Often a person just on the verge of getting their first tattoo or body piercing has some questions about how to choose a reputable or "good" shop to get the body work done. Here are a few easy tips that should help you find a competent and clean body piercing or tattoo studio.

1) Don't make an appointment to get work done until you've really made up your mind about what tattoo work you want to get done.

I get a fairly stead stream of e-mails that all basically say "I've got an appointment in the next few days, but what should I get tattooed?" STOP RIGHT THERE, and cancel that appointment. Hurrying the decision can drastically shorten the amount of time you will be happy with your design choice.

2) Actually visit some shops and studios.

It is clean? Does the state you live in require licensing and regulations? If so, is the shop and it's credentials up to date? Do they have an autoclave? (this is the machine that is required for sterilization of tools) Do they use all single-service needles? (this means using a needle only once on one client) Do they wear gloves?

If any of the answers to the above come back as "no" you are looking at a shop that is not complying with necessary steps to protect the employees and clients from disease. If you get "nos" on these questions, you need to find a more professional shop.

3) Are they willing to discuss and answer all your questions ahead of time?

Do they address all your healing and aftercare concerns? All aftercare procedures should be discussed before any tattooing or piercing is done! This not only makes sure the client knows what they are getting into, but it often helps people remember what was discussed better. After a tattoo or piercing, many people are a bit fuzzy-headed and have a hard time remembering things. You should also be given a printout or aftercare sheet, not just verbal instructions as details can get forgotten.

4) Can you get a word-of-mouth recommendation from someone who's opinion you trust?

Do you know any friends who have used the services of the body artist you are considering? Having a personal reference can tell you a lot more about a tattooist or piercer than you can learn from talking with them. Ask around and see if the reputation of the artist seems good or bad to other clients.