Ornamental tattoo: placements, size and longevity
Mandalas, lace patterns and jewellery-like lines that read like worn jewellery – sternum, hand, forearm and thigh are the classic spots.
How the style ages
This style works with fine lines and small gaps. Ink migrates very slightly in the skin over the years – fine lines show it first. The spot is therefore what decides: on calm skin with little friction the style lasts a long time, on hands, feet or the stomach it barely does.
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 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, 9 are a good fit, 4 are possible and 3 are difficult. It gets difficult on the hand and fingers, the stomach, the ankle and foot.
| 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 | possible | 6–6 cm |
| Hand and fingers | difficult | 6–6 cm |
| Chest | good fit | 6–30 cm |
| Ribs | possible | 6–25 cm |
| Stomach | difficult | 6–25 cm |
| Upper back | good fit | 8–35 cm |
| Lower back | possible | 8–25 cm |
| Neck | possible | 6–10 cm |
| Collarbone | good fit | 6–15 cm |
| Thigh | good fit | 8–30 cm |
| Calf | good fit | 6–18 cm |
| Ankle and foot | difficult | 6–10 cm |
Frequently asked questions
Where does an ornamental tattoo hold up best?
Good spots include the forearm, the inner arm, the upper arm. Of 16 placements, 9 are a good fit, 4 are possible and 3 are difficult.
Does an ornamental tattoo age quickly?
This style works with fine lines and small gaps. Ink migrates very slightly in the skin over the years – fine lines show it first. The spot is therefore what decides: on calm skin with little friction the style lasts a long time, on hands, feet or the stomach it barely does.
Does an ornamental 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.