My Experience Tattooing a 3/4 Sleeve Phoenix: A Step-by-Step Process
Tattooing a large-scale piece like a 3/4 sleeve is always an exciting challenge. This particular project—a Japanese-style phoenix—was a rewarding and enjoyable experience. In this blog, I’ll take you through the full process, from consultation to completion, highlighting key decisions, techniques, and challenges along the way.
Consultation and Design Process
The client had a clear vision: an upward-facing phoenix positioned to complement an existing snake tattoo on his other arm. We started with a free consultation, where I mapped out key areas of the arm, including the elbow, inner arm, and shoulder. I took measurements and discussed how the design would flow with his anatomy.
The main subject—the phoenix—was drawn in advance, but I left portions of the background more flexible to allow for on-the-spot adjustments. This approach ensured the composition flowed naturally with the client’s body.
Tattooing Process: Session Breakdown
The tattoo was completed over four sessions, totaling approximately 14-16 hours:
Session 1 (3 hours): All outlining was completed. This step established the foundational structure and ensured correct placement before shading and color work began.
Sessions 2 & 3 (3 hours each): The background was completed. Some areas, such as the tail feathers, were freehanded to better match the contours of the arm.
Session 4 (5-6 hours): Color work was completed, bringing the phoenix to life with vibrant tones and contrast.
Challenges and Considerations
While the client sat well throughout the process, certain areas were more challenging. The armpit and inner bicep were the most painful for him, requiring extra care and breaks. The elbow also took additional time due to the unique texture of the skin in that area. Taking these factors into account helped ensure a smooth experience for the client while maintaining the quality of the tattoo.
Aftercare and Touch-Up
After the final session, the tattoo was wrapped, and the client was instructed to remove the wrap after a few hours, clean the tattoo in the shower, pat it dry with a clean paper towel, and apply a small amount of Bepanthen. The client was advised to clean the tattoo twice daily and continue applying Bepanthen for the following two weeks to aid healing and prevent dryness. A touch-up session was needed for some areas around the armpit, where I had initially worked lightly to avoid overworking the skin in a highly sensitive area.
Final Thoughts
This 3/4 sleeve phoenix was an incredibly enjoyable project to work on. Large-scale tattoos require patience, planning, and adaptability, but the end result is always worth it. Seeing the design come together and flow seamlessly with the client's body is one of the most rewarding aspects of tattooing.
If you're considering a large-scale tattoo and want to discuss your ideas, feel free to reach out for a consultation. Let’s create something that fits you perfectly!
