Jinxi is a...

mom, wife, writer, vegan, collector of ink, swimmer, freethinker, hiker, artist, word lover, music addict, baker of sweet treats; and advocate of the idea that sometimes it is good to pause in your pursuit of happiness and just be happy! Read More...

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Tattoo Corner > Tattoo Advice & Info > Placement

When people meet me, they often ask about my ink. I totally welcome this because talking to someone with tattoos is a great way to gain information that you might not otherwise be privy to. 

I have co-written and edited two tattoo books (see sidebar) and wanted to share some of the information I have acquired and written about, in hopes that it might be helpful to others.

Below you will find an always-expanding variety of tattoo-related topics as well as the Tattoo Spotlight section.

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Placement

When I first started collecting ink, I was certainly not as mindful of the important concept of placement as I am now. It's fun to want instant full sleeves or to cover that ritualistic "tramp stamp" spot, but are those areas REALLY suited for the shape, size and overall design of that area of your body?

Understanding placement is almost a science in the world of tattoo art. Making a tattoo appear its most beautiful means utilizing the contour and shape of each part of your body in the correct way. Just because you want a portrait of your grandma on your forearm, doesn't necessarily mean that the reference fits the spot. It might, but it might not. Which way is the image facing? Will it be distorted if you arm is turned a certain way?  Will the area of skin surrounded by existing tattoo work distract from the effect you are after? It may all sound trivial, but placement is very important and something to talk carefully with your artist about. I know this from experience, after using up many key places on my own skin with pieces that were not best suited where they were put. So my advice to those of you who still have spots open: plan carefully, chose spots wisely and learn about the art of anthropometry (the study of the measurement and proportions of the human body) and the contour of anatomic body shapes.

 

Last updated on September 11, 2009 by Jinxi Boo

I will be adding to this section on a regular basis. If you have a tattoo-related question please submit it to the Tattoo Corner for possible inclusion in the Tattoo Advice section. Thanks.