Getting your first tattoo is more than just a decision—it’s a personal milestone. Whether you’re finally putting ink to an idea that’s been with you for years or impulsively diving into something fresh, one of the biggest choices, aside from the design itself, is where to put that tattoo. If you’re an Aussie itching to make your mark, this tattoo placement guide is all about helping you choose the perfect spot to wear your new artwork with pride.
After all, your first tattoo isn’t just a piece of art; it’s a story, a symbol, or an expression of individuality. And where you place it plays a big role in how it feels, how it looks, and even how it ages over time. So let’s explore some of the best locations for your first ink and what you should consider for each option.
1. Wrist – A Subtle Statement
The wrist is a hugely popular spot for a first tattoo. Why? It’s versatile, relatively low on the pain scale, and easy to show off—or hide if you need to. The flat surface of the wrist offers an ideal canvas for small, intricate designs like symbols, quotes, or initials.
Many first-timers gravitate towards this area because it’s subtle but still gives you the satisfaction of having your ink in a visible spot. For the tattoo-curious, the wrist feels like the perfect middle ground—you can enjoy it daily without it being too “in your face.” And in Australia, where short sleeves and sunny days are common, it’s a great choice for casual but constant visibility.
However, keep in mind that wrist tattoos can be slightly prone to fading over time. Because the area experiences a lot of movement and friction, such as rubbing against clothing or watches, you may need touch-ups down the line.
2. Ankle – Minimalist and Cool
Ankle tattoos have a special appeal, especially in the warm Australian climate where sandals are part of life. It’s a great spot if you want something small and stylish but don’t necessarily want it in a highly visible area like your arms or neck.
The best part? The ankle is perfect for minimalist designs. Think tiny palm trees, waves, or meaningful symbols that reflect Australia’s natural beauty. The pain level is slightly higher here because of the proximity to bone, but it’s bearable, even for first-timers. Plus, an ankle tattoo ages well, staying tucked away from the elements, which can be harsh on ink.
Since the ankle is usually covered by socks or shoes, the tattoo tends to stay relatively fresh. That said, during the summer months, it’s a cool surprise when you kick off your shoes at the beach or pool, revealing your inked side.
3. Forearm – A Canvas with Character
The forearm is quickly becoming one of the most popular choices for first tattoos, and it’s easy to see why. The space is versatile and provides a larger canvas for designs that require more detail or color. From intricate floral designs to sprawling landscapes or animals, the forearm is an ideal spot to let your creativity run wild.
In Australia’s laid-back culture, where T-shirts and singlets are a wardrobe staple, the forearm offers an accessible yet professional option. It’s a spot you can show off easily, but if you ever need to hide your ink (like at a formal event or work setting), it’s also easy to cover with long sleeves.
Another perk of the forearm is that the skin here tends to age better, meaning your tattoo will hold its shape and color for longer. And on the pain scale? Most people find the forearm to be one of the more comfortable places to get inked.
4. Shoulder – Bold and Timeless
For those looking to make a bold statement with their first tattoo, the shoulder is a classic and time-honored choice. It’s been a go-to tattoo spot for decades because it’s a natural curve of the body that provides a great canvas for medium to large designs. Think meaningful quotes, tribal designs, or bold, colorful pieces.
In the Australian heat, shoulders are often on display, making it an easy spot to flaunt your new ink. Plus, it’s versatile—if you want something small and personal, the shoulder has plenty of space to accommodate. On the other hand, if you want to go big, the shoulder can easily transition into a sleeve or a larger back piece over time.
Pain-wise, the shoulder is fairly moderate. There’s enough muscle and flesh there to cushion the needle, making it a good spot for those nervous about pain but wanting a larger piece.
5. Ribs – For the Brave and Bold
Feeling bold? The ribs might be the perfect canvas for your first tattoo—especially if you’re drawn to designs that are more personal and not always on display. Tattoos along the ribcage are undeniably cool and artistic, often allowing for larger, more intricate pieces that span across the ribs or down the side of the body.
