Māori-inspired tattoo: placements, size and longevity
Spirals and patterns inspired by Polynesian body art that follow the body's contours. Meant to be large, and worn with respect for its origin.
How the style ages
The lines are bold enough to age well and fine enough for detail. That makes the style versatile: it works on most spots, as long as the design is not tattooed smaller than its details allow.
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 Māori-inspired 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 Māori-inspired tattoo age quickly?
The lines are bold enough to age well and fine enough for detail. That makes the style versatile: it works on most spots, as long as the design is not tattooed smaller than its details allow.
Does a Māori-inspired 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.