Straight answers to the things that stop people booking a tattoo — from the first idea to a healed tattoo. Each guide points you at real, credited work in the catalogue, and health guides quote dermatologists who specialise in tattoos.
A rough ordering, from the most forgiving spots to the ones people talk about most: Easiest: outer thigh, glutes, outer upper arm, calf — thick muscle and fat…
Placement Wear Forearm, hand, upper arm Short or loose sleeves, a tank top underneath Shoulder, upper back, chest A top you can take off or a button-up worn…
Easy, flat areas like the outer forearm or upper arm are faster.
Inner forearm, upper arm, shoulder, back and ribs hold fine work well.
See 1 real other weapons tattoos on the upper arm in chicago →
Nine stages from a vague idea to a healed tattoo. Every guide ends with a link to the next step, so you can read them in order — or jump straight to where you are.
The worries people mention most — and where the honest answer is.
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Health guides quote dermatologists who specialise in tattoos word for word. New to the words? See the tattoo glossary. How guides are written and corrected: editorial policy.