Everyone in the tattoo world has an opinion on this. So tattoo artist and owner of “Surrey’s best tattoo studio 2023” Laura Raña (@lifeininklr) weighs in on the debate… should your tattoo face you or those around you…?
Tattooing has been around for thousands of years. There have always been traditions and ‘rules’ that needed to be followed. And one general rule is that all designs should face the centre of the body – the heart.
For example, front thigh tattoos should face inwards towards each other. And top outer arms will face forward in the same direction the body faces.
Tattoo placement wasn’t always a choice. However, tattoos can now be placed wherever you want.
As a tattoo artist for almost eight years, I’ve had multiple discussions with clients and other tattoo artists about placement – what works and what doesn’t. And it seems to be a reccurring subject that causes huge disagreement and divides so many people time and time again.
So, does it really matter which way up your tattoo is facing? Should it be for you to see or for others to enjoy?
It depends on the subject, for example to invert a face, that we are all used to seeing in the typical position (eyes above the mouth) may be perceived as grotesque. If a face is upside down it may appear unfamiliar or even “wrong” to our brains.
This is because of the exposure effect. The image projected on to the back of our eyes is upside down. Our brain decodes this image so that we perceive it the right way up.
Whether a tattoo is upside down wouldn’t matter if a tattoo is solely for its owner and not for the eyes of those around us.
I have found that those who have just one or two tattoos tend to choose very significant designs. Sometimes, the collector doesn’t want to share these with other people. The tattoo may be a reminder of a lost loved one or a nudge to keep going despite any obstacles.
These tattoos might be so personal that actually it’s no concern of others to see or even comment on. It’s very important to the client to have them facing them. It doesn’t matter if they are seen as “upside down”. It’s also fair to say that it’s the individual’s right to choose the placement for those very reasons.
Following tradition
Most tattoo collectors like to follow the traditional rules of placing their tattoo so that it faces outwards and towards other people. The rules comes from the many tattoo artists before us, their ideology of what aesthetically is pleasing and what fits the flow of the body, always facing the heart.
Because it’s the way it’s always been, a lot of artists will refuse to break tradition and place a tattoo “the wrong way”. I’ve seen arguments between artists and clients about this several times. Neither side has wanted to give in, leaving the client very angry and the artist out of pocket.
Personally, I think we should follow the “rules” with such a longstanding form of expression that goes back to the beginning of civilisation. It seems only right to place designs so people can enjoy your chosen artwork. Aesthetically, it looks more appealing. But of course, I discuss this with every client that steps inside my studio.
Times are changing
But tattooing is moving away from old school, bold thick lines and there’s a new style in vogue: fineline super dainty style. Anything is possible, and more people know exactly what they want. They’re not willing to compromise and don’t care for other people’s opinions when it comes to their chosen body art.
The current trend of patchwork tattoos allows us to bend the “rules” slightly, too. Smaller stamp-like tattoos are placed angled with mismatched positioning which adds to the stickered sleeve effect and uniqueness.
Find the right artist
Ultimately, it’s up to the client and their preferences which way up the tattoo goes. But give it some thought before you head to the studio and mention it to your artist when you book in. I always give my clients the right to choose what makes them happy and to enjoy their tattoo – whichever way up it sits.
The idea of a right and wrong way also opens up discussions – once placed, the tattoo will always have a slight distortion on the body, as we aren’t poles … we taper and twist, so placed the right or wrong way up, the tattoo will still look slightly distorted depending on what position your body is in – begging the question, so does it really matter?
Ambigram tattoo design
If in doubt…
Get an ambigram tattoo. These are designs where different words or symbols can be read from different angles. They are designed with a special kind of symmetry or mirror effect. This allows the word to remain readable even when viewed upside down. Like others, you might enjoy getting them inked for their unique and sometimes mysterious look.
What do you think? Which way is the right way up? Let us know…
“So many of us delay getting tattooed because of beauty standards or because certain artists don’t want or understand how to tattoo people living in fat bodies – and that is not acceptable.“
There may be a lot of things you don’t think you can’t do in the body you have – like get a tattoo. But we’re here to say you don’t need to change ANYTHING about your body to get tattooed! We chat to tattoo artists and tattoo collectors who also think tattoos are for everybody and every body.
