The Trials And Tribulations Of Choosing A Position For Your New Tattoo

Much like with piercings, a lot of people rush into tattoos when they’re young. After all, at that age, this rebellious form of self-expression can provide a great confidence boost. Unfortunately, keen youngsters often end up choosing questionable designs that later require modification or removal.

Getting a tattoo in later life can be a far better way to ensure a design that truly speaks of your style and life experiences. As well as giving you more time to think about which designs would work best, this more considered late-life approach lets you think hard about where you actually want your tattoo to be. 

This might seem like a small consideration, but trust us when we say that it could end up being as fundamental to your overall feelings for that tattoo as the design itself. But how exactly do you go about choosing a prime tattoo position? Keep on reading to find out.

# 1 –  A Question of Visibility

Visibility is the first positioning consideration you’ll want to think about before heading to a tattoo shop. While youngsters tend to be all about tattoos people can see (think bold sleeves or even facial designs), this stark visibility is often the thing that turns them off their tattoos in the end. So, be clear just how much you want that tattoo on display long before you take the plunge.

After all, a tattoo on your body in an area like your back, hips, or upper legs can be an entirely private thing that no one but your nearest and dearest will ever see. This can be great for personal tattoos, or just for parents and professionals who want to keep things subtle. Alternatively, opting for a tattoo on a location like your upper arm or lower back can be either a bold style addition when you want to display it, or a more subtle, private thing when you don’t.

# 2 – Pain Tolerance Varies

You might also want to consider pain tolerance when choosing where to put your tattoo. Believe it or not, different parts of the body make for a very different physical tattooing experience. So, knowing what your pain tolerance can handle is always key.

Famously, areas like the ribs, feet, hands, and spine are more sensitive and thus more painful. By comparison, most people experience only minor discomfort during tattoos on the calf, thigh, or upper arm.

# 3 – Design Decides a Lot

If you’re completely stumped about positioning, it’s also worth just returning to your planned tattoo design. After all, if you’re working with a large, intricate design, sizable flat areas like your back and chest will work best. Alternatively, smaller, more subtle tattoos can work well in areas such as behind your ear or on your wrist. And of course, if you’re working with a wraparound design, arms or legs are your only real options.

Where you put your tattoo matters a great deal for how much you like it. So, consider these positioning pointers to choose the ideal place for you.

FAQs: Choosing the Right Position for Your New Tattoo

How do I choose the best placement for my tattoo?
Think about visibility, pain tolerance, and how well your chosen design fits the shape of the area. Consider whether you want your tattoo to be easily seen or mostly private, and choose a spot that aligns with your lifestyle and comfort.

Does tattoo placement really affect how much it will hurt?
Yes. Some areas—like ribs, feet, hands, and the spine—are known to be more painful due to thinner skin and proximity to bone. Areas with more muscle or fat, like the upper arm, thigh, or calf, tend to be more comfortable.

Will my tattoo fade faster depending on where it’s placed?
Certain areas fade more quickly because of friction and sun exposure. Hands, feet, elbows, and shoulders often fade faster, while areas that stay covered—like thighs or the back—typically retain colour longer.

What if I’m unsure where to place my design?
Show your tattoo artist the design you want. They can recommend the best placement based on the size, shape, and detail of the artwork, as well as your body’s natural lines and contours.

Should I think about my job when choosing tattoo placement?
If you work in a profession with conservative expectations, you may want to choose a placement that can be covered easily, such as the upper arm, back, or thigh.

Does the size of the tattoo affect where it can go?
Absolutely. Large or highly detailed tattoos need broad, flatter areas like the back, chest, or thigh. Small, minimal designs suit more compact areas like wrists, behind the ear, ankles, or the collarbone.

Can I add to or expand my tattoo later?
Yes. If you think you might want a full sleeve or larger piece one day, choose a placement that leaves room for expansion. Tattoo artists can help you plan for future additions.

Is it okay to get a tattoo over bony or uneven areas?
It’s possible, but the tattooing experience may be more painful, and the design may warp slightly with movement. Your artist can guide you on whether your chosen design will hold up well on that area.

How should I prepare the area before my appointment?
Avoid sunburn, exfoliate gently if needed, and keep the skin clean and moisturised in the days leading up to your appointment. Do not apply fake tan or lotion on the day itself.

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Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.