’s experience, skills, and specialization. Most tattoo artists offer their services for certain types of tattoos only. So, if you are looking for tribal ink patterns, you will need to find an artist who not only specializes in it but is also good in creating such designs.
Be sure to check the artists’ portfolios on the websites or their social pages. If you don’t find an artist’s sample work anywhere then you can meet with them and request to see their portfolio.
See to it that you feel a connection with the artist’s work before you book a session with him or her. Schedule a consultation with the artists whose work you like and see if they understand your vision for the tattoo. Do they help you refine the vision if it is unclear? Do they offer helpful suggestions when you discuss your tattoo idea with them?
Only choose an artist once you are sure of your decision. If you find an artist who doesn’t seem too inclined to discuss the designs or your ideas with you then it is best to choose another who respects your time and the thought behind your tattoo.
The Hygiene Factor
A tattoo shop that isn’t clean is not the right one for those who wish to get inked properly. Visit the shop before booking an appointment with an artist working there. Notice things at the shop such as cleanliness, organization, and arrangements.
Do you feel the shop is properly organized? Is everything is in its proper place? Are the chairs and tables in good condition? Do you feel a sense of ease and comfort when at the shop?
If the tools are lying here and there then it is not a good sign in a tattoo shop. If you see needles and other waste thrown carelessly around a bin or on the tables then it is best to run as far away from those shops as possible.
The ideal tattoo shop will have everything in order. The tools will be neatly placed at their designated places. The bio-hazard waste such as needles and used tissues will be disposed of as per regulations.
The Cost Factor
Inquire about the cost of getting tattoos in a shop before you finalize your booking with an artist. Most artists working in tattoo shops charge an hourly rate. So, you can choose an artist as per your budget. Consider the tips in the cost factor also if you planning to give one to your artist.
You can discuss the tattoo style, its timeframe for completion, the artist’s rates; and then make your decision. You can always work out the design with the artist in a way that it will be affordable for you. Most artists will be happy to offer helpful suggestions to help you choose their services.