How Big Is A 3×3 Tattoo? Your Full Measurement Resource

Last Updated on December 30, 2023

A tattoo can come in many different sizes to meet your needs.

For instance, you can get a tiny design if you don’t want people to notice your ink. Besides that, you may get a large tattoo for high visibility.

3×3 tattoo size is one of the top sizes that many people opt for.

Typically, it comes under the small category. So you can enjoy good visibility without the ink covering a high area.

This flexibility is the reason why many people choose a 3×3 tattoo size.

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Apart from that, you may want to know how big is a 3×3 tattoo size. Not only that, but you may be wondering about the measurement method.

If you have such questions, there’s no need to worry anymore. Here is everything you need to know.

How Big Is A 3×3 Tattoo?

The 3×3 tattoo size comes under the small category at all tattoo shops in the US and elsewhere. You should note that this size is equivalent to 2.5″x2.5″ on a canvas. If you are an artist or have gotten tattoos before you would understand the size immediately.

However, we understand that you may be new to the tattooing world. Well, the prime example of a 3×3 tattoo size is an ink of a wedding band. Besides that, a star of the size of a dime is also considered in this size.

Typically, the tattoo will be small and hard to see from a distance on areas such as the sides of the face, neck, ankles, and much more. Many people get a 3×3 tattoo on the back of their wrists. Besides that, another suitable place for this size is behind the ear.

A small butterfly behind the ear also comes under the 3×3 tattoo size category. This design is prevalent, which is why you may have seen it in pictures or on other people.

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How Do I Know My Tattoo Size?

The top way you can know your tattoo size is by taking some measurements and calculating the size.

You must measure the height of your ink at its longest points. Note this down before taking the width measurement.

You should measure the width in the same way as the height. Once you have the two values, you should multiply them to get another figure. This value will be your tattoo’s true size.

Let’s suppose your tattoo is 2 inches tall and 1.5 inches wide. This means that the ink is 3 square inches. You can use this method to find the size of any tattoo easily.

How Much Is A 3×3 Inch Tattoo?

The cost of a 3×3 tattoo size varies from one shop to another. This is why you can expect to pay anywhere between $50 to $250. The average cost of a 3×3 tattoo size in the US is between $100 to 250.

Of course, the exact price depends upon the complexity of your design, the colors used, and much more. You should also keep in mind that it is a common courtesy to give the artist a 20% tip. This is because tattooing takes a lot of effort and precision.

A 3×3 tattoo size can also cost more than $250 if you are getting a complicated design. The primary reason behind this is that tattoo artists charge by the hour. So an intricate design always takes a longer time.

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What Size Is Considered A Small Tattoo?

3×3 tattoo size is the primary size that is considered a small tattoo. Besides that, 2 inches of ink also comes under this category. Not only that but 4 inches is also considered a small tattoo.

Anything below two is considered tiny size, which is not the best option on the market. Meanwhile, sizes above 4 inches include medium and large tattoos depending on the range. Small inks only range from 2 inches to 4 inches.

Another way to check if a tattoo is small is by comparing its size against a dime on your wrist. This is the top reference you should consider when getting a 3×3 tattoo size.

How Long Does It Take To Get A Small Tattoo Done?

The time for a small tattoo depends on various factors such as design intricacy, colors used, density, and much more.

A simple 3×3 tattoo size ink can take about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the design. However, it also takes from an hour to three hours. 

Additionally, the time for a small tattoo can also depend on the speed of the artist. The top tip to remember is never to rush the artist for the design. This will help you get the best ink for your needs.

Want to know how to measure your tattoo size? Read our guide here.

Jackie Palmer is a Houston-based coin journalist and fashion enthusiast. She joined Jewels Advisor’s content team after years of experience as a content strategist, managing blogs and social channels for local stores. Jackie mostly collects and studies US coins produced during the 20th century and over the years, published hundreds of articles for multiple coin publications.