How to Get an Armband Tattoo

Traditionally worn on the upper arm around the bicep, armband tattoos are a classic choice that have remained popular throughout the years. Whether you go with one of the more common pieces such as tribal, barbed wire or Celtic knot work or design something uniquely yours, getting an armband tattoo can be as simple as picking an appealing design and getting it permanently inked on your skin. Read on to learn how to get an armband tattoo.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Decide on placement. Traditionally armband tattoos are placed on the upper arm around the fleshiest or most muscled part of the bicep. You can move it around anywhere on the upper arm, but there are other factors to consider as you chose a position.
2. Factor in pain tolerance. When thinking about placement, you should keep in mind the more sensitive areas of the upper arm. An armband tattoo placed too high may run into the armpit area, which can be pretty painful. Another tender spot can be found near the elbow if the band is placed too low.
3. Determine if you want the armband to connect. Because of the increased discomfort commonly found on the inside of the upper arm, some people decide to get a 3/4 armband that doesn't connect on the inner portion of the arm.
4. Look at different styles of armband tattoos. Tribal designs and barbed wire remain a really popular choice for armbands. Celtic designs, mostly knots formed into a band, and thorny vines are also fairly common choices.
5. Choose a specific design. Once you've decided what style of band you want, find a specific design you like. For instance, if you go with tribal, then you may look through the multitude of tribal armband tattoo flash available and simply choose one you like.

Tips & Warnings

• Commonly chosen by men, it's become pretty common for women to also get a band circling their arm. Feminine armbands tend to steer clear of the common barbed wire and tribal designs that are popular among the male population.
• Don't rush your decision on picking a specific design for your armband tattoo. The ink's permanent and armbands are very difficult to cover up, so be sure the design is something you're going to like for years to come.
• If you pick an uncommon design to use for an armband tattoo, be sure it's going to flow well when wrapped around the normal curves of your arm.
• If placed correctly, an armband tattoo can be easily covered with most short sleeve shirts for those that have to keep them hidden at work.
• Some tattoo artists don't like connecting armband tattoos either because of the superstition that it's "bad luck" or because they're concerned the band won't match up correctly on both sides depending on the size of your arm.