“I started getting tattooed when I was around 15 years old. Back then, I never really had a vision of what I wanted. As I got older and spent more time around tattooers, I started collecting tattoos from different artists and tattooers who’ve been tattooing a long time and helped shape the community. Also collecting pieces I thought were fitting to my personality.
“My stomach tattoo is probably my favourite. I was 23 when I started that one. My husband is a tattooer and we talked about how I should get it tattooed and I was always so afraid to do it because my stomach is big, but he assured me it would look amazing. I came to Marah Kelso (@passionpoortaste) with the idea and she jumped on it. This tattoo was the one that started it all for me in my confidence journey. It feels like beauty and armour all in one.”
Alyssa
“I was so happy when you shared my backpiece on the Things & Ink Instagram [see it here]. I love traditional Japanese tattoo/art, and with Japanese tattooing body composition is important to its flow. Being in a fat body with folds and not a perfect smooth back, I wanted to make sure I went to an artist with a good deal of knowledge. Nick Caruso was my guy. He’s a fierce tattooer with over two decades of experience and, from start to finish in the design and the stencil, he has truly helped me feel amazing about this project.
“I think it’s important to seek artists who work with a diverse range of bodies. Be it colour, shape and size. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about their process. Set up consults to discuss your tattoo, so the artist has a chance to get an idea of your shape. If you are someone who feels anxious about people touching your body (I am) ground yourself. And if you feel your artist treats you differently or doesn’t seem excited to work with you, move on to the next. I promise you there are thousands of tattooers out there who enjoy tattooing bigger bodies.
Alyssa’s back tattoo
“My tattoos have changed the way I view my body. Tattoo collecting has given me such an appreciation for my body. Each piece has helped me learn to explore and love my body in a different way that doesn’t require me missing out on opportunities. So many of us delay getting tattooed because of beauty standards or because certain artists don’t want or understand how to tattoo people living in fat bodies – and that is not acceptable. I refuse to accept that.
“My advice to someone putting off getting tattooed because of how their body looks is: GET. THE. TATTOO! I promise it will look good as long as you have trust in your artist.”
“The great thing about being tattooed, is how it can change your body physically, but also how you mentally look at your body. Getting tattooed is like wearing a permanent accessory and you can be adorned in work by artists you love, or you can get pieces that are super important and you want to cherish forever. Either way, the way we look at body art can drastically change how we perceive our bodies and the autonomy we have over them.
Jade Clark
“My tattoos have helped me accept my own body. They make me feel as though my body is mine and I’ve decorated my body how I’d decorate my house. They have helped me look at parts of myself that I’ve felt uncomfortable with in a whole new light and given me a new found level of confidence, which is also shown in my personality, too.
Tattoo by Jade
“Tattooing is definitely not constricted to a dress size. Tattooing is for all bodies and all people (legal age of course, you must be over 18) but so many people have different reasons for getting tattooed and that should be considered. So many people get tattooed as a form of homage to their bodies, it can be a really beautiful experience to watch people really understand that their body is their own.
Tattoo by JadeTattoo by Jade
“As an artists, there are things about tattooing all bodies – whatever their size. I give advice about what aesthetically flows with the client’s body the best; I could do the same design for two completely different body types and one might not look as good as another, which is why it’s so important for the art, the tattooing and the body to be considered as one thing.
Tattoo by Jade
“As an artist, I don’t think there’s any problem with taking time in finding the right artist, especially if you have body vulnerabilities. At the end of the day, tattooing is not only about the art but also about the experience you have with your artist; it can completely shape the way you see your tattoo entirely. Getting tattooed by someone who understands the body and body insecurities is definitely critical when finding an artist.”
Tattoo by Jade
Kristie, tattoo collector, Nottingham UK (@kristiemb23)
“There’s no special meaning behind my backpiece, but I knew I wanted Holly Ashby (@hollyashbytattoo) to do it. I’ve always loved Holly’s work. When I finally plucked up the courage to go ahead and have my back tattooed, I knew it had to be her. I love her designs and style, I only gave her the brief of ‘something demony/witchy but whatever you think would work’. My only caveat was no full-frontal nudity, we settled on ‘tasteful’ nudity in the end. There also a cover-up of a tattoo I’ve had lasered at the top.
