Decide on a theme. There are many themes to consider. Determine if you want black and white, or if you want all color or just hints of color. Other popular themes include Tribal, kanji, Chinese, Celtic, religious, biker and zodiac. Another common theme is incorporating existing tattoos with new tattoos and then adding a background pattern.
Determine the placement. Decide which arm the tattoo will be on and also the length of arm the tattoo will cover. A full-sleeve tattoo goes from the shoulder down to the hand, wrapping around the entire arm. A three-quarters sleeve generally goes from the shoulder to the wrist or halfway up the forearm. A half sleeve is from the shoulder to the elbow or elbow to the wrist, and a quarter sleeve is just the shoulder.
Consult a professional tattoo artist. Take all images and drawings you have collected with you. Tell the tattoo artist your ideas and compare thoughts. Ask for his opinion and suggestions. Some tattoos are not possible to do because of the detail involved. The tattoo artist will let you know what is possible and what is not. He will also be able to help with color ideas.