Are You Smelling Car Trouble?
What is the usual smell that your car has?
For most cars the usual smell would be the scent of leather or of the materials used. This usually goes for those newly purchased cars. On the other hand, there are also distinct smells that emanate from your car as it goes through time and use. However, as the owner or driver, you would know that these are the usual odors and that would not be something to get alarmed about.
What you should be on the alert about are some types of smells or odors that seem to be different, and out of the ordinary. These are the smells that you should be aware about for they could conceal something much more serious than simply a smell out of place.
If you smell an odor emanating from your exhaust, it could indicate that there is a leak in the exhaust system. It could mean a hole in your car’s tailpipe, exhaust pipe, exhaust manifold, or even the muffler. It could also mean that your hatchback or rear door already has a worn out seal. If this happens, you should take on the challenge immediately for you might get carbon monoxide inside your car which could get pretty deadly. What you should do is to bring your car to a mechanic right away.
If you smell raw gas, it could mean that there is a leak in your car’s fuel delivery system. What could be affected is your car’s fuel lines, gas tank, or your fuel filter. This is also dangerous for any fuel leaks could spark a car fire. You can remedy the situation by first seeking if you have put back the gas cap right on properly. If this does not seem to be the problem, then go straight away to your mechanic.
The smell of rotten eggs could also be something that you may notice and this means that your catalytic converter has become plugged. Once you smell this, go see your mechanic so as to remedy the problem.
For most cars the usual smell would be the scent of leather or of the materials used. This usually goes for those newly purchased cars. On the other hand, there are also distinct smells that emanate from your car as it goes through time and use. However, as the owner or driver, you would know that these are the usual odors and that would not be something to get alarmed about.
What you should be on the alert about are some types of smells or odors that seem to be different, and out of the ordinary. These are the smells that you should be aware about for they could conceal something much more serious than simply a smell out of place.
If you smell an odor emanating from your exhaust, it could indicate that there is a leak in the exhaust system. It could mean a hole in your car’s tailpipe, exhaust pipe, exhaust manifold, or even the muffler. It could also mean that your hatchback or rear door already has a worn out seal. If this happens, you should take on the challenge immediately for you might get carbon monoxide inside your car which could get pretty deadly. What you should do is to bring your car to a mechanic right away.
If you smell raw gas, it could mean that there is a leak in your car’s fuel delivery system. What could be affected is your car’s fuel lines, gas tank, or your fuel filter. This is also dangerous for any fuel leaks could spark a car fire. You can remedy the situation by first seeking if you have put back the gas cap right on properly. If this does not seem to be the problem, then go straight away to your mechanic.
The smell of rotten eggs could also be something that you may notice and this means that your catalytic converter has become plugged. Once you smell this, go see your mechanic so as to remedy the problem.
Are You Really Safe From Carjackers?
2010 Volvo C30 BEV Wallpaper | Volvo
Anti-Theft Devices For Vehicles
Cobra Volvo XC60 Wallpaper | Volvo
Carjacking. What is it? Well, it is a crime of motor vehicle theft. Most of the time, a carjacker is armed so much so that the owner of the driver of the car is forced out of the vehicle.
Aside from the fact that you may never see your vehicle again, carjacking could also be very hazardous to both your physical safety as well as the carjacker’s. You see, if you are the victim, you may try to maneuver your way out and in the process run the carjacker over. On the other hand, the carjacker could use their weapon and try shooting you. They also try pushing the occupant out of the car.
If you are simply going to park your car, make sure that you park it somewhere that has lots of lights. Also, be sure that it is a busy area with plenty of motor vehicle and pedestrian traffic. If possible, try parking somewhere that is very close to your destination. The more people around, the lesser the chances of a carjacker striking and working up the nerve to attack your car.
Also, make sure that everything valuable is hidden. Keep your windows rolled up and check all doors and windows before leaving the car. Make sure everything is locked up. And when you are going back to your car, have your keys handy. These carjackers could attack when you are posed trying to search for your keys. Be on the alert always.
On the other hand, if you are on the road, make sure that your car is always well-maintained. This assures you that the chances of your car breaking down are slimmer. Cars that have broken down are the usual targets for carjackers. Driving should also be something to plan ahead of time. It would be best if you try going through routes that are busy and well-lit.
The center lane is more safe. Remember that once you get stuck in traffic, the carjackers would have to go though a tough time first before they actually reach your car.
