What Tattoo Should I Get?
- Ziggy
- 5 hours ago
- 3 min read
Choosing a tattoo is exciting — but also overwhelming. With so many styles, designs, and placements available, it’s normal to ask yourself: “What tattoo should I get?”
The truth: the best tattoo for you depends on your personality, style, story, and how visible you want it to be. Here’s a complete guide to help you decide.
Step 1: Think About Meaning
Some tattoos are deeply personal, while others are simply beautiful art. Ask yourself:
Do I want a symbol with meaning? (e.g., initials, birthdates, spiritual symbols)
Do I want something aesthetic? (flowers, geometric designs, abstract art)
Do I want a metaphor? (phoenix for rebirth, compass for direction, wave for strength)
💡 Tip: Meaning doesn’t have to be obvious to anyone but you.
Step 2: Explore Tattoo Styles
Simple, elegant, delicate lines.
Popular for first tattoos.
Great for wrists, collarbone, ribs.
Bold lines, bright colours, classic Americana motifs (roses, anchors, daggers).
Timeless look that ages well.
Dragons, koi fish, waves, samurai, cherry blossoms.
Often larger-scale body art with flowing designs.
Portraits, statues, animals, cinematic images.
High detail, best on larger placements.
Symmetrical, abstract patterns.
Represent balance, order, spirituality.
Painterly strokes, sketch-style, or surreal designs.
Unique statement pieces.
Step 3: Placement Matters
Visible tattoos (hands, forearms, neck) → bold and social.
Semi-hidden (shoulder, thigh, ribs) → personal, coverable.
First-timer friendly → outer forearm, calf, upper arm (heal well, less painful).
👉 Placement affects not only pain but also how the tattoo ages over time.
Step 4: Tattoo Size & Commitment
Small tattoos → minimal commitment, subtle.
Medium pieces → balanced detail & visibility.
Sleeves or back pieces → planned journeys with an artist, often done over multiple sessions.
Step 5: Work With a Professional Artist
Sometimes, the best way to find the right tattoo is to talk to your artist. At Hammersmith Tattoo London, our artists offer free consultations to:
Sketch based on your ideas.
Suggest placements that suit your body.
Guide you toward a style that fits your personality.
Popular Tattoo Ideas for Inspiration
Nature themes: roses, lotus, cherry blossoms, waves, trees.
Animals: wolves, tigers, koi fish, ravens.
Symbols: compass, anchor, infinity, feathers.
Script & Quotes: personal mottos, names, inspirational words.
Abstract/Geometric: mandalas, sacred geometry, modern art.
FAQs
What tattoo should I get if it’s my first one?
Something small-to-medium on a low-pain area like the forearm or calf is ideal.
Where is the least painful place to get a tattoo?
Outer forearm, calf, upper arm, or thigh. Ribs, spine, and hands are more painful.
Do tattoos have to mean something?
Not at all. Some people choose meaningful symbols, others just love the design. Both are valid.
How do I know if a tattoo will suit me?
Bring your ideas to a consultation. Our artists can create mock-ups to show how a design fits your body.
What’s the best style for me?
It depends on your taste. If you love clean lines → fine line. If you love bold art → traditional or Japanese. If you want realism → black and grey portraits.
Final Thoughts
So, what tattoo should you get?
One that feels right for you.
Whether it’s meaningful, aesthetic, or simply something you’ve always admired, the best tattoo is one you’ll still love years from now.
👉 Ready to start your journey? Book a free consultation at Hammersmith Tattoo London today.