Arm tattoos are the most common types of tattoos, across most of the world, except for the Maoris of New Zealand. When most people think of tattoos, the first image that comes to mind is of a symbol etched onto a bulging bicep.

In Japan and China, traditional tattoos covering the entire arm have been popular for hundreds of years. These highly elaborate tattoos feature exotic and fierce beasts, and vibrant, explosive colors. They are very intricate, and take a highly skilled tattoo artist - indeed, there are artists in Japan who have dedicated their lives to studying this art.

These full sleeve tattoos were originally invented by the Yakuza, or Japanese mafia, and they have strong connotations of counter-culture. They are popular with rebels, and have recently become associated with rock music. Within the Yakuza, they were symbols of rank and loyalty, and would mark the progress of one's career within the clan.

Wrist and forearm tattoos are a popular way to display symbols that you want others to see. They are a perfect location for making a personal statement. They are also a popular place to get religious tattoos, which help to express your commitment or feeling of identity through affiliation with a particular religious movement. On a different note, they are also a popular location for gang tattoos.

Before you make a decision about the size and location of your arm tattoos, there are some considerations that you need to think about.

First of all, will a visible tattoo cause problems with your employer? Many work environments are very conservative, and employers are often wary of tattooed employees sending out a "negative" company image.

Pain is another consideration. Upper arm tattoos do not hurt as much as lower arm ones, and wrist ones are more painful that the lower arm, so bear this in mind.

Consider the color - do you want a simple black and white design, or are you interested in getting a multiple color design. Also bear in mind that your skin tone will effect the pigmentation, so with lighter skin, you will have more freedom of choice when it comes to selecting colors.

Bear in mind that your arm tattoo will be visible to others, so this is an area where you should put something that you want others to see. t should be all about making a statement about yourself, about something that defines you. It would e best if it is something that you feel strongly now and will feel strong about into the future - not a brief fad that you'll regret for years to come.

Before you go to the parlor to get a tattoo, spend some time looking at the designs that are available on the internet, so you can choose a design that you will be happy with later. It makes a lot more sense than making a snap decision in the parlor, and there are a lot more designs to choose from!

Just print out the one you like and take it to the tattoo artist, or use it as a starting point for your own customised design.

Click here to see the sites I recommend for tattoo designs.