An upper arm tattoo.
A tattoo client needs to research a design properly before stepping into a tattoo shop. The client can collect photos or books to sthe tattoo artist during a consultation appointment. This helps the tattoo artist form a better understanding of the client's expectations for the design and gives the artist references to use while drawing the tattoo. During a consultation appointment, the tattoo artist and client can also discuss the colors, size and price of the tattoo.
Phoenix
A pen-and-ink drawing of two phoenixes.
The phoenix is a mythological bird that has different interpretations according to different cultures. The most common interpretation is the theme of "rising from the ashes," which is an Arabian interpretation. Cancer survivors or recovering addicts are examples of people who wear a phoenix to symbolize overcoming an obstacle and, in essence, being reborn. The phoenix design is a unisex tattoo and, because of the intricate detail, is a large piece and in color. Reds, yellows and oranges dominate the color schemes of the tattoo.
Praying Hands
A praying-hands image on a coin.
A German artist named Albrecht Dürer first painted the image of praying hands, according to VanishingTattoo.com. Traditionally tattooed in black and gray tones, praying hands is a tattoo that pays homage to a higher power, gives the wearer strength or immortalizes a loved one. The original design had the two hands only, but a tattoo artist can add other elements. Rosaries, scripture numbers or text, names, dates, or roses are examples of details to add.
Eagle
An eagle with an American flag background.
The eagle is a powerful symbol for Americans. Placed on the Great Seal in 1782, an eagle represents liberty and freedom, according to GreatSeal.com. An eagle in front of an American flag is a patriotic tattoo for a soldier; it can also honor a fallen comrade. Firefighters and police personnel wear Sept. 11 tribute tattoos with the American flag carried in the eagles claws. Details to add include script stating, "United We Stand," or "Liberty and Justice for All." Ask the tattoo artist to arc the number of a police badge or station house underneath a Sept. 11 memorial tattoo for a family member, co-worker or friend who died in the 2001 tragedy.
Astrology Signs
An astrology sign wheel.
Astrology signs spell out to believers their personality traits, weaknesses and strengths, depending on the date they were born. The signs of the zodiac each have a symbol that represents a specific month. For example, people born in July have the sign Cancer. According to Astrology.com, Cancer's symbol is a crab for it is believed that Cancers have a hard outside and soft inside, like the crustacean. A tattoo of an interpretation of a sign is a reminder to the wearer to accentuate his strengths while working on his weaknesses.
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