Kristie’s back tattoo
“I’d been planning my back for a few years. As space has dwindled, I knew I needed to put my big girl pants on and decide who/what I wanted to have. I was waiting to lose weight and ‘be the right size’ – whatever that is – but as I got older and more confident in my body, I decided to meet Holly for a consultation and she made me feel so at ease. I knew I had made the right choice and booked a few sessions there and then.
Kristie’s backKristie’s back
“Pain wise, I managed the outline and felt my soul leave my body, but honestly it isn’t as bad as I had imagined. There are some spicy spots though. We’re now working through shading and colour and I’m using a numbing cream, mainly to make the most of our sessions. Everyone at her studio House of Thieves is so welcoming and lovely, I’m made comfortable as soon as I walk through the door. I have no issues sat there half naked, which was a big worry of mine before I reached out to Holly.
“Every tattoo I have has helped me see my body differently in one way or another. From having my legs tattooed when I was younger and instantly feeling okay about wearing skirts or shorts again. I love showing off my back piece on holiday or choosing different style tops to wear. I’m currently picking a dress to wear to get married in and my options have expanded since feeling so much more confident with showing my back.
Kristie on holiday
“Please do not stop yourself from doing anything because of your body! We all deserve to do whatever makes us happy and feel good. My advice would be if you have an artist you are considering, please reach out to them. Get to know them too, as this will make you feel so much more at ease and always speak up if you’re not totally comfortable.”
“I know it’s easy to fall in to that cycle where you hold off doing things that you want because you worry about how it will look to others. It’s very easy to convince yourself that it’s not for you, you’re not good enough and you don’t belong because you don’t fit the impossible standards created by our industry.
“But, I’d like to invite you to think from a different perspective, and this is the only perspective that should matter. Ask yourself this one question: Will having that tattoo bring you joy? If the answer is yes then that is the only permission you need.
Shannon Hill
“When you deprive yourself from getting the tattoo you really want for the sake of not fitting into ‘the box’, all you’re doing is depriving yourself of joy. Depriving yourself of the feeling of enjoying a lovely tattoo on your body. No one else suffers, just you. How is that any fun? Give yourself permission to choose more joy for yourself. Get tattooed and be happy.
Tattoo by Shannon
“You don’t need to change your body to get tattooed. But how sad that this is where we’re at now – this industry has a lot to answer for. If you look back through the history of tattooing, they weren’t about achieving an aesthetic. They were reminders, expressions and celebrations of a person, a memory, their life and their body.
“It’s important to remind ourselves that getting tattooed is more powerful than getting a lot of likes on Instagram or having that perfectly curated look. When we focus too much on that stuff, the celebration, the joy, the confidence, the feeling of being at home in our bodies goes missing. It would be nice to bring that front and centre again.
Tattoo by Shannon
“No two people are the same, so why should the tattooing process be kept the same for every client? Every client has their own unique body shape, skin type and colour. My job is all about working WITH YOU. Exactly as you are. And looking at what’s possible for YOU.
“The experience and the process should always be tailored to fit you. It’s a teamwork dynamic between you and your artist. You should never feel out of the loop or like an inconvenience. If your artist can’t adjust and accommodate you and your body, they’re not worthy of going near it with a needle in the first place.
“My only advice would be to not be afraid to advocate for yourself. Whether it’s moving the stencil, taking a break or getting your body in a more comfortable position, don’t be afraid to speak up for yourself. A good artist will always, do their best to accommodate your needs, work with your body as it is and offer their best, honest advice along the way.
Tattoo by Shannon
“I don’t think I ever felt at home in my body until I got more tattoos, especially more visible ones. Being plus size, I’ve always had a complex relationship with my body. Society tells plus size women that they should feel uncomfortable in their bodies. They should always aim to be smaller and not stand out in any way.
“For a long time I fell into that trap. But the more tattoos I got, the more comfortable I feel standing out and being seen. I’ve always thought this whole ‘love yourself’ thing was pretty impossible to achieve. I don’t think anyone can totally love themselves 100% of the time.
Shannon tattooing
“But all I know is when I look in the mirror now, I see myself. I know her. I feel at home. I think that’s largely because of my tattoos. I see all these beautiful pieces and think “that’s lovely that.” And then I get on with my day. Before tattoos I’d tear myself to shreds and pick myself apart. It’s really hard to be mean to yourself when you’re covered in beautiful work that someone has put a lot of love into.
