Tattoo size calculator: which size fits your design?
Enter width and height to get the size class, typical tattooing time, price range, and placements that fit.
Size classes at a glance
Mini (up to 5 cm) – symbols, fine-line details: fingers, wrist, behind the ear. · Small (5–10 cm) – classic single designs: wrist, ankle, nape, collarbone. · Medium (10–20 cm) – designs with detail: forearm, upper arm, calf, shoulder blade. · Large (20–35 cm) – elaborate compositions: thigh, back, chest, half sleeve. · Extra large (35+ cm) – multi-session projects: full sleeve, back, leg.
No design yet? Create one with the AI generator and try it on your own photo in the tattoo simulator.
Common questions about tattoo size
How do I measure tattoo size correctly?
Measure the maximum width and height of the design in centimeters – easiest by printing out the design or previewing it as an image on your skin. The longest side is what determines the effort and price.
What size is good for a first tattoo?
For a first tattoo, 5–10 cm is ideal: big enough for clean lines and detail, small enough to finish in a single 1–2 hour session. Very small designs (under 3 cm) tend to blur over the years, and very large ones are a multi-day project.
Can a design be too small for its details?
Yes. Fine lines need room: a detailed design under 5 cm will blur over time ("ink spread"). Rule of thumb: the more detail, the bigger it should be tattooed – or simplify the design (fine line, minimalist).
How do size and placement relate?
The placement limits what size makes sense: fingers and wrists can handle 3–7 cm, the forearm 10–20 cm, and the back and thigh 30 cm or more. Our calculator suggests placements that fit the size you choose.