How to Get an Ankle Tattoo

Tattoos on and around the ankle are one of the most popular places to get ink. They tend to be especially popular with women because of the femininity of many ankle tattoo designs. Finding a flattering design for an ankle tattoo can be a fairly simple task.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Decide on placement. Outside or inside of the ankle, all the way around the ankle, on the ankle or above the ankle are all places you can choose for your new ink. Also get your tattoo artist's advice about placement since there can be blurring in ankle tattoos when placed to close to where there's a lot of movement.
2. Factor in pain. Tattoos placed directly on top of the ankle bone, across the Achilles tendon or that stray down onto the foot are generally more painful than ankle tattoos placed slightly above the ankle bone or away from tendons and other sensitive spots.
3. Choose a design. Many women look for really feminine designs for their ankle tattoos. Something that will accentuate this shapely area and can sexily be shown off with high heels or sandals is a popular choice. Some common designs include flowers, hearts, butterflies, shooting stars and other "girly" images.
4. Consider size. Depending on the intricacy of your design, you may have several options regarding size. If you're going for an anklet look, then you may want something thin and delicate or if you like Celtic knots, then you may have to get something a little bigger and thicker.
5. Color your ankle tattoo. Like every tattoo, there's always a debate on whether it should be in color or in black and grey. For an ankle tattoo it really just comes done to what you like personally. Any tattoo can be done in black and grey, however, some floral work really shines when done in full color.
6. Ask about aftercare requirements. Talk to your tattoo artist and see if there are any special requirements concerning aftercare based upon the area where you've placed your ankle tattoo.

Tips & Warnings

• During the healing process, especially the first few days, avoid wearing socks or shoes that cover the tattooed area or restrictive clothing of any kind that will rub or irritate your new tattoo in any way.
• Although more common for women, men also get ankle tattoos, but these are generally a lot more masculine such as tribal designs or part of a design that covers the entire lower part of the leg.
• If you're not sure about permanently placing a design on your ankle, try a temporary tattoo on for size. Sport it around for a few days and then decide if it's something you'd like for the rest of your life.
• Finding a tattoo artist, if you don't already have one, to complete an ankle tattoo is a pretty simple task. Since this is one of the most common places to get a tattoo, basically all tattoo artists are willing to do them.
• Tattoos around the ankle sometimes cause swelling and pain for a few days. If your job requires you to walk a lot or stand for extended periods of time, you may want to wait until you have a few days off.
• Lower extremities tend to bleed more, so don't be surprised if you see more blood while getting an ankle tattoo than others.