January 17 , 2010 by Shawna Newton

A Professional Tattoo Artist is Knowledgeable

Many, if not most, tattoo artists are passionate about tattooing. Therefore, it stands to reason that many tattoo artists have attended a tattoo artist school in order to become accredited---which also allows them to charge more for their work.

An amateur tattoo artist operating from a home or rented space may not be as knowledgeable as the accredited tattoo artists in areas of types of ink, types of tattoo application techniques, nor laws and sanitation rules.

If you get a tattoo from a friend who 'dabbles' in tattoo art, you may wind up with a tattoo you hate and, at worse, a nasty infection. Even if you know someone who is a fantastic artist, it doesn't mean they are aware of the various techniques of tattooing and steps that need to be taken to avoid infection or the spread of disease.

So, take heed and beware of 'homegrown' tattoo artists!

The Best Tattoo Artist for You Listens to What YOU Want

A good tattoo artist is not only going to be knowledgeable but also talented enough to create a quality tattoo according to your wishes and what you envision. This may involve taking the time to sketch the tattoo design several times before a final decision is made.

A professional tattoo artist will not rush you into any decisions but help guide you and take the time to explore tattoo options with equipment and ink choices.

The best tattoo artist realizes the permanency of a tattoo and remember the tattoo is going on your body---not theirs. This also means that a good tattoo artist will resist the temptation to "let's do this" without your permission.

A Good Tattoo Artist Will Use and Keep Great Records

Does the tattoo artist:

1. Maintain a permanent record for at least two years.

2. Require signed consent forms.

3. Require parental consent forms for minors.

4. Provide verbal and written instructions for the after-care of the new tattoo.

4. Have as history of very satisfied clients---and portfolio with references.

A Top-Quality Tattoo Artist Uses Quality Tools and Equipment

Does the tattoo artist:

1. Use tools and equipment that have been properly sanitized and kept in 'like new' condition.

2. Refuse to use defective, rusty, or dull equipment.

3. Refuse to use tools and equipment from one client to another without proper sterilization.

4. Have a dry-heating oven and other sterilization methods and equipment.

5. Use disposable rubber gloves; a new pair is used on each client.

The Best Tattoo Artist Works in a Clean and Sanitary Environment

Does the tattoo artist:

1. Use germicidal cleanser to wash his/her hands and the skin of the client where the tattoo will be applied and also keep the work area and tools in a clean environment.

2. Refrain from smoking, eating, or drinking beverages.

3. Wear clean attire.

4. Pay attention to the cleanliness of the tattoo parlour overall.

5. Wear protective covering, such as a mask, to prevent the possible spread of any germs or viruses.

A Great Tattoo Artist is an Ethical Individual

Does the tattoo artist:

1. Refrain from using foul or abusive language in the tattoo parlour and around clients.

2. Refuse to tattoo a person who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

3. Refuse to tattoo a person who may appear to be jaundice (has yellowing of the eyes).

4. Refuses to tattoo in exchange for sex.

5. Refuses to tattoo an area of the skin that has any indication of infection such as with pimples, boils, and rashes.

ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ASK A TATTOO ARTIST THESE QUESTIONS!