Anti-Theft Devices For Vehicles
Cobra Volvo XC60 Wallpaper | Volvo
Carjacking. What is it? Well, it is a crime of motor vehicle theft. Most of the time, a carjacker is armed so much so that the owner of the driver of the car is forced out of the vehicle.
Aside from the fact that you may never see your vehicle again, carjacking could also be very hazardous to both your physical safety as well as the carjacker’s. You see, if you are the victim, you may try to maneuver your way out and in the process run the carjacker over. On the other hand, the carjacker could use their weapon and try shooting you. They also try pushing the occupant out of the car.
If you are simply going to park your car, make sure that you park it somewhere that has lots of lights. Also, be sure that it is a busy area with plenty of motor vehicle and pedestrian traffic. If possible, try parking somewhere that is very close to your destination. The more people around, the lesser the chances of a carjacker striking and working up the nerve to attack your car.
Also, make sure that everything valuable is hidden. Keep your windows rolled up and check all doors and windows before leaving the car. Make sure everything is locked up. And when you are going back to your car, have your keys handy. These carjackers could attack when you are posed trying to search for your keys. Be on the alert always.
On the other hand, if you are on the road, make sure that your car is always well-maintained. This assures you that the chances of your car breaking down are slimmer. Cars that have broken down are the usual targets for carjackers. Driving should also be something to plan ahead of time. It would be best if you try going through routes that are busy and well-lit.
The center lane is more safe. Remember that once you get stuck in traffic, the carjackers would have to go though a tough time first before they actually reach your car.
Are You Looking for a Luxury Car? Consider the Cadillac CTS
Sometimes it seems that a car is far more than just a car. Talk to someone with a Land Rover and they're sure to tell you that their vehicle is much more than just a Jeep, while Jeep drivers will tell you that their vehicles are a way of life.
Turn on the TV and you're likely to hear that when you're looking for a long-lasting vehicle, you should turn to a Honda, and if you're looking for quality, you should consider buying a Toyota.
Similarly, many will tell you that if you are looking for a luxury ride, if you're looking for vehicle that's high on both class and style there's only one option: you'll have to get yourself a Cadillac.
There are going to be some who see the name Cadillac and initially dismiss it as a brand that their parents or grandparents might drive. But those who understand a need for speed, luxury styling and a manual transmission will tell you that the Cadillac CTS has everything the savvy shopper and driver may want to find in a vehicle.
First, there's the Cadillac CTS engine - a 2.8-liter dual overhead engine with an output well over 200-horsepower - that will get you started in a hurry as soon as the light turns green or when the freeway traffic eases up.
Then there's the interior. Proving once again that the Cadillac CTS is far from a traditional Caddy with a more youthful feel, the CTS has comfortable leather seats, an easy to navigate dash and an absence of the wood trim that many younger drivers feel is out-of-place in an automobile.
Instead, the Cadillac CTS focuses on all of the features that younger drivers are looking for - quality, luxury, responsive power, and best of all, speed. Drivers and passengers of the Cadillac CTS will find that there's plenty of space in the front and rear seats. They'll find that climate control is a breeze in the CTS - with all of the controls easy to access and use.
Most importantly, they'll find that they have easy control over a high-quality stereo system - a system that is iPod friendly, making it easy to keep the stereo playing your favorite tracks whether you are driving across town or across the country on a road trip with friends.
Equally handy for those who are taking long road trips is the navigation system that is optional on the Cadillac CTS. With GM’s OnStar system, you'll find street maps, hear turn-by-turn directions along with distances, and be able to plan the best route for getting to where you want to be.
With the Cadillac CTS, you'll find all of the luxurious styling that is synonymous with the Cadillac brand. You'll find a smooth driving and riding experience, and you will find that Cadillac makes it easy for you to be able to customize your car so that it has everything that you really want and need.
Are you looking for more power than the standard CTS will offer? Then, upgrade to the Cadillac CTS-V with its 400-horsepower V8 engine that will deliver 0-to-60 mph performance in 4.6 seconds.
What most folks simply do not realize is that the Cadillac brand generally produces some of the fastest American-made cars in the marketplace. According to an article written by Isaak Carter in 2007 titled, "Surprises in the American Performance Car Market", Cadillac had three of the fastest American-built automobiles in the 2006 model line-up. In fact, the four-door Cadillac CTS-V finished in ninth place in the Forbes countdown, with a top-speed of 163 mph. One reviewer even described the Cadillac CTS-V as a "luxury sedan with the performance of a Corvette."
