Hey Buddy - I have a lot of ink ( chest, shoulders, bi, quad, and calf ) and I have a couple of suggestions for you - for whats it worth.
1. When you get the design you love, I highly suggest getting it laid on you in Henna ( not sure if I spelled that correctly ) first. Henna will last you about 10 days, and after 10 days you will REALLY know if you love the design. I did that once and it saved me a tat that I grew to hate before it wore off. Your ink is with you forever unless you want to spend thousands on laser removal. Make sure you love it.
2. Try to pick a design that means something to you. Each of mine have a very personal meaning and everytime I look at them, I am reminded of memories etc...I always try to steer people away from tribal because its very trendy ( no offense to those who have tribal ) and ive got friends who now hate their tribal designs.
3. Research your artist. Check their portfolio and have a consult appt. They are laying ink 7 layers in to your skin - you need to have a connection with them. You will know when you click with the right artist.
To answer your other question, no I do not regret any of my ink. There is one piece that I wish I wouldve done differently, but I dont regret it. Hence my suggestions above. Each of mine have a deeply personal meaning - which is why I believe that I still love them to this day. Oh...and on a side note, get prepared to get asked dumb questions about your ink once you have it. Especially those who like to interject their personal beliefs and comments even though they have no experience with ink. Good luck!
1. When you get the design you love, I highly suggest getting it laid on you in Henna ( not sure if I spelled that correctly ) first. Henna will last you about 10 days, and after 10 days you will REALLY know if you love the design. I did that once and it saved me a tat that I grew to hate before it wore off. Your ink is with you forever unless you want to spend thousands on laser removal. Make sure you love it.
2. Try to pick a design that means something to you. Each of mine have a very personal meaning and everytime I look at them, I am reminded of memories etc...I always try to steer people away from tribal because its very trendy ( no offense to those who have tribal ) and ive got friends who now hate their tribal designs.
3. Research your artist. Check their portfolio and have a consult appt. They are laying ink 7 layers in to your skin - you need to have a connection with them. You will know when you click with the right artist.
To answer your other question, no I do not regret any of my ink. There is one piece that I wish I wouldve done differently, but I dont regret it. Hence my suggestions above. Each of mine have a deeply personal meaning - which is why I believe that I still love them to this day. Oh...and on a side note, get prepared to get asked dumb questions about your ink once you have it. Especially those who like to interject their personal beliefs and comments even though they have no experience with ink. Good luck!