How to Choose the Perfect Tattoo Placement

When it comes to tattoos, the design is only half the story. Equally important is where that tattoo goes on your body. We’d go so far as to say that proper placement can elevate a tattoo from ordinary to extraordinary; wrong placement can leave you with a permanent case of, “What in the world was I thinking?”

At Bay Ink, we take a holistic approach to tattoos. It's not just about finding a spot that looks cool; it's about understanding how that tattoo will work with your body's natural contours, personal style, and life story. To help you make the best decision for your new ink, we've compiled a list of important factors to consider when choosing your tattoo design and placement.

Appropriateness

We realize that "appropriateness" is subjective, and while Bay Ink is a judgment-free zone, we still encourage you to think about the message you want to send out to the world. If you work with children or a local charity, consider whether curse words or violent scenes align with your professional image.

Value over time

We hope you'll always love your tattoo. However, experience has shown us that aesthetic tastes can change over time. You may be a die-hard Harry Potter fan now and want to devote an entire arm to it, but consider whether you'll still feel the same way in a decade. If you're unsure, you may want to opt for a less visible tattoo placement.

Personal relevance

A tattoo with deep personal significance, such as a tribute to a deceased loved one or pet, will likely maintain its relevance over the long haul. While we’re happy to do tattoo designs that are silly, ironic, or trendy, we always encourage you to consider personal relevance when considering the best spots for tattoos.

Size

The size and proportion of the tattoo is equally important. A tattoo that is too large or small for the chosen body part can make you look awkward or disproportionate. For example, a tiny tattoo on a muscular arm might make that arm look smaller. A big tattoo on a delicate ankle could overwhelm the area and make it appear unbalanced.

Body Shape

Your body shape and contours play a crucial role in tattoo placement—and it’s not just about the specific body part either. If you're petite, a massive back piece might overwhelm your frame. On the other hand, a series of smaller, strategically placed tattoos could complement your size. If you're tall and broad, a tiny, isolated tattoo might get lost on your body, while a larger, more cohesive design could balance out your proportions.

Complexity and Style of the Tattoo

Intricate tattoos, such as portraits, often look better when placed on large, flat body parts rather than on smaller, more curved areas like an ankle, where the design might appear compressed or distorted. Similarly, "wrapped" tattoos, like rosary beads, typically look better when coiled around a wrist or leg instead of flat on the arm, as this allows the design to follow the natural contours of the body.

Pain Threshold

Some areas of the body are more sensitive than others. For example, tattoos on bony areas like the ribcage may look good—but they are generally more painful than “fleshier” areas like the upper arm or thigh.

Let’s Elevate Your Ink. Contact Us Today!

We understand that getting a tattoo is a big decision. That's why we're committed to helping you make the best choice for your body and your style. While the design and placement are entirely up to you, our experienced artists take the time to understand your vision, consider your unique needs, and guide you toward the perfect placement you'll love forever. Contact our artists today!