American traditional tattoo: placements, size and longevity
Bold black outlines, a few strong colours, clear symbols – swallow, anchor, rose. The style that ages best of all.
How the style ages
Bold lines and clear fills are among the most robust things in tattooing. Even after many years the design stays readable – this style copes with restless skin better than most others.
Colour and sun
Colour is the most sensitive part of a tattoo: sun fades it faster than black. If you wear this style on a spot that is often exposed, use sunscreen consistently once it has healed.
How much room it needs
The style needs a medium-sized area – about the width of a palm or more. Arm, shoulder, calf and thigh offer that easily; on the wrist or hand it gets tight.
Which placement?
Of 16 placements, 16 are a good fit, 0 are possible and 0 are difficult.
| Placement | Verdict | Width |
|---|---|---|
| Forearm | good fit | 6–14 cm |
| Inner arm | good fit | 6–12 cm |
| Upper arm | good fit | 6–18 cm |
| Shoulder | good fit | 8–20 cm |
| Wrist | good fit | 6–6 cm |
| Hand and fingers | good fit | 6–6 cm |
| Chest | good fit | 6–30 cm |
| Ribs | good fit | 6–25 cm |
| Stomach | good fit | 6–25 cm |
| Upper back | good fit | 8–35 cm |
| Lower back | good fit | 8–25 cm |
| Neck | good fit | 6–10 cm |
| Collarbone | good fit | 6–15 cm |
| Thigh | good fit | 8–30 cm |
| Calf | good fit | 6–18 cm |
| Ankle and foot | good fit | 6–10 cm |
Frequently asked questions
Where does an American traditional tattoo hold up best?
Good spots include the forearm, the inner arm, the upper arm. Of 16 placements, 16 are a good fit, 0 are possible and 0 are difficult.
Does an American traditional tattoo age quickly?
Bold lines and clear fills are among the most robust things in tattooing. Even after many years the design stays readable – this style copes with restless skin better than most others.
Does an American traditional tattoo need sun protection?
Colour is the most sensitive part of a tattoo: sun fades it faster than black. If you wear this style on a spot that is often exposed, use sunscreen consistently once it has healed.
See it on your body before you ink it
Tattvue places your design on a photo of your own skin, so you can judge size, placement and style before you book an appointment.