“Go easy on yourself. This is your one life, don’t deprive yourself of joy. Just go choose yourself a lovely artist and get that tattoo you’ve always wanted, it really is that simple.”
Tattoo collector, writer and vintage fashion enthusiast, Carola Kolbeck (give her a follow @chameleoninhighheels) guides us through how to dress when we’re getting tattooed…
There are many important things to consider when getting a tattoo. First of all, the artwork itself and where it will grace your body for the rest of its life – and yours. Then, you need to find the right tattoo artist and have a few conversations with them about your idea and their take on it. Once you’ve paid your deposit and waited in giddy anticipation, the day has arrived and you’ll be getting ready, full of that indescribable excitement only an imminent new tattoo can evoke. And right at this point, we may forget another important question to ask ourselves: What should I wear when getting a tattoo?
It may sound like such a benign thing, shallow even, to think about an outfit for your big day in the tattoo studio. It’s certainly not because your artist will rank you on a list of ‘best-dressed’, nor will they care about your sense of fashion. But given that their canvas is your body, they’ll have some thoughts on your foresight on making their job as easy and pain-free for them as possible. So, what are the sartorial recommendations of the professionals for a comfortable and seamless experience in the tattoo chair?
Tattoo artist Steph Hesketh, co-owner of Evergreen Tattoo Studio in Coventry, has been tattooing for over 15 years and is the creator of six of my tattoos. Most recently, she designed and tattooed pointe ballet shoes on my leg, marking my lifelong love for ballet and dance.
Steph isn’t just one of the most amazing artists I have ever met, she also has a wealth of experience from seeing hundreds of clients in her chair over the years. Needless to say, when it comes to outfits, she’s seen it all: the good, the impractical, and the downright useless. I asked her professional opinion and suggestions on what to wear and what not to wear, depending on where you’re having your new body art.
Carola’s ballet shoes by Steph Hesketh
Tattoos on your arms and legs
Generally, when it comes to getting your limbs tattooed, opt for tank tops, t-shirts, shorts or skirts in summer, and loose tops and trousers that can easily be rolled up and out of the way of the artist and the placement of your new tattoo. “We don’t mind you bringing anything that makes you more comfortable, like slippers, blankets, pillows, or towels,” says Steph, and also confirms that taking off your shoes for long sittings is completely fine.
Tattoo by Steph Hesketh
Hand tattoos
“Be prepared to remove jewellery for the tattoo process,” warns Steph. “Rings should be removed if you’re having a lot of work on your hands done. That’s not just for hygiene reasons, but also because any swelling could cut off the blood supply to your fingers if the rings are too tight.”
Foot tattoos
When you’re getting your feet tattooed, your main concern should be with what shoes to wear after, when you’re on your way home. Chances are, the area will be tender and swollen, so you don’t want to squeeze into a tight pair of boots or trainers. Wide and roomy shoes are best, or sandals that won’t rub and aggravate the affected area.
But what about those more hidden areas on your torso – what’s the best sartorial choice without compromising on comfort and dignity?
Neck tattoos
No roll-neck jumpers for this one, please! A tank top or vest is best, and a blanket in case you get cold. Also if you have long hair, bring clips and hair ties, advises Steph. That’s not just helpful when you’re getting a neck tattoo, but also if you get tattooed anywhere near your hair, such as upper arms, shoulders, chest, back, and ears.
Tattoo by Steph Hesketh
Full back tattoo
A button-up shirt worn backward is ideal, or if the back piece incorporates the bum, then a dressing gown worn the same way is a suitable choice. If dressing gowns outside your home aren’t your thing, then wearing joggers or bottoms with loose, stretchy waistbands will also work. They can be easily pulled down to give the artist plenty of space.
Tattoo by Steph Hesketh
Breast and chest tattoo
Here, a button-up shirt worn the traditional way is ideal, and you may want to combine it with nipple covers or pasties. Those pasties are adhesive stickers you can place over your nipples; you may well have seen them in various designs on celebrities wearing sheer garments on the red carpet. Generally, the pasties are provided by your artist but if you’re unsure, make sure to check with them when you book your appointment. In addition, think about bringing a big scarf or pashmina. If you get chilly, you can wrap it around your shoulders, or stomach area while getting your upper chest piece.
