Also since no one else has mentioned it shop around a bit. Since you have the design already the prices quoted to you should be fairly similar, if you find places that have wildly different prices be very cautious, especially if it is a low quote. Cheaper is NOT better with most things, and this especially holds true with tattoos. It could very well mean they are skipping on something important (like brand new sterile needles). While you are getting price quotes, check out the portfolios of the artists at each studio, the whole process is a little more involved than just a stencil. If they are a really good artist they may offer suggestions about little things you could add to your design to make it more individual to you. Once you have your price quote get it in writing.
Also important health safety info, not every jurisdiction has regulations on tattoo shops (in fact most don't). Contact you local health department and find out if your municipality has any bylaws/enforcement/inspections WRT to Tattoo shops. If they don't be cautious, while a lot of shops may be very safe in these locales some won't so here are the health and safety things to look for.
1)Stick to "hard" shops, as finding out info on the place will be much easier, avoid tattoo artists in places like flea markets and other places where they can come and go overnight.
2)Overall does the shop look clean? First impressions count, so if they don't take time to keep the non-tattoo areas clean what assurance is there that the area you will get the tattoo be any better.
3)If the shop is located in a place that does inspections (like Toronto, which btw is one of the strictest in world when it comes to tattoo shops), ask for their report. If they hesitate or refuse, RUN don't walk out the door.
4)Some tattoo shops will also provide info on who disposes of the used needles, if they do read it.
5)All reputable and responsible shops have an autoclave (uses high pressure steam to sterilze equipment), and should have a yearly inspection report from an independant lab. Agian if they are hesitant/refuse to show you it, or have trouble saying the word "autoclave" get the heck out.
6)The Flooring and all countertops should be made of hard no porous material (like ceramic). They only carpet should be in the recepetion area, not in the back
7)The area where you get the tattoo should not be in a high traffic area
8)The sterile needle package MUST be opened infront of you. If you did not see them open the package, do not let them use those needles. Also they must/should (depending on the jurisdiction) dispose of the needles in an appropriate sharps container, with you as a witness. same goes for any razor that they used to shave the area
9)The area to be tattooed MUST be disinfected prior to work being done (the means you, the counter tops, chair)
10)The artist MUST wear gloves, if he doesn't he is risking his own health.,
11)The machine that holds the needles, and the cord to power it should/must (jursidiction dependant), be cover in plastic.
12)Ink MUST be poured into small one time use cups, so there is no cross contamination.
13)When finished the area is bandaged.
The "MUST" in capital letters is something that good do regardless of whether or not the local authorities say they have to or not. If they don't they are putting your safety in jeopardy and you should walk out.
Also most good shops will provide you with after care instructions, which you should follow if you want you tattoo to last and to prevent infections.
Good luck, and start planning your next ones! I have six, and have several more I want done.
