When buying tattoo supplies it can be a difficult task. There is so much choice that it can become confusing as to which suppliers offer the best deals. You can of course check out their websites, but how do you know what you will find? With so much choice available it means you should always use your instincts and your common sense. The main areas you should look for are quality, cost and reputation.
Quality tattoo supplies are essential to any tattoo project. Supplies such as ink, stencils, needles and other equipment should be sterilised and free from harmful bacteria. This is especially important if you plan on getting ink tattooed onto the skin. There is a good chance that you may have been tattooed at some stage in your life and this is where infection can easily develop. Using top quality tattoo supplies will ensure your tattoo job is a success.
Cost is also important when choosing suppliers. How much are you prepared to pay for tattoo supplies? How much of your tattoo budget are you willing to put towards paying out for professional advice and product support? Suppliers can vary a lot in price, so you need to get a firm idea of the amount of money you can afford to spend before shopping around. Word of mouth can give you an idea of pricing from other people who have tattooed at certain shops.
Reputation of the suppliers is an important issue. Check the online testimonials and check with the Better Business Bureau. Do not be afraid to ask questions about the supplier in question, because the more information you get the better decision you will ultimately make. If you see a lot of bad feedback then steer clear. However, if you see lots of positive feedback from happy customers, then continue with the supplier.
The cheapest supplies are not necessarily the best quality. The rule is not to sacrifice quality for a cheap price. Tattoo equipment needs to be well built, and they need to last. A supplier that is not well known is not likely to keep up-to-date with the latest technology, so you might want to consider another supplier. It's always better to spend a little bit more on better quality equipment.
If you are just starting out, then don't spend too much money on tattoo supplies. In most cases, you will find that the tattoo supplies you need will be fairly simple, such as inks, stencils, needles, tattoo guns, and other basic equipment. If you are planning a complex tattoo, it is probably a good idea to splurge a bit more. However, keep in mind that a good quality tattoo gun costs several hundred dollars, and it's definitely worth spending that extra cash for the best gun you can find.
Another thing to think about is where to source your tattoo equipment. If you live in a small town, then there may not be a good supplier available. This is why it is a good idea to do some research before you commit to one supplier. Look online to find reviews of tattoo equipment suppliers and read what customers have said about their services.
You need to be sure that the supplier that you go with is trustworthy and reputable. This can be checked with the BBB, or by checking out the website of the Better Business Bureau. Another good place to check out is the local shop or salon where you are getting the tattoo. If the staff are experienced and knowledgeable, then this is a good place to find good supplies.