Got a cast on your arm, leg, or wrist and wondering how to make it a little more… you?
If you’re tired of people signing your cast and want something more colourful and creative, you might be asking:
Can you put temporary tattoos on a cast?
The answer is: Yes, you can! With a little care and the right kind of temporary tattoo paper, you can easily decorate a cast with fun, bold designs — no markers or paint required.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to apply temporary tattoos to a plaster or fiberglass cast, what materials work best, and how to do it safely.
We’ll also show you how to make your own custom temporary tattoos at home using Gecko Paper’s high-quality tattoo paper.
Why Put Temporary Tattoos on a Cast?
Casts are uncomfortable enough without being dull and plain. Whether you’re a kid, teen, or adult, temporary tattoos are a fun way to:
- Add personality and colour to your cast
- Celebrate your interests — from dinosaurs to flowers to superheroes
- Make healing a little more fun
- Avoid messy markers or stickers that can peel or smudge
- Stand out at school, work, or social events
Temporary tattoos are also a great alternative for hospitals or clinics looking to give children a positive distraction after getting a cast.
Can Temporary Tattoos Stick to a Cast Surface?
Most temporary tattoos are designed for clean, dry skin, but they can also adhere to smooth, non-porous surfaces — and many casts (especially fiberglass ones) fall into that category.
That said, results vary depending on the type of cast material:
- Fiberglass Casts – Work well with temporary tattoos if the surface is smooth and sealed
- Plaster Casts – Tattoos may stick, but the rougher surface can affect the finish and durability
- Cloth or Padding Areas – Tattoos won’t stick to soft fabric or foam
How to Apply Temporary Tattoos to a Cast
Here’s how to get the best results when applying temporary tattoos to a cast:
Step 1: Clean the Surface
Make sure the area is dry, clean, and free from dust. Wipe gently with a dry cloth if needed.
Step 2: Choose or Print Your Tattoo
You can use store-bought tattoos — or better yet, design and print your own using Gecko Paper temporary tattoo sheets and any standard inkjet printer.
Step 3: Apply as Usual
- Cut out your design
- Peel the protective film
- Press it tattoo-side down on the cast
- Wet the back of the tattoo with a damp cloth for 20–30 seconds
- Peel off the backing and let it dry
Step 4: Seal (Optional)
If you want your design to last longer, you can seal it with a light spray of clear acrylic sealant (but check with your doctor if you’re unsure).
How Long Will a Temporary Tattoo Last on a Cast?
While temporary tattoos on skin usually last 2–5 days, on a cast they can often last longer — sometimes a week or more — because there’s no skin oil or sweat to break them down.
However, friction (like bumping your arm or leg), water exposure, or rough surfaces can wear the design off more quickly.
Make Your Own Cast Tattoos with Gecko Paper
Want something more exciting than generic designs? With Gecko Paper, you can print your own temporary tattoos at home in just minutes.
Here’s why people love using Gecko Paper for custom tattoos:
- Works with any standard inkjet printer
- Produces bold, colourful designs that look like real tattoos
- Applies in minutes
- Safe for skin and smooth surfaces like casts
- Great for kids, parties, clinics, or personal projects
You can upload your own images, draw something fun, or use online clip art and fonts to create names, symbols, or themed decorations that make your cast truly one-of-a-kind.
Important Safety Notes
- Always check with your doctor before applying anything to a fresh cast or surgical area.
- Avoid putting tattoos over areas with padding, soft foam, or near open wounds.
- If your cast is flaking, cracked, or very rough, tattoos may not stick well or could peel off quickly.
Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Put Temporary Tattoos on a Cast!
Decorating your cast with temporary tattoos is a fun, easy way to make the most of a frustrating situation.
Whether you’re expressing your creativity, showing off your favourite characters, or just adding some colour to the healing process, temporary tattoos are a safe and stylish choice.
Want to create your own cast-friendly tattoos?
Shop Gecko Paper’s printable temporary tattoo paper here and start designing today!
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