Obsessing over sternum tattoo designs on social media but haven’t booked your appointment yet? Worried about the pain or the healing process? Relax! We’ve spoken to tattoo artist Laura Fenwick (@ldyfenwick_tattoo) to bring you a comprehensive guide to Sternum Tattoos. By the time you finish reading, you might just be ready to book yours!
What Exactly Are Sternum Tattoos?
You might have heard sternum tattoos referred to by various names, such as underboob tattoos, chest tattoos, rib tattoos, or in-between boob tattoos. Generally, these tattoos are placed beneath the breasts or on the chest for those without breasts.
The beauty of sternum tattoos is their versatility. They are truly for everyone, regardless of body shape or size. A skilled tattoo artist will work with you to create a design that complements your unique physique. Many people even find that a sternum tattoo boosts their body confidence.
Delicate sternum tattoo design featuring fine lines and intricate details.
Sternum Tattoo Pain: What to Expect
Let’s be honest, tattoos involve some level of pain. While pain tolerance varies from person to person, sternum tattoos are often ranked higher on the tattoo pain scale. The sensitivity isn’t just limited to the rib cage area; tattooing between the breasts can also be quite painful due to nerve endings and thin skin.
Tattoo artist Laura Fenwick confirms this, stating, “I’d say sternums are certainly one of the spicier areas, however absolutely manageable. The style and size of the tattoo significantly impact the pain level. Smaller, delicate dot work designs will be much easier to endure than larger, bolder, and more heavily shaded pieces.”
Tips for Managing Pain During Your Sternum Tattoo Session
To make your sternum tattoo experience more comfortable, Laura suggests several coping strategies: “Bring headphones to immerse yourself in music or podcasts that keep you in a positive mindset. Focus on deep, steady breaths – avoid holding your breath! I’ve found that lollipops can be surprisingly helpful in distracting clients, so bring a few along. Ultimately, the best advice is to relax and stay calm.”
Sternum Tattoo Session Length: How Long Will It Take?
The duration of your sternum tattoo session depends on several key factors:
- Coverage Area: Are you getting a small, minimalist sternum tattoo or a larger piece extending onto your ribs or stomach?
- Design Complexity: Intricate and detailed designs naturally take longer to execute.
- Tattoo Style: Different styles, such as fine linework, traditional, or realism, have varying application times.
- Color Ink: Incorporating multiple colors or extensive shading increases session time.
- Tattoo Technique: Hand-poked tattoos generally take longer than machine tattoos.
Your tattoo artist can provide a more accurate time estimate during your consultation and booking process. Remember, it’s perfectly acceptable to request breaks during longer sessions. You can also consider splitting larger, more complex designs into multiple sessions for increased comfort.
Sternum tattoo featuring intricate line work and shading, placed centrally on the chest.
Sternum Tattoo Cost: Budgeting for Your Ink
The cost of a sternum tattoo is influenced by the same factors that affect session length, as well as the artist’s rates and location. Tattoo pricing varies geographically, with city locations like London often commanding higher prices than smaller towns. Highly sought-after artists or those specializing in specific styles may also charge more.
Depending on the complexity and size of your sternum tattoo, artists may charge per piece, per day, or per hour. Hourly rates in the UK typically range from £50 to £120, while a full day session (around 8 hours) can range from £350 to £800 or more. Piece prices are determined by size, whether the design is pre-drawn “flash” or custom, and the artist’s skill level. Expect to pay anywhere from £100 for a small, minimalist sternum tattoo to £1,000 or more for a large, elaborate design. Always confirm the pricing structure with your artist when booking your appointment.
Preparing for Your Sternum Tattoo Appointment
Excitement and a touch of nervousness are common before a new tattoo appointment, especially for a potentially sensitive area like the sternum. Proper preparation can significantly improve your experience. Laura Fenwick offers this advice:
“Prioritize feeling your best on the day of your appointment. Ensure you get a good night’s sleep, eat a nutritious breakfast, stay well-hydrated, and try to manage any pre-tattoo anxiety.”
“Pack sugary drinks and snacks, especially for longer sessions. Bring essentials for aftercare, including cling film or breathable tattoo film, micropore tape, antibacterial soap or a specialized tattoo wash, and tattoo aftercare balm (if your artist doesn’t provide it). Having comfortable clothes, good food, and sugary drinks readily available at home for after your appointment is also a great idea.”
Close-up of a sternum tattoo during the healing process, showcasing the initial stages of aftercare.