If you want to be sure that your car’s temperature is comfortable even on the coldest days, then upgrade to the heated seats - and if you are really serious about a vehicle that caters to your every whim, you can also opt for the heated steering wheel that is offered with the Cadillac CTS models. Want a sound system that your friends will be envious of you for having? Then, upgrade your speakers and consider having a satellite radio system installed.
Envy is a beautiful thing, when you see it on the faces of the people in your life. Take the Cadillac CTS for a test drive and see for yourself why it is one of the top-rated vehicles in the luxury automobile marketplace.
Turn on the TV and you're likely to hear that when you're looking for a long-lasting vehicle, you should turn to a Honda, and if you're looking for quality, you should consider buying a Toyota.
Similarly, many will tell you that if you are looking for a luxury ride, if you're looking for vehicle that's high on both class and style there's only one option: you'll have to get yourself a Cadillac.
There are going to be some who see the name Cadillac and initially dismiss it as a brand that their parents or grandparents might drive. But those who understand a need for speed, luxury styling and a manual transmission will tell you that the Cadillac CTS has everything the savvy shopper and driver may want to find in a vehicle.
First, there's the Cadillac CTS engine - a 2.8-liter dual overhead engine with an output well over 200-horsepower - that will get you started in a hurry as soon as the light turns green or when the freeway traffic eases up.
Then there's the interior. Proving once again that the Cadillac CTS is far from a traditional Caddy with a more youthful feel, the CTS has comfortable leather seats, an easy to navigate dash and an absence of the wood trim that many younger drivers feel is out-of-place in an automobile.
Instead, the Cadillac CTS focuses on all of the features that younger drivers are looking for - quality, luxury, responsive power, and best of all, speed. Drivers and passengers of the Cadillac CTS will find that there's plenty of space in the front and rear seats. They'll find that climate control is a breeze in the CTS - with all of the controls easy to access and use.
Most importantly, they'll find that they have easy control over a high-quality stereo system - a system that is iPod friendly, making it easy to keep the stereo playing your favorite tracks whether you are driving across town or across the country on a road trip with friends.
Equally handy for those who are taking long road trips is the navigation system that is optional on the Cadillac CTS. With GM’s OnStar system, you'll find street maps, hear turn-by-turn directions along with distances, and be able to plan the best route for getting to where you want to be.
With the Cadillac CTS, you'll find all of the luxurious styling that is synonymous with the Cadillac brand. You'll find a smooth driving and riding experience, and you will find that Cadillac makes it easy for you to be able to customize your car so that it has everything that you really want and need.
Are you looking for more power than the standard CTS will offer? Then, upgrade to the Cadillac CTS-V with its 400-horsepower V8 engine that will deliver 0-to-60 mph performance in 4.6 seconds.
What most folks simply do not realize is that the Cadillac brand generally produces some of the fastest American-made cars in the marketplace. According to an article written by Isaak Carter in 2007 titled, "Surprises in the American Performance Car Market", Cadillac had three of the fastest American-built automobiles in the 2006 model line-up. In fact, the four-door Cadillac CTS-V finished in ninth place in the Forbes countdown, with a top-speed of 163 mph. One reviewer even described the Cadillac CTS-V as a "luxury sedan with the performance of a Corvette."
If you want to be sure that your car’s temperature is comfortable even on the coldest days, then upgrade to the heated seats - and if you are really serious about a vehicle that caters to your every whim, you can also opt for the heated steering wheel that is offered with the Cadillac CTS models. Want a sound system that your friends will be envious of you for having? Then, upgrade your speakers and consider having a satellite radio system installed.
Envy is a beautiful thing, when you see it on the faces of the people in your life. Take the Cadillac CTS for a test drive and see for yourself why it is one of the top-rated vehicles in the luxury automobile marketplace.
Are You Buying Sports Seats For Your Car?
Purchasing sports seats for your car is considered as one of the ways of sprucing up and upgrading your vehicle. In fact, it is one of the not so used ways to customize a vehicle. You see, for most people, the common ways of upgrading a vehicle would be to change wheels, wheel covers, car seat covers, carpets, bumpers, and grilles.
Changing your car’s seats to sports seats may not be so popular however, there are some matters to take into consideration when you have decided that sports seats may be the best thing that could happen to your vehicle. After all, overlooked as they may seem, sports seats actually do not just provide your car with a sporty and aesthetic appeal but they also give you and your passengers comfort through long or short drives.
