Question to tattoo artists or experienced peeps out there?

Question

Hello, this is a curiousity of mine because I have heard it said before and I wanted to get it clarified. I got my first tattoo about 8 months ago and the black on the ink has already patched and the tattoo just doesnt look great. A few times I meant to get it touched up but it never worked out time wise for me or the artist. I know most tattoo artists have a guarantee on their tattoos but if he messed it up once why would I want him to make it worse. I do not want to cover it up because it is symbollic. I was tempted to ask my new tattoo artist of he could work on it but I heard that is a major "no no" in the tattoo community and artists do not like to mess with each others work. Some get mad just for you asking them. I sort of know the guy but I still don't feel right asking. What is the reason that tattoo artists do not like to go other somebodys "so so" work?

PS

The tattoo wasnt cheap and it still didnt come out right

Answer 1

The best answer to that question that I can think of, is that the new artists work and name will be on that tattoo. No matter how good an artist is, if the skin was damaged, or you did not take proper care of it, or if it was a generally bad tattoo, they dont want people knowing that they worked on it, and have it potentially damage their reputation. A tattoo artists' long term reputation is extraordinarily important. If they get mad, than they are premadonna d*cks, and you shouldn't be letting them tattoo you anyway. People ask me that all the time. I dont get mad, but sometimes the coverup is so detailed, or the original work is so bad, or the skin is so damaged, I will POLITELY tell them that I cannot work on it because of this,this, and this. Asking him to do it is not an offense. Just dont be upset when he tells you that he would rather not.

Answer 2

Your new tattoo artist shouldn't have a problem with fixing your old tattoo up. In fact, some artists specialize in retouching and covering up old tattoos.

Just ask him about it. Point out what's wrong with it and ask what you should do. He will probably tell you he can fix it for you. If he says no, find someone else.

Older tattoos often need to be re-inked to keep the lines looking fresh, especially if it has heavy blackwork involved. And if you weren't satisfied with the job the first guy did, you definitely don't need to go back to him.

Just remember that when a tattoo is healing, it will itch and scab over, but picking at it is a huge no-no because it will make it splotchy and faded out in places. Also, keep it slathered in A&D Ointment while it's healing.

Answer 3

its kinda like a 'no no' but its nothing that is strictly prohibited...if you know the guy then go for it...there is no written law that says "thou shalt not ask another tattoo artist to cover up/fix another artists' work." lol...

you could try using Cocoa Butter...that stuff is great on black ink...see how that goes..and if you are for sure that the ink is just patchy and different shades of black...then ya just go get a touch up...

Answer 4

my tattoo artist has fixed work before, he actually touched up a tattoo of my moms that looked like crap. but i guess it all depends on the artist.

Answer 5

B/c of the risk of possibly loosing the detail thats already there, and its just not theyre territory type of thing.If you know the tattooer semi well, he/she will probably fix it for you if thats what you want....Otherwise make sure you do your research to find a good reputable tattooer.... "a good tattoo aint cheap!"

Answer 6

from what I hear...TTS (technical tattoo supply) apparently they are great and nicely priced. i've heard that a pork roast with the skin on is great to start and supposedly an orange is a great way to tune your machine. it's just what i read...good luck and i hope everything works out in your favor!