Tattoo by Steph Hesketh
Bottom
Bring your dressing gown or a kimono to be worn back to front. You should also make sure you wear stretchy underwear that can be pulled aside if the artist is only working on one cheek. If your whole bottom is covered, then thongs and g-strings are best, so both sides of your derriere are visible to the artist. If you think you’ll feel uncomfortable or any areas may be exposed, bring a large scarf so the artist can drape it across those body parts.
Private parts
If your tattoo is close to your nether regions, tighty-whities are not going to make for a comfortable experience. Stretchy underwear or tie-side bikini bottoms will ensure there are no awkward conversations about the artist being able to do their work. The advantage of tie-side pants: your artist can tape them in place to make sure they don’t fall down when you have to move.
Process of elimination is often helpful when you start thinking about your outfit choices when getting tattooed, so what, according to Steph, should you be leaving in your wardrobe?
Steer clear of anything white, brand new, expensive designer gear, and precious clothes and shoes. Although tattoo artists are meticulous and conscious people, at times, ink can transfer to your clothing and it will be difficult to wash out.
Leave anything uncomfortable or super-tight at home. You can wear that swag again when your tattoo is fully healed and ready to be admired in its eternal glory.
In the end, Steph says, “The most important thing is to think where your tattoo is going. Wear something loose and comfortable that gives us plenty of access not just around the immediate area that’s being worked on, but also the surrounding area. We need to place stencils without stretching the skin and want to see that your tattoo is central, straight, and exactly where it needs to be.”
Clothes are an important part of who we are and should reflect our personalities. Just bear in mind that not every outfit choice is ideal for a trip to the tattoo studio. Keep it comfy, loose and practical. And remember: when you’ve got a tattoo, you’re always looking the part.
Carola’s beautiful tattoo complete with ballet-inspired outfit @chameleoninhighheels
A mother’s love is said to be unconditional – an unbreakable bond like no other. Something so meaningful it needs to find a home permanently on your skin in ink. Editor Rosalie chats to tattoo artists and collectors about their mother tattoos and the stories behind them…
“I’ve done quite a few mother and daughter portraits now. They have become more and more popular. It’s lovely to see a design come to life that represents a mother and child’s love.”
” I have a baby girl on the way and I will be looking for someone to create something similar for me when the time comes. It’s been lovely tattooing while pregnant. It’s nice to hear positive birth stories from my customers. I’ve not got a tattoo to represent my own mum but if I did it would be something expressive yet minimalistic.”
“This tattoo is definitely a favourite of mine. It’s on a woman who got in touch with me and kindly travelled to get this special tattoo, she wanted to commemorate the feeling of motherhood and love for her two children.”
“This tattoo experience was lovely, we got on really well and found we spoke a lot about our motherhood experiences – I do that with a lot of women I tattoo (and men, although I tattoo a lot less of them, the conversation generally moves to parenthood). It always makes me reflect on my own experiences, it’s nice to compare notes and swap stories and listen to other parents about their lives and how their children fit into it. I love listening to people’s birth stories too, if they’re happy to talk about it. “
“When it comes to tattooing women, as a mother, it can also bring up occasions when customers talk about their own struggles to conceive or even trying to figure out whether they want children or not too.”
“I had both of my children’s names tattooed on my hands not long before returning to work, so it felt like I had them with me even when we were apart”
Tattoo collector Corinne
“In 2013, I had an ectopic pregnancy. I’d been trying to get pregnant for a while and after waking one night in excruciating pain I was rushed into hospital where I found out I was finally pregnant, but unfortunately it was ectopic. Not long after I had the lyrics: ‘there is a light that never goes out’ tattooed on my side, because that’s how it feels when you lose a baby. At the time, I only had a few tattoos, so I just went to a guy in town to have it done and it wasn’t great.”
“But I started getting tattooed more and more, and discovered so many amazing artists. A few years later, I was lucky enough to get tattooed by Susanne König (@suflanda) and after two tattoos from her I knew I wanted her to do a new tattoo in memory of the baby I lost. I really clicked with Susanne and I have loved everything I’ve ever seen her draw so I knew she’d create the most beautiful tattoo for me.
“I emailed her with my idea, but for the most part left it up to her – I feel you get the best art when the artist isn’t too constrained. When I saw the drawing it was more beautiful and special than I could ever have imagined. I couldn’t get over the expression she’d captured in the mother’s face.”