Before doing anything else, you should ask yourself how much are you willing to spend and how much could you really afford. By answering this first question, you would be able to check and ask around as per any sports seats that would fall within your budget range. Remember that sports seats come in a variety of options – each more sophisticated than the next. In fact, there are even sports seats that come with electronic adjustments of the lumbar support.
If you have no idea whatsoever as per the kind of sports seats that you would like for your car, you can check out automotive magazines. Or you can also visit automotive websites. If you choose to do so, you can also try contacting manufacturers to get the names of dealers of sports seats in your locality.
Upon visiting an auto parts store that offers sports seats, make sure that you ask the store’s personnel to show you their collection of these. That way, you can personally inspect the seats so you could choose which ones to purchase. Consider the seats’ safety features. Make sure that you choose those that has a high and close back rest which has the capacity to support and protect your back. Also make sure that it supports not only your back but your whole body as well.
Changing your car’s seats to sports seats may not be so popular however, there are some matters to take into consideration when you have decided that sports seats may be the best thing that could happen to your vehicle. After all, overlooked as they may seem, sports seats actually do not just provide your car with a sporty and aesthetic appeal but they also give you and your passengers comfort through long or short drives.
Before doing anything else, you should ask yourself how much are you willing to spend and how much could you really afford. By answering this first question, you would be able to check and ask around as per any sports seats that would fall within your budget range. Remember that sports seats come in a variety of options – each more sophisticated than the next. In fact, there are even sports seats that come with electronic adjustments of the lumbar support.
If you have no idea whatsoever as per the kind of sports seats that you would like for your car, you can check out automotive magazines. Or you can also visit automotive websites. If you choose to do so, you can also try contacting manufacturers to get the names of dealers of sports seats in your locality.
Upon visiting an auto parts store that offers sports seats, make sure that you ask the store’s personnel to show you their collection of these. That way, you can personally inspect the seats so you could choose which ones to purchase. Consider the seats’ safety features. Make sure that you choose those that has a high and close back rest which has the capacity to support and protect your back. Also make sure that it supports not only your back but your whole body as well.
How To Find The Perfect Tattoo Design
Now that you’re ready to get inked, the first step is finding your perfect tattoo design (or designs). You likely have at least a vague idea of something you think would be great and now you can make it a tattoo-friendly reality! However, finding that perfect tattoo design is a complex process with many considerations and it may take some time to find something that will also result in a great tattoo. So don’t rush it! Many people even make it a point to mull over an idea for months or even years before actually making the leap to permanency. And if you’re still looking for inspiration, it’s sometimes a good idea to trim the fat right from the beginning and think about what you won’t have tattooed. Eliminating possibilities is often a good first step. Is there a chance you would want a skull tattoo? Nope. Great, you’re now one step closer to finding your perfect tattoo design.
There are many ways to search out design reference for your new ink. The Internet has become an easy resource of information and you can find a lot of images that appeal to you — often a myriad of photographs, drawings and animated images that all somehow relate to the tattoo vision you have in your mind. Magazines, books and all other types of media can contribute even further. But, unfortunately, not everything you’re going to find online or at the newsstand can translate into a fantastic tattoo. The amount of detail, the line work and shading involved and the size of the image will have to determine how “tattoo-friendly” your design reference actually is. Often, the images you find will need to be re-worked by a knowledgeable flash artist or tattooist to make them work well when translated to your skin.
To avoid the disappointment of realizing that your “perfect” design isn’t actually a realistic tattoo possibility, bypass mass media searching and go for the most direct method: consulting tattoo-friendly collections of flash art. These designs were created specifically to be tattooed and will work within the possibilities and limitations of a tattoo needle. Other types of art and images that you find as design reference may contribute to your tattoo vision, but you should be aware of their limitations in advance.
Melissa browses TattooFinder.com for the perfect tattoo design.
Ten Steps to the Perfect Tattoo Design
- Know your tattoo design resources … and their limitations.
- Be realistic about your tattoo design vision.
- Make sure your tattoo design reflects your desire for ink.
- Determine what your tattoo means to you now, later and forever.
- Identify your style.
- Keep in mind the importance of a tattoo-friendly design stencil.
- Be aware of multiple interpretations of your design choice.
- Location, location, location!
- Consider your tattoo future . . .
- Take responsibility. Take time.
