45 small tattoo ideas to inspire your next ink

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of walking out of a tattoo studio with fresh ink, and small tattoos remain a popular choice for good reason. They’re cute, subtle and often more affordable than larger designs – not to mention, they require less commitment. A winning combo.

Maybe you’ve been collecting inspiration and have a few ideas in mind, or perhaps you’ve only decided on the size. Either way, small tattoos offer endless possibilities. Whether you prefer something minimalist or a design with personal meaning, these tiny pieces come with plenty of perks. They’re discreet if you want something subtle, take less time in the chair, and – bonus – tend to be easier on your wallet.

From cool finger tattoos to pretty flower tattoos, there are so many dainty designs to choose from. But before you scroll on to discover all our tiny tattoo inspo, read our experts’ advice.

What to consider before getting a small tattoo

• Placement: It’s important to remember that small tattoos (dependent on placement can fade quickly) so consider placement thoroughly.
• Maintenance: Just because tattoos are small, doesn’t mean they don’t require any after care. Tattoo artist Abigail Rawlings of Abigail Louise Tattoos says: “If you don’t follow the aftercare guidance, your tattoo could end up looking patchy and faded, and more importantly, lead to an infection which requires antibiotics.” So make sure you follow after-care tips closely even on the most small and intricate designs, to ensure your ink remains in tip-top condition. These include but are not exclusive to: not submerging in water for at least two-to-three weeks (or longer) until healed, no picking, limiting sun exposure, and not applying skincare irritants like vaseline.
• Price point: As with any tattoo, consider price point which can range depending on the actual size, intricacy and placement of the tattoo. Make sure you get a bench mark before your booking so you don’t end up disappointed.

Ahead, we’ve curated a collection of tattoo designs from Instagram, featuring everything from timeless love hearts and crescent moons to more quirky options like dinosaurs and even French fries – helping you find the perfect design. Once you’ve made your choice, it’s time to book your appointment and stock up on Bepanthen for that tattoo aftercare!

The best small tattoo ideas to inspire your next piece:

Love hearts