So, you’re thinking about getting a tattoo. Maybe it’s your first, maybe it’s your fifth. Either way—this thing is going to live with you longer than most people you’ve dated. And yet, you’d be surprised how many folks rush the process.
I’ve seen it firsthand. Stories come in every week—”I should’ve waited,” “They didn’t listen,” “I thought it’d look different,” and my personal favorite: “I don’t even remember the artist’s name.” That one always sticks with me, because tattoos should be unforgettable—in every way.
Let’s break down some of the most common mistakes I’ve seen people make when choosing a tattoo artist, so you don’t fall into the same trap.
1. Picking Based on Price Alone
Listen—I get it. Tattoos aren’t cheap. But going with the lowest bidder often means cutting corners on quality, cleanliness, or even basic care. A cheap tattoo today can cost you triple in cover-ups or laser removal down the line.
📌 Think of it this way:
- Would you want a “budget” surgeon doing your knee surgery?
- Then why gamble with your skin?
If you’re looking for something permanent, invest accordingly. The good stuff lasts.
2. Not Researching the Artist’s Style
All artists have a rhythm, a visual language. Some speak fluently in bold lines and blackwork, others in soft shading and watercolor whimsy. You wouldn’t hire a realism artist for a cartoony character piece—and if you do, well… it probably won’t hit the way you hoped.
Pro tip:
- Look at healed work, not just fresh tattoos.
- Scroll deep in their portfolio—consistency matters.
- If it doesn’t excite you, keep looking.
You’re not just hiring a set of hands, you’re tapping into a whole aesthetic. Make sure it’s one that aligns with yours.
3. Rushing the Decision
Getting tattooed isn’t a race—there’s no prize for getting in the chair first. Some people DM an artist and if they don’t hear back within an hour, they move on. Chill.
Artists (the good ones at least) are often booked, juggling designs, and being choosy about the work they take on. That’s a good sign. If someone can tattoo you right now, be wary. Same-day tattoos are for walk-in flash or bad decisions.
Take your time. The right artist is worth the wait.
4. Not Asking Enough Questions
You wouldn’t buy a car without asking a single question, right? Same goes here. Ask about:
- Their design process
- How they prep for your appointment
- Touch-up policy
- Aftercare steps
- Studio environment
If they’re cagey or vague, that’s a red flag. Transparency builds trust. If something feels off, trust your gut.
5. Prioritizing the Tattoo Over the Experience
This might sound weird coming from someone who draws on people for a living, but the tattoo is only half of it. The experience matters.
You’re going to remember the way the artist talked to you, the energy of the studio, whether they made you feel seen or rushed out the door. People don’t come back to me just for the ink—they come back because they remember the vibe, the laughs, the care.
If you’re spending hours in a chair with someone, make sure it’s someone you vibe with.
Final Thoughts
Where I tattoo in NYC, I’ve had people come in who didn’t even know what they wanted yet—but they knew how they wanted to feel. That’s the part I aim to get right every single time.
So, if you’re still in the browsing phase, take your time. Ask questions. Check the vibe. Find someone who doesn’t just want to “tattoo you,” but wants to understand what this tattoo means for you.
Whether it’s with me or someone else, make the choice you’ll still be proud of in 10, 20, 40 years. Your skin deserves that.
