Forearm tattoos: size and placement

updated 6 October 2026

A forearm tattoo is usually 10–15 cm (4–6 in) on its longest side; a full forearm piece runs 15–20 cm (6–8 in), wrist to elbow. Long and narrow, so it suits upright designs: snakes, florals, script.

Sizes

Small: 3–8 cm (1–3 in)
Medium: 10–15 cm (4–6 in)
Large: 15–20 cm (6–8 in)

Which designs suit the forearm

Long and narrow, so it suits upright designs: snakes, florals, script. One of the most visible spots; short sleeves show it. The inner forearm stays flat; the outer side curves and twists with the wrist. A long piece like the serpent woodcut runs down the outer forearm at 15 cm.

From every side

A 15 cm serpent woodcut on the outer forearm of a plaster figure, seen square on — 15 cm, square on · design: Wellcome Collection, CC BY 4.0, credits

The same 15 cm serpent woodcut on the outer forearm seen from the side, showing how it wraps — 15 cm, from the side · design: Wellcome Collection, CC BY 4.0, credits

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

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