You may find design inspiration in many places, but you won’t always find tattoo-friendly artwork. Magazines, books, Internet searches and all other forms of media are full of images, but you should ultimately rely on artwork that is intended to be tattooed and is created by flash artists and tattooists who understand the limitations of a tattoo machine. TattooFinder.com has a database of thousands of tattoo-friendly designs, which all come with the stencil your tattooist will need to apply them to your skin. Limit your resources to those most reliable for a design-to-tattoo translation, and make sure that you’re only seriously considering artwork that you know is tattoo-friendly.
Skin is a living canvas, so there is a natural limit to what will work and what will not work as a tattoo. Be realistic about the size and complexity of your tattoo design with respect to the size of the tattoo you ultimately want. Commonly, people want to put more complexity and detail in their tattoo design than will conceivably work for the small size they want it tattooed on their body.
People get tattoos for many different reasons — be it identity expression, rite of passage, shock, memorializing, or simply because they like the idea of having one. Think about your reasons for getting tattooed while you work through the process of choosing a design and you’ll find something that really expresses your original desire to get one. If you want to create a “bad girl” look, chances are a cute butterfly tattoo won’t get the response you're looking for.
Think about the meaning your tattoo will have and how it will apply to you in the future. While some people want their tattoo to always represent them, others will get tattooed to commemorate a period or event in their lives (like a mile marker). Just like points on a lifeline, tattoos can tell a story of your personal growth and development. Using this perspective, a tattoo never really becomes “irrelevant.” So what’s important to you? And how important do you think it will be long into the future? Some things that might inspire your tattoo include hobbies and interests, stories or folklore you identify with, your religious or spiritual beliefs, special achievements and your cultural (or sub-cultural) identity.
Identify different styles of artwork you’re naturally drawn to. Many designs can be represented in various ways and you might be more attracted to a traditional and vintage look, modern or urban styles, photo realistic forms, buoyant cartoon designs, delicate and feminine-looking work or “simulation” (designs that simulate watercolor, airbrush and oils). There are probably as many styles as there are tattooists and flash artists to create them, so find those that feel right to you.
If possible, select a design that is “stencil ready.” Tattoo design stencils are blueprints of your tattoo that don’t include color or shading, but give subtle direction to the tattooist in how to create the design on your skin. The process is similar to how engineers use the “language” of a blueprint to make sure the intended measurements, guidelines and details of the project are translated into a finished masterpiece. Providing your artist with good design references and stencils increases the likelihood that your tattoo is an accurate representation of your original design. All of the tattoo artwork you’ll find on TattooFinder.com includes a tattoo-ready stencil with your purchase.
Most people select a tattoo design based on what the design symbolizes to them. You might decide to commemorate your summer in Spain with a fantastic tattoo design of a black bull, but you might get a lot of people misinterpreting your tattoo and wondering if your zodiac sign is Taurus. It’s important to understand the various symbolic interpretations your design may take on and what others might think after seeing your tattoo. Inform yourself before you commit to a permanent tattoo and do some research on your ideas.
Where you decide to put your tattoo will determine how visible it is to everyone else. How easily do you want to be able to show off or hide your artwork? The location will also affect your tattoo design options and what can feasibly fit there. A complicated and highly detailed design simply can’t be squeezed onto your ankle and is probably better suited for a larger space. Some designs simply work better aesthetically on different places of the body. Will your design enhance the curves of your body or draw attention to (or away from) certain body parts?
Don’t hesitate to pull out a non-permanent marker and try a few things out! TattooFinder.com also gives you the ability to access our image manipulation tools after you’ve found your perfect tattoo design, allowing you to create and print out unlimited versions for you to “try on.” Try a few options and think about the limitations of your canvas.
After you get your first tattoo, beware . . . you may very well want to get more. If you’re prone to “ink addiction” and think this tattoo may lead to another, think about how the tattoo design you’re considering now will fit into your larger “tattoo future” in terms of style, theme, balance of color and size.
You’re going to have this tattoo forever, so take all the time you need to find something you love. While the final choice is ultimately your responsibility (and your prerogative), it may not hurt to get opinions from trusted people in your life. Then again, you should also be prepared to ignore the opinions of others.
And beware — if you don’t have a general idea of the tattoo you want, you may be more susceptible to pressure from your friends and from your tattooist. Don’t get talked into anything. Long-time tattooist Guy Aitchison explained this to us succinctly when he said, “You’re the owner of your skin. Don’t get sucked into anything you don’t want.”
