Finding Tattoo Artists in Your Community

Once you have made the decision to get a tattoo, the first step is to make a selection amongst the many tattoo artists. This is vital – tattoo artists really are artists (most take great pride in their technique, and show it off at tattoo conventions), and artistic vision is an individual thing. You have to make sure that the tattoo artist you select is one whose work you really love – after all, you will, in all likelihood, be living with this artwork for the rest of your life!

Your local tattoo parlor

This is, of course, especially important if you have a custom tattoo design in mind. All tattoo shops (sometimes called tattoo parlors) have catalogs of tattoo designs you can choose from. There are also free tattoo designs available from a variety of internet sources. If you want to choose from these designs, your choice of tattoo artists is somewhat less important – any competent professional will probably be able to reproduce a set design, though individual areas of expertise do vary.

For a really personal tattoo, you may be looking for a tattoo artist to design it for you. Some people come on with a picture or piece of art that they would like to base their tattoo on, and it’s up to the artist to adapt it. Sometimes people come in with just an idea in mind and a tattoo artist develops the design.

If you want this degree of service, it is very important to choose the right artist. A good place to start is to attend a tattoo convention or visit various tattoo shops, and ask to see photos of the artists’ previous work. Some tattoo studios display photos prominently, but sometimes you will have to ask. Don’t be shy – most tattoo artists are glad to show off their work.

Most tattoo studios go out of their way to make clients feel comfortable, and professionals will not be offended by questions regarding sterilization techniques and other safety concerns. Really good tattoo artists will be willing to work with you to make sure you get the tattoo you really want. Especially if it’s your first tattoo, most tattoo artists will explain the process and give you tips and instructions for aftercare.

Most tattoo studios are very professional, and won’t give you any cause to feel uncomfortable. If you do, though, then it’s time to move on and look for a different place. Think of the time you invest in looking for the right hairdresser, and consider this: a haircut will grow out in three or four months, but a tattoo is forever!

Tattoo artist

A tattoo artist (also tattooer or tattooist) is a person who applies permanent decorative tattoos, often in a dedicated business called a tattoo shop, tattoo studio or tattoo parlour. Tattooers usually learn their craft via an apprenticeship under an established artist.

Tattooers may use flash (pre-drawn, stock images that can be traced onto the skin) or create original tattoos for their customers.

Tattoo studios

The properly equipped tattoo studio will use biohazard containers for objects that have come into contact with blood or bodily fluids, sharps containers for old needles, and an autoclave for sterilizing tools. Certain jurisdictions also require studios by law to have a sink in the work area supplied with both hot and cold water.

Proper hygiene requires a body modification artist to wash his or her hands before starting to prepare a client for the stencil, between clients, and at any other time where cross contamination can occur. The use of single use disposable gloves is also mandatory. In some states and countries it is illegal to tattoo a minor even with parental consent, and it is usually not allowed to tattoo impaired persons, people with contraindicated skin conditions, those who are pregnant or nursing, or those incapable of consent due to mental incapacity. Before the tattooing begins the client is asked to approve the position of the applied stencil. After approval is given the artist will open new, sterile needle packages in front of the client, and always use new, sterile or sterile disposable instruments and supplies, and fresh ink for each session (loaded into disposable ink caps which are discarded after each client). Also, all areas which may be touched with contaminated gloves will be wrapped in clear plastic to prevent cross-contamination. Equipment that cannot be autoclaved (such as countertops, machines, and furniture) will be wiped with an approved disinfectant.

Membership in professional organizations, or certificates of appreciation/achievement, generally helps artists to be aware of the latest trends. However, many of the most notable tattooists do not belong to any association. While specific requirements to become a tattooist vary between jurisdictions, many mandate only formal training in bloodborne pathogens, and cross contamination. The local department of health regulates tattoo studios in many jurisdictions.

For example, according to the health department in Oregon and Hawaii, tattoo artists in these states are required to take and pass a test ascertaining their knowledge of health and safety precautions, as well as the current state regulations. Performing a tattoo in Oregon state without a proper and current license or in an unlicensed facility is considered a felony offense. Tattooing was legalized in New York City, Massachusetts, and Oklahoma between 2002 and 2006.