The Ultimate Guide to Tattoo Placement: Expert Tips from Kelsea Lake Schack

Getting a tattoo is a rite of passage, a form of self-expression, and a piece of living art you will carry forever. One crucial decision when planning your tattoo is placement. Choosing the right spot can influence not only the overall look and flow of the design but also how much pain you will experience during the session and how smoothly your tattoo will heal afterward.

At Obscura Ink, located in the historic Five Points Neighborhood, in the heart of the RiNo Art District, artist Kelsea Lake Schack specializes in spooky, black and white realism. With years of experience creating custom black and grey realism tattoos, Kelsea knows firsthand which areas of the body hurt the most, which heal the best, and how to guide you toward placement that will best suit your design and lifestyle.

Everyone’s skin is different, and so is everyone’s pain tolerance. This tattoo placement guide will walk you through pain levels, healing considerations, and expert advice from Kelsea to help you make the most informed decision for your next tattoo.

Tattoo Placement and Pain: What Hurts the Most

Tattoo pain varies for everyone, but certain factors—like the density of nerve endings, proximity to bone, and thickness of skin—can make some areas universally more sensitive. Here’s a breakdown of common placements ranked by pain level:

High-Pain Areas

• Ribs and Sternum: Known as some of the most painful spots to tattoo, these areas have very little fat or muscle padding and are close to bone. Every breath can potentially make the process more intense.

• Spine: With nerve endings concentrated along the vertebrae, spinal tattoos are both visually stunning and physically challenging.

• Armpits and Knees: The thin, delicate skin and high sensitivity here make these areas notorious for discomfort.

  
  

Moderate-Pain Areas

• Upper Arms and Thighs: These areas have more muscle and fat, making them more tolerable for longer sessions.

• Calves and Shoulders: With balanced padding and fewer nerve endings, these areas are manageable for most clients.

  
  

Low-Pain Areas

• Forearms: A favorite for first-time tattoo collectors, forearms provide a flat surface that makes the process relatively comfortable.

• Outer Shoulders and Outer Thighs: These spots are less sensitive and offer ample space for larger designs.

  
  

Kelsea often reminds clients that while pain is part of the process, it is temporary—and the end result is worth it. Many clients find that once they settle into the rhythm of the tattoo machine, their anticipation of pain often feels more intense than the actual experience. You can also bring all of the things you need to be comfortable, read about those here.

Healing by Placement: What Heals Best

Tattoo healing does not only depend on how well you follow aftercare instructions—it is also influenced by the placement itself. Tattoos in areas that experience less friction, sweat, and movement tend to heal faster and cleaner than those exposed to constant irritation.

Best Healing Spots

• Upper Arms and Forearms: These areas are easy to keep clean and less likely to rub against clothing.

• Calves and Back: With relatively smooth surfaces and minimal friction, these areas usually experience a smooth healing process.

  
  

Slower Healing Spots

• Hands and Fingers: Tattoos here fade faster due to constant use, hand-washing, and sun exposure. They also tend to scab and peel more.

• Feet and Ankles: Frequent rubbing from shoes and socks can slow healing and impact the tattoo’s crispness.

• Elbows and Knees: Because these joints are in constant motion, tattoos here may crack or take longer to settle in.

  
  

Special Considerations

Neck and Stomach: These areas vary by individual depending on skin sensitivity and movement. Healing may be slower if the tattoo is constantly exposed to friction from clothing or stretching of the skin.

Kelsea emphasizes the importance of lifestyle when considering placement. For example, a chef might want to avoid hand tattoos that are constantly exposed to water, while a runner might think twice about foot tattoos due to the constant rubbing of shoes.

How Placement Impacts the Look of Your Tattoo

Placement isn’t just about pain or healing—it is also about how the tattoo looks on your body. The human form has natural curves, lines, and movement that can enhance or distort a design depending on where it is placed.

As a specialist in custom black and grey realism tattoos, Kelsea pays close attention to how shading and detail interact with body placement. For example:

• A flowing floral piece might wrap beautifully around the forearm, enhancing natural symmetry.

• A geometric design might look best on flat areas like the back or thigh to maintain its sharpness.

• A portrait piece can come to life on the upper arm or calf, where the rounded surface allows for depth and detail.

  
  

This kind of thoughtful tattoo placement advice ensures that your piece looks incredible both immediately and as it ages over time.

Tips for Choosing the Right Placement

If you’re still unsure where to place your tattoo, here are Kelsea’s top tips:

1. Consider Visibility: Do you want your tattoo to be easily seen, or would you prefer it in a more discreet location?

2. Think About Aging: Areas that stretch, crease, or see heavy sun exposure may change over the years.

3. Match the Design to the Placement: Larger designs need more space, while fine-line work can shine in smaller areas.

4. Account for Lifestyle: Think about your daily activities, clothing choices, and career. Placement should complement your life, not complicate it.

   
   

Trust the Process

Bring your ideas to your artist and be open to their guidance. Kelsea’s experience ensures that the final placement will highlight your design and your individuality.

Why Work with Kelsea Lake Schack at Obscura Ink

When searching for a tattoo shop in the RiNo Art District, Obscura Ink is home to artist Kelsea Lake Schack, whose expertise in custom black and grey tattoos has made her a trusted name in Denver’s tattoo community. Known for her attention to detail, thoughtful placement advice, and ability to bring clients’ visions to life, Kelsea offers more than just tattoos—she creates timeless works of art that flow with your body.

Her studio space in the RiNo Denver tattoo shop environment reflects the neighborhood’s artistic energy, blending creativity, professionalism, and comfort. Whether you’re looking for your first tattoo or adding a large-scale piece, Kelsea guides you through every step—from design and placement to aftercare and healing.

Final Thoughts

Tattoo placement plays a huge role in your experience, from how much pain you’ll feel during the session to how smoothly your tattoo will heal afterward. By considering pain levels, healing factors, and the visual flow of your design, you can make a choice that ensures your tattoo not only looks stunning but also lasts beautifully over time.

With the guidance of Kelsea Lake Schack at Obscura Ink, you’ll have the expertise and artistry needed to choose the perfect placement for your next piece. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of custom black and grey tattoos or simply want thoughtful tattoo placement advice, Obscura Ink in the RiNo Art District is the place where your vision becomes reality.