Choosing the wrong artist is the #1 cause of tattoo regret. The design, the placement, the price — none of it matters if the work itself is poor. Here's how working artists themselves choose who they trust.
Six checks to run
Look at HEALED work, not fresh
Fresh tattoos look incredible. The real test is what they look like 12 months in. Most good artists post both.
Match style to portfolio
A great traditional artist won't do great fine line, and vice versa. Match what you want to what they actually do, every day.
Look for consistency
Browse 30+ pieces. Are the lines clean? Proportions right? Colour even? Inconsistency is a red flag.
Hygiene questions are normal
A good artist will happily explain their setup — single-use needles, sealed pigments, barrier wraps, autoclaved tools.
Read the consultation
A good consultation is unhurried. They listen, ask questions, push back if something won't age well, and only book once you're aligned.
Wait for the right one
The cheapest, most-available option is rarely the right one. Top artists book 3–12 months out. Wait.
Red flags to walk away from
- · No healed-work photos in their portfolio
- · Pricing that's significantly cheaper than the rest of the city
- · Pressure to book the same week
- · Vague or evasive on hygiene questions
- · Won't share their licence or insurance
- · Negative reviews about cleanliness or follow-up
Ready to find one?
Browse vetted artists by city and style.