Full Sleeve vs Half Sleeve: Which Is Right for You?

Two Paths to the Same Destination

A half sleeve covers your upper arm (shoulder to elbow) or lower arm (elbow to wrist). A full sleeve covers everything from shoulder to wrist. Both create stunning visual impact, but they serve different needs and budgets.

The decision isn't just about cost. It's about your career, lifestyle, timeline, and how you want to wear your art. Here's what actually matters when choosing between them.

Cost Comparison

At 46 Tattoo, hourly rates range from $150-$200. Here's how the math typically works:

• Half sleeve: $2,500-$6,000 (15-30+ hours over 3-5 sessions)
• Full sleeve: $5,000-$12,000+ (30-60+ hours over 6-12 sessions)

A half sleeve costs roughly 40-50% of a full sleeve. If budget is your primary constraint, starting with a half sleeve lets you get significant coverage without the full investment.

Visibility and Career Considerations

Upper arm half sleeves hide easily under short-sleeved dress shirts. Lower arm sleeves are visible unless you wear long sleeves. Full sleeves are harder to conceal completely.

Consider your workplace before deciding:

• Upper arm half sleeve: Hidden with any sleeved shirt
• Lower arm half sleeve: Visible unless wearing long sleeves
• Full sleeve: Requires long sleeves to hide completely

If you work in a conservative environment or want the option to conceal your tattoos, an upper arm half sleeve offers the best of both worlds. You get substantial coverage that disappears under a t-shirt.

Timeline and Commitment

Half sleeves complete faster. You'll be done in 3-5 sessions over 2-4 months. Full sleeves take 6-12 sessions over 6-12 months or more.

If you want finished art sooner, a half sleeve delivers. If you're building a long-term project and enjoy the process, a full sleeve provides more canvas and creative possibilities.

Design Considerations

Full sleeves allow for more complex compositions with backgrounds, multiple elements, and seamless flow from shoulder to wrist. Half sleeves require tighter compositions but can still tell complete visual stories.

Both work beautifully in any style. Japanese, black and grey realism, American traditional, and illustrative styles all translate well to either format.

Making Your Decision

Choose a half sleeve if budget is tight, you need workplace flexibility, or you want finished art faster. Choose a full sleeve if you want maximum canvas, are committed to a longer project, and don't need to hide your tattoos regularly.

Either way, you can always expand later. Half sleeves extend naturally into full sleeves without losing cohesion when planned properly.