As of lately, I have found myself asking the many tattooed people I meet in a single day, did you plan your tattoo? How did you find your artist? Did your idea come to you in your sleep, or was this design something you have dreamed of for quite some time? I decided to shed light on the subject of tattoo planning, and offer even more insight as to what to do before making a permanent mark.
Should You Plan Your Tattoo?
Should you plan your tattoo in advance? How good are you at planning? Personally, I do not plan tattoos. I know what I want, usually several designs in my mind, and I strike when the iron is hot. In other words, when I’m in the mood. There’s something to be said about planning a tattoo. It makes sense to track the perfect artist, decided upon an idea and save your money for the service. It really does. But since making permanent marks on the body never really “makes sense” perse, I tend to do it when I am feeling a little confined and need to make an expressive statement.
With my rebel persona in check, I have to avoid tattoo shops like the plague or I would end up with way more art than I could ever truly want. Some people have a minimalistic approach to life, others hoard. I am likely a hoarder, and for this reason, I only get tattooed when I truly feel the need for the speed, so to speak.
Basics to Heed
With all of that said, whether you plan or not plan is no longer the question. Basics and fundamentals should still be observed. Your artist should have a good portfolio, the establishment clean and hopefully an actual referral sent you to the studio. If not, trust your instincts, You do not need to find celebrity artists to do small designs, although their experience and the quality may likely be worth it.
Late at night on a Tuesday when you need a fix, the only place to go may very well be the shop around the corner. Let us keep even the small and good guys employed by giving them a chance to service your tattooing needs. So long as you understand the tattoo basics that I have discussed within this site, you will likely have a favorable turnout.
Designs
My last advice is designed. As mentioned, I always have a handful of ideas. Planning a meaningful tattoo is essential, regardless of the artist. So keep a little book of ideas if you must, or just stay true to your own identity. It can be easy once you are seated to make impromptu design choices. That’s half the reason people opt away from unplanned designs. But, should you understand your identity, your true colors and what you like, it can be fairly easy to get a splendid tattoo on the dime without planning weeks, months, or years in advance with a particular artist.
Out of all the tattoo art styles, I would advise everyone to make the most effort finding a reputable and distinguishable realism and portrait artist, where a simple script tattoo can usually be had without fear of remorse. Consider your ideal tattoo size, placement, colors, and style beforehand. Through this lack of “planning”, you can actually plan for your next tattoo with confidence. Even on the fly! So you can go wherever the wind blows.
Leave a Reply