How Many Sessions Does Getting a Sleeve Tattoo Take

If you’re looking for a tattoo that is big, bold, and noticeable, you’ve probably considered a sleeve tattoo. The arm has always been one of the most popular tattoo surfaces, and sleeve artwork takes full advantage of the canvas that it provides. However, if you are thinking about getting one of these pieces, you should make sure to understand the process thoroughly before you pay or proceed. Perhaps the most common question that we hear when asked about sleeve tattoos is: “How many sessions does it take to get a sleeve tattoo?”

So, How Many Sessions Does It Take?

There is no way that we can give you a definitive answer to this question because it will depend on several key factors. In general, those tattoos which are larger and more complex will tend to take longer.

Most of the professionals will give you an estimate of 10-15 hours total work time for a sleeve tattoo. Obviously, that isn’t going to be a single session. Bear in mind that the time frame is just a rough estimate. So, instead of trying to provide a one-size-fits-all answer (which would be impossible), let’s examine the things that will determine the number of hours and sessions that will be required for your sleeve tattoo.

1. Sleeve Style

You don’t necessarily have to get a full sleeve. You can instead opt for a quarter-sleeve or a half-sleeve. These are great options for those who cannot afford a full sleeve or for those who simply don’t want that much ink. Besides, a half-sleeve or a quarter-sleeve can always be upgraded at a later date.

You might also choose to go with a Hikae-style tattoo. This is a Japanese style in which the sleeve also covers part of the chest. Some can even go so far as to cover one entire half of the person’s chest. This idea can be used in combination with a quarter-sleeve, half-sleeve, or full sleeve.

2. Complexity

This is just as big of a factor as the style you choose, as it will have a lot to do with the difficulty of the work. Tattoo artists tend to charge more for intricate designs (like Celtic knots, for instance) because they simply require more time and care to apply.

Portrait-style tattoos (like a portrait of a deceased loved one, which is popular) also require a greater amount of time and care, as the artist will probably be working from a photograph. Accurately depicting an image of that type can be tricky, especially when working with a medium as flexible as human skin.

On the other hand, if you have chosen a relatively simple sleeve tattoo (like a pattern of simple tribal designs), you can expect that your tattoo will be done a lot more quickly. Will it be done in a single session? Probably not.

3. Your Artist

The style and preferences of your particular artist will also play a significant role in the time frame question. Some people just cannot do their best work when they are in a hurry, and you should understand that fact. Rushing your artist will tend to produce less-than-perfect results. If there is one thing you should take from this article, it is the importance of patience. If you want to get the best quality work that you can, you should prepare yourself for a little bit of waiting.

4. Color Versus Black And White

This factor is a somewhat complicated one, although it might seem easy. Surely a colorful tattoo will cost more than one that is rendered in black and white, right? This is often the case, but not necessarily. Regardless of which colors are used, the same amount of ink will be used, so your artist isn’t charging for the ink. Rather, they are charging for their time and expertise. That’s why your choice of colors usually won’t affect the price of the tattoo.

That being said, a tattoo with many different colors will probably take longer than one that is done in a single color. This is because artists tend to do one color at a time, mainly to avoid the risk of the colors bleeding together. Thus, if you have ten different colors in your tattoo, you’re probably looking at about eight to ten sessions.

Is It Better To Do Long Sessions Or Short Ones?

Although some people might disagree, we think it’s probably better to do things in short sessions. It’s more convenient for everyone involved, and the artist will have more time to get those little details honed to perfection. If there are a large number of colors involved, there may be no choice here.

That being said, some people just do not have the time to wait very long, for one reason or another. If you really are in a big hurry for some logical reason, and if your tattoo isn’t ridiculously complex, you might go with longer sessions and get just a good of a result. In the end, the best thing is to listen to your artist and go with their recommendations. Any artist will be able to do their best work when they are allowed to work on their preferred terms. Your only real concern should be the quality of the work.

Conclusion

As we said, it is very important to have patience when getting a large and/or complex tattoo. Just remember: It’s going to be on your skin for the rest of your life, so there’s no need to rush the application process! If you have been looking for good Philadelphia tattoo shops, or if you have found yourself saying “there aren’t any good local tattoo shops near me!”, then we have good news for you. Oracle Tattoo Gallery is only a phone call away, and they are one of the best in the business. For those who want to learn more, call 215-638-1601.