When you are the kind of person that is in deep into the tattoo and piercing world, you don’t sweat being able to find a parlor that gets you some really satisfying body art. It’s kind of nice to have that kind of “in” when inspiration hits. For others, though, especially if it is their first foray into body art, knowing where to get a great tattoo or expert piercing can be incredibly difficult.
Now, there are probably some of you out there who might find the notion of having a hard time getting a tattoo or a piercing kind of silly. After all, there once was a time when you could get a pretty snazzy bit of ink at a carnival all while your kids ate cotton candy & played games. Times have changed, and with these changes comes new standards in health & safety.
There is also a much greater fascination and acceptance of body art than there used to be. Now, it’s not uncommon to see soccer moms sporting a little bit of ink or a cute little nose ring. You might even spot a little bit of ink just poking out of the rolled-up sleeve of your geography teacher. There was a time when body art was for the outliers of society, but that just isn’t the case. This, of course, creates a golden opportunity for artists looking to make some serious financial gains by providing a welcome service.
We go back, again, to the possible first-timer looking to get a tattoo or a piercing. If he or she is to find a reputable parlor or artist, where should they start?
Here are a few secrets to finding the best tattoo and piercing destination:
Check Online – As is the case for anything you are curious about these days, the first place you want to check for reputable parlors is online. Check parlor websites, online business reviews, and even check public health records to see how a place stacks up.
Ask People About Their Body Art – If you rock a “tat” or a piercing, nothing is cooler than when someone asks you where you got your sick ink from. Ask friends, family, and co-workers where they’d recommend you go.
Have A Design or Piercing In Mind – By knowing what you want ahead of time, you can determine whether a parlor/artist can deliver what you want. If you’re not happy with the process by which they go by, then they may not be the place to go.
Visit Parlors/Shops and Check Them Out – Just because you go in doesn’t mean you have to “buy” something. Check out the shop, look at any photos they have of past clients, ask questions, and get a feel for the place.
“Interview” Artists – If you have the chance, talk to some artists & see if you click with them. Find out about their background, the process of their work, and even the supplies they use. If an artist isn’t willing to “talk shop” with you, go someplace else.
Finding the best tattoo and piercing destination for your first, or hundredth, bit of body art shouldn’t be a stressful time. You should relish in the idea that you’re doing something that’s got a little edge, a lot of coolness, and definitely makes you unique.