Looking for the best tattoo in Madison, WI? You’re in luck. Madison has a vibrant tattoo scene with plenty of talented artists specializing in all kinds of styles.
This guide gives you some tips on how to find the right shop and artist for your next tattoo. Doing your research and looking at reviews, portfolios, and hygiene practices is important. You should also understand pricing and what a consultation with your artist will look like.
Evaluating Tattoo Shops: Reviews and Availability
Before you commit to a tattoo, it’s a good idea to do some research on local shops. Here are a couple of things to consider:
Checking Online Reviews
Look for shops that consistently get positive reviews for their artistry, their cleanliness, and their customer service. If an artist is mentioned by name, even better! For example, one reviewer might say, “Rhiannon (Ree) did an amazing job with my custom mandala tattoo.”
As an example, one shop in the Riverside Park area has 3 out of 5 stars, based on 6 reviews, while a shop in Williamson – Marquette has 3.9 stars, based on 51 reviews.
Confirming Availability and Shop Hours
Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, it’s time to check the shop’s hours and availability, either online or by calling them directly. You may also want to check to make sure they’re not closed for any period of time.
Choosing the right artist
Picking the right artist makes all the difference. Here’s how to find the perfect match:
- Portfolio Review: Check out the artist’s online portfolio, often on Instagram. Do their work and style match your vision? Look for artists who specialize in the specific style you want, like traditional, minimalist, or custom.
- Consultation: Schedule a consultation to discuss your idea and make sure the artist understands what you want. Some places even offer virtual consultations.
- Popular services: Find out what styles and services the shop specializes in.
Closing Thoughts
Choosing a tattoo shop in Madison requires looking at reviews, artist portfolios, and shop availability. Once you have a shop or two in mind, schedule a consultation to discuss your ideas and get a price estimate.
Doing your homework helps ensure a good tattoo experience. Remember to prioritize cleanliness and clear communication with your chosen artist.