How To Find The Perfect Tattoo Design
Now that you’re ready to get inked, the first step is finding your perfect tattoo design (or designs). You likely have at least a vague idea of something you think would be great and now you can make it a tattoo-friendly reality! However, finding that perfect tattoo design is a complex process with many considerations and it may take some time to find something that will also result in a great tattoo. So don’t rush it! Many people even make it a point to mull over an idea for months or even years before actually making the leap to permanency. And if you’re still looking for inspiration, it’s sometimes a good idea to trim the fat right from the beginning and think about what you won’t have tattooed. Eliminating possibilities is often a good first step. Is there a chance you would want a skull tattoo? Nope. Great, you’re now one step closer to finding your perfect tattoo design.
There are many ways to search out design reference for your new ink. The Internet has become an easy resource of information and you can find a lot of images that appeal to you — often a myriad of photographs, drawings and animated images that all somehow relate to the tattoo vision you have in your mind. Magazines, books and all other types of media can contribute even further. But, unfortunately, not everything you’re going to find online or at the newsstand can translate into a fantastic tattoo. The amount of detail, the line work and shading involved and the size of the image will have to determine how “tattoo-friendly” your design reference actually is. Often, the images you find will need to be re-worked by a knowledgeable flash artist or tattooist to make them work well when translated to your skin.
To avoid the disappointment of realizing that your “perfect” design isn’t actually a realistic tattoo possibility, bypass mass media searching and go for the most direct method: consulting tattoo-friendly collections of flash art. These designs were created specifically to be tattooed and will work within the possibilities and limitations of a tattoo needle. Other types of art and images that you find as design reference may contribute to your tattoo vision, but you should be aware of their limitations in advance.
Melissa browses TattooFinder.com for the perfect tattoo design.
Ten Steps to the Perfect Tattoo Design
- Know your tattoo design resources … and their limitations.
- Be realistic about your tattoo design vision.
- Make sure your tattoo design reflects your desire for ink.
- Determine what your tattoo means to you now, later and forever.
- Identify your style.
- Keep in mind the importance of a tattoo-friendly design stencil.
- Be aware of multiple interpretations of your design choice.
- Location, location, location!
- Consider your tattoo future . . .
- Take responsibility. Take time.
You may find design inspiration in many places, but you won’t always find tattoo-friendly artwork. Magazines, books, Internet searches and all other forms of media are full of images, but you should ultimately rely on artwork that is intended to be tattooed and is created by flash artists and tattooists who understand the limitations of a tattoo machine. TattooFinder.com has a database of thousands of tattoo-friendly designs, which all come with the stencil your tattooist will need to apply them to your skin. Limit your resources to those most reliable for a design-to-tattoo translation, and make sure that you’re only seriously considering artwork that you know is tattoo-friendly.
Skin is a living canvas, so there is a natural limit to what will work and what will not work as a tattoo. Be realistic about the size and complexity of your tattoo design with respect to the size of the tattoo you ultimately want. Commonly, people want to put more complexity and detail in their tattoo design than will conceivably work for the small size they want it tattooed on their body.
People get tattoos for many different reasons — be it identity expression, rite of passage, shock, memorializing, or simply because they like the idea of having one. Think about your reasons for getting tattooed while you work through the process of choosing a design and you’ll find something that really expresses your original desire to get one. If you want to create a “bad girl” look, chances are a cute butterfly tattoo won’t get the response you're looking for.
Think about the meaning your tattoo will have and how it will apply to you in the future. While some people want their tattoo to always represent them, others will get tattooed to commemorate a period or event in their lives (like a mile marker). Just like points on a lifeline, tattoos can tell a story of your personal growth and development. Using this perspective, a tattoo never really becomes “irrelevant.” So what’s important to you? And how important do you think it will be long into the future? Some things that might inspire your tattoo include hobbies and interests, stories or folklore you identify with, your religious or spiritual beliefs, special achievements and your cultural (or sub-cultural) identity.
Identify different styles of artwork you’re naturally drawn to. Many designs can be represented in various ways and you might be more attracted to a traditional and vintage look, modern or urban styles, photo realistic forms, buoyant cartoon designs, delicate and feminine-looking work or “simulation” (designs that simulate watercolor, airbrush and oils). There are probably as many styles as there are tattooists and flash artists to create them, so find those that feel right to you.
