How To Find A Good Tattoo Artist UK
Finding a tattoo artist that you love and can do the work that you want how you want it can be difficult. Thankfully there are ways you can find the best tattoo artist for your creation.
Take a look below on how to find a tattoo artist in the UK so that you can make sure you pick the best one.
How to Find a Tattoo Artist in the UK
- Research Online: Use social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, or even Google to explore artists’ portfolios. Many tattoo artists showcase their work online, giving you a clear sense of their style and skill.
- Check Reviews and Ratings: Sites like Trustpilot or Google Reviews can give you insights into customer experiences, helping you gauge the professionalism and quality of the tattoo artist or studio.
- Ask for Recommendations: Friends, family, or coworkers who have tattoos can be great resources for finding reliable artists they trust.
- Visit Tattoo Conventions: Tattoo conventions happen across the UK, and attending one is a great way to meet artists in person, see their work live, and even book an appointment.
You always want to make sure you research the tattooist. Where are they based, have they done much work, how much do they charge (because cheap isn’t always better). By doing this you’ll be able to find the right tattoo artist for you.
How to Pick the Right Tattoo Artist
- Look at Their Style: Different tattoo artists specialize in specific styles like traditional, realism, or watercolor. Choose an artist whose style matches what you envision for your tattoo.
- Check Their Experience: Experienced artists often have more refined techniques, especially for intricate designs. Look for an artist with years of practice and a solid portfolio.
- Consultation: Always schedule a consultation. This helps you gauge whether the artist understands your vision and if you feel comfortable working with them.
- Cleanliness and Safety: Ensure the artist follows proper health and safety guidelines, such as using sterilised equipment and maintaining a clean workspace.
Always make sure you look at their previous work. Some tattoo artists may say that they can 100% do what you want them to but might not be able to. For example, if you’re looking to get full colour or water colour done you won’t want a tattoo artist that has only ever don’t shading and black tattoos.
How to Pick the Right Tattoo Shop
- Visit the Studio: Before booking, visit the shop to check if it’s clean and professional. Good hygiene is crucial for a safe tattoo experience.
- Licensed Studio: Make sure the tattoo shop is fully licensed and the artists are certified in hygiene standards. This ensures compliance with UK health regulations.
- Look at Their Artists’ Portfolios: Many tattoo shops have multiple artists. Browse through their portfolios to find the right match for your design.
- Atmosphere: The shop’s atmosphere matters. You want a place where you feel comfortable and welcomed. Pay attention to how the staff treats customers.
Remember, there is nothing wrong with going into a tattoo shop to ask some questions and scope out the place before booking with them. You might find the vibe is off and you feel quite anxious in that setting which means it’s probably not for you.
Picking Tattoo Scabs
- Avoid Picking: Tattoo scabs are a natural part of the healing process, but picking them can damage the ink and lead to scarring. Leave them to fall off naturally.
- Keep It Moisturised: Apply a thin layer of tattoo aftercare cream to keep the skin hydrated and help scabs heal faster.
- Avoid Scratching: If the tattoo gets itchy as it heals, resist the urge to scratch. Gently tap around the area instead.
- Consult Your Artist: If you’re concerned about the scabbing, consult your tattoo artist for advice on proper aftercare specific to your tattoo.
I can’t stress enough how important it is to not pick at your tattoos. It will cause scaring which can be very painful for any tattoo artist to cover up. I once got told that if it’s itching, don’t scratch but slap it instead and it does kind of work.