“Tattooed” is much better than “tatted.” It just sounds like you know more of what you’re talking about, I think top artists would prefer to work with clients who had a clue as opposed to people throwing around slang tattoo terms which will make them cringe.

More on topic, though…be patient and persistent through phone or email without being too much of a pain in the ass. Realize, also, that many top artists rarely have time for new clients and book mostly return clients and continuing existing pieces. For a single session tattoo, try booking at a convention. You can follow certain artists on that thing they call facebook, maybe you can get lucky with a posting of a cancellation or an opening at a convention. Also, research the artists and know they’re preferred styles. For example, don’t ask Josh Woods for a tribal or a black and grey portrait, make sure your design ideas are interesting and challenging to the specific artist and allow them to have some artistic freedom with your tattoo as most artists like that.

Now, Adler…it’s not a made up word! http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/tatting

Who knows? Maybe this gentleman really does want Nick Baxter to do some lacework on him!

The key is to have an idea that they will be pumped to do. Don’t ask about cost until way later in the conversation. And just don’t sound like a douche. That’s it good luck.

Well if his style is what really appeals to you, then there’s definitely no replacement for it. I’m having a hard time imagining an outer space piece in Nick Baxter’s style though.

Here’s one by James Kern:

np. James is a great artist like his brother, though their styles are completely different. Let us know if you get him booked so we can be envious. 🙂