#4: They’ll Make You Think Twice
If you’re about to do something that’ll potentially affect your status in the workforce, a confident tattoo artist will bring it up. “If somebody wants to get a tattoo on the side of their neck, or on their hand, or something like that, a good artist is going to ask them to second-guess that decision and if it will impact their employability in the future,” she says. “Or the artist might also suggest putting it in a place where the person might have more options to do things with it.”
#5: They’ll Give You The Deluxe Tour
Making you feel comfortable should be a top priority. If you have questions about the process or anything about what’s about to be done to your body, the artist shouldn’t seem put out. “A good studio won’t mind taking five minutes to show you around — not just to get you acquainted, but to show you what kind of equipment and techniques they’re using,” Aitchison says. “And they won’t hesitate to answer any questions about their processes.
“A lot of artists just use disposable everything, which is very safe. I used to make my own needles and sterilize them. Also totally safe. The point of being shown around is, again, to make you feel comfortable.”
#6: Their Credentials Are Proudly On Display
There’s no country-wide governing tattoo association. Some states require classes and a certification program that’s overseen by the board of health, others don’t. “I grew up in Illinois which requires a basic pathogen training course with the Red Cross,” she explains. “Beyond that, it’s sort of up to the individual.”
Although you might not be sure of your state’s rules and regs, the artist should be. “A good artist is going to want to be aware of that sort of education,” Aitchison says. “And a good studio will make it a point of pride that whatever certifications they have are up to date, and supplemented with continuing education.”
