I see bad tattoos on people on an almost daily basis……because cover-ups and fix-ups are one of my specialties. The reality is that there will always be more bad tattoos than good tattoos out there (I try to stay on the “good” side). This is true for a number of reasons:
- the ridiculous availability of tattoo equipment to the non-professionals
- the lack of artistic talent and proper training
- the desire of people whose primary objective is TO TRY AND SAVE A BUCK!!.
I’ve talked to so many people over the years and listened to many stories about how they ended up with their “TURDS” (crappy tattoos).
“I went into this shop and it was clean, had a great atmosphere, great music playing at a pleasant volume, friendly staff who acknowledged me when I walked in the door and who listened to me and treated my ideas with respect. The artist and I immediately clicked and he/she came up with a great drawing……but the tattoo just didn’t turn out the way I expected, and this is what I ended up with,” said NO ONE…………E-V-E-R!!!!
They always comment that:
- “the shop looked dirty.”
- “the music was blaring and I couldn’t even hear myself think.”
- “I sat in the lobby for awhile and no one said a word to until I was walking out the door.”
- “they had attitudes and acted like thugs.”
- “they treated me like I was stupid.”
- “they looked high.”
And they often end with “I should’ve just walked out!”
Yes! You should have!!
And if you’re looking to save a buck and “cheap” is your main criteria for your new tattoo….good luck to you. Enjoy your TURD. Cover-ups and fix-ups are a good portion of my business, and as I like to say, “So many TURDS,…so little time.” Don’t get tattooed out of someone’s house/apartment/trailer (even if they say “I USED TO own a shop but…blah blah blah.” DON’T BELIEVE IT!! It’s BULLS#%T!!). Besides the poor quality and health risks….IT’S illegal!!
Do your homework. Research local shops online. Check out artists and portfolios. Make sure the artist that will be doing your work is capable of creating the style and quality of tattoo you want. Make sure you’re comfortable in the environment and that you’re treated respectfully.
So, in a nutshell, I say “Go with your gut!” If it doesn’t feel right….walk out!
BAD VIBE = BAD INK!!
– Kurt “the Hurt” Baldyga
Chicago Custom Tattoo (PinellasPark, FL)
http://www.chicagocustomtattoo.com
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