If possible, select a design that is “stencil ready.” Tattoo design stencils are blueprints of your tattoo that don’t include color or shading, but give subtle direction to the tattooist in how to create the design on your skin. The process is similar to how engineers use the “language” of a blueprint to make sure the intended measurements, guidelines and details of the project are translated into a finished masterpiece. Providing your artist with good design references and stencils increases the likelihood that your tattoo is an accurate representation of your original design. All of the tattoo artwork you’ll find on TattooFinder.com includes a tattoo-ready stencil with your purchase.
Most people select a tattoo design based on what the design symbolizes to them. You might decide to commemorate your summer in Spain with a fantastic tattoo design of a black bull, but you might get a lot of people misinterpreting your tattoo and wondering if your zodiac sign is Taurus. It’s important to understand the various symbolic interpretations your design may take on and what others might think after seeing your tattoo. Inform yourself before you commit to a permanent tattoo and do some research on your ideas.
Where you decide to put your tattoo will determine how visible it is to everyone else. How easily do you want to be able to show off or hide your artwork? The location will also affect your tattoo design options and what can feasibly fit there. A complicated and highly detailed design simply can’t be squeezed onto your ankle and is probably better suited for a larger space. Some designs simply work better aesthetically on different places of the body. Will your design enhance the curves of your body or draw attention to (or away from) certain body parts?
Don’t hesitate to pull out a non-permanent marker and try a few things out! TattooFinder.com also gives you the ability to access our image manipulation tools after you’ve found your perfect tattoo design, allowing you to create and print out unlimited versions for you to “try on.” Try a few options and think about the limitations of your canvas.
After you get your first tattoo, beware . . . you may very well want to get more. If you’re prone to “ink addiction” and think this tattoo may lead to another, think about how the tattoo design you’re considering now will fit into your larger “tattoo future” in terms of style, theme, balance of color and size.
You’re going to have this tattoo forever, so take all the time you need to find something you love. While the final choice is ultimately your responsibility (and your prerogative), it may not hurt to get opinions from trusted people in your life. Then again, you should also be prepared to ignore the opinions of others.
And beware — if you don’t have a general idea of the tattoo you want, you may be more susceptible to pressure from your friends and from your tattooist. Don’t get talked into anything. Long-time tattooist Guy Aitchison explained this to us succinctly when he said, “You’re the owner of your skin. Don’t get sucked into anything you don’t want.”
How To Find The Perfect Tattoo Design
Now that you’re ready to get inked, the first step is finding your perfect tattoo design (or designs). You likely have at least a vague idea of something you think would be great and now you can make it a tattoo-friendly reality! However, finding that perfect tattoo design is a complex process with many considerations and it may take some time to find something that will also result in a great tattoo. So don’t rush it! Many people even make it a point to mull over an idea for months or even years before actually making the leap to permanency. And if you’re still looking for inspiration, it’s sometimes a good idea to trim the fat right from the beginning and think about what you won’t have tattooed. Eliminating possibilities is often a good first step. Is there a chance you would want a skull tattoo? Nope. Great, you’re now one step closer to finding your perfect tattoo design.
There are many ways to search out design reference for your new ink. The Internet has become an easy resource of information and you can find a lot of images that appeal to you — often a myriad of photographs, drawings and animated images that all somehow relate to the tattoo vision you have in your mind. Magazines, books and all other types of media can contribute even further. But, unfortunately, not everything you’re going to find online or at the newsstand can translate into a fantastic tattoo. The amount of detail, the line work and shading involved and the size of the image will have to determine how “tattoo-friendly” your design reference actually is. Often, the images you find will need to be re-worked by a knowledgeable flash artist or tattooist to make them work well when translated to your skin.
To avoid the disappointment of realizing that your “perfect” design isn’t actually a realistic tattoo possibility, bypass mass media searching and go for the most direct method: consulting tattoo-friendly collections of flash art. These designs were created specifically to be tattooed and will work within the possibilities and limitations of a tattoo needle. Other types of art and images that you find as design reference may contribute to your tattoo vision, but you should be aware of their limitations in advance.
Melissa browses TattooFinder.com for the perfect tattoo design.
Ten Steps to the Perfect Tattoo Design
- Know your tattoo design resources … and their limitations.
- Be realistic about your tattoo design vision.
- Make sure your tattoo design reflects your desire for ink.
- Determine what your tattoo means to you now, later and forever.
- Identify your style.
- Keep in mind the importance of a tattoo-friendly design stencil.
- Be aware of multiple interpretations of your design choice.
- Location, location, location!
- Consider your tattoo future . . .
- Take responsibility. Take time.
