The size of a tattoo that takes one hour to complete can vary quite a bit depending on several factors. Some of the main considerations that determine tattoo size for a one hour session include:
- The complexity and amount of detail in the tattoo design
- The location of the tattoo on the body
- The skill and speed of the tattoo artist
- How well the skin holds the ink
- Whether it’s a first tattoo or a cover up tattoo
Generally speaking, most professional tattoo artists estimate that they can complete approximately 2-5 inches of tattooing within a one hour timeframe. However, this can increase or decrease based on the variables noted above.
Tattoo Complexity
One of the biggest factors that impacts how much tattooing can be done in an hour is the complexity and detail involved in the design. Very complex tattoos with a lot of coloring, shading, fine lines, and intricate details will take more time. Simple tattoos with more open space, solid blocks of color, and less detail can usually be completed faster.
For example, a 2 inch wide solid black band around the bicep is relatively simple and straightforward. An experienced artist could probably complete a band this size in less than an hour. On the other hand, a 2 inch wide photorealistic rose on the shoulder with vivid coloring and intricate leaves and stems would take much longer than an hour.
So in general, simpler designs allow the artist to cover more ground in an hour compared to more complex designs. An artist may be able to ink a 5 inch simple tribal armband tattoo in an hour, but probably only 2-3 inches of a detailed portrait or nature scene.
Tattoo Placement
The location of the tattoo on the body also plays a big role in estimating size. Areas such as the arms, legs, and back allow tattoo artists to work faster and cover larger sections. These areas have flat surfaces and few contours, making it easier to fill in tattoo designs.
More sensitive areas of the body require the artist to work slower and be more cautious. Areas like the wrists, ankles, fingers, toes, and sternum tend to be more painful for clients. Artists have to concentrate more on causing less discomfort in these spots.
Tight, bony areas like hands, feet, ribs, and elbows also make tattooing more challenging. The skin pulls tighter and there are more curves and angles to work around. Fewer needles can reach the skin at one time, slowing down the process.
For reference, a tattoo artist may be able to ink a 5 inch design on the forearm in an hour, but probably only 2-3 inches on the wrist or hand in the same time frame.
Artist Skill and Speed
Faster, highly skilled artists can complete more tattooing in an hour than novice artists. Experienced professionals develop techniques and workflows that allow them to work quickly while maintaining quality results. Trainees and apprentices still learning need to work at slower paces.
Faster artists also know tricks to efficiently fill in sections with smooth shading and color packing. They plan out the tattoo procedure in advance to minimize re-dipping needles in ink and repositioning the client. Efficient machine settings, needle groupings, and handedness also maximize their speed.
So while a newbie may only finish 1-2 inches of a simple design in an hour, a seasoned professional can likely complete a 5 inch piece with the same complexity in the same timeframe. Skill level clearly impacts sizing possibilities.
Client Skin and Ink Retention
Some clients’ skin holds the tattoo ink better than others. The moisture level, oiliness, thickness, and overall condition of skin impacts ink absorption. Dry or dehydrated skin has a more difficult time retaining ink evenly compared to well-moisturized skin.
How the skin has been prepared also plays a role. Exfoliating and moisturizing for several weeks before a tattoo session can improve the skin’s readiness. Areas of damaged, scarred, or previously tattooed skin may absorb ink unevenly.
When ink doesn’t take to certain spots as easily, the artist has to go over areas repeatedly. This slows down the overall process. An area that may have taken 1 hour on pristine skin might take 1.5 hours on skin that doesn’t retain the ink as well.
Cover Up Tattoos
Covering up an existing tattoo generally takes longer than getting a tattoo on clean skin. The old tattoo has to be lightened first so the new one shows up clearly. The lightening process means going over the same area multiple times.
On top of that, scar tissue has built up in the area of the old tattoo. Scar tissue does not absorb new ink as readily. The artist has to work slowly for the fresh ink to take. Cover ups require a patience and diligence.
It takes extra time and effort to cover up old tattoos. An artist may be able to do a 5 inch cover up in 2+ hours, but a 5 inch new tattoo in only 1 hour.
Summary of Factors
To summarize, these are the top factors that determine how much tattooing can be completed in a one hour session:
- Design complexity – simpler designs allow for more coverage
- Tattoo placement – areas like arms, legs, back can be covered faster
- Artist skill level – experienced artists work quicker
- Skin condition – healthy skin absorbs ink better
- Cover up tattoos take longer than new tattoos
Taking these variables into account, a general rule of thumb is that most professional tattoo artists can complete 2-5 inches of tattooing within a one hour appointment. Very simple designs allow for up to 5 inches, while very complex designs may only reach 2 inches. Placement, artist skill, skin condition, and cover ups can shorten or extend the size range.