“It’s my most favourite and meaningful tattoo and I’m so happy I got it from a wonderful woman. I went on to have a baby through IVF in 2017, my daughter loves it and she thinks the baby is her.”
“I guess really it’s just the perfect depiction of a mother’s love for the babies we have and the babies we have lost”
“My client, Molly, sent Klimt’s The Three Ages Of Woman as a reference – as well as some other tattoos inspired by the original artwork. She asked for an overall softer look and was open to interpretation in my style. We focused on the embrace as this was an important nod to my client’s mum who passed away a few years ago. I don’t often base tattoos solely off an artists’ work, but I really enjoyed re-imagining this one.”
“I am heavily inspired by renaissance and baroque artists, particularly when it comes to designing pieces based on Greek and Roman mythology. This was a really lovely thing to tattoo – it made me think of the unique kind of love that exists between a parent and their child. I really wanted to capture tenderness in the mother’s expression and a feeling of safety and comfort for the child – I hope I did that.”
“My mum died of cancer when I was a teenager and the tattoo represents that everlasting maternal love between mum and baby. Love that endures even if mum or child has passed away. The tattoo is permanent to remind me that I still embody that love – I am tied to her even though I can’t reach out and touch her anymore. The Klimt painting was just inspiration and Alice captured the embrace perfectly.”
“My mum was the most amazing selfless woman and if I had to choose my mum again, I would choose her”
“My mum and mother tattoos were both done by @shedwolf in Huddersfield, my hometown. I wanted a tattoo that would serve as an everyday reminder of my mum, who sadly died in 2005, and I love how special the tattoo looks.”
“My mum tattoo is actually a matching tattoo that I got with my sister, in honour of what would have been our mum’s 60th birthday. It felt like such a celebration getting this tattoo together and for an event that would have been such a big one to celebrate if my mum were still alive.”
“I had wanted my knuckles tattooed for so long but I always felt like it was such a huge commitment, and I really wanted to find a word that fit my knuckles and also meant a lot to me”
“I love my MOTHER tattoo so much, as it combines my love for being a mum, as well as honouring the mum I lost. I have always wanted to be a mum, and when my daughter was born it gave me that mother/daughter connection that I had been missing for so long. I really feel like this tattoo represents that.”
“I got my mother tattoo before Mother’s Day and that felt like a real treat to me. A lovely day of self care getting a tattoo that meant so much to me as a mum and as a daughter.”
“Both the kewpie tattoos for my children were done by @wolfspit in Manchester. I have always loved Jemma’s kewpie baby tattoos and knew I would get one once I had a baby of my own. We put so much thought into naming our kids and both hold such strong meanings, I love that Jemma could work that into the designs.”
“My son is called Abel Wolfe so his tattoo includes him cuddling a baby wolf. My daughter is named after Lilith, the first woman on earth who was banished from Eden, and rumour has it she returned as the snake that tempted Eve, so her tattoo includes her sliding down a snake. These tattoos mean so much to me and I love that they are pride of place on my arm.”
“I am so happy with my current collection for my mum and my children, I don’t have any plans set in stone for anything else. Although my daughter does keep doing some really cute drawings of flower fairies and I’m so tempted to get one in a little gap. Both the kids have some phrases that me and my husband really love and we have discussed getting a matching one related to that.”
“This was my customer Alisia’s first tattoo to commemorate the birth of her first baby, Everly. Alisia sent me a photo of her holding Everly in this position, as well as a few other mother and baby references she liked. Alisia specified this hairstyle as that’s how she wears hers. The flowersare cherry blossom, which is Everly’s birth flower. It’s always special when someone trusts me with their first tattoo but this felt even more special. I’ve done a few mother and baby tattoos and I always love translating someone’s memories into something they’ll wear forever.”
“This was my first tattoo and the experience was great. Hollie made me feel relaxed offering lots of breaks if needed. I wanted someone to represent my first daughter and our bond, I always wanted a tattoo but really wanted something with meaning.”
“My daughter had colic at a young age and was very uncomfortable and upset a lot as a baby. This position used to always comfort her and soothe her and to this day it’s a position that makes her feel safe and comforted. It just reminds me of my little girl as a baby.”
“The client was wanting to celebrate her own journey through motherhood and breastfeeding. She was great to work with and gave me the general idea and let me run with the artwork. I really enjoyed getting to make this piece for her. I have three daughters and it reminded me of those sweet moments when they were babies.”
