15 of 18

Write now Article Tools

Page 7 of 7

and the artist might not want to work on you again. Haggling is strongly discouraged. No reputable artist will change a regularly quoted price for you, and in many shops prices will mysteriously rise as you try to haggle them down.
6.Ask about touchups. Many artists offer a free touchup if it turns out to be necessary, and some have rules about when and how you can obtain these follow-up sessions.

7.If you had a good experience, tell others about it. As said earlier, word-of-mouth is most tattoo artists' main means of advertising.
8.If you had a bad experience, let the artist know. Email or call and ask to speak to the artist. Most tattoo artists are independent contractors and do NOT have a boss you can complain to. If you call the shop and complain to someone else, your problem may not be related to the artist properly. Artists are human and make mistakes and have bad days sometimes. Many are willing to help you if you had a problem with your experience. And most will be glad to hear feedback in order to help them do better in the future.
9.Being a repeat client has advantages. Consider returning to an artist and asking if they have any form of discount or benefits for repeat clients. Many have referral discount cards, VIP coupons, or simply are more willing to work on regulars.

Remember, you are getting permanent artwork applied. Don't take any shortcuts to preparing for a tattoo, and don't be afraid to ask questions, get explanations, and interact with your artist. Good tattoo artists will pay attention to your concerns and will be glad to hear about your experience with them. While you may be apprehensive about the pain of getting tattooed, you should know that it is not excruciating. If you have ever had an injury more serious than a broken nail, you have already felt worse pain. Plan your tattoo to suit you for the rest of your life, not to be less painful, and find an artist that helps you feel at ease.

Surviving your first tattoo is easy. Deciding where to put the next one is hard.

Learn more about this author, A.R. Marth.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• ...
• 5
• 6
• 7

Add your voice

Know something about How to survive your first tattoo?
We want to hear your view. Write now!