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Are you thinking of getting a trendy ear piercing? We must say, there’s nothing else that can dress your ears better than Helix piercings. Unlike in the 80’s, multiple earrings in one ear no longer carries a stigma it has before. Both men and women are now cultivating a collection of ear piercings as a fashion statement.

What Is A Helix Piercing?

It’s not the name of the earring but the name of our ear’s upper cartilage, or the so-called ‘top ear.’ Helix piercing is just one of the many variations of cartilage piercing. You can have a single helix piercing or make it double for an edgier look. Other would even go the triple! Maybe a standard Helix piercing and a forward helix piercing.

An upper ear punctured with more than one earring somewhat gives that edgier look than the lower ear piercings. If you think that pieces of jewelry adorning unexpected places other than our earlobes are dissimilar, think again. The bar studs, little hoops, and Helix earrings have been hot before, and they are still a hot trend up to this day.

Where The Piercing Should Be; Skin Or Cartilage?

When deciding where to set the piercing, it’s very important that you choose a place on the cartilage alone or solidly on the skin. Dropping a piercing at the skin, right at the border of the cartilage can be very uncomfortable, depending on the shape of the ears too. The healing process will also take a bit longer than normal since the piercing will end up rubbing against the cartilage.

What Differs The Helix Piercing From The Forward Helix Piercing?

The Helix is precisely the ‘top ear’ while the Forward Helix is the leg or trunk of the top ear, where it attaches to the face. Both are trendy, fits any personal style, and equally, don’t fail to impress once adorned. In terms of pain level, the part that is difficult to get to and fiddly is more painful than the other. In this case, it’s the Forward Helix that you can expect to be with a higher pain level.

Piercing Guns Or The Good Old Needle?

Skipping the basic earlobe, you might be thinking what a fun experience it would be adding jewelry elsewhere, right? Punching a hole in your ear’s rim like a nail gun surely has a different feel. Since the Helix part of our ears is not packed with nerve endings, it’s less painful. The pain, obviously, really depends on your tolerance. You might assume that piercing guns are less painful because of how quick it can puncture. However, there’s a big reason why it is a big ‘no, no’ for the cartilage.

Before you even think about adding some bling up your ear, here’s an important fact; Piercing guns are illegal to use for cartilage piercing! Despite the successful middle ear cartilage piercings done with a gun, still, it has so much pressure that it can damage the cartilage. Meaning, a professional piercer should only use needles for the cartilage and all body piercings. Therefore, it’s far safer to use needles. Moreover, needles are properly sterilized and are easier to control.

Before Getting A Helix Piercing

First, set yourself in advance.

While it’s easy to book a piercing appointment on a whim, you have to do some research or ask friends with cartilage piercings. Be aware that it will require lots of patience, even compromises. Once you’re a 100% sure, save time and trouble by having all the necessary aftercare supplies ready before you get pierced. After the procedure, you would preferably want to relax at home to prevent possible infections until the wound heals.

Get The Basics

The basics are a non-iodized sea salt mixture you can make at home. You may purchase an antiseptic spray or sterile saline solution made for wound care. You may also need to prepare a fragrance-free, mild, germicidal soap, zip-lock baggies, and gauze pads. There’s a variety of piercing aftercare products to help your piercing wounds heal properly. Some would even use gel type conditioners for fresh piercing wounds to ensure it stays clean, disinfected, and healthy.

Try Tea Tree Oil

Tea Tree Oil is most frequently applied treatment to boost antiseptic power and dehydrate piercing bumps. In case, you have never used tea tree oil before, try first adding just a few drops to your sea salt soak solution. Or do a skin test first before using it around your piercing wound.

It’s never advisable to use fake jewelry for your piercing. Fake jewelry contains the wrong metals such as lead, which calls for allergic reactions. Even poisoning, especially in a wound. Below are the safe metals to use for body piercing.

Titanium G23 or  Implant grade titanium G23

The Titanium G23 is the number one medical metal choice because of its biocompatibility with the human body. Nickel-free, lighter but stronger than stainless steel, and resistant to body fluids, which is it commonly used for internal fixation and prosthetics. Titanium made piercings might be a bit pricey, but dhead turningefinitely worth the price. Fashion-wise, it will not go out of style.

Surgical Stainless Steel

Similar to Titanium G23, stainless steel is a body-friendly metal and even more popular for body piercing. Just like gold, stainless steel is safe for wearing in healed piercings as it still contains nickel. To those who are nickel sensitive, it is best to opt out of wearing stainless steel until after your piercing has healed.

Gold

Unfortunately, despite being a biocompatible metal, GOLD is not a safe choice for unhealed piercings. Whether it is an 18 or 24 Karat gold jewelry, the fact that gold is a soft metal containing other elements, it can still cause irritation in an open wound. You can sport any gold jewelry on your top ear, albeit right after the wound is completely healed.

Sterling Silver

Sadly, sterling silver is a poor choice for body piercing because it’s not a biocompatible metal. Silver reacts with the oxygen in the air and tarnishes easily. Just imagine a metal oxidizing inside your body by simply being exposed to air? Make sure the part of the jewelry that goes inside your skin is NOT silver. Any silver embellishment attached to titanium jewelry, —away from the skin is perfectly fine. Unfortunately, this metal contains copper and doesn’t go well with body fluids. Therefore, it is not safe when in contact with the skin.

Also See:

Tragus Piercing 101: Things To Know Before Getting One

Getting A Belly Button Piercing – Things You Should Know

All You Need to Know Before Getting An Eyebrow Piercing

Tongue Piercing 101: Guide To Healing, Jewelries, & Infection

The mixtures of metals used in plated or mystery metal can provoke allergic reactions, even infection. Some may consider gold plated jewelry with mystery metal underneath since gold is biocompatible. However, thick or thin coat of gold, it’s still just a coat. There’s a big chance for the gold coating to start flaking off inside the body providing a home for bacteria.

After Care Tips

Be Aware Of The Healing Period

You can get giddy, happy about getting your ear adorned with the prettiest hoop or bar you bought. BUT, it’s essential to know that you can’t party right away after a piercer fixed you. The earlobe and the cartilage heal from the outside, —the healing period, however, differs depending on where you get pierced. If it only takes four to six weeks for the earlobe to heal inside and out, the cartilage takes longer. Meaning, it takes three to six months to recover, —even takes up to a year to be completely healed.

Professional piercers set the jewelry movable or lose to avoid too much strain on the pierced area, so don’t touch it! The cartilage has no blood supply making it more delicate than the earlobe. As a result, it heals slower, which is why it’s very important never to mess with jewelry in a fresh wound. Give it a break from going swimming or pool parties for a while. For the meantime, just enjoy taking selfies with your freshly done piercing.

Leave It Alone Unless It’s Cleaning Time

This warning is quite straight to the point. Touching a freshly pierced ear, especially with unwashed hands is simply giving contamination a welcome greeting.

Swelling, Redness And Crusting After Piercing

It’s natural with any piercing to swell and feel like ‘throbbing’ from the inside as soon as the jewelry is fixed. The redness is also normal and should be gone the following day. The potential risks of infection and swelling can happen with both improper piercings and improper aftercare. Using a cotton pad or a gauze pad soaked in saline solution, press and hold both sides of the piercing for three minutes.

Cleaning the freshly pierced ear twice a day for the next few weeks is a must. The puff should go away after a week or two. No matter how tempting it is to peel off the crusties, leave it alone. Just let it come off when cleaning. If all else fails and the swelling doesn’t go away after two weeks, give your piercer a call.

Gauze Pads Instead of Cotton Pads And Q-tips

Cotton pads, Q-tips, and cotton balls are the standard materials used for freshly pierced ears, but as good as the gauze pads with ear piercings. Gauze pads don’t wisp, unlike cotton balls and Q-tips. Simply dunk the gauze pad in a saline solution, squeeze out the excess liquid and hold it against your ear. The warm saline solution softens the crusties making it easier to come off

Keep Your Hair Away

Other than the importance of keeping your hands away from the ears, the ears are exposed to bacteria from our hair and can get your fresh piercing irritated. Be careful when you brush your hair, even better, keep it away from your healing ear. Make sure you cover your ears when spraying hair products.

Bleeding After Piercing

If you experience a bit of bleeding, don’t worry, it’s normal. Do not remove the jewelry when cleaning the wound. If you are often outdoors or gym, pre-prep cleaning packets with you (cotton balls or gauze pads soaked in saline solution.) You can make as many as you need, and then place it in a zip-lock bag.

Use The Travel Pillow Trick

For a freshly pierced ear sleeping is a pain. The adjustment after the piercing procedure can be challenging since you’d be extra careful not to rub your ear against the pillow. Sleeping on one side can give you neck pains in the long run. It’s a convenient trick to use a travel pillow when you sleep to protect your ear from any excess pressure. The ‘U’ shape of the travel pillow can give room for your ear, as well as allowing plenty of neck support to sleep.

Helix Piercing Dazzling Ideas!

Double or Triple Helix Piercing:

Double or Triple helix piercing is simply creating a line of two or three studs set in the edge of your top ear. That’s two or three separate holes for each stud. FYI; not everyone can get triple helix piercing because there are ears that are too thin for it. A professional piercer will tell you if your Helix is suitable for this type of piercing.

Floating Industrial Piercing:

Trending right before the popular Industrial barbell piercing is the strikingly elegant Gemmed Floating industrial Piercing. It’s just like any industrial piercings, albeit that it’s one end is in the Helix while the other end is in the Tragus. It’s also not the bar, but a chain threaded with a single gemstone or more. You can choose whatever stone you fancy to dazzle up your upper ear!

Chain Cartilage Piercing:

It’s one of the prettiest Helix-to-lobe piercing that comes in a variety of styles. It gives that classy appeal that would look great even with dresses. It can be a double stud chain earrings, cuff-to-stud, or cuff-to-double stud earrings.

Extended Helix Piercing:

Do not mistake this from extended earrings. It might look like a triple piercing, but it’s actually just one jewelry extended on both sides. You can customize it with the initials of your name or the initials ‘I ♥ U.’ What makes this design a great choice is it gives a stunning look without the need to puncture your Helix thrice, —not even twice!

Double Industrial Trident Piercing:

For a head-turning experience, try this incredibly fierce piercing! It’s one jewelry requiring four holes in one ear, placed vertically. The Trident is an intimidating Helix-to-inner conch piercing that will test your pain tolerance. Nevertheless, it’s a great choice because it allows the use of various bars. If you are looking for a less common piercing style, then this is for you.

