With tattoos becoming a popular fashion trend, there are now a limitless number of traditional designs available from catalogues and magazines in online galleries and marketplaces. Today, the most popular are custom tattoo designs, which strive to make a statement in the tattoo world. All tattoo enthusiasts are focused on finding ways to get a great custom tattoo design result.
Tattoo designs are categorized in different ways by tattoo designers. Categories include tattoo designs for different parts of the body: arms, neck, hands and back, for example. There are also categories for zodiac designs and cultural and tradition based tattoos like Japanese tattoos, Irish or African. Koi fish are also a cultural image. Celtic and military themes are popular too, as well as those which are done as a memorial to a person or event.
With so many to choose from, you have a lot of research to do to come up with the design that you feel is perfect for you. Here are five tips to consider when you want a good custom tattoo design; they may help you narrow your choices down.
Decide on your Design
To find the perfect design you should first focus on various styles and patterns. Talk to a local artist about a design and he will provide you with technical information about your choice. This information will make clear to you the suitability of your choice of theme, size and color for the part of your body you wish to be tattooed. Tattoo artists are open to communication with their clients. Ask to see their portfolio; this will give you an insight into their work. If you are not satisfied with the quality of work, find another artist whose work is of a higher standard. Remember, your body will be used as a canvas and you are the one who will wear the tattoo, not them.
Research
Do a little research on the tattoo artist or tattoo parlor that will provide the service. Take note of sanitation and hygiene practices; it is better to be safe, for your own health reasons. A good artist always uses new needles, fresh ink and sterilized equipment. You should ensure they follow the health regulation procedures provided by law.
Relax
Once you have done your research and found your perfect custom tattoo piece, you are now ready to get inked. During the process, it is important that you remain as calm and relaxed as possible. Unnecessary movement on your part will make it difficult for a tattoo artist to work on the design.
After Care
It is important that you know how to take care of your tattoo. Once it is inked, the work is not over. Be sure to clean the area, especially in the first week. Keep in mind that your skin has been pierced by a needle, so it has created a shallow wound on your skin; use antibiotic creams, and mild soap and water to keep the area sterilized. After the healing process, use moisturizer and avoid sunlight to keep the ink from fading. A tattoo is part of your body; it is right that you take care of it.
Appreciation and Understanding
If you are considering getting inked, it is important that you understand and appreciate the process of having a tattoo. Tattoos are your responsibility. Before getting inked choose a design that is close to your heart, then find a tattoo artist who does quality work and who practices in a professional way.
A tattoo lasts a lifetime. I hope the above mentioned tips will guide you to the best custom tattoo design for you.
Kristen Dunn is a tattoo enthusiast and professional tattoo designer who has created thousands of thought provoking, elegant, and funky tattoos for her clients. She has a vast collection of custom designs to her credit. Winner of several awards and accolades, Kristen is now a founding member of the world's largest custom tattoo design community at CreateMyTattoo. View her tattoo collection or read more on her blog here.