Spicy Ink

Some tattoos are just cool. Then there are the ones that test your limits. Ribcage, elbows, knees – these placements separate the committed from the casual. No fluff, no easy sessions—just pure, unfiltered endurance with a reward that’s absolutely worth it. If you’re the type who embraces pain for the sake of unforgettable ink, keep reading.

These aren’t the tattoos you get on a whim. They’re the ones that spark conversations, turn heads, and make people wonder, “How bad did that hurt?” If you’re thinking about diving into the deep end of tattoo pain, check out these incredible rib, elbow, and knee tattoos done by CB Ink’s artists.

Knee Tattoo by Simon – Skull Jaw in Motion

Knee tattoos? Straight savage. Simon’s design features a jawbone inked onto the lower knee and the skull’s upper teeth on top, creating a grinning skull effect when the knee bends. It’s a tattoo that’s equal parts genius and brutal – and impossible to ignore.

Elbow Tattoo by Michael – Barbed Wire & Spider Web

Elbow tattoos are pure grit. Michael’s barbed wire and spider web combo wraps around the joint, taking an already painful area and turning it into a bold, aggressive design. It’s the kind of ink that lets everyone know you don’t back down.

Rib Tattoos by Keith – Twin Lotus Flowers

If pain tolerance was a competition, rib tattoos would be the championship round. Keith’s matching lotus flower tattoos on both ribs push the limits, but the final result is stunning. Every breath shifts the ink slightly, making this tattoo a living piece of art.

Knee Tattoo by Kieran – Geometric Precision

Kieran’s geometric knee tattoo takes sharp, clean lines and pairs them with one of the toughest spots to ink. The way it flows with the joint’s movement makes it hypnotic—but let’s be real, the pain was probably next level.

Near-Elbow Tattoo by Tiegan – Dragon Flowing with the Arm

Want the badass look of an elbow tattoo without the full impact? Tiegan’s dragon tattoo wrapping around the arm is the perfect compromise. The placement makes it look like it’s part of the elbow without hitting the direct pressure points, giving you style without total agony.

Rib Tattoo by Michael – A Rose That Lasts Forever

Michael’s rose tattoo with ‘Forever’ inked beside it isn’t just elegant – it’s a commitment. Rib tattoos aren’t easy, but this piece proves that endurance creates something unforgettable.

Knee Tattoo by Chelsea – Olive Wreath Wrap

Chelsea’s olive wreath knee tattoo blends soft symbolism with hardcore placement. The circular design flows naturally around the knee, making it look effortless – even though getting it was anything but.

Elbow Tattoo by Italo – The All-Seeing Eye

If you’re gonna tattoo directly on your elbow, you better go all in. Italo’s All-Seeing Eye does exactly that, staring back at the world with intricate shading and tight detail work. It’s simple but impossible to ignore.

Pain, Art, and Commitment

These aren’t starter tattoos. These are for those who embrace the pain and come out the other side with something unforgettable. Ribs, elbows, knees – each placement is a challenge and a statement. But the final product? Absolutely worth it.

Thinking about taking the leap? Book an appointment with us today!

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