Twister Barbells Helix Piercing:

Twisted barbell piercings look really sassy. However, the placement of this type of piercing requires precision from the piercer. The space between the holes has to be correct to match the space between each twist. Otherwise, the jewelry will be uncomfortable or even painful to wear.

Golden Or Beaded Twig:

There may be many Cartilage piercing designs, but only a few can apply to men. Among the many piercing jewelry designs, the golden or beaded twig is one of the most flattering. It’s a female favorite, but it can also look stunning on men. Think of it as the modern twist of the ancient Greek laurel wreath.

V-shaped scaffold Piercing:

If straight industrial barbells bore you, then you might like this another bizarre Helix piercing. This type of piercing can be two or three holes in the upper ear, that means three short bars hanged up your ear! More and more women are sporting something exceptional like this eye-catching V-shaped scaffold piercing!

Helix Heart Earring:

You can decorate your outer ear with love. This heart-shaped hoop earring is among the most desired Helix piercings. It’s a cool choice for those who will have a Helix piercing for first-time. You can choose a single heart or a double. Its simple, and the symbol means a lot!

Helix Anchor & Chain:

It should never be a surprise if you see this often worn by nomads and travelers in general. They will love this design as it tells so much about their passion for traveling. This jewelry is two piercings connected by an anchor and heavy chains. Many teens are dying to sport this style!

Helix Industrial Key & Lock:

Whether your aim is to break in or just to look fabulous, this industrial barbell design is another meaningful, relatively romantic jewelry. The key looks fashionable by itself. But would it give more sense to the idea of ‘when there’s a key, there’s a lock?’ So, why not get a lock earring for your earlobe to complete the match?

Leaf, Feather Or Floral Hoop Design:

Wherever in the body Hoop earrings will be pierced, it never goes out of style! Popular among women and all walks of life, this Hoop Earring with Leaf Or Floral Design is just an example of them. Just be careful not to get it caught up by your hair.

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Throughout art and tattoo history, nature has been a great source of inspiration. Tribal tattoos, which are said to be the start of modern tattoos, often had elements of the nature as their subjects. It is still apparent in today’s art. That is why there is no surprise animals such as tigers tend to become tattoo subjects. Tiger tattoo designs have grown popular because of its meaning and its great aesthetic value.

Tigers are one of the most revered felines in the world. They are often found in the wild and are great predators. But they are not only cunning animals, they are also one of the world’s most beautiful. With their striking stripes and intellectual eyes, it’s hard not to make tigers a subject for body art.

Tiger Tattoo and What It Stands For

Usually, tattoos have various meanings. What they meant can depend on what the wearer perceives. However, some tattoos have general meanings. These are usually from what the subject is about, how it acts, its characteristics and stories surrounding it.

A tiger tattoo is not any different. It can have multiple meanings based on the tiger’s characteristics and how people look at these creatures. Generally, tigers are pretty much how we humans want to live our lives – without any inhibitions.

Tigers are both ferocious and sensual. They are wild and untamable, strong and powerful, and driven by instincts and passion. While that may not be the best way we all can live, we definitely think about the freedom all these give. And so, getting a tiger tattoo is a perfect choice for those who are carefree, wild, and passionate. The design could say who they are as a person or can be a way to freely show what they can’t always be free to do and act.

Here are more meanings behind a tiger ink:

• Dominance
• Brute strength
• Power
• Royalty and nobility
• Energy and fierceness
• Protection and guardianship
• Passion and sexual prowess
• Danger and destruction

Tiger Tattoos for Lovers

While tigers may not be the most ideal subject for a couple or lovers’ tattoo, it’s actually a great choice. As mentioned, tigers were known to be a symbol for passion and sensuality. There is a saying that if you want to be a great lover, you have to be a tiger in bed.

This can be due to tiger’s affiliation with the sun. They are known as solar totems or that they are ruled by the Sun. It makes them fiery and passionate. And what does passion almost always equal to but love and sensuality.

The body parts of a tiger were also used in the old days as natural aphrodisiacs. Even today, the culture has remained alive in some parts of the world. Nonetheless, animal poaching has become illegal and there are very few who still make tigers as concoctions for a healthy sex life.

Nonetheless, some say getting a tattoo is the same as conjuring the creature. If you believe that, getting a tiger tattoo with your partner might be enough to make things steamier in the bed.

Symbolic Meaning of Tigers and Tiger Tattoos in Various Cultures

Tigers can also have different meanings based on different cultures. Here are some of the cultures where tigers are well-known and what they stand for:

• Indian culture – In India, tigers are known as emblems for unimaginable destruction. Until now, there are small villages in the country that still report cases of tigers allegedly eating humans. While these reports exists, albeit rarely, there are no proofs that state it as a fact. Still, they see these creatures as something meant to destroy.
• Chinese folklore – In China, tigers are said to be guardians of the dead. They are said to help the souls of the dead make it safe to the afterlife. They protect the souls so they are able to reach their final resting place. And so, tigers are often etched on a person’s tombstone so they can have a protector in the afterlife. Apart from that, Chinese people believe that tigers are associated with the God of Wealth. Having a tiger tattoo in the area could either mean protection and ward from evil or bringer of good luck and prosperity.
• Korean culture – In Korea, they believe that the tiger is the King of the Animals. A tiger tattoo is pretty much a symbol of power, dominance, and passion. It’s a great way to depict a wearer’s personality.

Tiger Tattoo Designs from Tigers in Pop Culture

Tigers are not just popular creatures in the wild. There are also tigers that found popularity in pop culture. While they may be fictitious, they are still tigers and they usually embody what a tiger stands for.

For example, there is Tigger from Winnie the Pooh. Children, especially from the time Winnie the Pooh became a beloved cartoon character, would know Tigger. He is an adorable tiger who may not be as powerful and strong as normal tigers. However, he teaches kids to be courageous and brave in their own way. A tiger tattoo of Tigger is no surprise. There are those who find the character relatable and has helped them as they grow up.

Apart from Winnie the Pooh, Life of Pi is another pop culture hit with a tiger as one of the characters. In the story, the tiger is pretty much like that of a normal animal we see in the wild. But it was more than that in the movie and the book. It was seen as a protector and a guardian that kept the main character sane and alive, in his own way.

Life of Pi is an inspirational story and some get a tattoo of the tiger to show their love for the movie or the book. In a way, it also represents the person they see as their guardian or protector.

Variations of Tiger Tattoos

When it comes to tattoos, tigers have become such a popular choice not only because of what it means but also because of its great beauty. Getting a tiger tattoo is often about going big or going home. These animals are larger than life – vibrant and beautiful. Capturing them on ink requires certain set of skills and great attention to detail. Nonetheless, the end results are always amazing.

Here are some variations for tiger tattoos that might get you interested in getting one:

• Tribal tiger tattoo – Tribal tattoos have long been a part of humanity and of the tattoo industry. There is no surprise tribal tattoos are still popular these days. You can certainly get the vibe of strength, power and invincibility with this design.
• Baby tigers – Tigers are one of those creatures that are often seen with awe and fear. However, they are still related to the cats we have grown to love and care for around the house. Kittens and baby tigers still share the same adorableness we all love. Apart from being overly cute, baby tigers are also symbols for fragility and innocence.
• Blue tigers – Blue tigers come from Chinese mythology where they believe the universe is held by five powerful tigers. One of these is the blue tiger. This powerful creature is said to be the totem of spring and Earth, the element.
• Butterfly tiger tattoo – While this may seem as a weird surrealistic concept, it’s actually a powerful symbol for women. Butterflies are known as delicate and fair. On the other hand, tigers are known as symbols of power, dominance, and sexual prowess. Combining these two create an amazing symbol that shows women can be both.

Eye of the Tiger

When we talk about tigers, perhaps one of the first thing that comes to mind is the song entitled “Eye of the Tiger”. Perhaps inspired by real life tigers, the song is pretty much about a “man and his will to survive.” Since the song became famous, an eye of the tiger tattoo has become more than just a beautiful gem. It has also become a symbol of strength and determination.

As a tattoo, the eyes of a tiger could represent focus and patience. A tiger has to watch over its prey first, in order for it to have a successful kill. If it does, it will be able to survive another day.

The design is also more about symbolizing men and our most primitive desires. We let instincts take over, just as when a tiger is hunting. Therefore, it’s the part where we can see the creature on its purest state: stalking, focused, patient, and most of all, lethal.

If you want to get an eye of the tiger tattoo, it is best to do it in 3D style. Nothing’s better than capturing such intensity with the use of ink and your body as the canvass. However, you might want to find an experienced top tattoo artist for this. 3D styles are hard to do and requires mastery of certain techniques. If you want a photo-realistic design with amazing results, calling a pro on this style is the best choice.

3D Style Tiger Tattoos

Tigers are beautiful – with their shiny striped coats and their marvelous eyes. Apart from their strength, tigers are also known for their beauty and grace. If you’re the type of tattoo enthusiast who loves getting tattoos for their aesthetic value, tigers are still one of the best choices. And how else can we capture its beauty other than with 3D style of tattooing?

3D styles are these photo-realistic tattoos that are made to look like the real thing. Tiger tattoos in 3D styles require great attention to details. The furs look like individual furs, the eyes look as expressive as that of a real one.

However, this is one of the hardest styles in tattooing. Your tattoo artist should be masters at different techniques such as shadowing and highlighting. They should also be good at drawing since that would help in creating a realistic copy of a tiger.

When looking for an artist, you might want to check their portfolio and see how good they are at the style. This will help you with your search for the top artist.

Placement for Tiger Tattoos

Men usually prefer their tiger tattoos bigger than the average size. For that, the best placements are on their back or their chest. These areas have wider space for added elements or to effectively create a scene with the subject as the main focus.

For women, the back is the only place where they can get as creative as they want. The chest area is usually limited, unlike that of a man’s. However, they can also create larger tattoos from the hips to the thighs. There is enough space for bigger pieces but these are more or less hidden most of the time.

Average tattoos can be placed on the arms and legs. These can also be done on the back or the chest since they are still big enough not to drown in all the space. Still, these kinds of tattoos are commonly placed on the sleeves and legs.

Smaller tattoos are perfect on nooks and crannies of the body. These are also perfect for the wrist, ankles, inner elbows, inner forearm, the feet and the hands. Usually, these designs are minimalist since details are often lost when you create smaller tattoos.

