Thigh tattoos: size and placement

updated 6 October 2026

A thigh tattoo is usually 12–20 cm (5–8 in) on its longest side; a large thigh piece runs 20–35 cm (8–14 in). Large and broad, for big pieces that need room.

Sizes

Small: 7–12 cm (3–5 in)
Medium: 12–20 cm (5–8 in)
Large: 20–35 cm (8–14 in)

Which designs suit the thigh

Large and broad, for big pieces that need room. Hidden by trousers, shown by shorts. The front is flatter; the outer thigh curves away. A broad piece like the elephant woodcut sits on the outer thigh at 18 cm.

From every side

An 18 cm elephant woodcut on the outer thigh of a plaster figure, seen square on — 18 cm, square on · design: Wellcome Collection, CC BY 4.0, credits

The same 18 cm elephant woodcut on the outer thigh seen from the side, showing how it wraps — 18 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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