Sleeve tattoos are tattoos that cover the entire arm, much like a shirt sleeve. There are also half sleeves and quarter sleeves which only cover part of the arm. Sleeve tattoos can be one complete work of art planned from start to finish. They can also be the result of a tattoo addiction, so to speak. Many people say that tattooing is addictive, and even therapeutic. Sometimes people start out by getting a couple of tattoos that they like, then they keep adding more until they have a sleeve of tattoos.
Sleeve tattoos are common among both men and women.
Sleeve tattoos take much planning and can take weeks, months, or even years to complete. It is a combination between the individual and the tattoo artist creating a vision. This type of tattoo not only takes several sittings, but can be very costly.
If you are planning to get a sleeve tattoo, you should definitely spend a great deal of time planning. You want to make sure the images in your tattoo are meaningful and express your personality. You want it to be something you will be proud of for the rest of your life.
Some of the most common options for sleeve tattoos include, but are not limited to:
- Floral Patterns
- Flames
- Celtic Designs
- Tribal Designs
Floral patterns are a great way to incorporate color into your sleeve tattoo. There are several beautiful patterns and designs to choose from. Vines and ivy can also be used in this design.
Flames used in a sleeve tattoo typically start out at the wrist and flame up the arm. Some choose to add other elements at the top of the flame.
Celtic designs use parallel lines, mazes, and spirals. This form of design lends itself well to sleeve tattoos, because there is so much variation. They are usually done in black ink.
Tribal designs are usually made up of large black bold lines, and tend to stand out nicely.
If you are interested in getting a sleeve tattoo, but are concerned with being able to cover it when necisarry, you may want to look into the half sleeve and quarter sleeve tattoos. These only cover part of the arm, and can easily be covered with a shirt.
No matter which design option you choose to go with, make sure to plan it carefully. Find things that are meaningful to you, and things that you love.
