How do you know if you really want a tattoo?

Question

How do you know if you really want a tattoo and aren't doing it for the wrong reasons?

Answer 1

Arguably, the only wrong tattoo is one you don't want, for whatever reason. If you want Elvis on Black Velvet as Rider commented, in theory that's good. However, "want" is hard to pin down. Want only now? Want to make people think you're more hip? Want because you're in a phase? Want because you once wanted one? Because everyone else has one?

Those are probably the wrong reasons. Right reasons would be opposing the above thoughts. In addition, I normally prefer something that means something to me, if in a complicated "overloaded"/multiple entendre fashion. I did take a fairly long time to decide on what I wanted (10+ years); some others take longer, some take less.

Answer 2

You have to think about what you will look like in 10 to 20 years with the tattoo still on you and if you like the idea, then you want it. Also, I just think that if you really want a tattoo you know it. It becomes a part of you, not something that you can change, so there is a rational part of your mind that will tell you the truth not just what you want to hear.

Answer 3

I know I really want one because I've been talking about it for ten years, I have all my future tattoos planned out and mapped out on my back. I have a lot of meaning behind each one, and every time I set foot in a tattoo shop I have to fight the urge to go ahead and get them done that very second. If it's something that you have wanted for years and you can't stop thinking about getting it done that might be a good indication that you are ready and doing it for the right reasons. I think a good rule is figure out what you want and give it at least a year before you get it done, also wait until you are a little older, at least in your 20s to get one done.

Answer 4

that is completely up to the person getting the tattoo. if someone believes in their reason for wanting a tattoo, then it isn't a wrong reason. that just means that others may not agree.
to make sure i really wanted my first tattoo, i waited for several months even after i had the design ready. i eventually ended up with 6.

if there is any doubt in your mind, you aren't ready yet. tattooing is a commitment.

Answer 5

That's great that you're stopping before inking to really put some thought into what you want and why you want one. Your reasons may come about just as life events happen. I had no desire to get one until I had my daughter and then that inspired me to get one and I'm so happy that I did. Different people have their "epiphanies" for different reasons. I would not recommend doing it to be cool or to portray an image... those are the ones that are often regreted later on in life. Remember that the tattoo will be representing YOU....it's kind of a peek at you as a person....best of luck!

Answer 6

Hey NIKEluvr .....At least you are asking the question and giving it some thought instead of jumping in with out thinking. There are lots of reasons for wanting/needing tattoos. My reasons go all the way back to my childhood (see my secret addiction in my blog if your interested), for some it is a rite of passage and for a lot of them I think the tattoo that they get is secondary to the fact that they actually got one. For others it is peer pressure pure and simple....the tattoo makes them fit in the group/gang/lifestyle/. There are those who mark their skin in celebration of or in memorial to some event or occurance that changes them.......the reasons are as varied as the tattoos themselves. I suggest that if you decide to go ahead with this that you get a Custom tattoo that has some sort of meaning to it....a tattoo that comes from within you and speaks to you whenever you see it. I also suggest that you look at looks of tattoos in lots of styles. When you find a style or see something that you like use the best artist you can find to help you refine and fit the design to you. It's going to cost a little more and you may have to wait a little longer....but you will be happier with a Van Gogh or a Picasso than an Elvis on Black Velvet.

Answer 7

what are your reasons?
if you are even a little unsure of whether or not to get one then you should not. tattoos are so permanent and many times we make decisions on the fly and don't think about the consequences to come.

there is no way to tell you exactly how you know when a tattoo is right for you, i always just know.

Answer 8

I cant answer your question in a way that you might want, but I can say this, if you want a tattoo, even if your just thinking about it, go for it. I was thinking of getting one, and then one night me and my friend just went and got one. and I dont regret it, it was the best time of my life. But I made sure that it was somewhere that I could hide it for jobs and things.

Answer 9

Go Check out this site. You will love it. Tattoos picture.
http://www.bmezine.com/tattoo/netor34.html

After browsing the pages, and you still have the urge to do it, just go ahead.

Answer 10

i think you really want a tattoo when you are getting something that has meanign to you, you appreciate the art, or something liek that - not going to get one because its the latest fad.