Getting a small tattoo

Why a small tattoo?

A small tattoo can be the perfect way to get introduced to tattooing. People who get their first tattoo often logically prefer to choose a subtle small tattoo rather than going straight for a big one. But small tattoos are not only the ideal entry-level tattoos, they are also popular with people who have had tattoos done before. Small tattoos can be the perfect tattoo because they fit well in a particular place on the body, such as on the wrist or ankle, the fingers, or behind the ear. Small tattoos can range from very simple designs like a simple geometric shape like a circle or triangle, to a much more complex design like a precise depicted flower. Also, designs with letters like names popular for setting small tattoos.

Good places for small tattoos

Just as important as the design of your small tattoo is the place where you want to get it. Of course, the desired effect of the tattoo is leading in this, but generally small tattoos look best when placed on a smaller area of skin. A small tattoo on your back will be difficult to see and will feel extra small because of the large surface area on which it is placed, while a small tattoo on the wrist, on the neck or behind the ear will appear relatively larger and will therefore stand out better.

Of course, it can also be an advantage to place a tattoo in an area that is a little easier to cover, such as the ankle, foot or wrist. With a sock, trousers, bracelet or a watch, you can easily hide small tattoos in these places, should the occasional need arise.

Other popular places to place small tattoos are the neck or shoulder, and behind the ear. For small tattoos on the neck, they can be very noticeable, especially if you don't have long hair. The same goes for tattoos behind the ear. When you have long hair, this is a subtle spot, but when you have short hair, this spot becomes very noticeable.

The possibilities with small tattoos are endless

When it comes to small tattoos, the possibilities are endless, just like with larger tattoos. A few things do matter when choosing a design for your new small tattoo. Of course, it is good to realise that if you like a design in a larger version, this does not mean that it will also look good in a small tattoo. By the design to make it suitable for a small tattoo, the design may not look as good. Often with small tattoos, it is important to find the right level of detail. Sometimes you can convey something better in a small tattoo with fewer lines. Especially for small tattoos too, the design should not be too busy. There is not really room for adding a lot of detail such as shadow work in a smaller tattoo. Besides, adding such detail to a small tattoo will only result in the whole design becoming less visible.

Generally, with small tattoos, the design lasts longer when it is simpler. The lines of tattoos can blend into each other and especially when many lines are close together, a small tattoo runs the risk of fading details. Of course, you can always discuss with the tattoo artist what the design you have in mind will look like as a small tattoo. The tattoo artist can also show you examples of other small tattoos so you can see what the tattoo you have in mind will roughly look like in real life.

Do you like fine, thin lines? Read more about fine line tattoos. Would you like to pop in without an appointment? Read about walk-in tattoos.

Frequently asked questions about small tattoos