Thinking about getting a tattoo? Whether it’s your first or your fifth, asking the right questions before the needle hits skin can make all the difference in your experience and your results. At Piranha Tattoo in Vaughan, Ontario, we’ve seen how informed clients are often the happiest ones. Knowing what to ask your tattoo artist helps build trust, ease nerves, and make sure you walk away with something you love.
Here are 8 questions you should ask before committing to that new ink.
1. Are You Experienced in the Style I Want?
Tattooing is an art, and like any artist, most tattooists have a style they specialize in. Some are masters of realism, others excel in fine line, bold colour, or traditional flash.
If you want a hyper-realistic portrait, you don’t want someone who is mainly tribal. If you’re after a delicate script, you need someone with a steady hand and strong linework.
Our artists have decades of combined experience across a range of styles – from ultra-detailed realism to minimalist designs. If you bring us a concept, we’ll match you with the right artist for your vision.
2. Can I See Your Portfolio?
A professional artist will always have a portfolio, digital or physical. This is the best way to gauge their skill, consistency, and range. You should look for:
- Clean line work
- Smooth shading
- Healed results (if available)
- Pieces similar to what you’re planning
If they hesitate to show you examples or only have filtered social media photos, that’s a red flag.
At Piranha Tattoo, every artist proudly shares their past work. We want you to feel confident about who’s doing your tattoo.
Related Article: Best Tattoo Ideas for First-Timers
3. How Do You Keep Everything Clean and Safe?
This isn’t just a smart question, it’s essential.
Ask your artist about:
- Sterilization practices
- Single-use needles
- Disposable gloves and ink caps
- Surface disinfecting between clients
A reputable shop will have no problem walking you through its safety protocols.
Piranha Tattoo exceeds Ontario’s health and safety standards. Our environment is spotless, and we only use single-use, sterile equipment. You can sit in our chair knowing everything is handled with care and professionalism.
Related Article: How to Prepare for a Tattoo
4. How Will the Tattoo Age Over Time?
What looks bold and crisp on day one may fade or blur over time. Placement, skin type, ink colour, and sun exposure all play a role in how a tattoo holds up.
Ask your artist:
- “Will this design still look good in 10 years?”
- “How do fine lines or colour blends age?”
- “Is there anything you’d change to make it more durable?”
An experienced tattooer will guide you toward a version of your idea that’s both beautiful and built to last.
5. What’s the Healing Process Like?
You shouldn’t leave your appointment confused about tattoo aftercare. Healing affects how your tattoo looks and how comfortable you feel.
Ask:
- “What should I expect during healing?”
- “What products should I use?”
- “When can I swim or work out again?”
- “What signs of infection should I look for?”
At Piranha Tattoo, we provide every client with clear, written aftercare instructions. We’re also here to answer questions if anything comes up post-session.
Related Article: How Long Does It Take for a Tattoo to Heal?
6. How Long Will It Take, and How Much Will It Cost?
Tattoo pricing depends on the design, size, location, and artist. Some artists charge by the hour, others offer a flat rate. Either way, you deserve clarity.
Ask:
- “How many sessions will this take?”
- “How long is each session?”
- “What’s your pricing structure?”
- “Is a deposit required?”
A good artist will be transparent about cost, so you can budget accordingly.
At Piranha Tattoo, we give honest, upfront quotes during your consultation. No guesswork, no surprise fees.
7. Does This Design Work for the Body Part I Chose?
Not all tattoos work everywhere. Skin texture, muscle movement, and curvature affect how a tattoo will lay and how well it will hold.
A design that looks great on paper might need tweaks to work on your forearm, ribs, or ankle. Ask:
- “Will this design flow well with my body?”
- “Should it be resized or adjusted?”
- “Is this placement known to fade faster or distort?”
At Piranha Tattoo, we don’t just apply a stencil, we customize it to your shape and movement. It’s part of why clients trust us with highly visible pieces.
8. What Happens If I Need a Touch-Up?
Even the best tattoos sometimes need touch-ups, especially if they’re in high-friction areas like fingers or feet. A reputable artist will offer guidance or even include a free touch-up within a certain timeframe.
Ask:
- “Is a touch-up included in the price?”
- “How soon should I come back if something fades?”
- “Can I reach out if something doesn’t heal right?”
We stand behind our work. At Piranha Tattoo, we offer a touch-up policy and are happy to answer questions after your appointment. We want your ink to heal and look exactly how you envisioned it.
Trust Your Gut
If something feels off, whether it’s the vibe, cleanliness, or communication, it’s okay to walk away. Getting a tattoo is a personal experience, and you should feel comfortable, respected, and informed from the start.
That’s why so many people choose Piranha Tattoo. Our artists take the time to listen, explain, and collaborate because your comfort matters just as much as the final result.
Know What to Ask Your Tattoo Artist
Tattoos are forever. Taking 10 minutes to ask the right questions can save you regret, money, and discomfort down the road.
Knowing what to ask your tattoo artist isn’t just about being cautious; it’s about being prepared, confident, and making sure your tattoo is something you’ll love for life.
At Piranha Tattoo in Vaughan, we welcome your questions. We want you to understand the process, feel good about your decision, and walk away with something you’re proud to wear.
Book a consultation today and let’s talk about your next piece. No pressure, but real advice from experienced artists who care about the work and the people behind it.