Average Tattoo Size in One Hour
Based on the information above, the average tattoo size completed in one hour for most people under typical conditions is approximately:
3 to 4 inches
This estimated range factors in variations in design complexity, placement on common body areas like arms and legs, artists with solid professional skills, and healthy skin conditions.
For example, the average sizes of some common one hour tattoo designs would be:
- Simple tribal armband – 4 inches
- Flower ankle bracelet – 3 inches
- Geometric finger tats – 1 inch
- Script name on wrist – 2 inches
- Small back rose – 3 inches
- Mandala forearm piece – 4 inches
Of course, many variables can increase or decrease the size range for any individual tattoo. But in general, simple calculations show that most one hour tattoos will wind up measuring around 3 to 4 inches total.
Size Estimates by Tattoo Complexity
The following estimates provide an overview of typical sizing based on the complexity of the tattoo design:
Simple Tattoos
Tribal, geometric, script, lettering, outlines
One hour size example:
2 to 5 inches
Moderate Tattoos
Floral designs, nature scenes, small filler pieces
One hour size example:
2 to 4 inches
Complex Tattoos
Portraits, photorealism, vibrant color, intricate details
One hour size example:
1 to 3 inches
As shown above, simpler designs allow the artist to cover a larger area of skin in the one hour timeframe compared to more detailed and complex pieces.
Size Estimates by Body Placement
Tattoo placement also impacts potential size in one hour. Estimates may be:
Flat Body Parts – Arms, legs, back
4 to 5 inches
Small Body Parts – Wrists, fingers, ankles
1 to 2 inches
Curvy Body Parts – Ribs, shoulders, kneecaps
2 to 3 inches
Sensitive Body Parts – Chest, stomach, groin
2 to 3 inches
The flattest body areas with large surface space like arms and legs allow for the most coverage in an hour. Smaller or curved body parts slow down the process and result in smaller sizes.
What Affects Tattoo Pricing?
Tattoo costs are based on the size, design complexity, placement, artist skill level, and number of sessions needed.
Some factors that influence pricing include:
- Size – Larger tattoos cost more than smaller tattoos.
- Design complexity – Unique custom designs are more expensive than common flash artwork. Intricate details, coloring, and shading increase costs.
- Placement – Areas like the back and arms are cheaper than more sensitive spots like the face or groin.
- Skill level – Renowned artists can charge hourly rates of $200-$500 per hour or more.
- Amount of sessions – Additional sessions mean multiplying costs.
- Amount of supplies and equipment – Fresh needles, grips, ink caps, printing costs add up.
On average, most professional tattoo artists charge between $100-$250 per hour. At these rates, a one hour tattoo may cost $100-$250 depending on the factors above. Larger, custom, or multi-session pieces can quickly exceed thousands of dollars.
Average Tattoo Costs by Size
| Tattoo Size | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Small (2-4 inches) | $50 – $250 |
| Medium (4-6 inches) | $100 – $500 |
| Large (6+ inches) | $200 – $1000+ |
As shown above, average costs go up with size due to higher hourly rates and more time required.
Preparing for a One Hour Tattoo Session
To make the most of your single hour tattoo appointment, make sure to:
- Select a simple design that can be completed quickly.
- Place your tattoo somewhere that can be easily reached and worked on.
- Hydrate, eat a meal beforehand, and get a good night’s sleep.
- Arrive early at the studio to fill out any paperwork.
- Use the restroom beforehand to get comfortable.
- Follow your artist’s before and after care instructions.
Proper preparation leads to better tattoo results and a smooth appointment.
FAQs
How long should I expect a small 2-3 inch tattoo to take?
Smaller tattoos of around 2-3 inches can usually be completed in 30-45 minutes.
What’s the largest size tattoo I can expect in a 1 hour session?
With an experienced artist and favorable placement, you may be able to get up to a 5 inch tattoo done in an hour.
How much tattooing can be done in a 30 minute session?
Expect 1-2 inches of basic line work or small detailing to be possible in a half hour time slot.
Should I book multiple sessions for a big tattoo?
Yes, most tattoo shops recommend longer or multi-session bookings for larger scale pieces to allow the artist to work at a reasonable pace.
How can I maximize what’s done in a short session?
Get a simple design in an easy to reach spot, hydrate and eat well beforehand, and listen carefully to your artist’s instructions.
Conclusion
The amount of tattooing that can be completed in one hour depends heavily on the complexity of the design, placement on the body, skill of the artist, and the client’s skin condition. Most tattoos will measure around 2-5 inches when completed in a single one hour session. Aim for simpler designs and favorable body placements to maximize your tattoos size. Be sure to choose an experienced artist and follow proper artist instructions and aftercare to ensure your tattoo turns out well.