Tattoo Supplies - A Buyer's Guide

So you've decided to get inked, now what? Where should you start when it comes to buying tattoo supplies? There are hundreds of tattoo parlors out there and it can be confusing when deciding where to go. Most people start by visiting their local tattoo parlor, but that isn't always the best option. Here is a list of some of your other options.

Some shops sell generic tattoo supplies. These are the cheapest way to go, because they usually just use ink and stencils for your tattoos. They are also the least quality of the three. If you're looking for a tattoo that is unique, one that is one of a kind, then this is definitely not the place to go. You'll pay more for that type of tattoo and it will take longer to complete.

If you do end up buying from a tattoo parlor, you might notice that they have different types of ink and tools. This is great if you're buying a tattoo for someone else. You can try them on and find out if they match or not before spending your money. Most places want to make sure you're happy with your tattoo so they try their best to find the right colors and equipment. But if you're buying one for yourself, it's a good idea to find out what's available first.

Online tattoo stores are one of the best places to find quality tattoo supplies. They tend to carry a wide variety of tools, colors, and supplies that you wouldn't otherwise find locally. One thing to look for is a refund/replacement policy. As mentioned above, most places want to make sure you're happy so they'll offer you a large replacement if you're not completely satisfied. Sometimes this means just exchanging the supplies for another color or changing the stencils a bit.

A tattoo parlor's main window is usually packed with equipment. But you can sometimes find some of the supplies in other parts of the shop. Check out any hidden corners of the room. You may be surprised at the things you can find tucked into a nook or off to the side. Even the back of the tattoo supplies racks can be a great place to find new items.

If you have a tattoo parlor that is small or new, try asking for a discount or a sample sale. You can often get your supplies for cheap during a transition period. You may also find that you can buy a new set of tattoo supplies from the store. Don't be afraid to let the tattoo shop know that you're buying wholesale so they can give you a discount. Usually they appreciate this, since it means they can do more business.

Some tattoo supplies aren't sold in shops, at least not on a large scale. There are a number of websites out there that offer tattoo materials. Some of them have better prices than others and they usually carry only the best materials. When you order online, you can rest assured that your tattoo materials will arrive in good shape. And many times, shipping is free, which is another incentive to buy online.

A tattoo is a long-term commitment. It's something that you'll want to feel good about for years to come. To find the right tattoo supplies, shop around. You may even find that you can get a great deal on the first tattoo supplies that you purchase.

Before you buy tattoo supplies, though, make sure you know exactly what you want. If you're buying an elaborate tattoo that you plan to wear only on certain parts of your body, you might want to consider purchasing those items individually. If you're looking for something a little simpler, though, you can probably find good deals by looking through a tattoo supply store or two. Just keep looking!

Don't forget that you can get some really great deals on tattoo supplies by shopping online. You can usually find coupons or other special deals by browsing around. Many stores offer a wide variety of savings when you shop online, especially if you use a store coupon code. However, it's important to be wary of fake or stolen items when you're shopping online, as they often have poor quality and are manufactured cheaply.

Finally, remember that tattoo supplies aren't something you should buy every day. If you're just getting started with tattooing, you can generally buy what you need in one trip to your local tattoo supply store. As you become more experienced, though, it will become less practical to buy everything you need at once.