lets talk tattoo placements!
Ever wondered the different factors you should consider when deciding on a new tattoo design? It can be tempting to place your new tattoo irrationally in the first place you think of, but it can also be really beneficial to consider different aspects of the placement.
This list is important for both clients and tattoo artists as we discuss various pointers, so lets get into it:
PORTRAITS
If it is a portrait tattoo, there are specific places that will look better, and you need to consider the movement of the body shape where you are placing it.
Because of the anatomy of the body, obviously the way a tattoo looks down on a flat piece of paper will not look the same once it is translated onto the body. So it will be best to do this on a bigger body part, like the thigh or the side of the leg, but your artist will be able to help with advising on a placement.
BODY shape
Body shape is another important factor for an artist to consider when tattooing the body, as somebody’s form determines how the tattoo will develop and look after it has healed.
This is not even necessarily related to realism tattoos; With every different tattoo style, a good artist will always find the form of the body and work around that to make the tattoo excel in the best way possible.
wrapping
If the tattoos will be wrapped around a body part, it can be an important factor to think about how it is going to look wrapped as opposed to the way it looks down flat on a piece of paper.
When it comes to choosing the perfect placement for your tattoo, considering the art of wrapping can make a significant difference in the overall look and feel of your ink. Wrapping a tattoo around a body part can create a dynamic and cohesive design that flows seamlessly with the natural contours of your body. Whether it's a sleeve that encircles your arm or a band that hugs your ankle, wrapping tattoos can enhance the visual impact and cohesiveness of your body art. Understanding how the design will flow and complement the shape of the body part is essential for achieving a truly striking tattoo.
OTHER TATTOOS
Any other tattoos that you may already have or are planning to get in the future, are very important to think about as if you use up a big amount of space on a smaller tattoo then in the future you may regret this as you might wish to add something else bigger there.
Whilst for a tattoo artist it would be ideal to have their tattoo in the middle of the leg or wherever they’re tattooing, they should advise the client about the decision to have a small one in a place where a big one could go.
Also any tattoos you have already need to be considered when placing the new one, as you don’t want them to be too close together if there’s nothing else going around it. Of course, this is where you can also consider the tattoos you’ll have in the future if you are looking to get a patchwork sleeve or something like this.
job considerations
Whilst tattoos are much more widely accepted nowadays, it is still important to consider what kind of job you might want in the future and if it is a good idea to have tattoos in a place that cannot be easily hidden.
This is why tattoo artists will advise against getting a hand or neck tattoo as your first one, as it doesn’t seem like the best place to start. You should get one in a hidden place first to make sure you really want to have tattoos on show and are sure.
pain
When planning your next tattoo, it's crucial to take into account the level of pain associated with different placement options. The pain experienced during a tattoo session can vary significantly depending on the area of the body being inked. For instance, areas with thin skin and less muscle, such as the ribs or the collarbone, tend to be more sensitive and painful. On the other hand, areas with more flesh and muscle, like the upper arm or calf, are generally less painful.
Understanding your pain tolerance and considering how much discomfort you are willing to endure can help you choose a placement that aligns with your preferences. Remember, the pain is temporary, but the beauty of your tattoo will last a lifetime, so choose wisely when deciding on the placement of your next piece of body art.
healing time
When selecting the placement for your new tattoo, it's important to consider the healing time associated with different areas of the body. The healing process is a crucial part of getting a tattoo, as it directly impacts the final outcome and longevity of your ink. Areas with a higher concentration of nerve endings or areas that are constantly in motion, such as the hands or feet, may take longer to heal due to increased irritation and movement.
“It’s really important to allow yourself enough time before and after getting a tattoo for healing”
On the other hand, areas with good blood circulation, like the upper arm or back, tend to heal more quickly. By choosing a placement that aligns with your lifestyle and daily activities, you can ensure a smoother and faster healing process, allowing your tattoo to look its best in no time. Remember to follow your tattoo artist's aftercare instructions diligently to promote optimal healing and preserve the integrity of your new body art.
And don’t forget to check out our interview we had with glen where we discussed all of these topics in further detail!
