TATTOO MISTAKES

Proper Planning and Research

Proper planning and research is one of the most important aspects in avoiding bad tattoos. If you're ready to wear your art on your sleeve so to speak, it pays to carefully consider all of the following aspects prior to getting permanent body art.

Avoiding Bad Tattoos

All too often, the idea of getting a tattoo is so thrilling, patrons head down to the local tattoo shop with nothing more than a desire to get inked. While some people are spontaneous enough to pull off a thrilling, minimally considered design, others find their lack of judgment serves as a lifelong reminder of a moment they'd rather forget.

usually the result of lack of planning

Bad tattoos are usually the result of lack of design planning. While tattoo shops are usually adorned with hundreds of flash art and custom images that serve as inspiration, the process can be overwhelming for someone considering ink for the first time. Beautiful colors, unique shapes and vivid sketches are appealing eye-candy for the newbie tattoo enthusiast. Without adequate consideration of a design, many people walk out of tattoo shops with generic, meaningless, bad tattoos.

A Tattoo That Will Remain

If you want a tattoo that will remain significant to you throughout the years, you'll want to consider many aspects of the design process in-depth, including: placement, color and meaning. While a tattoo is not always the most costly expense, the finished work will obviously result in a lifetime commitment.

Make sure you provide yourself ample time to discover a design theme and coloring process that will enhance your meaningful piece without later regrets.

Say No to Names

Unless you plan on inking your father, mother or children's names on your body, name tattoos in general are some of the worst. More often than not, people tattoo the name of their significant other only to be left with a permanent reminder of their hastiness if and when the relationship wanes. If a name is of utmost importance in the design, you may choose to consider initials or symbolism instead. Birth and zodiac symbols make great stand-in alternatives to name tattoos and can be worn with little regret should any relationships unfortunately meet its demise.

Couples Tattoo Alternatives

Some couples find themselves eager to announce their love for one another in a couple themed tattoo, making them yet another bad tattoo choice. Lovers can instead opt for meaningful symbols of love, including Chinese calligraphy representing love, faithfulness and joy. Why not consider Celtic knots such as the Claddagh or eternity band instead of a traditional heart and name tattoo?

Poor Artist

While it may go without saying, it never hurts to remind yourself that not every tattoo artist is created equal. Just like choosing your hairdresser, the task of finding the right tattooist can be daunting. For the best tattoo results, spend a few weeks meeting with potential artists and view their portfolio. Show up with a few design ideas and let the artist get creative. Get a price quote and guarantee on your work if possible.

Think it Through

Bad tattoos are most common amongst people who have rushed to the studio without regard to the process. Make sure you really consider your tattoo before hurrying to meet with an artist. Consider not only the idea and theme, but the placement as well.

Will it impact your life/lifestyle?

How will the tattoo impact your lifestyle and all aspects of your self? Bear in mind, professional and career choices may be hindered with ink placement. While tattoos are a wonderful outlet for self-expression, they're also permanent. Once the mood changes, the tattoo remains.

If you want to ensure you avoid a bad tattoo, make certain you're ready for that lifelong commitment to your ink.