So you’ve decided to get a tattoo?

Here’s our guide to finding the perfect tattoo artist for you.

Deciding to get a tattoo can be a big decision for some people and it’s not a decision that should be taken lightly.

For some, a tattoo is a lifelong goal. These people may research the style and positioning of the tattoo for a long time and do a great deal of homework on the artist.

Others may decide on a whim to get a tattoo – and may choose the first tattoo artist they find.

We have given you some pointers on what to look for when deciding to get a tattoo and how to go about choosing a tattoo artist.

Location & Setup
Take the time to review the location and set up of the tattoo shop or studio. You may find yourself travelling frequently to see your tattooist so it’s important to be happy with location.

Most tattooists would welcome a request to visit the shop or studio before making a decision. Pay attention to cleanliness and hygiene.

Portfolio
Many tattooists will have an online portfolio you can view. The portfolio will give you insight into the style of the tattooist. You should find recent and healed, high quality examples of work the artist has completed.

While you are looking at the online portfolio have a read of any reviews and testimonials you can find about the tattooist.

Be sure to look at the website too (all professionals will have a website). Do not rely solely on social media. Many photos on forums are being overly photoshopped and saturated and are fresh tattoos. If they do not have healed tattoo pictures, be wary and request these.

Accreditation
Like many industries these days there are ‘backyard’ tattoo operators. A backyard set up will be less costly to run and will be reflected in the price these operators will offer you.

Read up on the tattooist’s experience locally and globally. Ideally your tattoo artist will have done an apprenticeship with a reputable, experienced person or organisation.

There are licensing laws in some states of Australia, including NSW and QLD.

Business Registration
A legitimate tattoo business will also be subject to government health inspections. An unregistered, backyard operation without a legal business registration may not be upholding the rigorous health and safety standards you would expect from a tattoo studio.

Experience
If the information on the tattooist’s past experience is not readily available, ask the tattooist for information about their training and how long they have been operating in the business. A professional tattooist will be more that happy to discuss their background with you.

There are hundreds of tattoo studios in Melbourne for you to choose from. Take your time to find the right place for you. Be sure to be critical of the tattooist’s set up and standards as your health and safety is at risk.

Vegan and vegetarian tattoo inks are available so inquire with the artist as to the inks they use. Other inks contain animal glycerin.

Note: If you do not have white Caucasian skin ask the tattooist if they have experience in tattooing other skin types as it often requires different technical and artistic execution.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email our studio at clareketon@me.com