Great question...
A good tickler is...
- respectful. They don't go overboard or push limits TOO far. They know what the ticklee is comfortable with, and is happy to work inside those parameters.
- attentive. A good tickler is always watching, listening and observing. They search for details on where the really good tickle spots are, the changing reactions of the ticklee, and they can deduce what those reactions mean. (when to push further, when to lighten up, etc.)
- creative. They keep the ticklee guessing, which in turn, makes them more sensitive. Whether this is unique spots or tools, or its just in terms of the teasing or conversation, their mind is active, which is the sexiest part of any person.
Those are the big 3 for me.