By BrainFall Staff - Updated: March 19, 2024
One of the trickiest parts about getting a tattoo is deciding on the design. There are so many questions you have to answer before choosing tattoo designs. Do you want an animal design, like a lion tattoo or a wolf tattoo? Do you want a design that pays homage to nature, such as a moon tattoo or a tree tattoo? Or, do you want something sentimental, like a family tattoo?
If you’re at a loss about what tattoo to get, we have some great tattoo designs to pick from. Answer a few questions about your interests, and we’ll recommend the best tattoo ideas for you. From tattoo ideas for men to tattoo ideas for women, we have designs that are perfect for everyone.
Use these tattoo ideas as a jumping off point to create your perfect body art design. We can’t wait to see what cool tattoo you choose!
Tattoo Ideas
Tattoo ideas are helpful for people who know they want a tattoo but are unsure about the exact design. One of the problems with picking a tattoo is that there's an infinite amount of choices. From a skull tattoo to a rose tattoo, from an angel tattoo to a star tattoo, anything you can think of can be used in a tattoo design. That makes it tricky when it comes time to decide.
When you're choosing a tattoo design, try thinking about the most important things in your life, the things that you are most passionate about. For instance, if you're a musician, you could get a music tattoo. Or, if you love spending time in nature, you could get a sun tattoo or a moon tattoo.
Everyone has a different idea of their perfect tattoo. Some want a small tattoo they can easily cover-up. Others go for sleeve tattoos that have a theme. The sky is truly the limit when it comes to tattoo ideas. Once you have an idea of the tattoo you'd like, look up different tattoo artists to get a sense of their style and see if it matches with your vision.
Tattoo Ideas: What Tattoo Should You Get?
Deciding on a tattoo can be akin to choosing a pizza topping at a place where the menu is more complex than a rocket launch sequence. You're about to etch something onto your canvas of skin that's more permanent than most of your internet passwords. So, what ink masterpiece should you deck your body halls with? Whether you're looking to broadcast your love for mom with a classic heart tattoo or you want to walk on the wild side with some intricate tribal patterns, remember this is your personal work of art. Forget about sneaky peeking into others' tattoo portfolios; your body deserves an original signature!
If you've watched more tattoo shows than there are freckles on your arm and you're still as undecided as a squirrel crossing the road, it's time to shake things up. Consider the kaleidoscope of designs that float in the sea of imagination: tiny symbols that whisper your secret story, or perhaps sprawling, bold artwork that shouts your narrative from the rooftops. It's your skin, your ink saga.
But wait, before you plunge into the inky depths, there's a nifty way to narrow down your body art brainstorm. A personality-matching quiz can be your trusty compass in the vast ocean of tattoo choices. After answering a few tailored questions, you could find the tattoo idea that sings in tune with your unique tune. Ready for a bit of fun and perhaps an 'aha!' moment? Dive into a quiz that helps you figure out what tattoo to get, tailored just for you, by the folks who know a thing or two about your impending case of ink fever.
Choosing Your Tattoo Wisely
Before you embark on your inked journey, know this: every tattoo design, its location, and the style you choose carves a snippet of your narrative into your skin. It's permanent, so it's not just about what looks cute or cool. It's a visual tale of what you stand for, what you love, or even just a wickedly cool story you want to embody in ink.
Tattoo Styles and What They Say About You
Your choice of tattoo style is like picking a character in a video game; it's how you'll present yourself to the digital world, except it's in real life and there's no reset button. Opt for American traditional tattoos, and you're saying you appreciate the classics – bold lines, vivid colors, and iconic designs like daggers, skulls, and roses. If you lean towards tribal tattoos, it's all about that connection to ancestral roots or simply being drawn to strong lines and curves. Got a soft spot for Japanese tattoos? You're probably mesmerized by rich traditions and storytelling. A fan of watercolor tattoos? We're guessing you're here to make a splash with creativity and a love for art that transcends conventional boundaries.
Location, Location, Location - Where to Place Your Ink
Choosing where to get your tattoo is like picking the best stage for your favorite rock band. If you want the world to see your dragon tattoo, flexing on your bicep is prime real estate. Thinking of a more intimate or subtle vibe? The wrist or a finger tattoo is prime for that gentle touch of ink without screaming for attention. And if you're brave, why not consider the sternum or thigh? The pain might kick like a mule, but the end result? Chef's kiss!
To Ink or Not to Ink: The Significance Behind What You Get
Do you go for the image that stole your heart at first glance, or do you tattoo a quote that's been your life's mantra? Whether it's simple flowers representing growth and beauty, a heart tattoo pulsating with love, or a butterfly tattoo symbolizing transformation, each design speaks volumes. And then there's the rebel in all of us that yearns for a scorpion tattoo—maybe it's your spirit animal, or perhaps it's just incredibly cool (and a little bit daunting, like you, perhaps?). Whatever path you stroll down, ensure the symbolism resonates with your true self, because like that timeless mix tape from the '90s, it's gonna stick around.
Aftercare and Beyond: Living With Your Tattoo
Congratulations! You've just joined the inked community and your skin is now a canvas of your personalized art. Now, let's talk about keeping that tattoo as vibrant as the day you got it and ensuring your experience remains a happy memory, not a painful reminder.
Ink Maintenance: Keeping the Color Alive
Let’s keep that color from turning into a faded Instagram post from 2012. First off, aftercare is critical. Just like that one houseplant you've managed not to kill, your tattoo needs tender love and care. Begin by following the specific aftercare technique given by your artist—this usually includes gentle washing and application of a fragrance-free moisturizer. Moisture is the secret sauce to keeping the color vivid, so pamper that ink like it's your new pet.
- Reminder: Moisturizer is your tattoo's best friend
- Inspiration: Look at your vibrant tattoo as a personal expression, not just an image
The Tattoo Taboos: What to Avoid
Now for the list of don'ts—they're like the seven deadly sins of tattoo care. Sun, I'm looking at you; you're a big no-no. Keep that fresh ink out of direct sunlight. Also, resist the urge to scratch when it starts to itch—no matter how much it feels like a test of willpower. And if your friends suggest a swim, just laugh it off. Submerging your new tat in water is like throwing your favorite magazine into a bath—only less salvageable.
- Sin: Sunbathing with a new tattoo
- Danger: Submerging your tattoo in water
- Painful: Scratching your tattoo—avoid at all costs
Always remember: Treat that tattoo with respect, keep living with comfort, and your body art will keep them staring—and for the right reasons.