- 1). Design your image. Create an image for the tattoo artist to follow, using whatever medium suits you. If you draw or paint, create the image by hand. If visualizing comes easily to you but execution lags behind, take advantage of technology. Use a software such as Photoshop to combine and manipulate photos or drawings that inspire you. You can use any image that inspires you, a drawing from spirituality, your ethnic heritage, a quote which inspires you, or an idea from a movie or a dream. Many tattoo concepts are available online. If you draw heavily on an artist's idea, respect their intellectual property by paying for the design.
- 2). Find a tattoo artist who will implement your design. You do not want to choose a tattooist based on which tattoo shop is closest to your favorite bar or has the cheapest prices. If you are doing something unique to you, take the time to find a tattoo artist who will respect your personal vision of your body art. Ask for references from people who have tattoos you admire. You may want to attend a tattoo convention to get a broader idea of what different artists can accomplish. Show your design idea to some artists. Take the time to talk with a tattoo artist whose work you like to make sure they respect your idea and feels competent to reproduce it on your skin. The person who stencils an image onto your back that will remain there for the rest of your life should be a person with whom you feel a sense of rapport.
- 3). Discuss the project thoroughly with your tattooist before starting. You and your selected artist should be completely clear on the size, placement and color(s) of the tattoo. Make sure you are in agreement on the number of sessions, pricing, and so on. Make sure you understand the tattoo parlors' policies before going in, for instance, most tattoo shops do not permit clients to bring anyone in with them for the tattoo session.
- 4). Prepare to receive your tattoo the same way you would to receive any other personal service. Most people do not go to the dentist without brushing their teeth beforehand, or receive a pedicure right after a long run when they have sweaty feet. Attend to personal hygiene to be polite. Allow sufficient time for the session based on what the tattoo artist has told you will be necessary.
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