If you’re planning to get a tattoo, one of the first things you’ll wonder is: How long will it take? The truth is, tattoo time varies widely. A small minimalist design can be done in under an hour, while a large back piece may require multiple full-day sessions spread over months.
This guide explains how long tattoos take based on size, detail, placement, and artist factors—so you know what to expect before booking.
Factors That Affect Tattoo Time
The time it takes to complete a tattoo depends on:
- Size: Bigger tattoos = longer sessions.
- Detail Level: Fine lines, shading, and realism require more time.
- Placement: Some body parts are easier to tattoo than others.
- Artist Speed: Some artists work fast, others take their time.
- Client Comfort: Breaks for pain, movement, or stretching can add hours.
- Color vs. Black & Grey: Color tattoos generally take longer due to layering.
How Long Do Different Sizes Take?
Small Tattoos (1–2 inches)
- Examples: Symbols, initials, tiny hearts, minimalist designs.
- Time: 30 minutes – 2 hours.
- Good For: First-timers or quick sessions.
Medium Tattoos (3–6 inches)
- Examples: Forearm script, medium animals, flowers, geometric shapes.
- Time: 2 – 5 hours.
- Notes: May be finished in one sitting, depending on detail.
Large Tattoos (7–12 inches)
- Examples: Half sleeves, large chest pieces, detailed back art.
- Time: 6 – 12 hours.
- Notes: Often split into multiple sessions.
Extra-Large Tattoos (Full sleeves, full back, body suits)
- Time: 20 – 40+ hours.
- Notes: Usually spread across weeks or months, with healing time in between.
How Tattoo Style Affects Time
- Minimalist/Line Work: Quick, usually 1–2 hours.
- Traditional/Neo-Traditional: Bold lines + color; 2–6 hours depending on size.
- Realism/Portraits: Extremely detailed; 4–10+ hours.
- Japanese/Irezumi: Large-scale, flowing pieces; often 20+ hours.
- Watercolor Tattoos: Require layering; typically longer than black & grey.
Placement and Tattoo Time
Certain body areas are faster or slower to tattoo:
- Easier Areas: Upper arm, thigh, calf → smooth, padded skin = faster.
- Slower Areas: Ribs, feet, hands, neck → thin skin, bone, or movement = slower and more painful, often requiring breaks.
One Session vs. Multiple Sessions
- Small Tattoos: Usually completed in one sitting.
- Medium Tattoos: Often one sitting but may need a follow-up.
- Large Tattoos: Multiple sessions (3–6 hours each).
- Massive Tattoos: Full sleeves or back pieces may take months to complete.
Artists often prefer splitting sessions to reduce swelling, client fatigue, and to allow skin to heal.
How Long Does Tattoo Healing Affect Sessions?
Healing between sessions can take 2–4 weeks. For large tattoos, you may need to wait a month before continuing. This means a full project could take several months depending on scheduling.
How Artist Speed Affects Time
Every tattoo artist works differently:
- Fast Artists: May finish a medium tattoo in 2–3 hours.
- Detail-Oriented Artists: Take more time for precision; the same piece could take 5–6 hours.
Neither is better—speed doesn’t equal quality. Always prioritize skill over time.
Client Factors That Add Time
- Pain Tolerance: If you need breaks often, it adds to session length.
- Skin Condition: Dry, scarred, or sensitive skin can slow tattooing.
- Movement: Staying still helps artists work faster.
- Hydration & Rest: Healthy, hydrated skin takes ink more easily.
FAQs About Tattoo Timing
Can I finish a sleeve in one day?
Unlikely. Full sleeves usually take 20–40 hours across multiple sessions.
Do color tattoos take longer?
Yes. Colors require layering and blending, which adds time.
How long is the average tattoo session?
Most last 2–6 hours depending on the piece and client comfort.
Do tattoos hurt more the longer they take?
Yes. After several hours, pain builds due to skin irritation and swelling.
What’s the quickest tattoo I can get?
A small, simple design (like initials) may take just 20–30 minutes.
Final Thoughts
So, how long does it take to get a tattoo?
- Small tattoos: under 2 hours.
- Medium tattoos: 2–5 hours.
- Large tattoos: 6–12+ hours.
- Massive projects: 20–40+ hours across multiple sessions.
Your tattoo’s time depends on size, style, placement, and your artist’s process. While everyone hopes for a quick appointment, the best tattoos are worth the time.
Remember: tattoos last a lifetime—so don’t rush the process.