Think before you ink: 20 tips for beautiful tattoos you’ll never regret – from the professionals

“My customers generally come to me for my style,” says Aly Sidgwick, a tattoo artist at Take Note in Edinburgh. “I do a lot of woodland creatures, like bats, badgers and birds, and also mythical creatures.” Trawling through designs on social media can be helpful in choosing an artist, if a little overwhelming: “Work out if you want something bold and bright or soft and subtle,” says Sidgwick, “then look online and see what kind of styles there are and who does those designs in your town.” Be prepared to travel for the right artist, Sidgwick adds.Research the artist’s credentials, says Casey Marie, a tattooist and owner of Seven Stones in Bristol. “Ask if they have a licence and insurance.” Find out about cleanliness levels by popping into the studio or checking online videos and reviews: “I always open my needles in front of clients so they know that they are fresh.” Also consider the cost and be clear about the likely price upfront: some artists, including Casey Marie, charge per artw...