Choosing the Right Tattoo Artist: Style, Comfort, and Everything In-Between

Hey, I’m Cath. I create delicate hand-poked tattoos for women who love nature, in a relaxed, friendly environment. Finding the right tattoo artist can feel like a bit of a minefield, can’t it? There are so many styles, personalities, and studios out there - it’s hard to know where to start. Whether you’re dipping your toe in for the first time or adding to an ever-growing collection, here are a few things worth thinking about.

1. Find an artist whose style speaks to you

Every artist has their own particular style, and most have certain subjects they love to tattoo. Some go big and bold, some create delicate, detailed work - and there are hundreds of styles in-between. Some artists love skulls, daggers and various objects on fire, some are purely portrait artists, and some focus on botanicals and shells. You can probably guess where I fit in.

Choose someone whose work feels like you, and make sure they actually specialise in the type of tattoo you want - both the style and subject matter. You wouldn’t ask a tribal artist for a dainty fine-line botanical, or vice versa. On a similar note, if you're thinking of going to a PMU (permanent make-up artist) artist for a tattoo - it’s a different craft. It would be like asking a nail artist to do your hair because they both work in beauty. In both cases, It’s not that they couldn’t give it a go, but it probably won’t be their best work.

I can't stress this enough - Make sure you always spend time looking at an artists work on their socials (both fresh and healed) before having a tattoo with them. You'd be surprised how many people just walk into a high street tattoo shop and get a tattoo without seeing the artists fresh or healed work. Sometimes it works out well for them, but personally I wouldn't roll those dice.

Hand-poking a tattoo in the studio

2. Hand-poke or machine?

Hand-poke is like the yoga of tattooing. Done dot by dot, it’s a little slower and calmer than a machine tattoo, feeling gentler, more meditative, and often healing faster. It’s perfect for delicate designs, small details, or if you want the process to feel a bit more personal.

Machines are better for larger pieces, bold lines, or heavier shading. It really comes down to the style you want and the kind of experience you’re after - whether you’re in the mood for a meditative experience or a quicker, sharper finish. Either way, both can look amazing if you pick the right artist for the style. There’s no right or wrong, just what feels best for you.

3. Ask around and read the reviews

Instagram is probably the best way to find artists, but word of mouth is also gold. If you love someone’s tattoo, ask who did it, and importantly, what the experience was like.

Did they feel comfortable? Were they listened to? Online reviews are useful too. Look for mentions of professionalism, friendliness, hygiene, communication and the overall experience - not just how it looks at the end. The tattoo experience is just as important.

4. Consider the studio vibe

This one’s a biggie. The environment can completely change how your tattoo experience feels. Will you enjoy a bustling, lively studio with multiple artists working and people chatting and coming and going? If you thrive on that kind of energy, amazing.

But for others, it can feel intimidating or overwhelming, especially if you’re new to tattoos or a little anxious. My studio, for example, is the opposite: quiet, relaxed, and just one-on-one. No audience, no machines whirring in the background, no walk-ins watching over your shoulder. Just you, me, and maybe the odd tractor passing by in the field. I prefer to take just one client a day so you don't feel like you're being rushed through a conveyor belt. You can talk, not talk, bring your headphones, and feel comfortable to ask for stretch/snack/toilet breaks whenever you need. (You’d be surprised how many people feel too awkward to ask in busy studios).

5. Price matters, and it’s worth it

Good tattoos aren’t cheap, and cheap tattoos aren’t good. It sounds blunt, but it’s true. Tattoos are a luxury, and they’re also forever, so make sure you can afford the the quote before booking in. If your dream artist’s price feels out of reach right now, don’t panic. Save up and book when you can. It’s better to wait and get a tattoo you’ll love forever than rush into something you’ll regret.

It's important to respect the time, creativity, and skill that goes into original designs. As tempting as it might be, asking a tattooer to copy someone else’s tattoo is a no-go. It’s copyright infringement - basically design theft. Want a similar design? Fine. Want an exact clone? Nope. Any decent artist will never copy another artist’s work line-for-line, but they will create something unique for you while still capturing what you love.

6. Do you actually like your artist as a person?

You’re trusting someone with your skin, and your comfort, for a good few hours (or more). So it really helps if you like them. Do they seem kind? Patient? Someone you’d actually want to spend time with? I'd always say choose an artist who you think will be caring and compassionate, especially if your tattoo has an a very personal/emotional meaning. As an artist, I want every client to leave feeling safe, heard, and genuinely cared for.

7. Inclusive tips for all clients

Everyone deserves a safe, positive tattoo experience. Here are some things to consider:

• Neurodiverse clients: You might prefer a quiet studio, adjustable lighting, minimal distractions, or having the choice of music/no music. Bring comfort items or headphones if that helps. A calm environment can make a huge difference.

• Clients with disabilities or additional needs: Check accessibility ahead of time and chat with your artist about what you need. We can often adjust positioning or session length to help you stay comfortable.

• BIPOC clients: Look for an artist experienced in tattooing diverse skin tones. Healing and colour saturation can differ, and a knowledgeable artist will know how to get the best results.

• LGBTQ+ clients: Choose an inclusive studio and an artist who's an ally or LGBTQ+ themselves. You do not want to end up with a tattoo gammon who thinks hate symbols are a laugh.

• For tattoos with cultural or religious significance: You might want an artist who shares your background or understands the deeper meaning behind your tattoo.

• Other considerations: Anxiety, chronic pain, or medical conditions? Let your artist know. Good artists will do their best adjust session lengths, positions, or techniques to keep you safe and comfortable.

8. Sometimes it’s worth a little adventure

Don’t be afraid to travel for the right artist. Honestly, it can be part of the fun. Make a little weekend of it. Treat yourself to a night away, some nice food, and a calm, professional tattoo experience that feels right for you. You’ll come home with not just a tattoo you love, but a really good memory too.

Quite a few of my clients make a long journey to my studio - some have friends or family nearby who they catch up and stay with, and some book a hotel or b+b. If you plan on staying nearby, I'd be happy to send you some recommendations.

Wrest Park - A beautiful English Heritage property and gardens - Just 20 minutes drive from the studio

9. Ask questions, all of them

No question is too small or too silly. Any good artist would rather you feel fully informed, rather than anxious and unsure of any part of the tattoo or appointment process. It's our job to help you feel as calm and confident as possible about your appointment.

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A tattoo is more than an image on the skin - it’s a memory, a moment, a feeling. Every time you see it, you’ll remember your tattoo experience. That’s why finding an artist who makes the whole process calm, friendly, and personal is just as important as the design itself.

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If you want to chat or have any questions before making an appointment, just drop me a line at hello@cathpilling.co.uk and I’ll get back to you.