How to Choose Your Next Tattoo
8 May 2020
Tattoo enthusiasts know the drill: you want another tattoo, but you don’t know what to get. In a situation like this, it’s important to do some research, then give your artist a clear idea of what you want so that your new tattoo meets your expectations.
To help you find exactly what you’re looking for, Magnum Tattoo has some advice for you.
1. Choosing a Tattoo Placement
When planning your next project, one of the most important things to think about is the location. This detail might seem insignificant but can dramatically alter the appearance of your new tattoo. Your new piece may look different depending on the part of your body it’s done on; a tattoo done on the arm looks totally different done on the abdomen.
Besides, if you’re already heavily inked, you may lack the space needed for the piece you want. It’s important that you talk to your artist about the location you want for your next piece so that they can harmonize it with your existing tattoos.
2. Choosing a Tattoo Subject
Choosing a tattoo subject can be challenging. A lot of people opt for a symbol that’s meaningful to them, others prefer to create a unique piece with multiple elements, while other people simply go for a piece they like and find aesthetically pleasing.
With so many options, you need to narrow down what you’re really looking for. Want a meaningful tattoo? Think about something you love, whether it be a person, an animal, a memory, etc. You can also take a look at the portfolio of your favorite tattoo artists. Social media such as Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook may be good for inspiration, but remember that your piece has to be unique. Avoid replicating other people’s tattoos.
Collecting multiple reference pictures of tattoo styles and subjects to show to your artist will be very helpful during tattoo consultation.
3. Choosing a Tattoo Style
Once you’ve chosen a placement and subject for your new tattoo, it’s time to pick a style. To help you navigate through the myriad of tattoo styles, we listed the most popular ones on our blog (read them here and here). The right style can make or break a tattoo, hence the importance of choosing carefully. A tattoo done in tribal style will look completely different done in realism.
Remember to bring a few different reference pictures to guide your artist in their creative process.
Some Advice Before Getting Your Next Tattoo
- Be patient and be sure about your idea before getting in the tattoo chair.
- Don’t take someone else’s design. Ask your artist for a one-of-a-kind tattoo that only you will have.
- Take your time when choosing an artist. The right artist will bring your tattoo to life.
- Your tattoo doesn’t have to be meaningful. Getting a new piece just because you like it is perfectly okay.
- Explore different tattoo styles to see all the possibilities.
- Keep an open mind to the suggestions of your tattoo artist.
- Be creative!
Final Step: Tattoo Consultation
Once your mind is set on a project, you can book a tattoo consultation with the artist of your choice. To better help your artist envision your idea, bring some reference pictures of the tattoo style and subject you want. The clearer your idea, the better your artist will be at designing your tattoo.
Although your mind might be set on a very specific idea, your artist might suggest alternatives or different designs better suited to your project. You should always trust your artist’s expertise. If they suggested something a bit different than what you intended, it’s because they’ve got good reasons.