Tattoo Placement Guide: Where Should You Get Your Tattoo?

Best Tattoo Shop West London

So, you've decided to get a tattoo—amazing! Now comes one of the most exciting (and sometimes nerve-wracking) parts of the process: choosing where to put it. At Under The Needle, the best tattoo shop in West London, we help clients every day figure out the perfect placement for their ink, whether it’s your first tattoo or your fifteenth.

Your tattoo placement is more than just a spot on your body—it affects the design, the visibility, the pain level, and even how the tattoo ages. If you're searching “tattoo shops near me” or “best tattoo shops near me” to start your journey, you're in the right place.

Let’s break down the pros and cons of different tattoo placements so you can make a confident, informed decision.

🔥 Arms – Classic and Versatile

Pros:

• Ideal for both large and small designs.

• Visibility is flexible—you can show it off or cover it up easily.

• Lower to moderate pain level.

• Great for sleeve ideas and custom tattoos.

Cons:

• Outer arm tattoos age better than inner arm (where skin is softer).

• Sun exposure can fade ink faster if not protected.

Popular at our West London tattoo studio: Bold traditional sleeves, fine-line florals, and script work.

💀 Ribs – Stunning, But Spicy

Pros:

• Tons of canvas space for larger, intricate designs.

• Great for more personal or hidden tattoos.

• Looks incredible when healed.

Cons:

• One of the most painful areas to get tattooed.

• Can be tricky to heal due to movement and clothing rubbing.

Hot tip from Under The Needle best tattoo artists: Come prepared mentally (and maybe skip coffee that day!).

✋ Hands – Edgy and Eye-Catching

Pros:

• Always visible—makes a bold statement.

• Looks super sharp with small symbols, line work, or lettering.

• Often seen in modern tattoo trends.

Cons:

• High exposure = faster fading and potential for blowouts.

• Not all employers love hand tattoos (just something to consider).

• Requires regular touch-ups.

We recommend hand tattoos for experienced clients who are already familiar with the tattoo process.

👣 Ankles & Feet – Subtle and Stylish

Pros:

• Discreet and easy to hide if needed.

• Great for minimalist designs and custom symbols.

Cons:

• Can be painful due to thin skin and bone.

• Shoes and socks can irritate the healing tattoo.

Pro tip: Schedule foot tattoos in warmer months so you can wear sandals during healing!

💪 Thighs – Bold Canvas for Creative Designs

Pros:

• Larger surface area = more freedom for detailed work.

• Lower pain level than ribs or hands.

• Easy to cover or show off depending on outfit.

Cons:

• May stretch slightly over time depending on weight fluctuation.

At Under The Needle, we love designing custom tattoos in West London that make full use of the thigh’s shape and flow.

🧠 So... Where Should You Get Your Tattoo?

It depends on:

• Your pain tolerance

• Your lifestyle/job

• How visible you want it to be

• The design size and style

Our artists at Under The Needle, widely recognized as one of the best tattoo shops in London, are here to guide you. We believe tattoos should be as individual as you are, which is why we specialize in custom tattoos West London clients trust and love.

Ready to Book?

Whether you know exactly where you want your tattoo or need help figuring it out, we’ve got you covered. As the best tattoo shop in West London, Under The Needle is your go-to for high-quality ink, professional guidance, and a chill, welcoming vibe.

Search “tattoo shops near me” or “best tattoo shops near me,” and you’ll find us right in the heart of West London—ready to help bring your vision to life.

📍 Visit us or book a free consultation at Under The Needle – West London’s best tattoo studio.