If you’ve decided that the time has come for you to get a tattoo, but are uncertain where to begin the process, this gallery of tattoo ideas for men will give you a great foundation.
There are, of course, several very important decisions you should make before you ink up, because even if tattoos are no longer permanent, thanks to removal techniques, a tattoo is an investment, and should be considered carefully.
Your first big decision, outside of the actual tattoo, is finding an artist who charges reasonable rates and does excellent work that fits your personal style. Ask friends, visit artist web sites and even actual studios to get a firm idea of the artist who will be right for you.
Your next consideration should be where you want your tattoo. Is it something you want to show off, easily conceal or reveal, or a more personal project that only you will see? Your body will be your canvas, so it’s important to choose a portion of your anatomy appropriate to your art. Back pieces are exceptionally well suited to larger concepts, which you may want to expand at some future date. If you just want to start small, the bicep or the forearm are ideal for more contained show pieces, discrete emblems that can be worked into “sleeves”—either half or full—at a later time.
An important note to consider, whether you’re just getting your first tattoo or are a veteran of the process, is your nervous system. Anywhere that the skin is thin—feet, hands, or clavicle—you will experience enhanced sensitivity. Concomitantly, in places where an abundance of nerves run close to the surface—upper inner arm, back of the knee, hip and groin area, and lower back—tattooing will be more painful.
That’s why it’s vital to choose a tattoo design and color scheme that are both meaningful and aesthetically pleasing to you. If you’re uncertain what sort of design you’d like, this idea guide and others can provide a sampling of images you might find attractive. Other sources of inspiration are art galleries, art and mythology books, anthropological texts featuring body arts and crafts from other cultures, and even gardening books. Inspiration is everywhere.
