How to Find the Perfect Tattoo Artist for Your Next Tattoo

Finding the perfect tattoo artist for your next tattoo can be overwhelming. There are thousands of tattoo artists worldwide, with over 21,000 tattoo studios in the United States alone. Every artist has a different style specialty, pricing structure, and business practice that can affect your overall experience and tattoo quality.

Follow these tips to find a tattoo artist that’s perfect for you.

Understanding Your Tattoo Needs

Before researching tattoo artists, you will need to have a clear vision of how you want your tattoo to look. Factors such as tattoo style, placement, size, and overall design will impact which tattoo artist is right for you.

Tattoo Style

Tattoo style will greatly influence how you should navigate the search for a tattoo artist. Most tattoo artists only book tattoos in their style specialty or specialties and will therefore refuse any ideas that do not fit into their artistic box. You will want to choose a tattoo artist that fully aligns with your creative vision and has the ability to execute the tattoo perfectly.

Subject Matter, Placements, and More

While your tattoo’s subject, body placement, and color palette will not directly affect finding a tattoo artist, it is helpful information to know and feel confident in. Look up inspiration on Instagram, draw a rough sketch of the tattoo’s shape on paper, or even draw on yourself – anything that helps solidify exactly what you want.

Researching Tattoo Artists

After solidifying your tattoo design, it is time to find the right tattoo artist to make it happen. Researching artists and studios can be time-consuming, but it is incredibly important to ensure your tattoo artist has the professionalism, artistry, and experience needed to properly complete your tattoo.

Ways to Find a Tattoo Artist

• Social Media: Platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Yelp are great ways to find local tattoo artists. You can view photos of an artist’s work, access their contact information, and read client reviews in one streamlined place.
• Personal Recommendations: The old-fashioned way of finding a tattoo artist – and definitely a good one. Seek guidance from a tattooed person in your life, or even a stranger with great work. Ask about their overall experience, how their tattoo healed, and anything else that helps you make an informed decision.
• Tattoo Conventions: Conventions are constantly happening around the world, with hundreds of artists gathering to showcase their talents. You can meet artists, see their work firsthand, and even get tattooed while you are there.

Evaluating an Artist’s Portfolio

• Tattoo Quality: A great tattoo has superb technical application and a flawless design. When browsing an artist’s portfolio, analyze their line work, shading, and overall design abilities to determine if their work meets your standards.
• Style Consistency: Most tattoo artists specialize in one specific style or a select few. Identify their specialties early so you do not waste time on an artist who cannot fulfill your request.
• Healed Tattoos: A healed tattoo says a lot about an artist’s true technique and talent. Because tattoos are meant to be permanent, they should maintain a near-perfect appearance over time. If an artist’s portfolio lacks healed work, you may want to reconsider booking.

Client Reviews

A great tattoo involves more than just an artist’s technical skills. You will want someone with strong customer service and communication skills, along with proper sanitary practices and tattoo certifications. This information can often be found in client reviews online.

• Artist and Studio Hygiene: Because tattoos involve breaking the skin, proper sanitary protocols must be followed to ensure your safety. Poor hygiene practices can lead to cross-contamination or serious infections. Always be aware of the artist and studio’s commitment to cleanliness, especially during your appointment.
• Communication and Collaboration: Your tattoo will be on your body for life. Choose an artist you feel comfortable communicating with, especially if design adjustments need to be made.
• Customer Service: Getting tattooed is a personal and physical process. An artist with strong customer service skills – and a good bedside manner – can make the entire experience far more comfortable.

Comparing Tattoo Prices and Budgeting

There is no universal pricing for tattoos. Every piece is uniquely priced by the artist, but there is a relatively consistent formula that helps determine cost.

What Affects Tattoo Cost

Tattoos are priced on a case-by-case basis, with artists charging either hourly or a flat rate per project. After submitting your idea, a tattoo artist will provide a cost estimate. Several factors directly influence the total price:

• Tattoo Size and Complexity: The longer a tattoo takes, the more expensive it will be. Larger or more intricate designs may require multiple hours or more than one session.
• Artist’s Overall Experience: Many artists factor their experience into pricing. Artists with 10 or more years in the industry, or those with special recognition, will typically charge more than someone newly out of an apprenticeship.
• Geographic Location: Tattooing is a professional service influenced by cost of living. Studios in premium areas often have higher overhead, which can increase tattoo rates.

Tattoo Quality First, Total Cost Second

Tattoos are an investment. Choosing a cheaper option to get tattooed faster might leave you with a less-than-perfect result. Consider saving for your next tattoo rather than selecting an artist based solely on price. Your skin will thank you.

Made the Wrong Choice? Tattoo Removal Is an Option

Picked the wrong artist for a tattoo? Removery can help. With advanced laser technology, tattoos are no longer permanent and can be fully removed in 8-12 treatments on average. Get in touch today and undo that unwanted tattoo at one of our 165+ locations.