Placement guide

Upper Arm

The upper arm offers a large, private-but-showable canvas with a built-in curve. It is the classic home of the coiled snake, and the starting point for sleeves that travel down the arm.

The bicep and shoulder cap are a curved surface — coils wrap the muscle naturally, and the head can rest on the shoulder.

Size range

Medium to large. A coiled snake wraps the bicep; larger pieces spread onto the shoulder and chest.

Detail

Plenty of room for detail and shading. The curve of the bicep adds dimension to a wrapped snake — ask your artist to account for muscle movement so the coil does not distort when you flex.

Comfort

Low to moderate for most people. The inner arm near the armpit is the sensitive area.

Visibility

Medium — covered by a T-shirt, shown in sleeveless. Easy to reveal or conceal.

Aging & wear

A stable area with low sun exposure when covered. Wraps hold their shape well.

Orientations that work here

Styles that suit the upper arm