How To Choose A Tattoo - Tattoo 101

Choosing a tattoo is not an easy decision. Choosing the right tattoo can take hours if not days. You want to pick a tattoo that is uniquely you. You want a unique tattoo design that tells the world something about you.
The decision to choose a tattoo should not be taken lightly. A tattoo is meant to be permanent; it’s something that will be with you for many years, if not forever. The fact that you’re reading this article means that you are giving some thought to the process - that’s good. This article will discuss the things you should consider when you decide to choose a tattoo. Take your time and make this decision only after careful thought. Don’t rush yourself, you may end up regretting the whole decision. Don’t give in to peer pressure. This is not something you do on the weekend after having too much to drink.

Be clear about your reason for getting a tattoo. The art that you put on your body is a means of expression, make it an expression of you. Choose a tattoo that fits you. Don’t make it a statement of the new you, because you don’t know how long that new you will be around, but the tattoo will. Keep in mind there is pain involved. Are you willing to endure it?

Research prices and get an idea of the total cost of the tattoo that you want. Some artists charge between $100 to $250 per hour. Small tattoos can take between 30 minutes and 1 1/2 hours. Do not go for the cheapest artist you can find. Remember, you get what you pay for. If you don’t have the budget for what you want, take some more time and save up. It can’t be stressed enough, be very definite about your decision. This decision is more long term than the house that some people live in or the people they marry.

Find a professional tattoo artist, someone who is qualified to do the job. Check with people you know who have tattoos. Find out where they went, who they used and what their experience was like. Find a parlor that is concerned about the laws, all laws. If they will tattoo someone under the legal age, then there may be other laws that they don’t adhere to. This could be a threat to your safety. A good professional tattoo artist will take the time to talk to you about your design. They can show you samples of their work and you can see how the designs look on real skin.

When you choose a tattoo you also choose the place on your body where it will be. This is almost as big of a decision as the design of the tattoo. Keep in mind your occupation. Although tattoos are becoming more socially acceptable, there are still many employers who don’t want their employees to have tattoos showing. Is the tattoo something you want to show the world or only an intimate group of people?

You probably already have an idea of the type of tattoo you want. Make sure you choose a tattoo that you will be proud of. DO NOT RUSH. Take your time and find the right tattoo for you. What message are you going to tell the world by your tattoo? The internet is a great place to shop around for tattoo designs. In one place you can see thousands of unique tattoo designs and print them out. Consider combining a couple different tattoos together to design your unique tattoo.

I can’t say it enough, when you choose a tattoo, you are making a statement to the world. What do you want your statement to say? Take your time and choose a tattoo that you will be proud of. Make this a decision that you will cherish for the rest of your life.
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By Lynne Jones
Published: 7/1/2008
 
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