The placement is also dependent on the design. If you want a whole tiger, you might want to put it on a larger area or create a design that best fits the sleeves or the thighs to the legs. Minimalist designs would work best on smaller areas.

Summary

Tigers are one of the most beautiful creatures on Earth. These creatures are mostly known for their strength, power, and as a symbol of passion and sexual prowess. However, it can change meaning depending on which culture you are basing. Still, it is one of the top choices for tattoos mainly due to its aesthetic value. That being said, a tiger tattoo is one of those choices that can never go wrong.

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If we are talking about tattoos, we often believe that it is more of a men’s thing. However, the population of women who are inked are higher than ever. Women now are more likely to get a tattoo than men that 59% of the tattooed population are ladies. No wonder tattoos for girls are popular. These designs are getting more attention because of the increase of women who are inclined to get tattoos.

Tattoos for girls are often feminine. The designs can vary from the simplest to the most complex. These tattoos have also various elements included from cutesy to stunning to badass. In the end, it all depends on the wearer’s style and taste in body expression.

Why do Women Get Tattoos for Female?

In general, people get a tattoo to express themselves. As with fashion, body art has become a form of self-expression. A tattoo could say something about the wearer’s own style or it could say something about their personality. Some tattoo designs even create stories about the wearer and the things they have gone through.

But why are tattoos for girl popular?

These designs are often made for ladies. That means the meanings behind are geared towards females such as symbols of femininity and sensuality. Apart from that, the designs themselves are aesthetically pleasing for women. These are the elements and symbols that women would opt for more than men.

Designs for women are also made to look more delicate and more subtle than that of men’s. These have softer looks are what’s been luring women to get these tattoos. The easier they are to hide but the more powerful the message is, the better.

The Meaning Behind Tattoos for Female Enthusiasts

Each tattoo element and design has their own meaning. For many, the meaning actually depends on what they want it to represent. For example, a rose tattoo generally means love and passion. However for a person, it could represent her love for flowers and gardening since she has a bed of roses growing in her yard. In the end, it’s the view of the wearer that creates the meaning of a tattoo.

Nonetheless, most tattoos for female are created to represent their feminine side. Women are always seen as sensual, mysterious, graceful, and beautiful. These are the common denominators of many women’s tattoo designs.

Still, most designs are created with a more general meaning than a specific one. That means more designs are created to cater to both men and women. That means it could be worn by anyone. However, they could change the design into a more delicate and feminine one.

History of Women’s Tattoos

Tattoos are said to have been around since 12,000 B.C. It’s been a huge part of human history. Back in the days, not everyone can freely have a tattoo. Some cultures and tribes in the world only allow those who have gone through a rite of passage or when they are considered an adult. For some, those who only get tattoos are the ones that have higher social status.

But in some places, tattoos are believed to bring magic and protection. In Ancient Egypt, women get medical tattoos. These are said to prevent painful labor and still birth.

Women’s tattoos back then usually had deeper meanings. Other cultures believe that the tattoos for female members of their tribe are meant for beauty. In some Asian culture, a lady can have a tattoo on her arms to represent what she’s good at. They could get a tattoo that represents her enthusiasm in cooking or sewing. This then increases her chances of getting married, especially to noble men and families.

Popular Tattoo Designs and their Meanings

In truth, designs that are only made for women isn’t really that many. But tattoos for female tattoo enthusiasts are countless. Why? That is because a symbol or an element can be worn by a woman by simply making the design look more feminine. Want a skull tattoo that is mostly worn by male? You can turn it into a sugar skull design so it would suit you.

Nonetheless, here are some of the most popular designs that seem to get the attention of women these days as well as their meaning.

Quote tattoos

Quote tattoos are rather popular with women. They often choose to do it in beautiful script and calligraphy. Sometimes they add elements and designs that is appropriate with the quote itself. Or they can leave the quote as it is.

These types of tattoos are popular these days given that they can be very versatile. They can be as small as you want with one-worded quotes or phrases. If you want something longer, then you can choose a longer one.

Quotes are also considered as versatile as you can create quotes of your own – chants and mojo you use and your life’s motto. Perhaps you’d like to choose a famous quote from a famous person. It could be something that describes your life or the state of your mind and life. The quote can even be from your favorite books or movies.

Floral tattoos

If we talk about symbols of femininity and beauty, flowers would be on top of the list. As tattoo designs, flowers have various meanings based on which flower is indicated. But perhaps the best types that could symbolize women are lilies, calla lilies, tulips and roses.

But what makes them so close to women’s femininity? It could come from the notion that women “blooms” when they grow up. They become more beautiful and looking fresher, just like how flowers bloom when they are fully grown.

Apart from that, women just love accepting flowers as gifts. Give them one even without a special occasion and they would feel like a million bucks.

Cats

It’s not really about the cat-eyeliners and the cat ears headbands – it’s really about cats being known as symbols of femininity and mysticism in the world of tattoos.

Cat tattoos can be as realistic as a photo of your own pet. And indeed, you could definitely have a portrait of your pet. Nonetheless, simple and minimalist cat tattoos are also getting popular. These are the best designs for those who do not want flashy or fancy tattoos.

Lotus tattoos for girls

While lotus tattoos are for both men and women, it’s also gaining attention as tattoos for female body art enthusiasts. They often create a design similar to mandalas – filled with patterns and beautiful shapes.

Lotus tattoos are usually symbols of Buddhism. Pink lotuses, specifically, are the symbol of Buddha himself. But generally, the flower means resilience, purity, and rebirth. A blue lotus is also the symbol for intelligence and is often depicted as half open, meaning the wearer is still open to learning new things.

Mandalas

It could be because of the gorgeous design, but mandalas have become the top choice for tattoos for women. As a tattoo symbol, it represents wholeness, balance, and eternity.

Mandalas are one of the most beautiful designs you can get, that’s probably why it has gained popularity among women. Designs can vary from the simplest designs to the most stunning and breathtaking patterns. Some also take it a step higher and choose beautiful colors to go with it.

Dreamcatchers

Dreamcatchers are known as the best way to represent Native American culture. The legend that says these dreamcatchers catch the good dreams came from them. Since then, it has spread around the world, hopefully bringing sweet dreams to everyone who has one.

But apart from bringing the culture of Native American tribes to the world, the dreamcatcher has also become quite the sign for women. It probably came to be when it also became a symbol in the world of fashion – it was a major symbol in Boho fashion, style, and design.

Queen designs

May it be crowns or the Queen of Hearts, queenly designs might be the best tattoos for female enthusiasts. Queens are symbols of royalty, power, and leadership. In modern times, this could very well mean that women can become leaders and do what men can do. It’s a symbol of feminism and the power that women hold.

Geometric patterns

Remember when we say women fall for anything with great aesthetic value? Geometric and tribal patterns are the proof. Usually, these designs do not have specific meanings. They are purely made as decors. Still, they are among women’s top choices for tattoo designs.

Most of the time, these geometric patterns fall in between simple and feminine. They create designs out of simpler patterns and using soft strokes to create the aura of femininity. Apart from that, they also use sparse and softer color palettes in case they want to bring color to their tattoos.

Birds

Birds are generally symbols of freedom. That may be the reason why it got the attention of women. They love their freedom, especially with things that they weren’t permitted to do before or things that are seen as men’s thing; for example, getting a tattoo.

Birds also have specific meanings depending on which one was depicted. Owls represent intellect and foresight while doves are symbols of love. However, if you want a more feminine bird tattoo, the best choice is the peacock. Many say it is a symbol of pride but it is also represents beauty and grace.

Moon tattoos

The moon s not just a celestial body, it’s also a great – if not the greatest – symbol for women.

The moon is known as the female counterpart while the sun is the male. Many goddesses of ancient times were also recognized as patrons of the moon. Their magic and power are said to have come from moonlight and Earth’s companion itself. That could be the reason why it was also the symbol for magic, power, and mysticism.

But more than that, the moon is associated with women’s monthly cycle. They say it coincides with the moon’s cycle. Each month, the moon goes from new moon to full moon. It also takes an approximate of 30 days for women to menstruate.

Its association with women is pretty much one of the main reasons why it’s popular among tattoos for female. It can go from simple to fancy, with some decorations that you can design. Nonetheless, the most common moon tattoo these days involves the phases of the moon and are often created as spine tattoo designs.

Cute cartoon designs

It is no surprise that cute tattoo designs are also known as tattoos for girls. Just like anything beautiful, women love cute things. It does not matter what age they are, they are absolutely captivated by all things cute. Name it: babies, puppies, kittens, stuffed toys, and even cute cartoon characters. Of course, it’s not for everybody but the majority of women you’ll meet will probably have the same affinity for adorable things.

That being said, cute tattoo designs, especially cartoon-ish ones are also popular as tattoos for female tattoo enthusiasts. If they are going to take cartoon characters as designs, they often choose popular ones such as Bugs Bunny, Tweety Bird, Winnie the Pooh, Piglet, Hello Kitty, or Pokemons.

But apart from these fictional characters, they also choose to create designs based off animals. While some animals are scary and fierce, most are definitely cute especially when younger. As cute tattoo designs, they are more based off cutesy drawings you’ll often see on children’s books. These are also great minimalist designs since they’re taking real objects and making them simpler.

Ribbons and Bows

Ribbons and bows are more designs specifically made for women. You wouldn’t see men wearing one, right? Except when ribbons and bows represent a certain cause – which we will explain further below.

As a tattoo design, ribbons and bows represent charm and beauty. These are two things often attributed to women. Apart from that, bows and ribbons are also under the category of cute tattoos. You can even play with the design and make them sexy or sensual. For example, a lacy thigh garter design with a bow or a ribbon is all the rage now.

However, some ribbon designs are made to raise awareness for some cause. These are other ribbon designs that are popular; but they attract both men and women. The designs are simple ribbons but with different colors that are used to represent disorders and illnesses. Pink ribbons are most known for raising awareness and dedicating to people who suffer from breast cancer. Orange ribbons are either for Multiple Sclerosis or Leukemia.

These are well-known awareness symbols. They are recognized both nationally and internationally.

Butterflies

Butterflies are not just one of the most beautiful creatures on Earth. What they represent are also meaningful and thus, they have become great tattoo symbols.

As tattoos, butterflies represent natural beauty. It comes from the beauty of their colors to the unique patterns of wings each species of butterfly has. They are also attracted to beautful flowers. But traditionally, they are symbols of romantic love and femininity.

