Blackout tattoo: placements, size and longevity
Large areas of skin filled completely black, often as a backdrop for light negative-space designs. A decision for life, even more than any other tattoo.
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
The style does without bright colours. Black is considered the most durable ink – sunscreen never hurts though, because even black turns greyer over time on exposed spots.
How much room it needs
The style only unfolds on a large area. Back, thigh, chest or a whole arm are its natural places; on small spots, little remains of what defines it.
Which placement?
Of 16 placements, 9 are a good fit, 3 are possible and 4 are difficult. It gets difficult on the wrist, the hand and fingers, the neck, the ankle and foot.
| Placement | Verdict | Width |
|---|---|---|
| Forearm | possible | 12–14 cm |
| Inner arm | possible | 12–12 cm |
| Upper arm | good fit | 12–18 cm |
| Shoulder | good fit | 12–20 cm |
| Wrist | difficult | 2–6 cm |
| Hand and fingers | difficult | 1–6 cm |
| Chest | good fit | 12–30 cm |
| Ribs | good fit | 12–25 cm |
| Stomach | good fit | 12–25 cm |
| Upper back | good fit | 12–35 cm |
| Lower back | good fit | 12–25 cm |
| Neck | difficult | 3–10 cm |
| Collarbone | possible | 12–15 cm |
| Thigh | good fit | 12–30 cm |
| Calf | good fit | 12–18 cm |
| Ankle and foot | difficult | 2–10 cm |
Frequently asked questions
Where does a blackout tattoo hold up best?
Good spots include the upper arm, the shoulder, the chest. Of 16 placements, 9 are a good fit, 3 are possible and 4 are difficult.
Does a blackout 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 a blackout tattoo need sun protection?
The style does without bright colours. Black is considered the most durable ink – sunscreen never hurts though, because even black turns greyer over time on exposed spots.
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.