4 Questions to Ask Your Tattoo Artist

tattoo artist at work

Image from Eighth and Grand

So, you’ve decided to get your first tattoo. And that means you’ve started asking Google the important questions, like “where is a tattoo artist near me?”

However, it’s important to ask the artist certain questions in order to make sure they are a good fit.

Keep reading to discover what those questions are!

“What’s Your Experience Like?”

tico times artist

Image from Tico Times

One of the best questions you can ask is what their experience is like. This is because this one question will actually get you several answers you need.

For instance, it’s natural to wonder if the tattoo artist is licensed and if they have many years of experience. However, some people think asking these questions outright may seem rude.

By asking about their experience, you’ll get many of the answers you need. And other questions about their licensing and tattoo safety procedures will come up organically while you have your conversation.

“Can I See Your Portfolio?”

tat artist portfolio

Image from Harper’s Bazaar

For a tattoo artist, their artistic skill is the main “draw” for new customers. This is why you should ask if you can flip through the artist’s portfolio.

There are actually several good reasons to do this. First, it lets you quietly verify the quality of the tattoo artist. On top of that, this gives you a chance to make sure the artist’s style matches what you are looking for.

Finally, flipping through the portfolio may be how you find inspiration for your next tattoo!

“What Are Your Policies?”

artist police

Image from Havana Times

When you searched for “tattoo artist near me,” you wanted more than just the closest tattoo artist. You wanted someone who could really bring your artistic vision to life.

This is why you need to ask about any specific policies the artist has. Do they offer any kind of guarantee on the quality of their work? Are they willing to do touch-ups on a tattoo if anything looks faded or unfinished?

You’re basically doing the tattoo version of checking the fine print. Best to do it now before you’re waiting for the ink to dry!

“Any Privacy Screens?”

breast tattoo

Image from Pinterest

First tattoos are usually in modest places on your body. Arms, shoulders—that sort of thing.

However, you may eventually be tempted to get a tattoo on a more intimate part of your body. This is why it’s important to ask if the tattoo artist offers any kind of privacy screen.

Even if you fully trust the artist, you may not want your body on full display to all of the other customers. By checking on the availability of a privacy screen, you’ll be able to decide on whether to get more intimate tattoos.

Final Thoughts

Once you find that “tattoo artist near me,” you now know what questions to ask. But do you know where you can continue to get the latest news and trends about tattoos?

Stay tuned to Tattooing 101, where we bring you everything you’ve ever wanted to know (and more) about the art of tattooing!

AUTHOR
Nathan Molenaar

Nathan is a licensed professional tattoo artist with over 8 years’ experience working at studios across the globe, including Celebrity Ink, the world's largest tattoo studio chain.

When he's not tattooing, he spends his free time sharing his experience and knowledge with aspiring artists who dream of pursuing a career in the tattooing industry.

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