However, they have also become the symbol for faith, transformation, and freedom. Many choose a butterfly design and incorporate other elements that goes along with these representations. Still, many choose to create designs that are simple and let the beauty of the butterfly take over.

Heart

Heart symbols may be pretty simple, but they are one of the most recognized symbols in the world. They have been used as tattoo designs for a long time. It’s no surprise that it means love and passion.

Most women create a simpler design. They opt for a heart and probably put some other elements or decorations like swirly patterns for a more feminine vibe. But for those who are more adventurous with their designs – the anatomical heart is in.

While the realistic and anatomically correct heart can still stand for love and passion, it’s become a trend among those in the medical field. It could showcase their love and passion in their career and in helping save lives.

Feathers

Feathers are the sister tattoos of bird tattoos. These came from birds so the meaning of the feather tattoo is somewhat similar to that of birds’. The meaning would usually be based depending what type of bird the feather comes from. It could be from an owl, an eagle, or a peacock.

Generally, feathers are symbols of freedom. But they have also long thought to be a way to reach to our dead loved ones. That is why they have also become a dedication for those who have passed away.

As a tattoo design, women like their feathers swirly – somehow like floating in the air. They also create designs in the feathers like patterns which makes it have a tribal vibe.

Fairies

Fairies represent femininity, beauty and grace. No wonder they are rather popular among women enthusiasts. Apart from their meaning, fairy tattoos are also vibrantly colored and beautifully designed.

In folklore, fairies are these magical creatures that are often depicted as small but very beautiful creatures. They live in flowers and trees and generally in forests. While many cultures believe they are harmless and are said to actually help humans, others believe they are hostile.

As designs go, the options are limitless. You can try famous fairies from pop culture such as Tinkerbell. But you can also create your own fairy – choose which element they represent or what plant they are derived after. You can also choose their wings and play with their overall look. They may say how you create your design speaks volumes regarding your personality.

Popular Placements for Tattoos and Designs you can Make

While the design itself is everything to make a tattoo work, the placement is also as vital. How your design ultimately looks is a product of where you are putting it. Some designs may look great as a concept or on paper. However, if you place it somewhere where the design does not work at all, your hard work is for nothing.

One example is a design that would look great on bigger spaces. If you try to keep it in a smaller space, you’d be compromising the design itself. Another example is placing a tattoo on areas like the stomach or the knees or even the elbows. The stomach could change as the years go by. You can gain or lose weight and that could change the design.

The knees and the elbows could also stretch and the skin on these areas could also change based on your position. It could also stretch the design itself and may not look great.

That being said, here are some of the best placements and some designs you can make.

Arm tattoos

The arms is one of the most common areas for tattoos. You can have it on your fingers, the hands, your wrist, inner and outer forearm, inner and outer elbows, and the inner and outer biceps. While some areas in the arm is not the best option for those who have low pain tolerance, some are the best for those who are.

But apart from the pain levels, one more great thing about arm tattoos is that you can choose an area where it can be easily hidden. The sleeves can be covered with clothes, providing you only have a quarter of half sleeve tattoo. You can cover a full sleeve tattoo with a long-sleeved dress or sweaters. For wrist tattoos, you can cover them up with accessories, the same with hands. If you are more desperate to cover them naturally, a full-coverage concealer or foundation would help.

Based on where you’re having the tattoo, the choices for arm tattoos for female enthusiasts are limitless. You can go minimalist or crazy and fancy. The sleeves would be the best area for creative and complicated designs. The wrist and the hands is the best areas for simple and minimalist designs. The forearm is perfect for longer tattoos such as quotes.

Thigh tattoos

Thigh tattoos are considered sexy and sensual, the higher it is, the sexier the tattoo. Most designs often include garter-like designs – those that go around the thigh to make it look like you’re wearing thigh garters. The designs are also usually fancy and sexy such as laces or ribbons.

The thighs is also a great place for bigger tattoos. And since you can cover them up most of the time, you can definitely go crazy or fancy.

But apart from the garter-like designs, many women are now into tattoos that extend to the hips. Designs are also bigger and crazier with various elements and designs.

Leg and ankle tattoos

Leg tattoos are pretty much the same with thigh tattoos, just a little smaller. You can create any design you like, plus it’s a great place to put bigger and longer tattoos you prefer. For example, a scenery of a forest or a mountain range would look amazing around the legs. You can even extend that up to the thighs.

However, women are more likely to opt for ankle tattoos when it comes to simpler designs. They can put minimalist tattoos there or simple symbols. Popular designs such as the cross, wings, and anchors are really famous as ankle tattoos.

Feet tattoos

Since we’re talking about legs and the ankle, feet tattoos are also very trendy nowadays. However, the design should be bigger than most. Smaller tattoos will likely fade much faster than in any area of the body. This is because we often use our feet and it exerts the most force and energy. Some tattoo artist won’t even accept you if you plan on making small feet tattoos.

However, bigger tattoos would work just fine. But you’re likely to have lesser options for your shoes.

Sternum tattoos

Apart from the thighs, the sternum tattoos would be one of the sexiest places to have a tattoo. Tattoos placed here are often designed to give emphasis to the outline of the breasts. For example, instead of a full mandala or sunflower tattoo, you can only have it in half.

Some tattoo enthusiasts also like to extend these tattoos for female upward towards their collarbones and in between the breasts. These are sexy designs but getting one will likely take a lot of courage since the area is a little sensitive and can be painful.

Ribcage tattoos

These tattoos are the best options for those who don’t want exposed tattoos and yet want to create sophisticated designs. Growing popular as rib cage tattoos these days are floral designs and quote tattoos. Anything that looks modern and abstract can also be tattooed on this area. You can go as crazy and fancy as you want with the design since it can be covered most of the time.

Spine tattoos

Spine tattoos call for slender and longer designs. While some choose to create back designs with the spine tattoo as the focus, other women like it clean and sensual. They’d have quotes tattooed on their spine with elegant script fonts. Some even like having Chinese or Japanese characters. This is also a place where you can have your phases of the moon tattoo.

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Butterflies are perhaps the most fascinating creatures on Earth. They are a true gift from Nature. They start out as one of those creepy crawlies but become one of the most beautiful creatures. Butterflies have short lifespans but their lifetime is filled with events that call out even to humans. This may be the reason why a butterfly tattoo is a rather popular choice among tattoo enthusiasts.

Butterfly tattoo designs are more popular among women. These creatures are traditionally connected to femininity and love. Nonetheless, they are also gaining attention towards the male statistics. If you want to find a good design for your next ink, read on.

The Life of a Butterfly

Butterflies go through 4 stages in their life cycle. They go from egg, larva, pupa, and to an adult butterfly. Depending on which species of butterfly it is, their lifespan could be from one month to a whole year. It’s a rather short time but they go through their complete metamorphosis in that time.

After being hatched, they turn into what we know as caterpillars. These are butterfly larvae. They do not really stay for long on this stage. However, they do have to eat a whole lot until they have enough strength to turn into the third stage.

Butterfly eggs are born into the same leaves they eat when they grow into caterpillars. This is important as during their larva stage, they won’t be able to travel a long way.

Perhaps the most fascinating stage of a butterfly’s life is the third. This is when they reach their full length and weight as a caterpillar and cover themselves with a cocoon. This is known as the pupa or the chrysalis. From the outside, it may look like the caterpillar is simply resting. However inside, the creature is rapidly changing.

If the butterfly is ready and has changed, it will emerge from its cocoon. Seeing a butterfly emerge is pretty much one of the most amazing things you’ll see. From a creepy crawlie, they would turn into a beautiful creature, with wings as colorful and lovely as a work of art.

Significance of Butterflies in Different Cultures

These amazing creatures are rather popular symbolism in Christianity and in Greek mythology.

In Christianity, a butterfly could signify Christ’s resurrection and His ascension to heaven.

In Greek culture, the butterfly is known as psyche, after the Greek goddess of the Soul, Psyche. She is often depicted as having butterfly wings. According to Greek myth, Psyche was a human that fell madly in love with Eros, god of Love. She eventually married the god and became a goddess herself. That is why butterflies are often known as a symbol of both Love and Spirituality after the story.

Butterfly Tattoo and its General Meaning

Butterfly tattoos have different meanings. It really depends on what type of butterfly is depicted or even what color the butterfly is. Nonetheless, butterflies stand for beauty and love, as what was mentioned above. Apart from that, they also became a symbol or rebirth and transformation. This was adapted from their transformation as caterpillar to butterfly.

Generally, a butterfly tattoo could mean any of the following:

• Love
• Grace
• Femininity
• Spirituality and the soul
• Resurrection and rebirth
• Transformation
• Connection with nature and natural elements

But not all butterfly tattoos say either any of these meanings. It could be different for one person to another. It could be that the wearer is just an avid fan of butterflies and love the way they look. Perhaps it is a dedication to their hobby or they know someone who collects butterflies and other insects.

In the end, the meaning could be entirely different or one of the general meanings depending on the wearer.

Butterfly Tattoo Variations and What Each One Means

Specific butterfly tattoos can represent a different trait or idea as a tattoo. Here are some of the most common butterfly tattoo variations and what each one represents:

1. Tribal butterfly tattoo – Tribal tattoos have linked to native tribes around the world. The patterns and the designs of tribal butterfly tattoo meanings remain unclear. Nonetheless, they are often used to depict a connection to nature.
2. Celtic butterfly tattoo – Just as with tribal tattoos, Celtic tattoos have strong ties to Celtic and Irish culture. A Celtic butterfly tattoo often means spirituality and a connection to nature. It is also be linked to Paganism.
3. Gothic butterfly tattoo – Gothic designs are also prevalent in the tattoo industry. Butterfly tattoos are often colorful but this one is given dark undertones for a gothic touch. However, it might not have the best meaning as it could mean loss of innocence and freedom.
4. Monarch butterfly – The monarch butterfly is perhaps one of the most popular butterfly species. It is also a common variation of butterfly tattoo tattoo. In Mexico, this tattoo serves as a representation of the coming back of the souls of their deceased loved ones. This is rather popular way of celebrating the Day of the Dead. If you move a dead monarch butterfly, it is considered as bad luck.
5. Breast cancer butterfly tattoo – It is no surprise that butterflies are used as an icon for women’s health, especially since it is very popular among women. The pink ribbon represents breast cancer awareness. Many choose the breast cancer butterfly tattoo as a dedication for the people they know who suffer from this.
6. Blue butterfly – This design is often a sign of good luck.

