Choosing an Artist
Your artist is the single biggest factor in how your tattoo turns out. A great design executed poorly is a lifelong regret. Here's how to choose wisely.
Study portfolios
Look for consistent, healed work in the style you want. An artist strong in fine-line may not excel at bold traditional, and vice versa.
Check hygiene
The studio should be clean, use single-use needles, and follow sterile practices. Don't hesitate to ask about their procedures.
Communicate clearly
A good artist listens, offers honest input, and collaborates on your idea. If you feel rushed or dismissed, keep looking.
Watch for red flags
Suspiciously low prices, no portfolio, or pressure to decide fast are warning signs. Quality tattoos are worth waiting and paying for.
Study the portfolio, not just the price
The most important step in getting a tattoo you will love is choosing the right artist, and their portfolio tells you almost everything. Look for consistent, clean line work, solid colour or shading, and healed photos rather than only fresh ones, since healed work reveals the true quality. Most artists specialise in particular styles, so choose someone whose existing work matches the look you want rather than expecting them to master an unfamiliar style on your skin.
Prioritise a clean, professional studio
Hygiene is non-negotiable. A reputable studio uses single-use needles, sterilises equipment, wears fresh gloves, and keeps the workspace visibly clean. Do not hesitate to ask about their sterilisation practices; a professional will answer confidently and without offence. A good consultation, where the artist listens to your ideas and offers honest guidance, is another strong sign you are in the right hands.
Plan and budget
Use our price estimator to understand typical costs and our time calculator to gauge session length. Our first tattoo tips help you prepare for the appointment itself.
Reviewing a portfolio properly
An artist's portfolio is the single best predictor of the work you will receive. Look for a body of work in the specific style you want, because a brilliant traditional artist may not be the right choice for fine-line or realism. Examine healed tattoos rather than only fresh ones, since healed work reveals how the lines and shading truly settle. Consistency across many pieces, rather than one or two standouts, signals a reliable artist who can deliver your vision.
Consultations and communication
A good tattoo relationship is built on communication. A worthwhile consultation lets you discuss your idea, hear the artist's professional input, and gauge whether you feel comfortable with them. Pay attention to how they listen and whether they are honest about what will and will not work well as a tattoo. An artist who takes the time to understand your idea and sets clear expectations is far more likely to produce a piece you will love for life.
Frequently asked questions
Should I choose the cheapest artist? No. A tattoo is permanent, so quality and hygiene matter more than saving money. Good work is worth the investment.
How far in advance should I book? Sought-after artists often have waiting lists of weeks or months. Book early, especially for large or custom pieces.
Is this medical advice? No. It is general guidance. For skin conditions, allergies, or health concerns, consult a medical professional before getting tattooed.