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Fine line

I use very fine, precise lines to give the tattoo a delicate finish.

fine line tattoo by Mali

Fine line is the basis of my work. I use very fine needles and take my time: the line needs to be clean first time, because there’s no solid fill to hide anything.

It works well for small and medium pieces: a flower on the forearm, a branch along the collarbone, a word or your dog’s silhouette. It’s also the style I recommend most for a first tattoo, because it’s discreet and follows the body’s shape.

I pay close attention to size. If a detail is too small, the lines get closer together and lose definition over the years. I’d rather adjust the size with you from the start so your tattoo is still just as clear in ten years.

What is a fine line tattoo?

In a fine line tattoo, I use thin lines to draw the motif. That doesn’t mean it has to be tiny or have very little detail. When you ask me for a fine line tattoo in Barcelona, I first look at what you want to show and how much space it needs to stay clear.

A minimalist tattoo can be a simple drawing. A fine line tattoo can also have more detail, such as a flower with its petals or a leafy branch. The difference is in how I plan the drawing. I don’t just shrink an image: I adapt it to the size we’ll be tattooing.

Ideas for your design

If you like plants, my portfolio includes a dandelion, a poppy and a branch along the collarbone. You can also see a dragonfly or a flower on the spine. If you prefer geometric shapes, we can start with that idea. References help me understand the kind of design you’d like to wear. You can show me what you like about those pieces, but I draw your tattoo from scratch.

I don’t divide fine line tattoo designs into women’s and men’s. What matters to me is what you want to wear and how it fits your chosen placement. If it’s your first tattoo, we can start with something simple. You don’t need to arrive with a finished drawing: a reference helps me understand your idea.

Placement and ageing

The forearm and upper arm work well for this style, as do the collarbone, ribs and shoulder blade. When we choose the placement, I look with you at how the drawing would sit and whether its size leaves room for the details. On hands, fingers and feet, the lines fade sooner. That’s worth considering when you decide.

Over the years, lines in a design that’s too small get closer together. So if you ask for lots of detail in very little space, I’ll suggest adjusting the size. For me, a small tattoo still needs to be clear. I’d rather explain that limit before you settle on a size.

From your idea to aftercare

To plan your fine line tattoo in Barcelona, tell me what you have in mind and where you’d like it. I draw a proposal for you and we review it before the session. Small tattoos start at €60. I give you a quote before you book, once we’ve agreed on the project.

Aftercare matters too. I put on a protective film that you keep on for 4 days, then you apply Aquaphor for 10 days. Once it has healed, always protect it with SPF 50+. All the steps are on the aftercare page, and you can message me if anything is unclear.

A few pieces

Butterfly and roses Fine line, botanical
Peonies and swallows Fine line, botanical
Sleeve: realism and geometry Micro-realism, geometric, fine line
Flower along the spine Fine line, botanical
Dandelion Fine line, botanical
Flowing strokes Fine line, botanical
Wings Fine line, smoke and transparencies
Dragonfly Fine line
Embrace Fine line
Branches on the collarbone Fine line, botanical
Branch on the shoulder Fine line, botanical
Spine Fine line

Frequently asked questions

How much does a fine line tattoo cost?

A small tattoo starts at €60. A medium piece or one with lots of detail costs more depending on the time it takes; I’ll give you a quote once I see your idea.

What’s the smallest size possible?

It depends more on the design than on centimetres. A simple outline can be very small; a detailed bouquet needs room so the lines don’t merge over the years.

Where does a fine line tattoo work best?

The forearm, upper arm, collarbone, side and shoulder blade are all good spots. On hands, fingers and feet, skin renews faster and fine lines fade sooner. If you choose one of those areas, I’ll explain this before we start.

Can you picture yours?

Tell me what you have in mind, where you want it and roughly how big. I’ll get back to you so we can design it together.

Tell me your idea