But here’s the catch: rib tattoos hurt. A lot. The skin here is thin, and there’s not much between the needle and your bones, so be prepared for some serious discomfort. That said, many people say it’s worth the pain for the payoff—a stunning tattoo that’s less likely to be seen by casual acquaintances and more of a personal statement.
In Australia, where beach days are plenty, the ribs offer a tantalizing reveal when you’re sunbathing or in swimwear. It’s a spot for those who don’t mind keeping their ink a little more private but still enjoy showing it off in the right circumstances.
6. Back – A Blank Canvas
The back is often considered the ultimate canvas for tattoo artists. It’s a massive area that can accommodate detailed, large-scale designs, or even serve as the starting point for a larger piece you might want to build on over time.
For a first tattoo, many Aussies choose the upper back or shoulder blades. These spots allow for beautiful pieces that can be shown off with summer tops or hidden completely with a shirt. The pain level is also manageable—similar to the forearm or shoulder, where there’s enough muscle and fat to soften the blow.
However, with a back tattoo, there’s a certain level of commitment. The area is large, so many people use it for intricate or meaningful designs. If you’re considering a back piece for your first tattoo, take your time choosing the design. After all, it’s a significant investment in both time and patience.
7. Thigh – Creative Freedom
If you want a bigger tattoo but aren’t quite ready to commit to something as visible as the forearm or back, the thigh could be your sweet spot. The upper thigh, in particular, offers a large, flat area for intricate designs. It’s an area that’s generally easy to cover up if you want to keep things private or reveal when you’re feeling bold—like on a sunny Aussie beach.
One of the best parts of thigh tattoos is the versatility. You can opt for a delicate, small piece on the side or go all out with a detailed piece that covers the whole area. The pain is on the lower side, too, making it a comfortable spot for first-timers. Plus, the thigh is less likely to be exposed to harsh sun, which helps preserve the vibrancy of the ink over time.
8. Behind the Ear – Subtle and Stylish
For those after something subtle yet meaningful, behind the ear might be a perfect choice. This area has become a trendy spot for smaller, more discreet designs, particularly among those who want their ink to be more personal or hidden. Small symbols, words, or geometric designs work beautifully in this location.
It’s not a place where you can go big, but that’s the appeal. Behind-the-ear tattoos are personal, often reserved for something meaningful. Pain-wise, it’s a bit higher on the scale—there’s not much between your skin and bone here—but the payoff is a chic, stylish tattoo that’s easy to hide when needed.
9. Foot – A Stylish Yet Bold Choice
If you’re the kind of person who walks to their own beat, a foot tattoo might just be for you. The top of the foot has become increasingly popular in recent years, often featuring intricate designs that wrap around the ankle or down to the toes. The pain level, though, can be a bit of a shocker—there’s not much padding here, and the bones are close to the surface.
But despite the sting, foot tattoos are beautiful and unique, perfect for a summer stroll in Australia’s beachy towns. Keep in mind, though, that foot tattoos are prone to fading faster due to the friction from shoes and exposure to the elements.
Choosing Your First Tattoo with Confidence
At the end of the day, where you place your first tattoo is entirely up to you. Each spot comes with its own vibe, pain level, and visibility factor. Think about what you want your tattoo to represent and how often you want to see it.
If you’re still on the fence, it’s always a good idea to talk to a professional tattoo artist. They can help guide you based on your design, skin type, and lifestyle. And for Aussies looking to get their first ink, there’s no better place to trust with your tattoo than Tattoos Down Under. With a team of skilled artists ready to bring your vision to life, you can take the plunge with confidence knowing you’re in the best hands. From subtle wrist designs to bold back pieces, Tattoos Down Under has you covered for all your first-ink needs, helping you create a lasting piece of art you’ll love for years to come.