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Tattoo Overview
Tattoo Deciding
Tattoo Design
Tattoo Meaning
Finding Tattooist
Final Decision
Tattoo Science
Getting Inked
What Next
Tattoo Q&A Before
Tattoo Q&A After
Tattoo Safety
Becoming Tattooist

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Deciding To Get A Tattoo

People decide to get a tattoo for a variety of reasons, some of them good, some of then not. It is an intensely personal decision and one that should never be made under duress. Don't let peer pressure get to you. Just because "everyone you know" is getting inked doesn't mean you have to.

That said, when you decide you really do want to get a tattoo it can be the most exhilarating and terrifying decision. What you need is clear, accurate information. This site was created to help you with that but don't forget to ask around. Talk to people who have had tattoos, particularly if they had the work done locally. Ask questions, study the quality of other people's tattoos, take time to find the right design and decide where you want it.

There are a few other things that you need to consider too. Even if you love your tattoo until the end of your days, the people around you might not feel the same way. For some that isn't an issue; why worry about other people's prejudices? The problem is that other people's prejudices could cost you your job.

Many Police Forces will not train potential officers that have tattoos that could be deemed offensive by members of the public. This can include military tattoos. If you're applying for white collar positions, you might find that exposed tattoos cost you an interview. If you can live with that, fair enough but at least consider the issues before it's too late.

Remember too that group and gang affiliations will stay on your skin far longer than they may stay in your heart. The same goes for that huge tattoo of your girlfriend's name right across your chest; what happens if the relationship ends?

I'm not writing this to put you off but it is important to think through the potential consequences before you go anywhere near a tattooist. Once you're 100% sure, you can start to think about the exact design you want and just where it's going to go.

To help you with that you might want to try out some temporary tattoos. There are thousands of different designs available and a number of different methods of applying them. If you just want to test out an idea for a short while, try a temporary tattoo that's stamped on to your skin and will wash off immediately. If you want to try something for a little longer, use one of the many transfers that are available. For a really long lasting trial, find a Mehndi artist who can apply a design to your skin using henna.

Go to Finding The Right Design