Tattoos are beautiful works of art, and in that regard, your body is a canvas on which they can be painted. Although this means the possibilities for these body modifications are endless, there are some popular spots where people tend to get inked. This is often because they’re easier to hide when the situation demands or because they produce better results and have greater permanence. Other times, it all comes down to personal preference.
Curious about where these locations might be? The best people to answer your questions are those who make a living tattooing others’ bodies—and that’s us! Here at Ink By Finch, dozens of customers walk in everyday with the hopes of getting their favorite designs placed exactly where they desire, and they do. Ahead are 10 popular locations on the body for a tattoo, from the most expansive and bearable to delicate of areas.
1. Wrist
The wrist is one of the most popular areas for a first-time tattoo. Offering accessibility and a generous amount of space for tattoo artists to work with, the wrist accommodates designs from dainty and delicate to big and bold. Inks that sit on this part of the forearm also can be connected to future tattoos, contributing to an extended composition. However, they can be moderately uncomfortable because of their proximity to the bone.
2. Upper Arm
The upper arm is a superb location for long-lasting tattoos. It experiences less stretching and is supported by substantial fat and muscle, which helps minimize fading compared to most other areas of the arm. Large and intricate designs wrap beautifully around the upper arm due to its natural curvature and broad area. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals who work out, as demonstrated by the striking appeal of half sleeve tattoos.
3. Back
This is a large, versatile, and easy-to-conceal space that welcomes both ends of the spectrum: full-back designs inspired by Japanese, tribal, realism and other visually impactful styles, as well as small and minimalist ones like watercolor, fine line, and script tattoos. Comprising mainly muscle, the back boasts less sensitivity, making pain manageable even for time-consuming full-back pieces. However, keep in mind that recovering can be challenging, particularly when it comes to moisturizing and avoiding sleeping on the tattooed area.
4. Calf
Nestled between the knee and ankle, the calf offers a nice, vertical canvas for a standout tattoo. The outer part of the calf—away from the shin—is generally the most comfortable spot to get inked. Plus, calf tattoos are relatively easy to show off or cover up; flaunt them with shorts or keep them hidden away with long pants, depending on your mood and situation.
5. Side and Rib Cage
The sides and rib cage are known for being among the most painful areas to get tattooed, but that doesn’t deter many people from choosing this spot. It is even considered the most attractive tattoo location. Given that the skin here is thin and tattooing over bone requires a lot of precision to reduce discomfort and ensure clean lines, it’s crucial to find a skilled tattoo artist you can trust.
6. Chest
Strategically placed tattoos on the chest can really highlight your figure, giving them another layer of value. There’s plenty of space for big, detailed designs, but if you need something a bit more subtle for work, you might want to stick to smaller tattoos. Possible spots include above the pecs, along or below the sternum, across the collarbones, and even the cleavage.
7. Ankle
Ankle tattoos, often small and delicate, are especially popular among women for their stylish and feminine qualities. Even with the limited space, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can opt for a band that encircles the ankle like a bracelet, or place a design on the inner or outer side of the ankle. For a more toned-down look, you might even go below the ankle. Prefer something more eye-catching? Consider one that starts at the ankle, and winds up your leg. Enduring choices include tiny symbols, simple lines, and geometric or floral patterns that complement the natural contours of the ankle.
8. Neck
Tattoos on the back of the neck give you greater control over visibility since they can be discreetly covered with clothing or long hair. They’re perfect for free-flowing designs and can even be extended onto your back or shoulders. On the flip side, tattoos on the front of the neck are a powerful way to make a strong impression—ideal if you want your tattoo to pop. Just keep in mind that both areas might need extra care to stay looking fresh, especially through aging and sun exposure.
9. Thigh
Thigh tattoos are often less noticeable because you can easily keep them out of sight with longer pants. Compared to other body parts, the thigh generally feels less painful when getting inked, especially over the quads, because the extra muscle and fat cushion the needle. However, if you have a low pain tolerance, you might want to steer clear of the inner thigh. It’s more sensitive due to a higher concentration of nerve endings, making it a bit more tender. Intricate flowers, meaningful quotes, and detailed animal imagery all make excellent use of the thigh’s shape and size, showcasing compelling designs.
10. Fingers and Toes
There’s been growing interest in tattoos on our digits in recent years due to an increased focus on personal expression and the influence of popular culture. Nonetheless, these small areas are great for meaningful symbols and designs that tell a personal story. For example, matching tattoos across the knuckles can be used to replace a wedding band, or dates can be inked on the sides of the fingers to commemorate special occasions. However, one downside is that, due to frequent movement and friction, these tattoos are prone to fading more quickly and require regular touch-ups to maintain their appearance.
Final Thoughts
Almost any part of your body can be tattooed with the right consideration for pain tolerance, safety and desired results. From your face and neck to your chest, calves, and beyond, no area is truly off-limits with the right expertise. At Ink By Finch, our team of warm and highly skilled tattoo artists is ready to bring your vision to life. Visit us and let us help you find out where’s the best spot to seal in your most personal designs with a stunning ink job. Book an appointment today.