Tattoos used to be a taboo thing people got in back alleyways. Fast forward to today and it’s more of a rarity not to have one. These days, nearly 47% of millennials have at least one.

There’s no denying that tattoo designs are a great way to express yourself. You can tell a story by displaying art as ink on your body. With so many choices, it can be easy to be overwhelmed in the process.

You don’t want to get something you’ll regret down the line. There are certain things you can do to ensure choosing a tattoo design goes smoothly. Keep reading to find out what they are.

Ask Yourself Why You Want Body Art

If you’re getting your first tattoo, you will want to ask yourself why you want one in the first place. Perhaps you want to commemorate a special moment in memory or pay homage to a loved one. Some focus mainly on tattoo designs rather than the message behind them.

Many tattoo artists would agree that when someone gets a tattoo, having one that speaks to you or honors someone else is the way to go. Getting something with good intentions will stand the test of time on your body.

It could be you have an old black and white photograph of your grandfather you want to be done. Maybe someone got married or passed away. Once you have the person or memory in place, choosing a tattoo design will come a lot easier.

Don’t feel like it has to be some big moment either. It could be as simple as paying respects to a musician you look up to or a place that holds a special place in your heart.

Consult a Tattoo Artist

Deciding on tattoo designs on your own can be a daunting task. The good news is you don’t have to! Take your time in finding a tattoo artist you like.

Scroll through Instagram to see what designs appeal to you. Once you do, a tattoo artist can help brainstorm with you once you’ve given them something to work with.

They will continue to work with you and answer things like where to get a tattoo and the size. Don’t feel like you have to go big with your first tattoo. Smaller is best to get your feet wet.

Check out reviews of the tattoo shop as well.

Before you commit, you want to be happy with the artist’s suggestions.

Determine Where You Want Your Ink

Knowing where to get a tattoo is part of the process. Certain designs will work better in certain spots (depending on size and structure).

Another thing to keep in mind is your profession or personal life. Think of what is okay to wear and under what circumstances. This is also about your comfort level and what you’re willing to show off.

Ensure It Makes You Happy

Knowing how to pick a tattoo starts with knowing how to make yourself happy.

We don’t recommend getting a tattoo of your significant other. You never know the future of the relationship, so it doesn’t make sense to get it for a lifetime. You don’t want to end up having to pay to cover it up.

Think in terms of the relationship with yourself. This is a forever kind of love, so take the time to think about what makes you truly happy in the world before you put it on your body.

It’s all about body positivity too. For example, someone who has alopecia or cancer could get a hair tattoo for balding.

Make a List of Your Favorite Things

There are certain phrases, lyrics, or quotes that will mean more to you. There’s a reason why these things are often tattooed. You could even combine them with an image for your tattoo.

Try listening to your favorite song or think of someone you’re close to has said in the past.

Gather Inspiration

Inspiration is all around you. Put your head in some tattoo magazines. Go to a tattoo convention.

Have a notebook handy for whenever inspiration strikes you. Jot it down or draw it out. When the time comes for your next tattoo, you’ll be able to sift through to find something that draws you in.

Look for Ideas in Unusual Places

Aside from the norm, seek out unusual areas as well. Think of your favorite movie and re-watch it. Go on a road trip to clear your head and get some ideas flowing.

Take some photos to bring back to your tattoo artist.

Keep an Open Mind

Once you have a clear idea, continue to refine it. Take it to your tattoo artist. Do your own research and imagine how it’d look on your skin.

Think Ahead

Go for timeless pieces, not just something at the moment or trendy. Put some thought into your tattoo designs.

Try to predict how you might feel in the future about this piece. What is your gut telling you? Go for something you’ll love for the long haul.

Express Yourself With Tattoo Designs

The sky is the limit when it comes to tattoo designs. If this is your first tattoo, take your time. There’s no need to rush into things.

When you sift through ideas, inspiration will come. When you walk around your city and notice others with tattoos, what pops out to you? What would you rather not get?

To stay in the creative loop, be sure to check out our blog. We can’t wait to see what you decide!