Any person who has a tattoo understands that itch. It hits, and you need a new tattoo, stat. You may be trying to decide what style you should get. There are quite a few considerations that you need to make before you can book the tattoo appointment. If you’re struggling to find inspiration, do not worry. Here’s how to find inspiration for your next tattoo.
Look at Different Tattoo Styles
The variety of tattoo styles out there is overwhelming. Many tattoo enthusiasts gravitate toward a few different types, but new ones consistently pop up. That’s why one of the first steps in finding inspiration is to search through various styles.
A quick search online will provide enough information to spark creativity. Maybe you’ll want a realism tattoo on your shoulder. Perhaps you’ll find yourself drawn to a watercolor tattoo on your bicep. Countless ideas are waiting for you to explore.
These are a few tattoo styles we recommend taking a closer look at.
Surrealism
Surrealistic tattoos blend abstract and realistic tattoo elements. It transforms the tattoo subject into a conceptual design. Salvador Dali was a significant influence on the creation of this tattoo style. Turn your favorite television character, natural elements, or a deceased relative into a surrealistic tattoo.
American Traditional
The American traditional tattoo style is incredibly popular among tattoo enthusiasts. It features vibrant colors, crisp black lines, and minimal shading. Plus, the saturated look is perfect for every skin tone. The practical design contains meaningful beauty that you may find inspiration from.
Realism
What’s the best way to describe a realism tattoo? It’s when a tattoo artist brings a photo or object to life on your body. It can be a picture of your children, your grandmother, or your favorite movie, television, or comic book character.
If you want a realism tattoo, understand that you’re in for a long appointment. You also need to find an incredibly knowledgeable tattoo artist. InkNation Studio has several experienced tattoo artists ready to provide an exceptional realism tattoo. Our amazing tattoo shop in Manhattan, NY, wants to discuss your realism tattoo dreams today.
Fine Line
Fine-line tattoos focus on design and precision over shading. The artist can concentrate on the details with this tattoo style. If you’re looking for delicate lines, a fine-line tattoo is the style for you. An artist needs a steady hand to ensure a quality fine-line tattoo.
Neo-Traditional
Neo-traditional tattoos draw inspiration from American traditional and Japanese traditional tattoo styles. You’ll find vivid colors and even bolder lines. It’s a complex and vibrant tattoo style that many tattoo enthusiasts have gravitated toward over the past years.
This list isn’t nearly every tattoo style out there, but it provides a starting point for people looking for tattoo inspiration.
Search on Social Media
Social media, especially Instagram, is an excellent place to search for tattoo inspiration. People love posting photos of their newest tattoos, and tattoo artists love sharing pictures of their current and previous work to find clients.
Pinterest is another great place to search for tattoo ideas. You can easily browse specific styles, characters, and placements in one spot. For example, you can search “elephant tattoos” and browse various types and styles. From there, you can decide which one inspires you the most and take that idea to your favorite artist.
One important note about using social media for inspiration is that you never want to copy another person’s tattoo. Any quality artist will refuse to tattoo another artist’s design. The best thing to do is gather a few photos you like and let your tattoo artist create a unique one for you. After all, tattoos should be custom and exclusive to each person.
Think About Placement and Size
Sizing and placement will factor into what style of tattoo you can get. Are you looking for something large to get on your back? Would you like to complete your arm sleeve? Maybe you want a small wrist tattoo.
Your tattoo artist will want to know how big you want the tattoo and where you’d like to have it placed. You may have an idea in mind, but it won’t translate well off of paper. It’s beneficial for you to have an answer ready and listen to any advice your artist provides. For example, a small realism tattoo probably isn’t the best idea—unless it’s a small bird or another animal.
Other factors that size and placement affect include:
- Session length
- Pain control methods
- Design intricacy
Consider if You Want the Tattoo To Mean Something
What is your reason for wanting to get a new tattoo? You get to decide if you want the tattoo to have meaning. Did you recently lose a loved one that you want to commemorate? Are you trying to find a tattoo to celebrate the birth of your child? Is this to honor a significant birthday? It’s all up to you.
Any reason you want to get a tattoo is valid. You can even combine justifications as to why. For example, you could tattoo a meaningful movie character to honor your 30th birthday. No matter what, establish if you want a meaningful tattoo. Then, you can decide what symbolism or style will best fit.
One tattoo that’s meaningful and unique is a loved one’s signature. It feels like you’re carrying around a special piece of that person wherever you go.
Draw Inspiration From Books, Movies, Video Games, and Television Shows
Do you have a favorite book? Do you have a specific movie you watch over and over again for comfort? You can use these as inspiration for your next tattoo design. They are meaningful and can also make excellent conversation starters. People may recognize a certain lighting bolt or a particular saying from a popular television show.
Many tattoo enthusiasts love to invest in tattoos from video games, books, and movies because they can fit many styles, and you can build upon them. You really can’t go wrong.
We hope these tips will help you find inspiration for your next tattoo ideas. Ensure you book a consultation appointment with your artist to discuss tattoo details. They can help you nail down the design, placement, and size before the big day.
