Everything tattoos
Looking for an artist
I have finally decided what I want for my first tattoo. I have collected samples of the types of art I like and what I want to incorporate in the tattoo.
I have called all of the reputable tattoo studios within 50 miles of my area and none of them are willing or able to draw something up.
How do you go about finding an artist for this either in person or online? What should I look for in someone that free hands?




Hi!
Usually tattoo studios will do custom tattoos and draw something up for you based on your ideas. I am sorry you have a different experience. What was the reason they declined? Was the style you wanted maybe not their cup of tea?
I go about finding a tattoo artist usually by researching their online portfolios, looking for a reputable artist who is doing a style I really like and could be a great match. Sometimes they don't live in my city but I am willing to travel. For example for a rather experimental tattoo with lots of geometric elements I would look for a tattooist who feels most comfortable in exactly that area and I would definitely not go to an artist who's main focus is old school/ new school in that case.
When I believe I have found the right artist with the style I love I would send them my idea. This could be a little text, a rough sketch, some samples, basically exactly what you did. If they approve we make an appointment and on the day of the appointment I get to see their drawn design of my idea. We might do a few adjustments (but usually I have always been super happy with what they came up with right away) and then start the session right away.