How long does a tattoo session take?
How long does it take to get a tattoo?
There's no simple answer to this question, as the time it takes to get your tattoo depends entirely on the type of tattoo you want. Big or small, difficult or easy, lots of color or just black and white? And where do you want the tattoo, on a difficult or easy-to-tattoo spot? It all affects the duration of the session.
Below, we've listed the most important factors that determine how long your tattoo session will take:
How big will your tattoo be?
The size makes a huge difference, but that's actually logical. How long does it take to get a small tattoo? If you want a small tattoo in full color, it might be done in no time. But if you want a small tattoo that is also very detailed, it will take more time.
And if you want a large full sleeve tattoo, the session will always take longer, even if it's a simple design.
Don't be surprised if your sleeve requires multiple tattoo sessions. Expect at least 15 to 20 hours. Seriously, no joke. And if your design is difficult and colorful, it can take a year (or longer) before your tattoo is completely finished. Those who want to be beautiful sometimes need a lot of patience…
Where will your tattoo be located?
Getting a tattoo is not painless. You'll feel it, that's for sure. The location of your tattoo does matter, as some spots are much more sensitive than others, and this also has consequences for the duration of the session. Because the more painful it is for you, the shorter the session will be.
Sometimes the tattoo artist decides to stop the session and continue another time. This applies to areas where the skin is very thin, or when tattooing over bone (your elbow, for example).
Ultimately, it will take more time before your tattoo is finished. What also determines whether the tattoo session is longer or shorter is the position you are lying or sitting in. Sometimes it is so uncomfortable that multiple sessions have to be scheduled.
You'll feel a tattoo the least in these places:
- Thigh
- Outer thigh
- Shoulders
- Forearm
- Back
- Outer biceps
A tattoo hurts in these places:
- Ribs
- Knees
- Back of the knee
- Hips
- Stomach
- Neck
- Face
- Ears
- Fingers
- Toes
- Hands
How much color will be in your tattoo?
The more color you want in your tattoo, the longer it will take to complete. It's that simple. Consider this: every time the color changes, the needle also needs to be thoroughly cleaned again. If you choose black and white, you'll at least avoid this loss of time.
Difficult or easy design
A detailed design is beautiful, very beautiful even, but it also takes time. So the simpler your tattoo is, the faster you'll be done.You also have some control over it yourself
How much pain you can tolerate varies from person to person. And even if you can handle a lot, it can happen that you're not having your day and just can't keep it up as well. That's okay and not a problem.
For most tattoo artists, a session lasts about three to five hours. Generally, that's the maximum for enduring pain. Of course, there are also tough ones who don't bat an eye at an eight-hour session. But that really is the maximum. Tattooing for hours on end also requires a lot of concentration from the artist. Tattooing remains precision work.
Getting your first tattoo? Your artist probably won't book you for a whole day right away.
Waiting for your tattoo
If you want to get a tattoo, you always have to make an appointment in advance. Don't think: 'I saw a nice tattoo, I'll get it tomorrow'. Tattoo artists, especially the good ones, have a waiting list.With very famous artists, it can take two years before they have time for you. But don't be discouraged, there are also many who can accommodate you much faster and who also do very good work.
Sometimes people don't know how to find an artist and what they are good at. Do you also have that? Then read our article How to find the right tattoo artist. You're sure to find it helpful!
Have you chosen a tattoo that will be done in multiple sessions? Then keep in mind that there will be a few weeks between each session. Whether the artist can continue after those weeks depends on how well your tattoo heals. A good artist always plays it safe and never rushes your tattoo.
To ensure your tattoo heals well, we recommend cleaning it regularly and never letting it dry out. So, moisturize your tattoo very well!
TIP: make sure you become skilled at caring for your tattoo. TattooMed shows you how to do that aftercare well.
How long does it take to get a tattoo? In summary:
- How big will your tattoo be?
- Where will your tattoo be located?
- How much color will be in your tattoo?
- Difficult or easy design
- You also have some control over it yourself
- Working method and availability of your tattoo artist. For multiple sessions, the healing of your tattoo also plays a role. So, take good care of it, and it will be finished sooner!
Finally, we wish you much success and enjoyment in choosing and getting your tattoo. Don't shrink back because it's not painless, but do enjoy the beauty you receive!
👉🏻 More blogs about different tattoo styles can be found on tattoomed.nl/blog
Questions about caring for your tattoo?
Take a look at our tattoo aftercare page at your leisure. Do you have questions or just want more info? Then go to our contact page.
📅 This blog first appeared on 2020-07-15