Micro Tattoos: The Tiny Ink Trend Taking Over Brooklyn
Scroll through Instagram for five minutes and you’ll see them everywhere: micro tattoos. Tiny dots on fingers. Delicate stars behind ears. Minimalist hearts on wrists. The tiny ink trend isn’t just a moment—it’s a whole movement, and Brooklyn is absolutely here for it.
What Exactly Are Micro Tattoos?
Micro tattoos are exactly what they sound like: really, really small tattoos. We’re talking designs that are typically under an inch, sometimes way under. Think of them as the espresso shot of the tattoo world—small but impactful.
These aren’t shrunken-down versions of bigger designs. The best micro tattoos are specifically designed to work at tiny sizes. Simple lines, minimal detail, and intentional negative space. It’s a whole different art form.
Why Tiny Tattoos Are Blowing Up in NYC
So why is everyone suddenly obsessed with small tattoos in Brooklyn? A few reasons:
They’re Subtle (When You Want Them to Be)
Not everyone wants their ink on display 24/7. Maybe you work in an office with a conservative dress code. Maybe you’re just a private person. Micro tattoos give you the option to show off your ink or keep it hidden—your choice.
A tiny design behind your ear? Covered by your hair. Small tattoo on your inner finger? Only visible when you want it to be. It’s ink on your terms.
They’re Perfect for First-Timers
Getting your first tattoo is a big deal. Like, permanently-on-your-body big. Starting with something small takes some of the pressure off. You get to experience the process, see how your skin heals, and figure out if you want more—all without committing to a huge piece right away.
Think of it as a test run. Spoiler alert: most people come back for more.
They’re Actually Affordable
Let’s be honest: tiny tattoos in NYC are also budget-friendly tattoos. Our micro designs start at just $44. That’s less than brunch for two in Williamsburg. You can walk in, get inked, and still have money left for your coffee addiction.
They Hurt Less
Smaller tattoo = less time under the needle = less ouch. Simple math. If you’re nervous about pain, a micro tattoo is a gentle introduction to what the process feels like.
Our $44 Micro Designs
At NYC Flash Tattoos, we’ve got a collection of micro flash designs that are ready to go at just $44. Here’s what we’re working with:
- Dots – Single dots, dot clusters, dot constellations. Simple and versatile.
- Hearts – Because sometimes you just want a tiny heart. No explanation needed.
- Stars – Whether you’re into astrology or just like things that sparkle.
- Triangles – Geometric and clean. Works anywhere.
- Chevrons – For that minimalist arrow energy.
These designs are intentionally simple. Not because we’re lazy—because that’s what works best at micro sizes. Clean lines age well, and these tattoos will still look sharp years from now.
Best Placements for Micro Tattoos
Part of the fun of small tattoos is that they can go almost anywhere. Here are the most popular spots we see:
Behind the Ear
A classic for a reason. Hidden by hair but easy to show off when you want. The curve of the ear creates a natural frame for tiny designs.
Inner Wrist
Visible to you all day (hello, motivation) but easy to cover with a watch or bracelet. Inner wrist is one of our most-requested placements.
Fingers
Finger tattoos are having a major moment. Inner finger for something secret, outer finger for something you want to show. Heads up: finger tattoos fade faster than other spots, so keep it simple.
Ankle
Socks exist. Ankle tattoos are perfect for people who need to hide their ink sometimes but want to flash it in sandal season.
Collarbone
A single tiny design on the collarbone is chef’s kiss. Subtle but instantly cool.
Back of Neck
Hidden under a collar or hair, revealed when you want. It’s the introvert’s favorite tattoo placement.
Will Micro Tattoos Fade Faster?
Real talk: yes, very small tattoos can fade faster than larger ones. Here’s the science—when a tattoo heals, lines naturally spread a tiny bit. On a small design, that spreading is more noticeable.
That said, proper aftercare makes a huge difference. Keep it moisturized, stay out of the sun, and your micro tattoo will age gracefully. Some people even like the slightly softened look over time—it feels more lived-in.
And if it does fade more than you’d like? Touch-ups are quick and easy on tiny pieces.
Micro Tattoos: Not Just for Tattoo Newbies
Here’s something we see all the time: people with full sleeves coming in for micro tattoos. These tiny designs fill in gaps, add finishing touches, or just let you add something meaningful without committing to a whole session.
Having a lot of ink doesn’t mean you can’t appreciate the power of small. Sometimes the tiniest tattoos hit the hardest.
Walk-Ins Welcome
One of the best things about micro tattoos? They’re quick. Like, really quick. Most of our micro designs take 15 minutes or less. You could walk into our Greenpoint, Williamsburg, or Bowery shop on your lunch break and walk out with new ink before your burrito gets cold.
We’re walk-in friendly, so if you’re feeling spontaneous, just show up. Or book ahead if you want to guarantee your spot—we won’t judge either way.
Ready to Go Small?
Micro tattoos are proof that size doesn’t matter (at least when it comes to ink). Whether it’s your first tattoo or your fiftieth, there’s something special about a tiny design done well.
Come see us. $44, 15 minutes, and you’ll walk out with something permanent and perfect.
Brooklyn’s waiting. 🖤