Back tattoos: size and placement
updated
A back tattoo is usually 10–20 cm (4–8 in) on its longest side; a full back piece runs 20–40 cm (8–16 in). The widest flat area on the body: wide, symmetrical pieces and wings.
Sizes
- Small: under 10 cm (4 in)
- Medium: 10–20 cm (4–8 in)
- Large: 20–40 cm (8–16 in)
Which designs suit the back
The widest flat area on the body: wide, symmetrical pieces and wings. Fully hidden by clothes. The shoulder blades move under it, so centre a symmetrical design on the spine. A wide, symmetrical piece like the wings design spans the upper back at 22 cm.
From every side
Before you book
Measure the spot on yourself along the skin, following the curve, not in a straight line. Bring the size in centimetres to your artist, with front and side views: how to plan a tattoo covers the rest.
Sources: Sydney Tattoo Convention: tattoo size and body part guide · Bosphorus Ink: tattoo size and placement guide