Choosing a tattoo design is a big decision, but so is choosing a tattoo studio. If you go to a less than perfect tattoo parlor, you could very well end up with an infection and with a bad looking tattoo. An infection can cause you more trouble than you ever thought possible and a shaky tattoo will make you feel sick even longer.
First thing to do: find out how long a parlor has been in business. This will tell you how much business the parlor receives. A less than perfect parlor will not be around for long.
Second thing to do: make sure that the artists are licensed, the parlor is clean, and the equipment is sanitized after each and every tattoo. Clean equipment and a clean studio is without a doubt the most important consideration when dealing with tattoos.
Third thing to do: check the artist. If the artist isn't licensed or not a professional, run! Sure, the higher quality tattoo parlors are more expensive. And for a very good reason. They have to pay their licensed artists better and keep their parlor nice and clean.
Fourth thing to do: always check out more studios. Once you have found some addresses, simply go there and take a look around. If you like what you see, come back a week or so later and check if you still like the place. Don't rush your decision.
Fifth thing to do: talk to your tattoo artist. Ask questions and find out anything you can about the guy that is going to stick needles into your body. Ask about his background and qualifications. Experience is a must here. If he hesitates to answer any question you ask or acts hasty towards you, simply leave and find another tattoo artist.
Sixth thing to do: when you visit the artist, bring your own tattoo design. The artist should not attempt to push another design on you. If he thinks there will be a problem with your tatto design or if he thinks he can improve it, he will let you know. His reputation is on the line as well.
Seventh thing to do: do your homework and this time, do it better than you did in high school. Most tattoo designs have a special meaning so you probably know what you want. Go visit Tattoo Me Now and find or create the tattoo of your dreams using the thousands examples they offer.