If you don't already have your heart set on a specific tattoo design, the tattoo parlor you choose should be a good source of inspiration. Most tattoo artists have at least one wall where you can view their designs, and have a lot of fun while you're doing it.

Always have a clear head when you walk into any tattoo parlor. While getting a tattoo is usually something you do after loosening your inhibitions a bit, recklessness may cause you to end up with something that you don't really like -- and tattoos are permanent.

Be very selective in your choice of a tattoo parlor. The artist should sterilize their instruments in an autoclave, and should always work in the cleanest of conditions, using germicidal soap and sterilizing the work area on your skin with a bactericide.