Let the buyer beware...how to choose a tattoo artist

"Caveat emptor."

"Let the buyer beware"...all well and good if you are buying goods or services, but tattoos are permanent and short of major laser surgery, they cannot be removed by an order of court or a refund!

Remember that parts of YOUR body are going to be changed forever.So how do you choose a tattoo artist.Well, much like choosing a dive instructor, you must do your homework. It seems that kits can be bought on social network sites...would you trust someone like that?

The adage "Cleanliness is next to godliness" 

should be emblazoned on the wall of every (reputable) tattoo parlour.

Work areas do not need to be sterile, 

but you as the client need to be satisfied that all the equipment is clean 

and that all needles are still in the packaging before the work begins

Ink needs to be freshly prepared...not reused!

Proper branded products should be a requirement.

No products that have been prepared in a back room.

Gloves are a must! If your tattoo artist wants to start work without them,LEAVE.

Not that even the cleaning fluid bottle is covered in plastic

Stencils should only be used once and then disposed of...

Make sure that the position of your tattoo is exactly where YOU want it.

It is not up to the tattoo artist, but you have to live with the final work.

Any good tattoo artist will take the time and trouble to talk to you about your tattoo and why you want it before they put ink on your skin! 

Make sure that the artist(and they are) you are using is properly qualified

 and recommended.

If they have no previous work to show you...LEAVE!

Before you have any ink done be certain of the following:

1] You are happy with your design

2] The position of the tattoo has been chosen correctly.Some areas hurt more than others

3] Make sure that you and the artist have discussed the length of time the piece will take and the cost.

4] You have seen previous work

5] You are happy with the surroundings and the ambiance

6] You REALLY want the tattoo and for all the right reasons.

7] Remember, if in doubt, walk away!