How to Choose the Right Tattoo for You

If you’re searching for the best tattoo ideas, wondering how to choose a tattoo that truly reflects who you are, or need some design guidance to bring your vision to life, you’re in the right place.

My approach to tattooing is deeply rooted in my background, I trained in fine arts at Milan’s prestigious Accademia di Brera before becoming a tattoo artist in the UK.

That foundation shapes everything I do.

My style blends watercolour, abstract, and fine-line elements, drawing on the expressive flow of Impressionism, the dreamlike layers of Surrealism, the simplicity of Minimalism, and the organic elegance of Art Nouveau.

Step 1: Clarify What You Want Your Tattoo to Say

The best tattoos often hold something deeper, whether it’s a memory, a symbol, a feeling, or a moment of transformation.

Start by asking yourself:

• What do I want to express?

• What symbols, plants, creatures, or visuals am I drawn to?

• Where on my body will this tattoo live, and how do I want it to flow?

You don’t need to have all the answers. Tattoo artists role is to help translate your feelings into form, to find the sweet spot between meaning and aesthetic.

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Step 2: Explore the Styles That Resonate with you

Tattoo style matters more than most people realise. Some people come in with a photo of a bold traditional rose, not realising they actually prefer delicate, sketch-style botanicals. Others want something light and ethereal, but haven’t yet seen the watercolour layering technique that makes that possible.

Here are a few popular tattoo styles I work on:

• Watercolour tattoos – soft, layered, dreamy blends of colour

• Abstract tattoos – conceptual, often geometric or flowing, perfect for expressing emotion or movement without a fixed subject

• Botanical tattoos – inspired by nature; think wildflowers, ferns, and delicate plant forms, perfect for those drawn to organic beauty and subtle symbolism

• Fine line tattoos – minimal, elegant, often delicate

• Illustrative/Sketch – loose, artistic, like a drawing on skin

Each style carries a distinct energy. Choosing the right one can turn a nice tattoo into something you feel truly connected to every day.

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Step 3: Think About Placement

Placement is often overlooked but it makes a huge difference.

A soft shoulder, the curve of a ribcage, the inside of an arm, each area has a different flow and shape.

I design tattoos that flow with your natural movement, especially when working with abstract or organic forms.

Some general guidance:

• Watercolour pieces tend to shine on larger, curved areas like the thigh or shoulder.

• Animal faces fit better on flat areas to avoid distortion, for example inner forearm, shoulder or thigh.

• Botanical abstract designs can wrap around most body areas.

• Fine-line designs age better in low-friction areas.

Pro tip: Send the artist a photo of your body area to tattoo, so they mock up the design on it.

It can help you visualise placement and scale before committing.

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Step 4: Book a Consultation & Co-Create the Design

Once you’ve got some inspiration (or even if you don’t), we start with a video consultation.

This makes the tattoo process smoother and more personal. I can share my screen to show inspiration and sketch ideas live, plus there’s no need to travel, join from anywhere, get clear on your vision, and feel confident before you even step into the studio.

Here’s what happens next:

1. Share your ideas: This can include reference images of placement, colours and style.

2. Design sketching begins: I’ll map out a rough visual during our call.

3. We refine together: You’ll have the chance to suggest changes.

4. You approve and book in: Once everything feels aligned, we set your tattoo date with a deposit.

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Step 5: Trust the Process

Tattoos take time. I work slowly and deliberately, especially when layering textures and details, to allow for precision, softness, and flow.

And once your tattoo is finished, I’ll provide full aftercare guidance, including organic, vegan-friendly healing products and ongoing support.

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The right tattoo is one you connect with deeply, it should feel like an extension of who you are. Whether you want a small, minimalist design or a bold full-sleeve, the process starts with understanding your vision, choosing the right style and placement, and working with the right artist for you.

Clients come to me not just for tattoos, but for transformation, celebration, healing, and remembrance. My goal is to hold space for all of that and give you something lasting to carry forward.

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Ready to Begin?

📩 Send your ideas to lavaletattoo@yahoo.com

📍 Visit my studio's website Avant Art Tattoo in Chippenham, Wiltshire 

🌐 www.lavaletatyou.co.uk – Browse the gallery & book your consultation

Lavale