Butterfly Tattoo Designs with Other Elements

More complicated tattoo designs have more than just one element. You can create a butterfly tattoo but add a few more subjects to the design. Of course you can keep the main focus on the butterfly but adding a flower could add another meaning to the design.

The tattoo’s meaning will depend on what the added element represents. If you add a sunflower, it could mean happiness and joviality. That being said, your butterfly tattoo could now mean you are a person who loves being happy and giving happiness. Or perhaps you have transformed as a person and now you are happy.

Here are other designs of butterfly tattoo with another element:

• Dragonfly – You can either add the dragonfly or mix the two creatures together. Either way, the dragonfly is a representation of transformation and meditation. As a tattoo, both of this in one design means inner peace.
• Skulls – Skulls signifies a person’s mortality as well as past life. Adding it as a design on a butterfly’s wing can be a pretty dreary and dark sight. However, this actually has a positive meaning. It symbolizes growth and transformation after a tragic event. It can also embody a change in lifestyle such as turning away from alcohol and drugs.
• Tiger – Tigers are a symbol of power, strength, passion, and sexual prowess. Together with a butterfly, this tattoo design symbolizes the wearer’s inner strength. It shows that even a fragile creature, such as the butterfly, also have some dormant power.
• Fairies – Fairies are a lot like butterflies – they are both children of nature. Getting a tattoo with both of these elements in one could signify a deep bond in the natural world. Apart from that, it also represents femininity, rebirth, transformation, and freedom.

Common Butterfly Tattoo Designs for your Personality

Since butterfly tattoos have gone mainstream, there are now a whole lot of tattoo designs out there. From the unique and surreal tattoos to common designs, you can find one that will speak to you more.

For those who believe in good luck charms, a tattoo of both a butterfly and a dragon will work. You can combine these two elements into one design. In many cultures, both these creatures are deemed as bringer of good fortune. These elements also balances masculine and feminine qualities such as strength and beauty.

If you are a firm believer of God, you can have a tattoo of an angel and a butterfly. Just as with any other designs, you can combine these two designs or make them co-exist in one. As angels are known to be protectors, those who wear this tattoo are often deemed as people who protect someone. Usually, they are protectors of people who are innocent and emotionally fragile.

More Designs and What they Stand for

The best thing about butterfly tattoos is that they are versatile. You can pair them with almost anything and it would turn out great. Of course, you just need to have proper planning and some good imagination to think of how the elements will go together.

Apart from that, there are a variety of styles you can do for a more unique tattoo. Just as with the added elements, some styles have different meanings. Take for example the Japanese butterfly tattoo. This is often used by couples to commemorate their wedding and their anniversary.

Butterfly tattoos could also change their appearance and their meaning with the color you choose. Blue butterflies stand for good luck. White ones are known as a symbol of purity and salvation in Christian context. Yellow ones are for happiness. In Scotland, a yellow butterfly near a grave often indicates that the soul is in peace.

Butterflies are well-known for their wings. You can focus on the wings as with most design. Some even research a species of butterfly and try to copy its wings. Of course, you can create your own design.

2D versus 3D Designs

Tattoos nowadays could either be 2D or 3D . Tattoos are traditionally 2D designs but modern techniques have given way to 3-dimensional styles. This is through the right techniques such as shadowing and highlighting.

A butterfly tattoo is a great element for a 3D design. Artists can make it look like it just landed on your shoulders or your hand. Or perhaps it’s flying near you. With these designs though, you have to find a good tattoo artist. 3D tattoo designs are tough to do. Techniques should be precise in order to make the illusion of the tattoo being “alive.”

3D designs also require great attention to detail. Photo-realistic designs feature even the littlest details. If you are researching for a butterfly you want to ink on your skin, you have to find a good picture. Get one that makes it easier to see each detail.

2D style is the more versatile of the two. You can create almost any design and pay attention to the quality of the drawing rather than making it look real. 2D designs can give birth to almost any kind of tattoo styling; from minimalist to tribal designs.

Minimalist Butterfly Tattoo Designs

What could be the perfect tattoo style for people who like subtle tattoos? Minimalist tattoos are the answer. It can be as simple as a linework or as stunning as dot work. This tattoo style usually works with sparse color palettes and has more negative space.

There are several ways to make a minimalist butterfly body art design.

As said, one is the linework where the artist will just create an outline of the butterfly with a few designs. Maybe some more lines and a few dots. Others tend to create an outline and just fill it in with a black ink. For this design, many choose a swarm of butterflies flying away. An interesting design includes a dandelion with a swarm of butterflies flying from it.

Dot work is a bit tedious but it usually results in a stunning design. Basically, artists only create the entire tattoo with just dots. This includes the shadowing, detailing, and sometimes even the colors.

Using sparse color palettes and less details also make a minimalist tattoo. For a butterfly design, you don’t always have to use different shades of a color. Or you don’t really have to recreate every detail on their wings.

This is a great style for those who want smaller tattoos or even for first-timers.

Placement Ideas

Butterfly tattoos could be placed anywhere on your body. But there are a few factors you have to think about before choosing a place. Here are the following:

• Size – Smaller and average-sized tattoos would work best on areas with enough space. Smaller tattoos tend to get lost in vast spaces such as the back or the chest. Larger tattoos would work best on the back, as a full sleeve, and the chest.
• Design – Does your design work more on width or in length? If it’s a longer type of tattoo, the arms, forearms, legs, and thighs would be the perfect places. These areas give more emphasis to the design.
• Pain level – Your tattoo may have the right size and design for an inner bicep tattoo. But the question now is whether you can tolerate the pain it will bring. Sure, getting a tattoo is painful, no matter where you have it. However, some places are more painful than the others. For example, the inner biceps and inner elbows tend to be more painful than the sleeve area and the legs.

That being said, you can research the most painful areas and check which parts you think you can tolerate. Then based on what you have checked, you can now weigh the size and the design for the perfect placement.

Other people also have to think about their employment. While modern society is more open to tattoos nowadays – even workplaces, some still have stricter rules. Be sure that your place is alright with you having a tattoo. Or you might want to have it in a place where you can easily hide it with your clothes.

Finding a Tattoo Artist

How your tattoo will ultimately come out is pretty much based on who your tattoo artist is. There are many good artist out there but some of them are better in a specific style. If you want to have the best 3D style tattoo, you’d want to find an artist who has mastered the techniques.

The same goes if you want a tribal, Japanese, Celtic, or Gothic tattoos. The best way to do it is to look at the portfolio of your tattoo artist.

If you also know someone with a tattoo you like, you can ask them who their artist is. Referral is one way to ensure that the artist is good. You can see in person what one of their projects look like. You can also ask that person how their experience was.

Of course, your safety is a priority. You should not just go for any artist just because you like their style. They need to know the basics as well: a clean environment, clean equipment, and safe procedures.

That being said, a tattoo artist should always unpack a new set of clean and unused needles in front of you. This is to make sure they are not just reusing old needles which could cause various health conditions.

Apart from that, they should also use gloves at all times to avoid infection. Their environment should also be clean and clutter-free. If they have a sanitizing equipment at the salon, the better.

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If there is one thing a lot of women like about men, it’s a muscled chest. It does not only improve their overall look but also makes a woman think they are protected. Apart from the muscles, some chest tattoos do not hurt. In fact, there are a lot of women who like men with chest tattoos or any tattoo in any part of their body.

While tattoos have gained negativity around the turn of the century, society is getting more lenient and open about it. But for those who want to get a tattoo without too much exposure, the chest is indeed a great place.

Chest tattoos tend to be more popular among men. Women also get tattoos on this certain area but because of their breasts, the area where getting a tattoo is limited unlike to that of men.

Chest Tattoos and the Their Symbolism

The whole body is important. But the chest is considered as one of the most essential given that it is close to the heart. It is said that getting chest tattoos mean you are showing your dedication. Getting a body ink on this certain place is also rather painful. Going through the process is indeed a show of extreme dedication, especially when it’s a big piece.

Symbolism is a great factor that helps tattoo enthusiasts choose the design. Each design can have a deeper meaning; something inspirational and close to the wearer. Apart from that, being able to improve your physical looks is also important.

Since the chest is an area close to the heart, many choose a design close to them. For example, a portrait of their loved ones or an organization they are running. Some choose a design that represents their culture. Most go for a design that represent them as a person or their story.

Perfect for Employees and Students

As mentioned above, people view tattoos as taboo for decades especially when it became a symbol of prisoners and gangs. However, the positive view on tattoos are going back now. Still, there are those who are not open about tattoos and see these as something negative. This is especially true in workplaces and in schools.

Many workplaces do not allow tattoos. If you are looking for a job and you have a tattoo, you might find it hard to get a job. This is especially true when you have an exposed tattoo. The same goes with schools, even when you are on the legal age of getting one. That is why many tend to get their tattoos on areas that they can easily hide.

The chest is one of those perfect places. You can wear your uniform and it will likely hide your tattoo. It is kind of tricky when you have a bigger tattoo – one that spreads on your chest to your shoulders. If you have a stricter school and work environment, it is best to be more considerate about your tattoo.

Chest Tattoos – Placement and Size

The chest area, especially among men, is wide. You can get almost any kind of design you want. But in order to highlight the tattoo, you have to find the right placement. Depending on your design, you can have your chest tattoo near your shoulders, close to your heart, close to your shoulders, or near your stomach.

If you are going for a portrait of your loved one, putting it on the upper part near your heart is a popular choice. Longer design such as quotes would look amazing from shoulder to shoulder.

Larger designs are likely to cover the entire upper chest. So, it is better when you extend it to your shoulders or to your sleeves.

There are also smaller tattoos. While these are significantly larger than what you can put on your hands and wrists, they are still smaller than most chest tattoos. You can place it somewhere where the design can be fully seen.

Tribal Tattoos

Tribal tattoos remain one of the most sought-after designs when it comes to body art. It goes way back. In fact, it is in sync with the birth of body art.

Tribal tattoos were often done by tribes around the world – each one with a distinct style than others. They are used to denote which tribe a person belonged to. It also helps say what their status are. For example, a chieftain will have a specific tattoo on a certain part of the body. In some tribes, the more tattoos mean the higher the status in the society.

It has also been used as means of protection for many tribes. They believe that tattooing their deities or animals conjure their spirit. It helps protect them from any danger, especially when you’re a warrior back then.

Nowadays, tribal tattoos are either as a means of representing your tribe’s culture. However, everyone can now get a tribal tattoo and often, they are for show.

