Tattoos - Questions to ask
your tattoo artist
If you are seriously thinking about getting a tattoo, get to know your artist. I highly suggest getting a pen and paper and making a list of all the questions you want answered. If the artist is not happy you are asking lots of questions or seems to be agitated, then they may not be the right artist for you. If I visit a doctor, I want to make sure he answers any questions I have for piece of mind.
How long has this artist been in business and how long have they been
at this store? Do they have any references and can you see some of the tattoos that
have been done by them. How many tattoos have they done? Hate to say this, but friends are good guinie pigs. Ask to see their
tattoos and find out who did theirs. Personal referrences are very good. Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if they are listed with
them and if they have any complaints. Is their work guaranteed? Do they have insurance if something goes wrong
with the tattoo or you are not 100% happy with it. Will they refund the
price or fix the work they have done?
Do they sterilize their needles. Hopefully, they use clean, unused needles
each time they do a tattoo. Watch them open the needle package. Is the tattoo parlor clean? Is there a lot of dust, debris, is it orderly.
These artists are using needles and injecting dye into your skin. Many
times the condition of the shop reflects the quality of the workmanship. Price. Always agree to a price BEFORE the artist starts. Negotiating
is not always fun, and you want to make sure you don't make the artist
mad. Surprises are not fun. Many times a tattoo is done after a night of drinking, or during as
some of my friends have shared with me. Always ask your medical doctor
about tattoos and get their advice. You may be allergic to the ink or,
since the doctor knows your medical history, he/she will be able to better
guide you on this. Also ask your doctor and your tattoo artist about
what you need to do before and after getting a tattoo. Antibiotics, gels,
should you leave it covered, leave in open air, what to do when it starts
to scab, etc. There are needles involved and they are going into your
skin. Hopefully you have done your homework, checked out your artist, talked
with your doctor, and can enjoy your tattoo.
