So, you're thinking about getting a tattoo? Are you sure you want a tattoo after all it is permanent? Still want a tattoo? Cool! Where on your body do you want the tattoo? What kind of tattoo are you looking for? Are you thinking about getting a traditional tattoo design or something you came up with yourself? Whatever you have in mind for your tattoo make sure that you research it properly and think long and hard before you make your decision because it will be with you for life.

It's also good to know what you want before entering a tattoo shop. Some people will spend month's searching for "the tattoo". Seek out some inspiration with your local tattoo parlors, tattoo magazines, and the Internet. There are a lot of websites online that will provide you with a large amount of knowledge for you to conceptualize your tattoo design.

When you have finally selected your design you can then begin your search for a professional tattoo artist worthy of creating your work of art. This can be difficult, so don't just walk in to the first tattoo parlor you find, research and interview the artist and/or customers.

Ask friends who already have tattoos where they got their work done and what the shop was like. Was it clean? What was the artist like? How much do they charge an hour? Go to that shop and show them your tattoo design or get them to draw it for you so you can see what your tattoo will look like with their particular style and on your body. Keep looking until you find the one perfect for you. Remember, it's your body and you get what you pay for so make your decision wisely.

If you would like more information about tattoos, Carrie Bijnaam (who has many tattoos herself) has collected a great deal of facts and data about this subject at http://www.perfecttattoo.blogspot.com