Tattoo Ideas

Getting the Right Tattoo for You

A tattoo is a very individual choice. Sure, you can walk into a tattoo shop and pick something out of a book or off a wall. But do you really want a tattoo that other people also have? Or do you want something that's unique to you?

Start by thinking about why you want the tattoo. Are you marking something that happened in your life? Are you honoring someone you care about? Are you making a social or political statement? Do you want to show the world what you're into? Do you just think it would be cool?

Design Ideas

Once you're clear on what the tattoo is about, think about how you can convey that idea or feeling in a picture. Here are some places to look for inspiration:

• Fine art museums. How did the artists use images to convey emotion? Why do you think they chose the images they did?
• Nature. If you love the ocean, try walking by the seashore. Look at the shapes of the waves, the shells, the sand dunes. Is there something you'd like incorporated into your tattoo?
• Music. Get out your CD collection. How do your favorite bands and singers use pictures to represent their music?
• Graphic novels. If you love manga or American graphic novels, flip through the pages. How is your favorite character drawn? What are the backgrounds?
• Hobbies. What images go along with the things you like to do? Horses, motorcycles, film, surfboards, and more can become part of a tattoo.

Looking at Others' Tattoos

Girl with a chest tattoo

The internet is full of pictures of other people's tattoos. There are galleries full of photos sent in by people who just wanted to share their art. Many tattoo shops maintain their own pages with examples of the artists' work.

Spend some time browsing the net. Take the time to look at different shops' sites. You might find an artist you really love. If you do, get in touch with the artist and find out if you see eye to eye. Since a tattoo is permanent, it might be worth traveling to that shop to get your ink done. A good artist will listen to your ideas and create a design just for you.

When It's OK to Get a Cliché

Some flash options

Some tattoo images are classics. Military symbols, American eagles, and Celtic knots never seem to go out of style. But should yours look like everyone else's?

If you're getting your tattoo to symbolize being part of a group, you may well want the same one as everyone else. The logo of the U.S. Marine Corps or the Navy SEALs is a point of pride for many soldiers. The Harley-Davidson symbol is recognizable almost anywhere. Your family crest isn't going to change.

But if your tattoo is meant to show your originality, take the time to think about how you can make it your own. If you're getting a Persian design across your back, design it yourself or seek out an artist who specializes in that style. Instead of choosing a rose from a tattoo flash web site, think about what your rose should look like and let your personal style guide your design.

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