The design is very important, what may be "cool" or the in thing now may not be something you want upon your body10-15 years down the road. You need to remember the fact that this is there forever. You need to choose out a design that will last with you through the years. What does it symbolize, who does it symbolize? Are these people and feelings life long or just a fad. Make sure you properly evaluate the future implications this tattoo may have.

Choosing the right artist. By having an artist you are comfortable with you are setting yourself up for a better experience, if you go with one that make you uncomfortable you will be stressed and likely to feel more pain as a result. This is not what you want. You wan the process to be as comfortable and livable as possible.

Small tattoos are just the first step of entering the tattoo world, once you know how well you handle the pain you may decide to step into the ring and get more, or another one on a grander scale. Most important above all is to remember that a tattoo is with you from the day you ink to the day you die, make your choices wisely and it will be something you can enjoy for years to come, make a poor choice and it will be one you regret for life.