Tattoo Parlors

Finding a Tattoo Parlor

With the growing popularity of tattoos, there’s probably a shop not too far from where you live. It’s not hard to find one. Visit the LoveToKnow article on Tattoo Shops for names of some high-end places, or try:

• The yellow pages. If you’re not particular about who does your tattoo, check the phone book for nearby places.
• Friends and acquaintances. Know someone who has tattoos? Ask where they got them done. This applies whether you like their ink or not—if you don’t, at least you’ll know what shop to avoid.
• Strangers with great tattoos. Don’t be afraid to ask someone you’ve never met before! Most people are delighted to discuss their tattoos and to share the name of the artist.
• The internet. Many shops have their own web sites with pictures of tattoos they’ve done. Online tattoo galleries, such as BMEzine.com, usually include the name of the shop and the artist with each picture. Tattoos.com has a directory with links to shops around the country.

Connecting with the Right Tattoo Artist

Tattoo Machine

Some shops do mainly standard tattoos from pre-drawn flash. Many offer custom tattoos, with the artist and customer working together to create a personalized design. Either way, you’ll want to make sure that you’re working with a talented and careful artist.

Start by checking out sample tattoos, either at the shop or online. Ask to see photos of the artist’s work, and make sure you’re seeing tattoos he or she actually did—not the work of other tattoo artists at the same shop. Are the lines clean? Do you like the colors and shading? If you aren’t comfortable with what you see, keep looking.

Also look at the artist’s style. If you’re hoping for a certain type of tattoo, try to find a shop that does that kind of work often. Some tattoo parlors specialize in [Tribal Designs|tribal tattoos] or Celtic designs, and the artists are usually especially skilled in those styles. Most artists will do most kinds of tattoos—but if you’re seeking an intricate or authentic design, look for an expert.

Talk with the tattoo artist about your ideas and expectations. You should feel listened to and respected. Even the best tattoo professionals won’t see eye to eye with every customer, though. If you feel that the artist doesn’t “get” what you’re describing, it might not be a good match.

Modern Tattoo Shops

Fresh Ink

Tattooing is regulated by state and county governments. In most cases, operators must be licensed and shops must meet health department standards. If you’re unsure about a place, ask to see the certification documents. Reputable shop owners and artists will be glad to show you. They should also be willing to explain the shop’s safety procedures and to give you a tour.

Here are some things to ask about or look for.

• New needles. Brand-new needles should be used for each customer. This is to avoid transfer of blood from one customer to another. Used needles can carry HIV, hepatitis, and other serious diseases.
• Fresh ink. Ink can become contaminated with blood during the tattooing process. New bottles or packets should be opened for each new customer.
• Sterilization equipment. Most shops will use an autoclave, a special machine for sterilizing non-disposable equipment.
• Gloves. The tattoo artist should wear surgical-style gloves, both for his/her own protection and for yours. Gloves should be changed between customers or any time they become soiled.

Also look for a tattoo parlor that generally looks clean and feels organized and safe. There should be no pressure to choose a tattoo or to accept something you don’t want.

In Other Countries

Tattoo parlors abroad may not be as well-regulated as those in the U.S. You can use the Internet to check local laws, but even then you can’t be sure how well they are enforced. Always ask about sterilization procedures and the use of clean needles and new inks, and be vigilant about the needles and inks that are used on you. Don’t hesitate to walk away if you’re not comfortable with how the shop is run.