Making the decision to get a tattoo is nothing to sneeze at. Whatever you get will be on your body for the rest of your life. Before you go out and get a tattoo, consider all of the following factors.
What Tattoo to Get
You may already have a tattoo image in mind, but before settling on it, consider how you’ll feel about it in a year, five years, or more. Is it an original design? Does it truly represent who you are? Are you 100% sure it’s the tattoo you want? It’s not a good idea to pick a tattoo out of a book of flash art, as these designs are commonly used, and completely diminish the sense of originality a tattoo should bring to you.
If you can’t find a design that is exactly what you want, but you have a general idea of what you are looking for, set up a consultation with a tattoo artist. It’s part of their job to design work for you, and you should be wholeheartedly satisfied with it before it gets put on your skin.
Where to Put your Tattoo
Tattoo placement is another important decision. Where you put your tattoo will depend on a number of factors. Firstly, certain designs will need to be a certain size in order to look their best, so it may be a matter of finding the right spot with the right amount of flesh for the piece. It may also be a matter of finding a part of your body with the right curve or angle to best suit the design.
At the same time, you may need to consider your career when you choose where to put your tattoo. If it’s your first tattoo, a lot of artists will recommend you keep it above the wrists, but below the collar. While tattoos are becoming increasingly common, having a tattoo that is always visible is still a major decision to make, and it’s something that you should think about seriously beforehand.
Where to Get your Tattoo Done
Picking an artist is the most important part of getting your tattoo. You want to make sure that they are both capable as a tattooist, and also that they are skilled in the style of artwork you are looking for. Don’t be afraid to “shop around,” so to speak, before choosing an artist. Go into shops, look at portfolios, chat with the artists if possible, and find the right person to work on you.
You also want to make sure that the shop you are going to is of the highest quality in terms of cleanliness. If you are feeling uncertain about the shop, don’t hesitate to ask about their cleaning procedures. A reputable shop should be using an autoclave to clean their equipment, and they should be open to discussing their cleaning methods.
Tattoo Don’ts
- Don’t… rush into getting a tattoo on a whim
- Don’t… pick a design because it's trendy or fashionable
- Don’t… get a name tattooed on you unless you’re 500% sure about it
- Don’t… get a tattoo while drunk or under the influence (a reputable shop should not even agree to tattoo you in such a state to begin with)
- Don’t…go through with a tattoo if you’re not happy with the design
Tattoo Dos
- Do…get a tattoo that means a lot to you
- Do…learn how to take proper care of your tattoo
- Do…find a reputable shop and an artist you trust
- Do...try a henna tattoo first if you're not sure
- Do…love your skin and your tattoos, and show them off!
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