Delicate placement designed around your ribcage, sternum, and curves.

Sternum and underboob tattoos sit in the centre of the chest and along the lower breast line. The area is sensitive, curved, and framed by ribs and soft tissue, so placement and design matter a lot more than on flatter parts of the body.

At 46 Tattoo in Toronto, we design sternum and underboob work around your ribcage, breast shape, and posture. We think about how the tattoo sits when you are standing, sitting, and lying down, and how it will look with your usual clothing and underwear.

This is a higher sensation placement, so we plan sessions with comfort in mind. We talk through pain, breathing, clothing, and healing before you commit, so the process feels clear and controlled from start to finish.

Share my Tattoo Idea

Sternum / Underboob Design Considerations

What to consider when designing a sleeve that looks cohesive, fits your arm, and stands the test of time.


  • Placement and visibility
    Sternum and underboob tattoos can be easily covered or very visible in swimwear and certain tops. We place and size the design to match how often you want it seen.
  • Anatomy and symmetry
    The sternum, ribs, and breast line are not perfectly symmetrical. We design to your real body so the tattoo feels centred on you, not just centred on a stencil.
  • Curve and flow
    This area has strong curves and angles. We follow your natural lines so the tattoo frames the chest and underboob in a way that looks intentional from all angles.
  • Clothing and friction
    Bras, sports bras, and bands sit directly over this placement. We talk through what you wear most and give sternum specific aftercare so straps and seams do not constantly rub the fresh tattoo.
  • Pain and sessions
    The sternum and ribs are higher sensation areas. We keep sessions realistic, build in breaks, and plan more than one appointment for larger or more detailed pieces.

Let's Talk Price

Pricing depends heavily on the size, style, complexity, and placement of your tattoo. Fill out a quick form for an accurate custom quote—if you have a budget, we’ll design something that fits without compromising on quality.

Get a free quote

Choose Your Style

Explore tattoo styles that work best for this placement—each chosen for flow, readability, and long-term wear.

How It Works

We’ve made the process straightforward, transparent, and easy—so you can focus on getting a piece you’ll love.

Free Consultation (30–45 min)

What happens: We discuss your vision, lifestyle, and placement options. See our portfolio and get honest advice about what works for your goals.

Time: 30-45 minutes

Cost: Completely free, no strings attached

Lock In Your Appointment

What Happens: Once you're ready to book in, we’ll take a deposit and lock in your session. From there, your artist will collaborate with you to finalize the design—incorporating feedback and making sure it aligns with your vision.

Time: Whenever you’re ready to book—no pressure

Cost: $100 deposit (applied to your final price)

Custom Design Creation

What happens: Your artist creates a design tailored to your anatomy, style, and vision. We’ll work closely with you—sharing drafts, gathering feedback, and making thoughtful adjustments—until the design feels just right.

Time: ~1-2 weeks

Cost: Included in your tattoo price

Leading Up to Your Appointment

A little prep can make a big difference. Here are a few simple tips to help you get ready:

  • Eat well and stay hydrated
  • Moisturize the area for a few days
  • Avoid sunburn, alcohol, and blood thinners
  • Review your appointment details — and reach out with any questions

Want more help? Check out our guides.

Time: Start prepping 2–3 days before your session

The Day of Your Appointment

Show up feeling good — we’ll take it from there.

  • Bring valid ID (you must be 18+)
  • Arrive on time — or a little early
  • Come well-fed, rested, and freshly showered
  • Bring water, snacks, and a friend if you like
  • Your artist will walk you through every step — from setup to aftercare

Time: Arrive on time

After Your Appointment

You’ll leave with a beautiful tattoo — and everything you need to take care of it properly.

  • Keep the area clean and moisturized
  • Avoid sun, soaking, and scratching
  • Healing takes 2–4 weeks, depending on your skin and placement
  • Got questions later? Just reach out — we’re always here to help

Time: 2–4 weeks

Cost: Aftercare is included — touch-ups are free within 6 months (if needed)

Why Choose Us?

You’re trusting us with something permanent—and we take that seriously. Our artists bring experience, intention, and a collaborative approach to every piece.

You’ll get honest advice, a design that fits your body, and a tattoo you’ll still love ten years from now.

Book Free Consultation Now

30-45 min • Zero obligation • Expert advice

They were clear about how a sternum tattoo would feel and heal, so I felt prepared for the session, the pain, and the aftercare from the start.

We spent time adjusting the stencil around my ribs and underboob until it matched my body, not a perfect template. The flow looks natural with my shape.

I got specific advice about bras, tops, and sleeping positions. Healing went smoothly and the design still sits clean and centred on my sternum.

Looking for something custom?

Send us your idea using the form below and we’ll match you with the right artist.

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{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"We stand behind our work — which means we offer free touch-ups within 6 months to make sure your tattoo heals exactly how it should."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"As long as proper aftercare is followed, we’re happy to make any small fixes if something fades or heals unevenly. Just send us a clear photo of your healed tattoo and we’ll take it from there."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Please note: tattoos on hands, feet, necks, and faces aren’t eligible for free touch-ups due to how those areas naturally heal."}]}]}

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"No problem. Custom tattoos are a collaborative process. You'll have a chance to review the design before your appointment, and we’re happy to make adjustments to ensure it feels just right."}]}]}

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Some areas of the arm are more sensitive than others—like the inner bicep or elbow ditch—but the pain is manageable for most people. If you’re doing multiple long sessions, we’ll break things up to keep you comfortable. You can always take breaks when needed."}]}]}

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Absolutely! We love walk-ins — they’re a great way to snag a spontaneous piece, especially for smaller or simpler tattoos."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"It’s first come, first served, so feel free to swing by.\n\nIf you want to check ahead or avoid waiting, give us a quick call and we’ll do our best to fit you in."}]}]}

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Totally understandable — things happen! If you need to make changes, just let us know at least "},{"type":"text","value":"7 days in advance","bold":true},{"type":"text","value":" and we’ll happily move your deposit to a new date or design."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"If it’s less than 7 days’ notice, a "},{"type":"text","value":"$100 rescheduling fee","bold":true},{"type":"text","value":" will apply to cover the lost time.\n\nWe always try to be flexible — just keep us in the loop and we’ll do our best to help."}]}]}