How to Find a Trusted Tattoo Shop

From television shows and magazines to conferences and conventions, tattoos continue to become more and more popular, not just in pop culture but across the globe. Once you have a tattoo, you’ll start to notice them everywhere — in coffee shops, lineups at grocery stores, and even at work - but you will also start to notice that not all tattoos are created equally. You might even begin to hear a few horror stories, whether from a friend-of-a-friend or on a show. After all, tattoo removal and cover ups are two booming businesses. However, you can avoid all of the red flags and get a great tattoo by knowing what to look for in a trusted tattoo shop. Here are three tips to finding the best tattoo shops in Miami.

1. Ask Your Friends

There is nothing better than being able to see a healed tattoo in person to decide whether or not a shop is right for you. Ask your friends and find out if anyone has recently been tattooed or has a favorite tattoo shop. If you do like a friend’s tattoo or they have suggestions, make sure to ask about their experience as well. The best tattoo shops in Miami will make you feel welcomed, comfortable, and respected. Remember, a tattoo is forever so it’s not only important that the artist is skilled at their craft, but that they also behave in a professional and hospitable manner. If you feel like your boundaries are being crossed or a tattoo artist is not listening to you, don’t continue with the appointment.

2. Do Some Online Research

People have been getting tattoos for approximately 12,000 years — long before the discovery of the internet or even electricity. But forums, YouTube, and review sites make it much easier to find the best tattoo shops in Miami. You can read thousands of testimonials, learn all about the red flags, and see finished tattoos with just a few clicks and Google searches. Avoid tattoo shops that are visibly dirty and have unusual or gross smells. Similar to a restaurant, you want to be able to walk in and immediately feel comfortable about being there. Do not choose a shop with negative reviews about reusing needles, hiding portfolios, or pressuring and bullying you into changing your idea.

3. Look Through Portfolios

Before you book your tattoo appointment at one of the best tattoo shops in Miami, you want to make sure that you have a thorough look through a tattoo artist’s portfolio; you can do this in person or online. There are so many different styles of tattoos, from Sailor Jerry to Neo-traditional and everything in-between, and not every artist is familiar with every technique. If you want bold colors, make sure the artist you contact isn’t strictly practicing blackwork. It is also important to know an artist’s terms for tattoos. Some artists prefer to only book flash while others prefer custom pieces. An artist may only want to work on specific projects, like large scale pieces rather than smaller tattoos, and knowing that beforehand will save you both a lot of time.