Inside: Full Sleeve Tattoo Ideas & Inspiration.
The answer to the question “Is a Full Sleeve Tattoo a Good Idea?” will be different for everybody since overpowering, bold tattoos don’t suit everyone’s style and personality.
That said, getting any tattoo is a massive undertaking, but since a full sleeve tattoo is more difficult to conceal, you must be 100 percent sure before taking the leap.
If you are a tattoo fanatic and are considering getting a full sleeve tattoo, there are some things you must consider to make sure you have a positive experience and more importantly, you wear the sleeve with pride.
What Is A Full Sleeve Tattoo?
A full sleeve tattoo is basically one large tattoo or a cluster of smaller tattoos which when inked to the skin, cover a significant part of your arm. Full sleeve tattoos provide a decent amount of canvas with sky being the limit when it comes to design potential.
Since a full sleeve tattoo can’t be concealed easily, you must perform sufficient research on the tattoo’s design, color, placement, size, and style.
Keep scrolling for some great advice and important things to consider before getting any type of sleeve tattoo whether arm or leg, especially if you do not want to regret your decision later.
Full Sleeve Tattoo Ideas
Choose the Right Artist/Studio
The most challenging part about getting a full sleeve tattoo is selecting the right artist or studio for the job. Going to any tom dick and harry may work for tiny, concealed tattoos. But when it comes to large, prominent designs, such as a full sleeve tattoo, finding the right artist can make or break the entire tattooing process for you. Different artists specialize in different tattoo designs/styles.
Therefore, search for an artist whose aesthetic and overall work matches the vibe you are aiming for.
Once you find such a tattoo artist, we suggest going in for an in-person consultation. Share your design, theme, and motif ideas with the artists and see how they can work around your requirements.
Plan the Sleeve
Planning a full sleeve tattoo is even more imperative than finding the right artist. Since full sleeve tattoos are intricate works of art and require a very long time to ink down, you must ensure everything is planned immaculately form the get-go. You would not want to undergo hours of pain only to be disappointed with the final result, would you?
That’s why it is crucial to collaborate with the tattoo artist to customize the exact design and colors. As much as your input is valued, go give some freedom to your artist in the design process. They are experts for a reason, after all. Getting a full sleeve tattoo is just like commissioning a mural: Share your vision with the artist, and trust him/her to turn your idea into a stunning piece of art.
Consider The Cost
For many people, the cost of getting a full sleeve tattoo can be a deal breaker. There is no denying that an inexperienced artist will almost always charge considerably less than an experienced one.
Professional tattoo artists with years of experience under their belt generally charge for their services based on the complexity and size of the tattoo design, its style, and the number of hours taken up into drawing the tattoo. The artist of your choice will quote his/her per hour rate, and the longer it takes to complete the tattoo, the more expensive the sleeve will be. Therefore, it is crucial to find an artist that can provide the best service within your budget.
That said, keep in mind that working with the best artists will never be cheap. But by investing in high-quality work, the chances of you regretting the sleeve later will be much lower.
To Get or Not Get?
Regardless of the type and design of tattoo you intend to get, it is imperative remember that they’re going to be a permanent part of your body and contribute to your overall personality. Therefore, think hard and avoid getting any tattoo –including a full sleeve tattoo – on a whim, especially if you do not want to regret it later.
More Tattoo Ideas for You
- Black and Grey Tattoo Work – Often referred to as a Jailhouse tattoo, black and grey tattoo designs are impressive and extremely popular. Don’t worry; just because they don’t have a bunch of colors doesn’t mean that they won’t leave an impact. They can tell a very vivid story without an ounce of color. There are lots of feminine and masculine tattoo options out there to choose from. Don’t miss these brilliant black and gray tattoo designs!
- Tattoo Background Shading Ideas – Are you looking to add a little flair to your sleeve tattoo? Or add an extra bit of depth to a unique design? Shading is the perfect filler to complete that complex sleeve or take your beautiful ink to the next level. By just adding this effect to your tattoo, you will have a one-of-a-kind finished piece. Tattoo background shading comes in all types of styles and colors, check out a few of our favorites.
- Half Sleeve Tattoo Ideas for Women – Tattoos have grown in popularity over the last decade but the half sleeve tattoos for women, in particular, have been growing rapidly. This tattoo begins either above the elbow to the shoulder or below the elbow to the wrist. This type of tattoo takes thought in creation, but it also takes thought in whether it works for each person, as it’s not as easy to cover up. Many questions arise and endless hours of research occur when looking for that perfect look. What is the statement I am trying to make? What will these tattoos represent? And the list could go on, and on, and on…
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.