Tattoo artist Melanie Milne (@melaniemilnetattoos), Hot Copper Studio, Melbourne, Australia
“I’ve done quite a few mother and baby tattoos, I love connecting with clients over being a mother/parent. Children are the most important thing in most parents’ lives and it makes sense you’d want to get a tattoo to immortalise that.”
“This tattoo’s story (above) is that the client is a friend of mine who has given birth to three babies and is now done having kids. She wanted to express her love of being pregnant and bringing humans into the world. Birth is so magical and transformative.”
“Being a mum has changed a few things for me in terms of tattooing. I have less free time so I have to be more efficient getting my drawings done and making sure I’m home in time for bedtime. Tattooing used to be my main priority but that has changed now.”
Melanie pregnant with OzzyMelanie & Ozzy
“I also think being a parent makes you softer, I’m definitely more affected by people getting memorial tattoos, especially for their children or just hearing stories of loss or fertility struggles”
“My wonderful friend Sera Helen made me the most beautiful tattoo of a charm necklace with my son’s name OZZY on my neck. I got it on my first Mother’s Day so it was very special. I’m pregnant with my second baby now, due in July, so I’ll have to come up with something for them as well.”
Melanie & Ozzy
“Ozzy is 14 months, he hasn’t really noticed any difference between tattooed and non-tattooed people yet. I’m sure it won’t be long. My husband and I are both pretty heavily covered so I’m sure there will be questions in a few years.”
If you love finding out about the people behind the tattoos read our latest blogs:
*NSFW: YOU MIGHT NOT WANT TO OPEN THIS ARTICLE IN FRONT OF YOUR GRANDMA OR YOUR BOSS AT WORK, AS THERE IS A LOT OF NUDITY, INCLUDING FULL FRONTAL (UNLESS THEY’RE INTO KINK, TOO)*
We love that BDSM offers a community of acceptance allowing people to embrace and celebrate their sexualities… We also adore that many tattoo collectors are choosing to proudly adorn their bodies with designs that reflect their connection to this vibrant, sex-positive and ever-growing community.
We spoke to the tattoo artists specialising in these designs about their perspectives on the BDSM and kink scene. Of course, we also heard from collectors about why they love these tattoos too…
“I was a fetish fashion model for over a decade and found myself surrounded by strong, intelligent women who owned their sexuality – I’ve always tried to replicate that both personally and artistically. As a young adult, the community really shaped me in a positive way and taught me a lot about consent and communication, which helps so much with my own tattoo clients.”
“Fetish work always seemed like the most natural thing to transition into tattooing as it was something I had a lot of knowledge of (and experience in) and I loved drawing it. My style translated to tattooing perfectly.”
Sophie’s admiration for photographers such as Bob Carlos Clarke, Guy Bourdin, Helmut Newton, and artists including John Willie and Tom of Finland sparked her interest in Shibari. With her background in fetish work and love for drawing, she found Shibari a natural fit. Transitioning to tattooing, her style remained consistent, reflecting her passion with ease.
“I’d say that 75% of my clients who get kinky work are female and most are LBGTQ+. I’ve worked with Sub/Dom dynamics before, but most of my work centres on female empowerment. I don’t tattoo women participating in anything NSFW that could be even slightly misconstrued as discomfort or pain. I also don’t tattoo fetish work anywhere that is really visible or hard to conceal – I can consent, as can my client, but the general public can’t.”
“I have a responsibility as an artist to make sure my clients’ wellbeing is the most important part of the process – that includes appropriately placing a tattoo that could potentially jeopardise job opportunities and how they are perceived in an everyday setting.”
“This tattoo screams ‘female sexual empowerment‘ and that’s exactly why I chose it. I asked the tattooist to change the fingers to ones that looked more feminine as there’s nothing more powerful than a woman who’s sexually empowered. It’s one of my favourite tattoos.”
“I love creating sex-positive tattoos and working with a diverse group of clients who want to feel empowered through ink. These tattoos break stereotypes and attract people from all walks of life, each wanting a unique way to express themselves.