The most common design are geometric patterns; bold lines, dots, shapes, and swirls. Nonetheless some turn elements, especially animals and plants, into tribal styles. These often denote a closeness to nature.

Popular Designs to Inspire your Next Ink

While designs are more often personalized, some were inspired by common designs. Here are some of the most popular types of themes and subjects that could help you decide on yours:

• Quotes – Quotes are very popular as a tattoo designs. They are rather versatile and unique as there are millions of quotes out there that you can choose. For chest tattoos, a quote can be as simple as you want and usually placed near the shoulders. Or, you can make it a larger tattoo with a background and with more elements. Quotes have different meanings depending on which quote you chose.
• Owl – Bird tattoos are also a common choice for chest tattoos. The owl is perhaps one of the most popular. You can either have it whole, with its wings extending to your shoulders. Or you can fill your entire chest with its eyes. An owl is often used to represent intelligence and knowledge.
• Eagle – Apart from the owl, the eagle is a top choice. As the owl, you can have it with its wings’ spread or perhaps holding a snake on its claws. This subject is often used to represent strength, power, and nobility.
• Map of the world – This design is perfect for travelers and those who love adventure. You can get a map of the world on your chest, maybe close to your heart. Some even choose a specific state, country or continent as tattoo design. Usually, these are places close to their heart.
• Mechanical – 3D tattoos are getting mainstream these days especially when the technique has been mastered by more and more tattoo artists. One of the top designs often make the wearer look like a cyborg. They do this by “exposing” the insides where gears are present rather than internal organs.

Animals as Tattoo Designs

Getting a tattoo of an animal back in the days are said to conjure the spirit of the animal. It helps them survive in the woods while they are hunting. Nowadays, a tattoo of an animal is used to represent the wearer. The characteristics of the animal is believed to be close to the wearer’s personality.

1. Wolves – Wolves are popular among men. Apart from the masculine vibe it gives, it also has a deeper meaning. Wolf tattoos represent strength, loyalty, and dominance.
2. Elephants – Elephants are the biggest animal in land. These designs are popular for both men and women. This elephant tattoo design can be used to represent gentleness, kindness, and inner strength.
3. Horses – Horses are known as one of the most noble and beautiful animals. Indeed, a tattoo of a horse could signify both of those. Designs could vary but it usually shows a galloping horse or one standing on its hind legs.
4. Butterflies – This design works well with women. It’s usual placement is on the sternum, just below the breasts which adds sensuality to the design. As a tattoo, it can be used to represent beauty and transformation.
5. Lions – Lions or the King of the Jungle is the choice for people who are strong and are born leaders. The lions are often seen as majestic creatures: with the strength of their muscles and the agility of felines. Designs usually just include the heads along with its infamous mane. For women, they usually choose the lioness.
6. Deer – The deer is for male while the doe is for women. Depending on its gender, the meaning of a deer tattoo can be different. Deer represent fertility, verility, and sexual prowess. A doe on the other hand means gentleness, motherly love, and kindness.

Popular Tattoo Designs

Apart from tribal and animal designs, here are more choices for tattoo enthusiasts.

• Anchors – Anchors are essential in boats as they help keep the vessel grounded at sea. As a tattoo design, anchors represent faith and even as a dedication to people who kept you safe.
• Telling time – Whether it is a clock or an hourglass, time seems like a popular theme. You can have it close to your heart or in the middle of your chest. Most of the time, there are also additional elements included in the design. These time-telling devices could either mean time is gold or that time is constant.
• Mechanical heart – Apart from gears and looking like a cyborg, a mechanical heart is also a top choice. It’s usually in 3D style so that it has this effect of looking real. Usually, the design includes a heart (anatomical heart) made out of metal parts. It’s complete with torn skin and bleeding.
• The Heart – It does not have to be mechanical. Some actually create a tattoo design of their heart with the arteries and veins. There are arrows coming out of these nerves to indicate blood flowing. The heart often interprets love and innocence. But the anatomical heart can also be for those in the medical field.
• Phoenix – One amazing design shows a phoenix seemingly rising up. The design is extended to the shoulders and sleeves. The phoenix is used to symbolize rebirth and rising from the ashes.

Smaller Chest Tattoo Designs

Since the chest area is wide, people often place the larger designs there. However, smaller chest tattoos are also in, especially for women. Here are some creative small designs for tattoo enthusiasts:

1. Astronomical – You can choose from any of the celestial bodies like the sun or the moon as your design. You can even have both. Doing both actually embodies yin and yang or living with the good and bad things without biases.
2. Puzzle pieces – This would work amazingly well in 3D. You can create a design of two pieces fitting perfectly with each other. You can also do it the minimalist way. Some put their name and the name of their spouses and place it across their heart. This is a sweet dedication to your life partner.
3. Scene in a shape – What best way to make your tattoo appear smaller and more crisp? Try putting the design within a shape. For example, have a scenery of the night sky in a diamond or a triangle. It’s alright to go a little beyond the shape.
4. Compass – The compass is another great choice for those who love to travel. Compasses guide travelers to where they are going. Just like its purpose, a compass tattoo symbolizes guidance.
5. Floral – This theme works better on women. Many choose to create a small bouquet of flowers with different colors. The lighter the color palette, the better. It usually extends a little to the shoulders as well.
6. Skulls – Skulls commonly denote death and fear. But it’s so good for aesthetic value that many still choose to get one. It can also have a positive meaning – the cycle of life and the acceptance of it.
7. Mandalas – This is another design that is popular for ladies. Because of its geometrical patterns and soft but almost hypnotic design, it’s a great aesthetic. It also means wholeness, balance, and eternity. This would be a great sternum tattoo.

Can you go Minimalist?

Since chest tattoos are usually complicated and 3D, some might be asking whether they can go minimalist. Minimalist tattoos have more negative space and are as simple as possible. So, in a wide space like the chest, would your tattoo design drown?

Truth be told, yes you can still go with a minimalist design. However, it has to be bigger than the usual so it won’t get lost in all the space available. For example, you want a minimalist view of skyscrapers. Instead of making it small, you might want to make it enough for your chest to your shoulders. The same goes with a minimalist floral bouquet. You would not want a whole lot of flowers but instead, you can make it bigger and add a few more florals.

Nonetheless, this style would work much better on women given they don’t really have that much space for tattoos.

Instead of a photo-realistic portrait of your loved one, you can make it look like an outline without the features. There are several ways of making bigger tattoos but with minimal details. If you are confused, you can always ask your tattoo artist. They will give you suggestions and sometimes even disagree with your design. To come up with the best tattoo, working with them is essential.

3D Style Tattoos

For men, 3D style tattoos are getting more popular. However, this is a harder tattoo style for both the tattoo enthusiast and the artist.

Your tattoo artist should be a pro in the skills and techniques needed to make the design look alive. They should know where to highlight and shade. They should also have amazing attention to details since even the littlest things are needed to make the tattoo look photo-realistic.

As for the wearer, the chest is a painful area to get a tattoo. With 3D designs, the process is longer. The artist has to go through a certain area again and again. It would likely be twice as painful as getting a normal tattoo.

Still, this does not discourage people to get 3D style chest tattoos. If there is one thing that makes a bad-ass and amazing design, it is making it 3 dimensional.

Aftercare Tips

Chest tattoos are easier to care after than several areas of the body. The only problem is, they are likely to be pressed against the clothes. During the initial weeks of healing, you’d want to cover it with a bandage just to protect it and your clothes from excess ink.

However, make sure that you change it every now and then. Also, keep your wound clean with a fragrant-free and mild soap. It is also important to dab the water and excess ink with dry and clean tissue paper. Scrubbing and scratching the tattoo should be avoided at all costs, seeing that this can cause scarring.

While your tattoo will usually be protected with your clothes, use sunscreen for the moments it is exposed to the sun.

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Out of all the parts in our body, the arms is perhaps the most common place for tattoos. It’s an easy location to access; someplace that you can easily care for; and where you can easily hide it. Plus, it’s got the perfect areas for almost any kind of tattoo – may it be big or small. That may be the reason why arm tattoos have become a household name in the tattoo industry.

Whether it’s a wrist, forearm, biceps or sleeve tattoo, the designs you can do is limitless. In all honesty, your imagination is the limit. You can create any kind of design you want, so long as you have a trusted artist to help you before or during the procedure. Or of course, you can go for the more conventional designs.

Brief History of Arm Tattoos

There really isn’t any exact date as to when arm tattoos began. However, tattooing began with native tribes around the world, it’s safe to say that arm tattoos existed back then.

Tattooing have become a great part of human history. Tribes from all around the world, most especially in Polynesian islands, Native America and Asia made tattooing a part of their culture. Tattoos helped them identify people of various tribes. It was also a way to establish their status in the society.

Tattoos were more than just body art. These became a part of every tribe member – of their traditions and even their rituals. But some tribes in the world see arm tattoos as a boost of beauty and status in the society. In Borneo, women would have tattoos on their forearm that would signify a certain set of skills. If a woman has a symbol that is designated to being a good weaver, her chances of getting a husband and being a mother has increased.

Today, arm tattoos are still part of human expression. Designs continue to talk about their wearers. Certain elements and symbols have deeper meanings. People often choose designs that have meanings that relate to them and their personalities.

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Most Popular Arm Tattoos and their Meanings

Most tattoo elements have meanings usually adapted from their characteristics. Here are the most common tattoo designs that are often used as arm tattoos:

• Butterfly – This design is a popular choice among women. As one of the most beautiful creatures in nature and in the world, butterflies stand for beauty. Apart from that, they are also known as symbols of freedom and transformation.
• Wolves – Wolves are just one of the common animal tattoo designs you can find. As a tattoo, wolves are symbols of power, loyalty, and perseverance. They are most common for Native Americans as they see wolves as totem animals.
• Silhouette of birds – This may be the most popular bird tattoo up to date. Many tattoo enthusiasts get these on various parts of the body but it’s also a perfect design for the arm. Birds have a variety of meaning, depending on what kind it is. However, silhouettes do not have any distinct features that could point to significant species. And so, they pick on the general meaning of birds – freedom.
• Mountains – Mountains are often used as armband tattoo design. Oftentimes, mountains are used as a symbol of wanderlust or the love of traveling. It also means a great journey or a remembrance of a place they want to remember here on Earth.
• Tribal tattoos – Tribal tattoos often do not have meaning. However, some patterns do have some deeper meaning, especially when they are based on native Polynesian, Asian, or American tattoos. Nonetheless, modern tribal designs are purely for aesthetic.

