Blog Post

The custom sleeve tattoo is one of the most intensive requests we get. A sleeve incorporates many elements into one cohesive design that will wrap around the arm, which is harder than creating artwork for a flat plane. A sleeve tattoo really represents an individual's personality and sense of self. It's a perfect canvas to express yourself. Many images on a sleeve are meaningful and are very personal. Other sleeves may have swirls or bold black patterns, some being tribal. Sleeves are popular with both men and women. There are a few different genres that are seen more often than not for a full sleeve. Here are some of them:

Floral Sleeve: Floral sleeves are very popular with the ladies. Whether it's realistic or old school, or a floral mixed with the macabre (skulls, spiders, coffins), it's a great way to express a woman's femininity. Tattoos have an edge and a floral sleeve is a beautiful way to balance the edge with a more delicate aesthetic.

Old school/Traditional: This style has been used for a very long time, back when tattoos were still taboo. Tattoos were not seen on many that were not carnival people or sailors. Sailor Jerry is a name that is synonomous to the genre. Traditional old school sleeves are amazing to look at and have very vivid colors and a playful and artful feel to them. Elements such as roses, skulls, pin-up girls, clovers, dice, anchors, horseshoes, these are all elements that are seen in old school tattoos. Other items can be created with the old school style, which makes for an interesting mix of traditional and modern.

Realistic: This style's name speaks for itself. Realistic tattoos are extremely time consuming and detail oriented. This includes anything you can think of; portraits, floral, angels, animals...it's limitless! A realistic tattoo can be very emotional and is a really beautiful way to create a meaningful expression for the collector. Finding tattoo artists who are masters in this genre are more difficult than any other.

There are other styles to get your full sleeve custom tattoo created in, but whatever style you choose, make sure you put some real thought into your concept. Your tattoo should include personal elements, including lettering and script if you feel it helps express it. Include elements that make it unique to you as the canvas. We have many artists that can create the perfect sleeve for you. Ready to get started? Post your request for your custom sleeve today!

Image credit: Crowz Eye