Artist and studio
How to find the right artist for you, assess their portfolio, check the studio and spot warning signs before you book.
OlyaGuide author · Tattoo artist · 7+ years of experience
The same design can look and heal differently depending on who tattoos it, so choosing an artist matters more than you might think. Here’s how to choose carefully rather than going with the first pretty picture in your feed.
Here we look at how to assess a portfolio (healed work tells you more than fresh work), what to check to make sure a studio keeps its equipment sterile, and the warning signs that mean you should avoid an artist.
The last article is about your first message: what to write so you get a useful answer straight away, not a string of questions back.
All articles on this topic
4 articles
3.1How to choose a tattoo artistWhere to look for a tattoo artist, how to read a portfolio, what to look for in healed work and reviews, and what to check before you book.
3.2Tattoo studio safetyWhat should be single-use in a tattoo studio, what your artist should open in front of you, and which hygiene questions you shouldn't feel awkward asking.
3.3Red flags when choosing an artistSigns in messages, portfolios and studios that tell you to walk away, even if you've already paid a deposit or are sitting in the chair.
3.4Your first message to a tattoo artistWhat to write in your first message to an artist so they get your idea straight away, give you a rough price and suggest a time for a consultation.