So you want to design a tattoo? If you aren't satisfied with the stock tattoo images available today in tattoos parlors and online, take things into your own hands and create a tattoo design that represents you personally. Check out the following three tips:

1. Find a design with features you like

Maybe you haven't found the perfect tattoo design yet, but you've probably seen some that you sort of liked. Go back to those designs and try to isolate the specific design elements that appeal to you. If you've chosen a tribal-style tattoo, you might like certain lines on the design, but find other aspects of the tattoo too busy or too simple. Think about what you'd change to make the design better. If your modifications aren't that complex, you should be able to take your design to a tattoo artist and have him or her draw up a new image with your changes.

2. Modify your design on the computer

On the other hand, if your design changes aren't that simple, you'll need to play around with your tattoo before you take it into the tattoo parlor. To find out which direction you should take, ask yourself if you can clearly describe the changes you want made, or if you're going off of feelings and wishy-washy statements. If you can only describe your ideal design as "less busy" instead of identifying which specific elements need to be removed, spend time messing around with the image on your computer. You may not be able to get it perfect, but you should at least be able to modify it enough to take to the tattoo parlor.

3. Hire a professional designer

If the mere thought of editing images on your computer makes you squirm, consider hiring a professional designer to create a unique image for you. This isn't as complicated as it sounds - you can engage the services of a professional graphic designer for as little as $30. To do this, check out sites like Guru.com and eLance.com - they offer freelancers the opportunity to bid on projects and work for people around the world. Set up an account and post a project that describes what you're looking for. You'll start to receive bids right away - just try to choose a professional who's had some experience working with tattoos before.