So here is a list of the most important questions to ask your tattoo artist. Don’t feel bad or uncomfortable asking any of these questions. Tattoo artists will have heard them all before and the real pros will be happy to give you honest and open answers.
1) How long have you been a tattoo artist?
This is an important part of determining the strength of a tattoo artist’s reputation. In general, the longer they have been in business, the more experience they will have and the better their reputation. Artists with a bad reputation don’t usually last that long.
2) What are your qualifications?
As with all professional trades, it is important that tattoo artists are properly qualified. Tattooing is precision work that involves the use of needles, so it is vital that a tattoo artist has been professionally trained and has a thorough understanding of hygiene procedures.
3) How many tattoos have you gotten?
This is a good indication of an artist’s level of skill and experience. Tattooing is an art, and the more designs a person has created, the better they are likely to be. The answer to this question also allows you to roughly estimate how busy the artist has been, which again is closely related to the artist’s popularity and reputation.
4) Can I see some of your previous work? can you provide references?
Premium artists will be able to provide you with images of their work and references from past clients they have worked with. But be sure to view your work once it’s properly cured to give you an accurate idea of what it looks like.
An artist who does not have a portfolio of their work or seems evasive when you ask these questions should be avoided at all costs.
5) How much will the job cost?
Large tattoos that are full of intricate detail can be extremely expensive, often costing thousands of dollars. Even the smallest designs can cost over a hundred dollars. So if you’re on a tight budget, be sure to agree on the full cost of your chosen tattoo before the job begins. This will avoid unpleasant surprises or misunderstandings.
6) Do you guarantee your work?
What if you are not satisfied with the finished design? Will they drop the charge or just reduce it? Do you have a refund policy? Make sure you are aware of your artist’s warranty policy before she begins work, as it will influence the quality of after-sales service you receive.
7) How long will the tattoo take?
This depends on the size of the chosen design and the level of complexity. Ultra-small tattoos can take a few minutes to complete, while a full-sleeve design can take several hours spread over multiple sessions. But if it’s your first tattoo, it’s important to know as much as possible about the procedure so that you feel more relaxed about it.
8) How should I take care of my tattoo during the healing process?
Aftercare is an important part of the overall tattoo process. Poor aftercare can damage your tattoo design, scar your skin, and increase the chance of infection developing. Therefore, all competent artists should be able to provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your tattoo during the healing process. If he seems more interested in getting started with tattooing, find another, more responsible tattoo artist.
9) How can I reduce the chances of an infection occurring?
Every tattoo artist should be able to give you tips that will help you keep your tattoo clean and reduce the risk of infection. They will also be able to advise you on what to do if you think an infection is developing.
10) Are there any medical conditions that might prevent a person from getting a tattoo?
Certain medical conditions mean that people must either avoid tattoos altogether or take certain precautions before getting tattooed. Your tattoo artist should be able to give you general advice on this matter. However, if you have any doubts about the effects of a tattoo on your health, consult a suitably qualified doctor.