You may find design inspiration in many places, but you won’t always find tattoo-friendly artwork. Magazines, books, Internet searches and all other forms of media are full of images, but you should ultimately rely on artwork that is intended to be tattooed and is created by flash artists and tattooists who understand the limitations of a tattoo machine. TattooFinder.com has a database of thousands of tattoo-friendly designs, which all come with the stencil your tattooist will need to apply them to your skin. Limit your resources to those most reliable for a design-to-tattoo translation, and make sure that you’re only seriously considering artwork that you know is tattoo-friendly.
Skin is a living canvas, so there is a natural limit to what will work and what will not work as a tattoo. Be realistic about the size and complexity of your tattoo design with respect to the size of the tattoo you ultimately want. Commonly, people want to put more complexity and detail in their tattoo design than will conceivably work for the small size they want it tattooed on their body.
People get tattoos for many different reasons — be it identity expression, rite of passage, shock, memorializing, or simply because they like the idea of having one. Think about your reasons for getting tattooed while you work through the process of choosing a design and you’ll find something that really expresses your original desire to get one. If you want to create a “bad girl” look, chances are a cute butterfly tattoo won’t get the response you're looking for.
Think about the meaning your tattoo will have and how it will apply to you in the future. While some people want their tattoo to always represent them, others will get tattooed to commemorate a period or event in their lives (like a mile marker). Just like points on a lifeline, tattoos can tell a story of your personal growth and development. Using this perspective, a tattoo never really becomes “irrelevant.” So what’s important to you? And how important do you think it will be long into the future? Some things that might inspire your tattoo include hobbies and interests, stories or folklore you identify with, your religious or spiritual beliefs, special achievements and your cultural (or sub-cultural) identity.
Identify different styles of artwork you’re naturally drawn to. Many designs can be represented in various ways and you might be more attracted to a traditional and vintage look, modern or urban styles, photo realistic forms, buoyant cartoon designs, delicate and feminine-looking work or “simulation” (designs that simulate watercolor, airbrush and oils). There are probably as many styles as there are tattooists and flash artists to create them, so find those that feel right to you.
If possible, select a design that is “stencil ready.” Tattoo design stencils are blueprints of your tattoo that don’t include color or shading, but give subtle direction to the tattooist in how to create the design on your skin. The process is similar to how engineers use the “language” of a blueprint to make sure the intended measurements, guidelines and details of the project are translated into a finished masterpiece. Providing your artist with good design references and stencils increases the likelihood that your tattoo is an accurate representation of your original design. All of the tattoo artwork you’ll find on TattooFinder.com includes a tattoo-ready stencil with your purchase.
Most people select a tattoo design based on what the design symbolizes to them. You might decide to commemorate your summer in Spain with a fantastic tattoo design of a black bull, but you might get a lot of people misinterpreting your tattoo and wondering if your zodiac sign is Taurus. It’s important to understand the various symbolic interpretations your design may take on and what others might think after seeing your tattoo. Inform yourself before you commit to a permanent tattoo and do some research on your ideas.
Where you decide to put your tattoo will determine how visible it is to everyone else. How easily do you want to be able to show off or hide your artwork? The location will also affect your tattoo design options and what can feasibly fit there. A complicated and highly detailed design simply can’t be squeezed onto your ankle and is probably better suited for a larger space. Some designs simply work better aesthetically on different places of the body. Will your design enhance the curves of your body or draw attention to (or away from) certain body parts?
Don’t hesitate to pull out a non-permanent marker and try a few things out! TattooFinder.com also gives you the ability to access our image manipulation tools after you’ve found your perfect tattoo design, allowing you to create and print out unlimited versions for you to “try on.” Try a few options and think about the limitations of your canvas.
After you get your first tattoo, beware . . . you may very well want to get more. If you’re prone to “ink addiction” and think this tattoo may lead to another, think about how the tattoo design you’re considering now will fit into your larger “tattoo future” in terms of style, theme, balance of color and size.
You’re going to have this tattoo forever, so take all the time you need to find something you love. While the final choice is ultimately your responsibility (and your prerogative), it may not hurt to get opinions from trusted people in your life. Then again, you should also be prepared to ignore the opinions of others.
And beware — if you don’t have a general idea of the tattoo you want, you may be more susceptible to pressure from your friends and from your tattooist. Don’t get talked into anything. Long-time tattooist Guy Aitchison explained this to us succinctly when he said, “You’re the owner of your skin. Don’t get sucked into anything you don’t want.”
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