Things to Consider When Looking For a Tattoo Shop – Do you live in Hawaii and are ready to get your first (or 50th!) tattoo?
Getting a tattoo is a very personal experience. You will have body art for the rest of your life, so the design needs to have a deep meaning and be something you can be proud of for years to come.
That’s why you should not choose a place to get your tattoo simply by Googling “tattoo shop near me”. Instead, you need to put some consideration and research into the mix before making the selection.
Here are five things to consider when looking for a tattoo shop.
1. If They Are Adhering to Health Standards
Hawaii tattoo shops—like tattoo shops in any state—need to adhere to the highest health standards. Before you make a choice, ensure they’re using the appropriate safety equipment like gloves and goggles, that they appropriately sterilize equipment, and that needles are kept in sealed containers. The shop should also have a separate waiting and work area and only use disposable, one-use pigment trays.
2. How Their Artists Are Trained
First, ensure the shop you are considering is licensed, as this is a legal requirement in the state. Next, you probably want to find out how the specific artist you are going to work with has been trained. Though it’s not a requirement they have gone to art school or have a certain number of years of experience, it’s unlikely you’ll want to trust a tattoo artist who is just starting out and has no formal training or experience.
3. The Artistic Styles Offered
Some tattoo artists have very specific styles. While they may be able to do tattoos that fall outside their specialty, they’ll likely do their best work when it’s in their particular genre. Do some research and have at least an idea of what type of tattoo you want so you can choose a tattoo shop (and artist) that specializes in that type of artwork.
4. The Shop’s Atmosphere
Depending on how large and intricate of a tattoo you are getting, you may be at the shop for several hours, or you may have to return on multiple occasions. To ensure you’re comfortable and enjoy your experience, choose a shop that has an atmosphere you like and an artist with a personality you connect with.
5. The Wait Time
Some artists are booked out for months or even years. Do you want to wait that long to get your tattoo? On the other hand, do you really want to trust an artist who has no waitlist and is available immediately? Choose a shop and an artist that is popular due to their professionalism and artwork but keep in mind that you may not be able to get in right away.
Tattoo Shop Near Me: Making the Right Choice
Getting a tattoo is a lifelong decision and is not one that should be done without proper consideration. Before simply Googling “tattoo shop near me” and picking one at random, do your research, plan ahead, and make a solid decision.