So You Want A Tattoo… Part One

Part One: How To Find A Tattoo Artist
Go for it! Tattoos are awesome. Of course we’ve all seen how it can go terribly, terribly wrong, so here’s some advice from Adam Paterson, distinguished tattoo artist and not incidentally, my husband.

First things first: take the time to find a professional, experienced tattoo artist. Don’t go to the neighborhood scratcher who’s going to tattoo you on his kitchen table. There are so many amazing artists our there! Not only will a professional make sure your Patrick Swayze memorial portrait looks just like Johnny Castle, a good one will prevent you from getting a tribal armband next… but subject matter is whole other issue I will discuss in the next installment.

How to choose an artist:
1. You probably got some recommendations from your friends. Need some more? Send Adam an email at jerseycitytattoo@gmail.com. He probably knows which shops in your area have a good reputation.
2. Visit a couple shops in person. Are they clean, organized? Any sense of style? Here are some nice ones: ThreeKingsTattoo.com; IronAgeTattoo.com.
3. Tattoos should be the main source of income for the establishment. Avoid any place that sells bongs!
4. Talk to the staff and artists. If they’re not friendly don’t even bother; it probably won’t be a good experience for you. But be aware this isn’t Jiffy Lube. You might not be catered to the second you walk in.
5. Ask to see their portfolio. Look for a lot of large tattoos, such as full sleeves and backpieces. There should be black and grey as well as color work. Be wary of anyone who tries to use work on themselves as evidence of their skills.
6. If you find someone you like you might have to schedule an appointment weeks in advance. That means they’re in demand. This is a good thing!
7. Find out how long they’ve been working. This is a craft that takes years to master and a lifetime to perfect.
8. When it comes to pricing, don’t try to bargain. Tattoos should be expensive – it’s permanent!

I also recommend checking out The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Getting a Tattoo by John Reardon. Most people don’t usually expect much from this series but this is surprisingly funny and well written.