Tattoo Studios & Artists – What to Look for

Looking For Tattoo Studios Near You?

One of the most exciting times in any young persons’ life is the sense of euphoria when it comes to visiting your first tattoo studios. You’ve picked your design, you’ve chosen your preferred artist, and you’ve saved up for two years just to get one. It isn’t always that easy, though. As “First Tattoo Jitters” can set in. Yes, this can be real even though it sounds as if I completely made it up. As somebody who has had two done so far, and looks like somebody who would be the least likely to actually man-up and get a tattoo, I am sure that this writing will reassure you that getting a tattoo done can be fun. But, you have to make sure you have picked the right place AND person. Remember, these people will be scarring you for life with their art, and the correct parlour could determine on whether or not you return for another.

When it comes to the parlour, itself; it’s 50% about the establishment itself and 50% about the people. When I walk into a tattoo parlour, I would want to see the shop’s accolades and achievements displayed proudly on the walls, hidden beneath the unique décor that the shop is going for, but standing out just enough to assure you.

Award Winning Tattoo Studios

Certificates galore is what you are looking for. It shows confidence in their work and their people. And knowing that somebody has taken the time to write about your potentially chosen shop and has awarded it with so many great awards is a sure sign that the parlour you are currently standing in is a solid and professional business.

Always look out for the vibe of the studio. What kind of art is being put on display? Do they showcase any of their artists’ portfolios? Or would they rather have some bizarre pictures or flash art on the walls? Either is good. Having art on the walls or playing music can give off a relaxed environment, as well as a professional one if you can notice portfolios.

Studio Cleanliness

Cleanliness of the studio is vital. Everybody I have spoken to for research on this article cannot stress this enough. It should be as clean as a doctors medical surgery, and every needle, every tool should be treated as such. Ink caps and tubes should be single use disposable after each time. But, I’m sure that all of you know that. Even first timers.

Tattoo Studio Staff

The staff plays an important part of the studio, of course. They’re the first people you see when you walk in, and they’re the last people as you leave. Not to forget the amount of time you will spend with your tattooist too. Be it a few hours of a session, or a full day, or even a few sittings if it’s a massive piece of art. Tattoo studios are some of the very few places where you will see staff throughout. And, more often than not, they are the friendliest and down to Earth people on God’s Green Earth. I consider myself very lucky that the staff in my preferred Studio are top quality people. They all get along (as they should) and they all certainly know their stuff. The staff who work there must be just as good as the artists and accolades that they represent.

Choose Your Tattoo Artist Wisely

Speaking of staff… let’s discuss the artist. Every tattoo artist will have a different vibe and different skills. Some will be best at calligraphy, others will be masters at two-dimensional artwork (which ALWAYS looks good), and then you have artists who will be exceptional at three-dimensional art, as if they were painting the Sistine Chapel with grandiose precision. Whatever style you are looking for, you are guaranteed to find it in whichever Studio you desire. You can take a look at their work within a book or online, and within your visit you would have most likely decided who you want to tattoo you, and what you would like them to do.

It doesn’t end there, though. Remember, you’re going to spend a ton of time with your tattoo artist, so a good rapport is a key factor. You should make sure that your artist is a 100% professional (even though this is a given as they all are) and that you are both on the same page when it comes to what you want for your tattoo. You probably know what you want, but it is always good to listen to what your artist might think. Most (not all) have their own signature styles and may want to incorporate that into their work that will pierce your body. You want to make sure that you are both on the exact same page so to avoid disappointment. Even if the artist makes an artistic suggestion, you may think the same way, and if not, it could look even better. But again, it’s your body, so you should both make sure you’re thinking the same way about the tattoo.

You should be a good fit when it comes to personality and interests. My tattoo artist likes the same stuff that I do, so I’m always confident when I approach him about a tattoo. Your tattoo experience may not be very long, and you may want only one, but the experience must be memorable. That’s, to me, part of the fun of getting a tattoo. Your artist should have a level of enthusiasm that matches yours, they must love their work. It should be fun to chat with them and exchange ideas until you both have finally settled on a design. It’s so much worth it in the end.

Finding The Best Tattoo Shop Near You

So, as you can imagine, there is a lot to think about when it comes to the Studio and the artist. But, if your new to tattooing, don’t let all this frighten you. It can be nerve wracking scouting good tattoo studios as well as an artist that injects confidence in you, but once you’ve found it, you’re ready to go.

Article by Tyree Webster for Timebomb Tattoo