When considering where to get a tattoo, there are a few variables to keep in mind. For starters, think about the amount of space you have to work with when considering a design. If you’re looking to get something intricate or large, shoulders are the perfect placement option. Because shoulders offer such a large, blank canvas—considering both the shoulder bone itself and the shoulder blade—design possibilities are endless. Go for a larger tattoo on the shoulder and make a statement, or you could choose a smaller design and contrast a minimal tattoo with the negative space.
Kite Shoulder Tattoo
The innate movement of the kite lends itself well to the shoulder blade because it’s constantly moving. The elongated line elegantly carries the design down the arm and draws attention.
Rose Shoulder Tattoo
Turn your arm into a garden, starting with a blooming rose on your shoulder.
Mirrored Shoulder Tattoo
Try getting duplicate designs on both of your shoulders to create a sense of balance with your ink. The thick outlines contrast beautifully with the thin inner lines to create balanced detail, as well.
Word Shoulder Tattoo
A small word or phrase tattoo on the shoulder blade will feel dainty against the large amount of negative space. Go for a rounded cursive font for a touch of whimsy.
Leafy Rose Stem
A shoulder tattoo has plenty of room for detail, so if you’re a fan of all parts of the flower, this is a perfect place to show it off.
Falling Petal Shoulder Tattoo
Punch a floral design up a bit by using the shape of the shoulder to add falling petals to the tattoo. When using color, go for light hues and thin lines to keep it dainty.
Line Art Shoulder Tattoo
If you’re interested in a floral design but don’t want the typical bouquet, try designing something in one specific style, like this line art ink. Due to the nature of the style, you can opt for a larger design like this one or a smaller design.
Girls Girls Girls
Line design tattoos are certainly the look du jour, and shoulders are no exception.
Outline-Only Shoulder Tattoo
The outline-only paper crane sits beautifully on the front of the shoulder bone because it uses negative space to its advantage. The simplicity keeps it feeling dainty despite its size.
Shoulder Blade Tattoo
If the round part of the shoulder doesn’t seem like the right placement, try placing your ink on your shoulder blade. This is a more flat, defined space that will allow you to get your tattoo without having to consider how it will move with your body.