“From detailed designs celebrating body positivity to subtle symbols of liberation, sex-positive tattoos tell individual stories. I connect with clients who appreciate the art, building a community that values creativity over stereotypes – this means prioritising individuality, originality and diverse perspectives in artistic expression. It means embracing the uniqueness of each person’s creativity, regardless of societal norms or preconceived notions. It challenges stereotypes that may limit or box in people based on factors such as gender, race or background, making a more inclusive and open-minded creative community.”
“My clients might seem conservative on the surface due to their professional background or upbringing, but they express themselves through art that some might find taboo. It’s about embracing unexpected side.”
“My clients showcase the inclusive nature of sex-positive tattoo artistry. These tattoos aren’t seedy; they’re a celebration of personal thoughts and fantasies, breaking free from societal norms. My passion goes beyond the ink; it’s about witnessing clients reclaim their bodies and embrace their unique journeys.“
“Whether a client is quiet or outspoken, they become a platform for empowerment. Conversations sparked by these tattoos challenge norms and redefine beauty. This mix of art and self-discovery keeps me loving what I do, fostering connection and understanding.”
“I am a big fan of trying to push the boundaries of what a traditional tattoo is. I often source my inspiration from vintage fashion and fetish illustrations and photography.”
“My goal is to create designs that will shock your grandma but still portray the high class. I want to make designs that are sexy but not pornographic.”
“I think people often get these tattoos for the same reason gay men used colour coded handkerchiefs in their back pockets – it allows the wearer to signal their preferences indirectly, without broadcasting them to everyone.”
“Other people might use them to celebrate or commemorate an event.I got a two-headed snake after my first MMF threesome, and a jar of coconut oil after I tried anal successfully for the first time.”
“Plus, some elements of tattooing revolve around trust and pain in the same way that BDSM does, it’s a practice that requires you to be present in your physical body and exert a considerable amount of willpower, and you have to have faith in and good communication with your artist.”
“Artist Damien Hirst once said he wished art would be treated with the same respect as medicine and I think tattooing is as close as we get to that. When done right a tattoo offers us the opportunity to test our physical limits in a safe and protected environment.”
“Getting into queer kink tattooing was a natural progression for me. This came from my growing confidence of my own sexual identity, and demanding space for acceptance and understanding. Because of this I have created a space where LGBT clients can come into a shop and feel comfortable to be 100% themselves throughout the experience. A lot of heteronormative clients don’t understand the stress and dilutions-of-self that queer clients go through. ‘Do I say boyfriend or partner? Is it a safe space?'”
“Queer sex still is still viewed as taboo; violence and rejection is a huge part of queer existence. Seeing that people have the confidence to wear what they were once ashamed of is exciting and opens fun conversations without judgement.”
“As an artist, it has made me push my drawing and ability to capture different positions and energy within an image. It’s always interesting to think how people can wear such an image, and how to play with ideas.”
“I’m not a gatekeeper in tattooing, but I also think that there’s something very fun about doing subversive tattoos in a world where actually being tattooed is no longer a subversive act. I like to be a part of that.”
“My name is German Ferreiroa AKA @gerfer_tattoo, I’m an Argentinian tattoo artist based in Dublin and co-owner of Secret Door Studio with my best friend Julie Midnight. My work is inspired by all gay subcultures, mostly leather and uniform men and, of course, I get specific requests and I do designs with whatever kinks or fantasies the custumer has.”
“At the end of the day what I love to do is to portray how beautiful the male body is in any way, shape and form.”
“I’m now known for my male genital tattoos [see below]. Something that not a lot of artists do. Alongside my tattoo career, I did a few different art projects including The Male Project and the Dick Pic Project, working with real models and self publishing six books. I’ve done different exhibitions in different studios and tattoo conventions around Europe and many more to come.”
“I created this because with all of the censorship that happens with vaginas and any sexual reference at all, I wanted it to be a confrontation to the viewer. And for them to simply enjoy it.”
Have you got any kink or BDSM tattoos? Or are you thinking about getting one? DM us on our Insta@thingsandink
About Things&Ink
Originally a printed tattoo magazine, Things&Ink is now a popular blog that takes an artistic approach to content. Our goal is to create work that utilises tattoo artists and people with interesting stories to share. This is a blog for artists, collectors, and those yet to go under the needle. As a reader, you will find out about new artists, products, and ideas that will enrich your tattooed lives. To stay up to date with our socials, check out the Things&Ink Instagram where we post frequently!
