Tribal tattoo: placements, size and longevity
Bold black sweeps and points that follow the muscles. Robust, ages well and emphasises the shape of the spot.
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 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 a tribal 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 a tribal 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 tribal 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.