If you make the decision to get a tattoo, knowing where to find inspiration for a design can aid in the process. Certain tattoo websites offer designs by category and location. Other ways to figure out what you would like to get include browsing sample artwork at tattoo parlors, consulting tattoo artists, and getting advice and opinions from family members and friends. Getting a tattoo is a big decision, so it is important to get something you will love for years to come.
History
The art of tattooing has been around for centuries. In recent years, though, tattoos have taken on a more favorable reputation and have become more popular. It is important to put thought into what you want to get and have an exact idea of what you'd like when you go into the tattoo parlor to speak to your artist.
Types
If you decide you want a tattoo, figure out what you are fond of or something significant to you. It is easier to find an idea for a tattoo if you give thought to what you're passionate about. Many people choose to go the text route, opting for a song lyric or a quote from a novel. Others have a design instead, such as a flower or dragon. Symbols, zodiac signs, and pledges such as a heart with a name can pay homage to your background or a loved one. Narrow down your ideas and then begin your search.
Considering where to look
The internet lends itself to giving you a host of tattoo ideas. Before turning to websites though, it is always a good idea to consult family, friends, and anyone you know who has a tattoo. They might have suggestions or words of advice. Many websites offer galleries you can comb through for inspiration. You might find an exact image of the tattoo you've been seeking, or if you find something similar and would like to make some changes, you can bring it to your tattoo artist and get opinions. Sites such as tattoofinder.com and tattoojohnny.com are good ones to check out. Keep in mind these sites will charge you if you download or print out a tattoo. Everytattoo.com is a website that doesn't charge you.
Other Places to Look
Other good places to check out are Tumblr, where users often upload photos of tattoos, and weheartit.com, a social bookmarking site. Many users post pictures of tattoos, and as of September 2010, there were more than 800 pages of tattoos at weheartit. Both these social networking sites allow you to print images without payment. Tattoo parlors usually display samples of their work for you to go through. You can always go to a tattoo parlor and speak with an artist. You can share your ideas, and the artist should be able to sketch them for you.
Considerations
Give a lot of thought to your design, and avoid rash decisions. The Montreal Gazette says getting tattoos is somewhat "trendy," so people don't always put much thought into getting one. The Houston Tattoo Removal Blog even has a flowchart that shows when is and isn't a good time to get a tattoo. Also keep in mind not every place of employment is tattoo friendly, so you might consider getting one in a place you can easily hide, if necessary. Tattoos can be a fun way to demonstrate self-expression, but do your research first and make sure you know what you want.
Member Comments