Designs for Arm Tattoos According to their Placement

Generally, any design can be placed anywhere on your arm. However, some designs work best on certain locations. This might be because of their size, their dimension, and the overall look of the element.

Here are some arm tattoo designs based on where you can place them.

1. Forearm Tattoos

Forearm and inner forearm tattoos often have the most exposure compared to sleeve tattoos. But people can still go all out with their tattoos and choose bolder designs. However, most common designs are often minimalist.

Quotes work best on the inner forearm since the length is a great place for words, especially longer ones. You can usually add designs but many choose not to. It helps create a cleaner design. Apart from quotes, world maps are also popular. These are symbols of traveling and the love of it. Most designs are minimalist, showing the outlines of the countries rather than create intricate details.

The forearm is also one of the best places for a mandala tattoo. Mandalas are beautiful and often a design chosen by women. However, men love this design too and usually puts it on their forearm. As they usually have wider arm, this design is perfect.

2. Inner Elbow Tattoos

Inner elbow is slightly more painful than other parts of the body. This is because the skin is taut and quite sensitive. But this is a better spot than the outer elbow since the crease could ruin the tattoo’s design.

Designs are usually much simpler in this area, especially for women. In fact, it’s one place where minimalist tattoos work best. For minimalist tattoos, shapes and geometric patterns are great and trending designs. These designs do not have intense details but look stunning nonetheless.

Mandalas and intricate details are also welcome. They usually cover the entire elbow area and could even extend to the forearm or the biceps. Other intense designs such as 3D tattoos of skulls, favorite characters, illusions, and other tattoo designs are also getting popular.

Lastly, shorter quotes or phrases look amazing and clean in this spot.

3. Sleeve tattoos

This is where you can go crazy with your design. Sleeve tattoos could either be a quarter, half, or full. That means you can cover just a part of your biceps, the upper arm or extend it to your forearm for a full sleeve. Since the area is usually bigger, you can create more detailed body art.

Many choose 3D tattoo styles for their sleeve tattoos. Among the most common arm tattoos is the biomechanical theme. This is where the design makes it look like the wearer actually has metal bones or gears inside. The theme is more common towards men but some women are already picking this up.

For women, floral designs are very common. They usually fill half their sleeves with tattoos of various flowers. Some choose just a single flower than a whole bouquet of different ones. Usually, the flower is their favorite or it has a meaning that is close to them.

Surrealistic designs are also in. These are more abstract and can have darker or mysterious undertones. It combines various tattoo elements. Designs like these do not really have obvious meanings, except when you give definition to each element you see. Instead, the meanings are created by the artist, usually the wearers themselves.

4. Armband tattoos

Armband tattoos could be anywhere in the arms, but these usually go around to make an armband of sorts. These designs are often cleaner and smaller. But they can be created in a few different ways, depending on what element you choose.

Tribal armbands often include tribal styles. For women, swirls and dots are prominent. Men’s designs usually include thicker and bolder lines. Speaking of lines, simple and minimalist lines that go around the arms is also getting more popular now. This could mean infinity and balance, since you can’t really tell where it begins and where it ends.

Others choose more intricate designs such as a wonderful scenery. The most popular choice is a forest or a mountain range. You can also go with a city view with skyscrapers, your neighborhood, a countryside, or famous landmarks you want to see.

You can do these designs with more details or in a minimalist way. For the latter, doing the entire tattoo with dots is beginning to be more common. Although this is a grueling task, it gives a unique result.

5. Inner Bicep Tattoos

Out of all the spots in your arm, inner bicep tattoos might be the most painful. The area is much more sensitive and you may have problems with the aftercare. Your clothes could rub the tattoo and it could ruin the design. Still, many are opting for an inner bicep tattoo, regardless of the hardships they’ll encounter.

Since the inner bicep is slightly a smaller area, you can only create smaller to average-sized designs. However, you can get creative so long as it fits the dimension. You can opt for a simple quote or a minimalist tattoo. If you love abstract or surrealistic designs, then you are free to create the design.

This is also a good place for traditional and more conventional designs of tattoos. For example, a clock tattoo design or animal designs such as lions, tigers, and wolves. You can turn it into a 3D style or the traditional way.

Suffice to say, it’s a lot like the sleeve area where you can create a masterpiece as a way to express yourself.

Meanings of Popular Arm Tattoos

Since the arms have become the conventional spot for tattoos, the designs have become incredibly varied. There are countless themes and elements you can follow. However, some designs have become more popular – mainly because of what they mean.

Here are some meaningful symbols that could inspire your next ink:

• Skulls – Skulls can be drawn alone or with another element. Designs these days often pair a skull with a woman. Skulls mean death and mortality. Being paired with a woman could mean the cycle of life or life and death themselves. This could also mean the acceptance of the inevitable.
• Roses – Among all the flowers in the world, roses have become a household name in the tattoo industry. It is one of the traditional tattoos that started with soldiers getting tattoos. Roses simply mean love and passion. That is why they are paired with other elements, usually a symbol for a person or a hobby.
• Clocks – Clocks, watches, and pocket watches are also common for tattoo designs. This object has even more varied meanings and it can depend on what element goes with it. However, if a clock is depicted on its own, it is a symbol of life, death, time itself, or a very special moment.
• Angels – Angels or angel wings are symbolic to Christians and those who follow the religion. It means messenger or a way to communicate with God. It can also mean protection and guidance.
• Trees – Either a lone tree or a whole forest, this design is great for those who have been through a lot. As a tattoo, it represents those who are still standing even after the challenges in their lives. It can also mean life and family.

Finding your Tattoo Artist

Sometimes, your design may not be followed exactly. This could be because of your tattoo artist. Sometimes, a few elements in your design may not be suitable for the whole tattoo or where you are going to have it. But there are also moments when they are unable to follow exactly what you have in mind.

Communication is very important and have it grow even before you work with them. While still looking for a tattoo artist or shop, you should already learn how to be comfortable with them. Be sure you ask them for their suggestions about your design. And most of all, ask them for their portfolio. This is where you’ll see all of their past works. This is important since you will know whether they have worked on a similar design as yours.

Also, if you want a 3D tattoo, you have to guarantee that your artist knows how to effectively create one. This is one of the hardest styles since it need mastery in various tattooing techniques. Again, this is where you will find it useful to check their portfolio.

Last but not the least, a great artist cares for your safety so do check their place and their equipment.

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One of the most popular symbols of all time is the cross. It is the main symbol of Christianity and Catholicism. Oftentimes, we would see it in religious places such as churches and chapels. But now, it can be seen anywhere, even in our bodies. Cross tattoo designs are very common. So, what makes these designs popular with in the industry?

It is common to see crosses that are directly linked to Christianity and Catholicism. That being said, it is mostly deemed as religious. However, you don’t have to be religious or a devote follower to have a cross tattoo. In fact, the image has more meanings than one.

Brief History of the Cross Tattoo

The cross might be the most recognizable of all the ancient symbols in the world. It is used in crucifixion, a method of torture or death in the old days. It then became a holy symbol when Jesus died on the cross for the sins of humankind. Nowadays, it has become the usual choice for many tattoo and art enthusiast to depict spirituality and religion.

It is believed that the cross also signifies men and women. The horizontal beam is said to represent femininity with their characteristics – passivity, earthiness, and even destruction and death. The vertical side is meant to represent the male counterpart as well as celestial, creative, eternal, positive and active.

What Does a Cross Tattoo Design Represent?

We get tattoos to tell stories or to signify certain characteristics. Getting a cross tattoo is often for the same case. However, the imagery is not purely for religious connotations as what many might perceive.

One of the more common representations of the cross is strength and courage. Of course, it also means faith, devotion, and spirituality. This can also mean a cultural or a family heritage.

Ironically, the imagery can also be used to represent atheism. This is the belief that there are no deities. More often than not, atheists believe in science and that energy created the universe. Some designs are also linked to sun worship. The design usually comes with a halo background or rays of the sun coming from the cross. There are also some that link a cross tattoo to the occult.

The cross can also represent life and a loved one. It is usually the symbol we use in memory of a family or a friend. That being said, it can also mean pain through love and loss.

Apart from being a symbol of humankind, it also denotes the union of man and woman. It is also closely related to the feminine more. That is the reason why the feminine symbol has a cross while the masculine symbol has an arrow.

A few other meanings that can be associated with a cross tattoo are the following:

• dedication
• constellation
• honor
• ascension
• suffering
• death
• equality
• peace
• regality

In the end, how it means depend on the bearer and the design. Many choose to create their own stories using these universal symbols.

Popular Cross Ink Designs

While the symbol is universal, there are variations in designs. These are all the designs you would see in the tattoo industry. In fact, you can get one tattooed on you if you like.

First off is the Christian cross. Again, it could be the most popular symbols of all time. Christianity and Catholicism finds the cross as the foundation of the religion. This is where Jesus Christ died and was then resurrected as the Lord’s right hand after three days. The design could vary. Others choose a simple design while others have decorated Latin cross. This cross is pretty much the basis for almost all the cross designs out there.

The Celtic cross is another common symbol. This design is generally a combination of two other symbols: the circle and a Latin cross. The former is where the lines intersect and depicts the cycle of life and death.

One variation of the Celtic cross infuses knots into the design. With this, it becomes more of a pagan symbol than a Christian one.

The Maltese cross is another variation you might have seen before. This is the best symbol for soldiers, firefighters and policemen as it signifies sacrifice and courage. They often choose this to signify their respect for their jobs. You can easily point out a Maltese cross as it has eight points and V-shaped pongs. You would find this symbol familiar if you have found pictures of the old crusades.

Tribe crosses are a great choice for those who love tribal tattoo designs. This is often a homage for ancestors rather than a religious symbol. Apart from that, it can be worn by someone who believes and respect a tribe and their tradition. It is often made with heavy and pigmented black but nowadays, people tend to give it more color.

Gothic crosses are also gaining more popularity these days. These are the ones that are closer to the Latin cross but often have distinct variations. Many choose to add snakes and dragons. Others choose a design that makes the cross appear like it is made from barbed wire. These designs are usually added so the cross won’t be mistaken for a religious symbol. They can represent anger, pain or just a simple homage to the Gothic culture.

The Iron Cross is a symbol with roots from Germany. It was used since 1800 and was used to depict bravery. This was often used on medals for soldiers. Today, it became more as a decorative symbol in the German military. The symbol has also become some sort of rebellious symbol. It is said to convey a message of nonconformity.

