how to select a tattoo studio (Edm)

[mark]

Wife seriously wants to get a small tattoo.

Know nothing about this so other than seeing some of the artists work, what should she be looking for and any places recommended in Edmonton?

[banditpowdercoat]

I would look to see how clean the place is, and ask how they sterilize the needles.

[findingnemo1]

For sure you want to know about there sterilization techniques. I went around to a few shops untill i found everything i was looking for.I also googled 'Calgary tattoo reviews" and found alot of them out there. Was able to talk to the artist as this was for my foot and it is one of the more painful spots. I think the comfort level and trust has to be there with the artist as this is something you will have for life...

I have also sent you a pm with just another little tidbit of info...

[patpare]

In my opinion as a tattoo collector,i would not limit myself to a local shop just cause it's conviniant(i cant spell worth s@#t).Look around and make sure you look at the artists book and speak with them for while to see if you fell confortable with the artist.
Good luck

[pelle31]

Originally Posted by patpare

In my opinion as a tattoo collector,i would not limit myself to a local shop just cause it's conviniant(i cant spell worth s@#t).Look around and make sure you look at the artists book and speak with them for while to see if you fell confortable with the artist.
Good luck

I agree with this post as well!! Also talk to others that have nice tattoo's and see where they got them from.

[inkslinger]

Originally Posted by banditpowdercoat

I would look to see how clean the place is, and ask how they sterilize the needles.

well one thing, a real tattoo shop does not sterilize needles, we destroy em an use new for each customer!
If you live in Edmonton, check out Ink machine and Atomic Zombies two stellar shops for Edmonton...I belive there is a tattoo convention also coming up the thirs weekend in Aug. Packed full of some of the best artist in the world, and thats my 2 cents!!

[04scoobysti]

Originally Posted by inkslinger

well one thing, a real tattoo shop does not sterilize needles, we destroy em an use new for each customer!
If you live in Edmonton, check out Ink machine and Atomic Zombies two stellar shops for Edmonton...I belive there is a tattoo convention also coming up the thirs weekend in Aug. Packed full of some of the best artist in the world, and thats my 2 cents!!

+1
That's what Danny does at Ink Machine, i've got all my work done there.
They also dispose of the tubes as well. I've heard nothing but good things about Marina at Atomic, but both of those shops you may to wait a year or 2.
Shawn at Ink Machine does phenomenal work and he would probably take on smaller projects. Lucky strike and Capital tattoo also do top notch work.

[mark]

Thanks all.

How does a convention work? Do you pre-book for a tattoo or stand in-line?

[G1GY]

Originally Posted by mark

Thanks all.

How does a convention work? Do you pre-book for a tattoo or stand in-line?

Book in advance for anybody noteable, but that's not to say you won't hook up with some amazing up and comer.

EDIT:
I forgot to mention......... Like inkslinger said, Atomic Zombie for the win! You won't go wrong with them.

[michika]

Originally Posted by mark

Thanks all.

How does a convention work? Do you pre-book for a tattoo or stand in-line?

The Tattoo Convention is just that, a convention. You pay to get in, and you can wander around for all three days, August 14th, 15th, and 16th. A lot of people tend to book time with artists while they are there, and then get work done throughout the weekend. Its fun! There are also clothes, jewelry and a bunch of other booths to check out.

I also have no idea on the pricing to get in, but I hear last year it was somewhat expensive when you add in parking, entry, and food on the grounds. I get in free every year, so I can only tell you what I heard last year.