Originality is key when it comes to choosing your ink. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't look to respected tattoo artists for inspiration. Whether you want a playful cartoon illustration or a vibrant watercolour tattoo, it's wise to research different styles and find an artist whose aesthetic jibes with your own. And if you don't want any tats? Well, never say never, because after seeing the art on these Instagram accounts, you just might change your mind.
Ahead, we've rounded up some of the best tattoo talents on Instagram. Follow 'em and get ready to double-tap your heart out.
Sasha Unisex is based in Russia, but her watercolour tattoos have a worldwide following.
Photo: via @SashaUnisex.
Sasha's designs often feature animals or plants done in vibrant colours.
Photo: via @SashaUnisex.
Her work has become so ubiquitous that her designs are now available as temporary tattoos.
Photo: via @SashaUnisex.
L.A.-based Dr. Woo has inked plenty of celebrities over the years. This set of best-friend tattoos belongs to Hilary Duff and Alanna Masterson.
Photo: Via @_DR_WOO_.
Line work on animal tattoos is one of Dr. Woo's signature styles.
Photo: Via @_DR_WOO_.
This tattoo is, forgive the pun, out of this world.
Photo: Via @_DR_WOO_.
Celeb-favourite tattoo artist Keith "Bang Bang" McCurdy has assembled a stellar team of artists at Bang Bang Forever in New York City. One of them, who goes by Mr. K, focuses on "the intricate details of the micro style," according to the shop's website.
Photo: via @Mr.K_Tattoo.
When you never want to take off your Stan Smiths...
Photo: via @Mr.K_Tattoo.
Bet you've never seen the Mona Lisa like this before.
Photo: via @Mr.K_Tattoo.
Nikko Hurtado's followers love his character-inspired work. Nikko is based in Hesperia, CA, at the Black Anchor Collective.
Photo: via @NikkoHurtado.
Nikko's Deadpool illustration is almost too lifelike.
Photo: via @NikkoHurtado.
We all love Bill Murray — but only the truest fan would sport this (incredibly detailed) tattoo.
Photo: via @NikkoHurtado.
Rita "Rit Kit" Zolotukhina is based in Ukraine and known across the globe for her floral-inspired watercolour tattoos. Rather than sketching plant shapes freehand, Zolotukhina uses actual plants and leaves to create the stencil outlines for her work.
Photo: via @Rit.Kit.Tattoo.
This basil tattoo is fresh from the garden.
Photo: via @Rit.Kit.Tattoo.
Unlike its real-life counterpart, this flower tattoo will stand the test of time.
Photo: via @Rit.Kit.Tattoo.
The California-based Corey Divine focuses on geometric styles. According to an interview with Inked, he takes inspiration from his travels to places like Nepal and Europe.
Photo: via @CoreyDivine.
In addition to photos of his work, Divine's Instagram account contains images that will inspire serious wanderlust.
Photo: via @CoreyDivine.
If you're not ready to commit to a tattoo, Divine's work is also available in sticker form and on hats.
Photo: via @CoreyDivine.
Chris Rigoni is based in Australia and known for his colourful, unique designs.
Photo: via @ChrisRigoniTattoer.
Rigoni incorporates bold lines into his work.
Photo: via @ChrisRigoniTattoer.
This isn't your average rose tattoo.
Photo: via @ChrisRigoniTattoer.
Peter Aurisch's cubist tattoos take inspiration from artists like Picasso. Aurisch is based in Berlin, though, so you'll probably need to travel if you want one of his designs.
Photo: via @PeterAurisch.
Everyday objects take on new life in Aurisch's renderings.
Photo: via @PeterAurisch.
Who needs wall art when you can have masterpieces like this on your body?
Photo: via @PeterAurisch.
If you want ink that'll make people laugh, you'll love Louis Brengard's unique designs. Brengard is based in Portland, OR, but Instagram users everywhere can appreciate his fun art.
Photo: via @LouisBrengard.
Brengard does both electric and hand-poked tattoos.
Photo: via @LouisBrengard.
If you're not looking to get inked, you can also buy drawings, stickers, and prints that feature Brengard's work.
Photo: via @LouisBrengard.
Sydney-based Lauren Winzer creates all sorts of playful designs, from pineapples to this adorable goat. Winzer counts Miley Cyrus as one of her friends — the pop star even gave Winzer a tattoo.
Photo: via @LaurenWinzer.
If you're really, really excited about the new Trolls movie, you'll love this design.
Photo: via @LaurenWinzer.
Don't overlook the avocado tattoo below the My Little Pony, either.
Photo: via @LaurenWinzer.Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
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