Wisconsin requires tattoo artists and body piercers to be licensed, and the studio itself must be licensed too. Ask to see the licenses, and look for a clean workspace, single-use needles opened in front of you, and gloves.

Age rules are strict. No one under 18 may be tattooed in Wisconsin except by a physician. No one under 16 may be body pierced, and 16- and 17-year-olds need a parent or legal guardian to sign a consent form in person at the studio.

Look through an artist's portfolio for work in the style you want, especially healed photos. Ask about deposits, how many sessions a large piece will take, touch-up policies, and how to care for it while it heals.