Full Sleeve Tattoos

Let’s talk sleeves – and we’re not talking about the kind you roll up. A full arm piece is next-level commitment. This isn’t your quick flash art or that tiny wave you got on spring break. We’re talking serious skin real estate, serious time, and an artist who knows their stuff. Thinking about going all in? Let’s break it down.

Before You Jump In

Real talk about sleeves – they’re a journey, not a quick hit. Here’s what you’re signing up for:

Time Commitment

First off, time. We’re looking at 10-15 hours minimum in the chair, and if you want the really wild detailed stuff? Better double that. This isn’t happening in one shot either. You’ll be coming back, healing up, and coming back again. It’s like building a house – piece by piece, session by session.

Pain Level

It’s an arm’s length of tattooing, so you’ll feel it in different ways. Some areas – like the inner bicep and elbow ditch – are gonna sting more than others.

Price Tag

Good ink isn’t cheap. The cost depends on the design, size, colour, and detail level, but quality over everything should be your motto here.

Choosing the Right Artist

A full sleeve tattoo is prime real estate, so you don’t want to trust just anyone with it. Different artists specialise in different styles, so check their portfolio before booking.

If you’re after a realism sleeve, find someone who does insane detail work.
If you want Japanese-style, look for an artist who knows the culture behind the designs.

A great artist won’t just tattoo you – they’ll collaborate with you to make sure your sleeve tells a story.

Designing Your Full Sleeve Tattoo

Sleeves aren’t random patchwork. They need flow. Picking a theme can help everything connect – whether that’s mythology, nature, skulls, biomechanical, or surrealism.

Got a few ideas? Bring them to your artist. Their job is to take your vision and turn it into something that works as a cohesive piece. Check out some popular full sleeve tattoo styles:

Realism Sleeve Tattoos

Want a tattoo that looks like a high-definition photo slapped onto your skin? Realism sleeves take patience, skill, and next-level shading techniques. From portraits to animals, this style makes ink feel alive. Horror realism? Even better. CB Ink’s realism tattooist Jake specialises in making realism sleeves that look unreal.

Japanese Full Sleeve Tattoos

Japanese sleeves are timeless, bold, and packed with meaning. Koi fish, dragons, samurais, cherry blossoms – each design has deep cultural significance. Rhys, CB Ink’s Japanese tattoo expert, is your go-to artist if you want something authentic, balanced, and beautifully detailed.

Book Your Full Sleeve Tattoo Today!

A sleeve is a serious investment, so make sure you’re getting it done by the best in the game. CB Ink’s crew of 25+ world-class artists have over 100 years of combined experience perfecting full-sleeve tattoos.

If you want the best, this is where you go.

Book your session today and let’s turn your arm into something legendary.

If you still have some questions or concerns, feel free to send us a message and we’ll be glad to help!