Unique Black Sleeve Tattoo Ideas + Info

Inside: Unique Black Sleeve Tattoo Ideas + Info.

If you’ve been exploring the latest tattoo trends, you’ve probably noticed that black sleeve tattoos are having a huge moment. However, they’re not exactly new. These blackout tattoos are gaining momentum, possibly because they’re a refreshing counterbalance to the delicate and discreet tattoo designs that have been popular over the last few years.

Yet, there are many reasons that people have chosen to get black sleeve tattoos over the years.

Read on to find out how these tattoos became a thing and everything else there is to know about them.

What Are Black Sleeve Tattoos?

As the name suggests, black sleeve tattoos cover a large part of your arm and shoulder, with black tattoos. Instead of delicate and detailed patterns, these tattoos mostly fill extensive skin areas with solid black ink.

That’s not to say that you can’t get a design at all and have to fill your entire arm with black color. You can certainly choose to make a large design and fill a considerable chunk of it with black ink. However, most of your arm would be black if you intend to get a genuine black sleeve tattoo.

Why Do People Get Blackout Tattoos?

Blackout tattoos are expensive and time-consuming. Therefore, it is usually people who are hardcore tattoo enthusiasts who opt for such tattoos. There is also a higher chance that these large tattoos would be frowned upon by others. This is why it takes a lot of courage to get such tattoos.

There are some common reasons people choose to get black sleeve tattoos. Some of these are as follows.

· Cover Up Scars and Blemishes

Old wounds, animal bites, pigmentation, blemishes, or even birthmarks can sometimes be embarrassing, especially when they’re on a body part that is usually visible. Some people get blackout tattoos in an attempt to camouflage or hide these tattoos. Since hands are usually more prone to accidental wounds that may remain visible unless you wear full sleeve clothing at all times, people generally get cover-up tattoos on this area.

However, getting a tattoo over already damaged skin can be dangerous. Additionally, they will also usually be more painful than regular tattoos. Therefore, it is necessary to consult your doctor beforehand if you’re planning on getting a black sleeve tattoo for this purpose.

· Cover Up Old Tattoos

Sometimes, you get a tattoo that doesn’t come out the way you want. Other times, it may have come out great but starts fading over time. You could also get a tattoo design that you liked at the time but started resenting as your taste evolved, or you just don’t want to be associated with what the tattoo represents anymore. Either way, the tattoo is mostly permanent, and unless you get a laser tattoo removal, you cannot do much about it.

Most tattoo removal methods are more painful than actually getting a tattoo, in addition to being extremely expensive. Therefore, some people opt to entirely cover up the area with solid black to hide the appearance of the previous tattoo. A black band can be created around the arm. These wrap-around tattoos somewhat resemble a think cuff or bracelet, making them look like they were intentional.

· Self-Expression and Body-Art

By the end of the day, getting any tattoo is a personal choice. And while there are some valid reasons people opt for black sleeve tattoos, they can also get one just because they want to. Since black sleeve tattoos have a more hardcore appearance, it is a popular choice among people who are passionate about tattoos.

If you like the appearance of a black sleeve tattoo, you don’t need any further reason to get one. Whether you want a specific design or a wrap-around band, the choice is yours.

Black Sleeve Tattoo Ideas

1. Wavy Black Sleeve Idea

2. Blackout Sleeve with White Ink

3. Black Sleeve with Flowers

4. Scratched Black Shoulder Tattoo

5. Blacked Out Honeycomb Design

6. Galaxy Themed Blackout Tattoo

7. Swirled Black Sleeve Idea

Blacked Out Arm Tattoo Designs

8. Cracked Effect Black Sleeve Tattoo

9. Blackout with Dotwork Sleeve Tattoo

10. Black Sleeve with Mandala Designs

11. Flowers Scattered with Black Filler

12. Unique Blacked Out Sleeve Designs

All Black Tattoo Sleeve

13. All Black Sleeve with Pointed Shoulder Design

14. Faded All Black Tattoo Sleeve

15. Wrist to Shoulder Black Sleeve Design

16. Solid Black Design

17. Dot Work Faded into Sleeve

Are Black Sleeves Tattoos Painful?

Here’s the harsh truth: tattoos are painful. No matter which tattoo parlor you get a tattoo from or what body part you get it on, you will experience some level of pain. However, arms and shoulders tend to hurt less than the more sensitive body parts such as the fingers, ankles, or wrists.

That said, a large area of your skin is inked when you get a black sleeve tattoo. You will also require multiple sessions to complete the tattoo. Hence, you should expect some pain before your tattoo achieves the look you want.

The best thing you can do is go to a well-reputed tattoo artist who has experience with large tattoos. They will be able to better assist you with minimizing the pain during the session. They will also guide you on taking care of the tattoo afterward to prevent infection or other side effects.

Despite being a popular trend at the moment, blackout tattoos don’t have an inherent meaning attached to them. Hence, you don’t have to worry about what it may imply if you’re planning on getting one. Just make sure that you are 100% ready to make such a commitment.

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I'm Victoria Hudgins founder of Tattoo Glee and managing editor. I'm a Tattoo Stylist and love helping others find the best way to express all the fun and joy that is within them! Follow along with my posts for all the celebratory style your next ink design is needing.

Jul 13, 2021 by Victoria Hudgins