What to Wear for a Sternum Tattoo Session
Choosing the right attire for your sternum tattoo appointment can make the process more comfortable and ensure easy access for your artist. Laura recommends wearing a “button-down shirt, zip-up hoodie, or cardigan. This allows you to stay warm while easily exposing the sternum area for tattooing.”
For added comfort and modesty, especially as sternum tattoos often require exposing the breasts, Laura suggests, “Nipple covers are a fantastic option for feeling a bit more covered when you need to remove your bra. You can easily purchase these online or from lingerie stores.”
“If you desire more privacy during your appointment, communicate this to your artist beforehand. Discuss studio protocols, and they may be able to use screens for privacy or offer a more private room.”
It’s also crucial to be aware of professional boundaries and appropriate behavior in a tattoo studio. Familiarize yourself with guidelines on tattoo artist etiquette to ensure a safe and comfortable experience, especially when tattooing more intimate areas.
Sternum Tattoo Healing Time: What to Expect
Laura Fenwick provides insights into the sternum tattoo healing process:
“On average, sternum tattoos typically heal within 1-2 weeks. They are generally quite straightforward and comfortable to heal, particularly daintier designs which often result in minimal flaking. However, expect some bruising, swelling, and skin sensitivity for the first few days – this is completely normal.”
While some initial swelling and soreness are expected, closely monitor your tattoo for any signs of infection, such as excessive redness, oozing, or increasing pain. If you have any concerns, promptly consult your tattoo artist for guidance.
A healed sternum tattoo showcasing vibrant colors and crisp lines, highlighting the final result after proper aftercare.
Sternum Tattoo Aftercare Essentials
Proper aftercare is paramount for optimal healing and preserving the vibrancy of your sternum tattoo. Always adhere to the specific aftercare instructions provided by your tattoo artist. Laura emphasizes:
“Always follow the tattoo aftercare advice given by your artist, and don’t hesitate to reach out to them if you have any concerns. We’d much rather you ask questions than worry unnecessarily.”
Laura’s general aftercare recommendations for sternum tattoos include:
- Ensure your tattoo is thoroughly washed and dried before applying any aftercare products.
- Avoid prolonged submersion in water (baths, swimming) for at least two weeks. Showers are generally fine, but minimize direct water exposure to the tattooed area.
- Resist the urge to pick or scratch at your tattoo, even if it becomes itchy during healing.
- Most importantly, once healed, enjoy your beautiful new sternum tattoo and show it off responsibly by using sunscreen to protect it from sun damage. You’ve earned it!
Stories & Ink Tattoo Aftercare Duo product shot, highlighting skin cleansing and healing for new tattoos.
Wearing a Bra After a Sternum Tattoo: What to Consider
A common concern for those with breasts considering sternum tattoos is bra wear during healing. Laura’s key advice is to “let the girls be free!”
She elaborates, “Avoid underwire bras for the first two weeks post-tattoo. Opt for softer, wireless options like bralettes to prevent any rubbing or pressure on the newly tattooed area.”
Top 5 Sternum Tattoo Design Ideas to Inspire You
Now that you’re well-informed about sternum tattoos, explore these top 5 design ideas to spark your creativity:
Floral Sternum Tattoos
Flowers are a timeless and elegant choice for tattoos, and they look particularly stunning in the sternum area. Choose your favorite blooms or flowers with symbolic meaning.
Lotus Sternum Tattoos
Often symbolizing strength, rebirth, and purity, lotus flowers make meaningful and visually captivating sternum tattoos. A delicate lotus design can be particularly striking.
Delicate and Minimalist Sternum Tattoos
For a subtle yet stylish look, consider a delicate and minimalist sternum tattoo. Fine lines, geometric shapes, or celestial motifs can create a beautiful and understated design.
Meaningful Word or Phrase Sternum Tattoos
Incorporate a word or phrase with personal significance into your sternum tattoo. Using a unique font or even someone’s handwriting can add an extra layer of meaning.
Moth or Butterfly Sternum Tattoos
Moths and butterflies are consistently popular tattoo choices, and their symmetrical shapes and delicate wings translate beautifully to the sternum area.
Ready to Book Your Sternum Tattoo?
With all this information, you’re now well-equipped to make an informed decision about getting a sternum tattoo. Browse more designs on our site and find the perfect artist to bring your vision to life!
SHOP STORIES & INK’S SKINCARE RANGE FOR HAPPY TATTOO HEALING