The Anchor cross is another design you might have seen before. An anchor is a device seen on boats that helps keep the vessels grounded on the sea. It pretty much has the same meaning in tattoos. This represents hope and grounding faith.

Cross Tattoo Designs for Women

Cross tattoos are a good choice for women who want to get a tattoo. They can get simple designs which are great for first timers. It also symbolizes femininity so that’s an added bonus.

The Celtic cross is more for women who have experience with getting a tattoo. Of course, those who are adventurous or are ready for more complicated designs can go with this design. There are many intricate yet delicate designs for Celtic cross which makes it a top choice for women.

Egyptian cross or known as the Ankh is also a great option. The symbol signifies life and as a life bearer and giver, it is a perfect choice. But it can also signify the union of a man and woman so it is also a popular choice among couples.

The most common placement for women are often on the wrist, the lower back, lower leg and the shoulder blades. These areas may be a little painful but it is bearable.

Cross Ink Designs for Men

Men often have more options for their tattoos. This is pretty much because they have a wide option of where they can place it. Women tend to have a limited choice as to where it is best to place the tattoo that makes it look delicate.

The most popular tattoo placement for men are on their arms; either a half sleeve or a full sleeve. The forearms, the upper back and the chest areas are also common among men.

As for the design, there really isn’t any significant styles they can get. Again, men have a wider option so they can choose any design they want. Still, tribal and Celtic crosses are getting more popularity these days.

What is the Best Size and Placement for your Tattoo?

No matter what size you want, a cross tattoo still retains its imagery. That might be one of the best reasons why getting a cross tattoo is a good choice. The placement is not an issue as you can have it anywhere you might like. The size would then depend on where you want to place it.

If you want a small cross inked on you here are some good placement:

• On the finger – You can either have it like it was a ring or hidden on side of the finger. This works best if you want a simple design.
• Behind the ear – This placement has become a rather popular placement for smaller tattoos.
• Wrist – Perhaps the best placement to choose if you want a small yet detailed design. There is enough space to make more than a simple cross. However, you can still choose to get a simple one accompanied by a quote, a name or a Bible reference.

For medium sized tattoos, you can have them on the following:

• Forearm – The forearm is a great place if you want a simple to a more complicated design. It is also the choice if you have quotes you want to put alongside the cross tattoo.
• Legs – There is often plenty of space on the legs so it’s also a good place to put medium size tattoos without it getting lost in the space.

Larger tattoos or more detailed ones with backgrounds can be placed here:

• Chest area – This would work on men. The chest area is wide and can offer more space. In fact, you can extend the design to your shoulders.
• Back – The back, alongside the chest, is the biggest area where you can place a tattoo. You can go for the upper, lower or the middle part of your back. However, some choose to get tattoos that cover their entire back area. This could take various appointments to your tattoo artist. You would also need a more detailed design to fill the space.
• Thighs – Although the thighs are not as wide as the space on your chest or back, it’s a great area to place detailed tattoos.
• 

Tattoo Styles

Making a tattoo design is a whole lot like making an art for paper or canvas. You would need creativity if you want your design to be unique. If you want that, here are some of the tattoo styles that could help bring uniqueness to your design.

3D designs are hard to do. It involves a grueling process and a lot of communication with your artist. However, the end results are stunning. Basically, an artist has to use shadows and highlights to create the illusion of a design popping out of your skin. Other designs make it seem like a design has been carved on you.

Minimalist designs are best for first timers. These designs often incorporate lines and patterns only without the heavy shadows and highlights. For example, you can draw a simple Latin cross or an ankh without any complicated decors and background. These are rather simple so it works on women.

Watercolor designs are also more popular on women these days. It is called watercolor as the design incorporates splashes of light pastel colors. It would often look like a drop or a stroke from a paint brush. These tend to be more colorful than the usual black and gray tattoos.

White tattoos are also getting more attention these days. Basically, a tattoo artist would use only white tattoo. These are usually for highlighting designs but can do quite well on their own. The design tends to be “invisible” especially for fair-skinned people which is great if you want an easy to hide ink. However, it would look absolutely stunning on darker-skinned people.

Choosing your Artist

Finding the right and the best tattoo artist is more important than your design. You can be rest assured that that tattoo you want and need would be achievable so long as you have a good artist by your side. So, how does one find the best?

The “best” is pretty much subjective as one might work for you while it may not for others. However, they all have the same qualities.

First off, they should have high regard for your safety. Their tattoo shop should be clean with a sanitizing equipment ready at hand. They should also be using gloves and new ones per customer. The same goes for the needles they use. You should see them opening a new and unused set of needles and throw it away after use. If they are unable or can’t answer your questions regarding their cleaning procedures, find another shop.

Second, they should be easy to communicate with. Some people gets along with others while some do not. You have to find that artist that you can be comfortable with. You have to work with them for the design that you want so you’d likely need someone who you think understands you well.

You’d also want to check out if their package includes free minor changes to your tattoo once it is done. You can approach them after the tattoo is healed and ask for very small detail changes like shadowing or covering a small portion. However, you’d have to pay if you want major changes or cover-ups.

Lastly, they should be reliable. The best way to find that person is to ask your family or friends. You can ask them about the artist and see their work. You can also ask them about their experience. From what you have gathered, you can either go with them or choose another.

When Can You NOT Get a Tattoo?

Anyone can get a tattoo nowadays especially since society is more open-minded about it. However, there are still instances when you wouldn’t be allowed to get a tattoo. Here are when you can NOT get one:

• Pregnant
• Drunk
• High
• Pre-surgery
• Post-surgery
• You are sick.
• No ID
• You are undecided
• You don’t know what tattoo to get
• No money

Know that a tattoo shop could reject you if you are unable to think clearly for yourself. They understand that getting a tattoo should be a decision you are willing to take. That is why they won’t even let you have a tattoo if you do not know what design you want.

Tattoo Aftercare

Right after getting your cross tattoo, you would likely be bandaged. When can you remove it? Can you wash it after? Here are the things you should do after you get inked.

1. Let the bandage sit for 2 to 4 hours. Do not take it off right after getting home. You would notice that the ink would mark your bedding on the first night. That is normal. However, assure that you have clean bedding every now and then.
2. You can wash your tattoo after taking off the bandage. But use mild and fragrant-free soap. Do not scrub it, instead gently make circular motions to take off the ink and blood.
3. Don’t use bath towels. Only use paper towels to dry it and dab it. You can use your hair dryer on “cool” but you can also air dry it.
4. Use fragrant-free lotions to help with the drying. Do not pick the scabs and flakes.
5. No swimming and sun bathing for up to 3 weeks. Avoid using bath tubs as well.

It would most likely take your tattoo to fully heal from 3 weeks to 6 months, depending on the size and how you care for it.

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Sensuality with the tattoos found on the lower back of a woman’s body is not a surprise. Also known as “tramp stamp,” lower back tattoos became a hot trend at the popularity of low-waist jeans in early 2000. Apart from its sexual meaning, it’s also an image of self-confidence. In contrast with the past, it is now much viewed as artistically feisty.

A New Trend With A Long History

Majority of the men and women having tattoos etched on their bodies, understand that it’s more than just an enhancement of the curves and shapes. Apart from its perceived appeal to the opposite sex, ancient religious rites have played a significant role in the origin of lower back tattoos.

Many women with lower back tattoos are probably unaware of its historical significance. If we take its historical claim in an evolutionary perspective, the ancient spiritual rituals suggest that the symbol set on the lower back holds pure energy. It was believed to grant the tattoo’s wearer the ability to control and harness spiritual energy. Unfortunately, nothing much has been discovered to support this historical claim.

Why It’s Time To Flip The “Tramp Stamp” Script

The lower back tattoo is meant for low-slung pants, not for the sensationalized sex-crazed mark “that brazen little hussy!” In reality, they’re just attractive and sexy. But, we can agree that it’s not any form of a woman with questionable virtue. Okay, you can’t argue with its well-known history. Apparently, over time, since its continuous prevalence as body art,—it shouldn’t mean ‘compromised morals’ anymore.

To some degree, having your tattoo inked on your lower back has convenient purposes. If you would rather make a prudent decision where to get permanently inked, the lower back is the best spot for a tattoo. The lower back is the only middle-of-the-body option if you dig tattoos but want to be discreet. Unless you wear skimpy tops with hip-slung pants, shorts, and skirts. Even backless tops are usually cut to cover the lower back.

Why? The arms, chest, back and other areas where shaving is also needed, are still easily exposed parts. A weight gain and weight loss can cause the image to look distorted due to sagging skin as well as overly stretched skin. Fortunately, a lower back tattoo’s ink doesn’t get dramatically affected by weight changes. A tattoo on that area is safer from possibly getting ruined.

Therefore, it’s no longer about the derogatory characterization of a woman’s sexual behavior as promiscuous. It’s a reliable place for precious body art. The perfect spot to compliment a woman’s curves, with an option to hide it easily if needed. Being a woman yourself, how it’s known for just need to change into admiring your confidence.

The Best Lower Back Tattoo Designs And What They Mean

If Koi fish tattoos have different representations depending on the story behind, and so as the sexy lower back tats! Since a bit of debunking of lower back tattoos has been done, it’s time to get into the artistic aspect of it.

Lower Back Wing Tattoos

It could be anything, a phoenix, a bird, a butterfly, a dragonfly or a dark angel. But, with each beautifully laid stretched wing, it’s stunning in a fierce fashion. In a way, dark angel tattoos have two ostensible meanings taken from what dark angel means. The tattoo could be a symbol of regret over bad decisions and now branding themselves as sinners. Or as simple as a symbol of emotional protection.

Lower Back Gun Tattoos

If you are bold, a firearm enthusiast or simply rebellious a gun is a sure-fire way to go. Gun tattoos have various meanings. It signifies freedom, authority, strength, liberty, and intimidation. Moreover, with gun designs, the variations are endless. Especially, when it comes to lower back tattoos for women, dual pistol guns are the most popular. Most gun tattoos have personal inscriptions. 

Lower Back Tribal Tattoos

The tribal tattoo is one of the most desired tattoo designs that will never die anytime soon. It’s been a trendy skin emblem since it dawned from the ancient times of various cultures. And now, it’s a very in-demand lower back tattoo amongst women. It’s popular because it has that ferocious, expressive, and passionate appeal which can easily blend well with modern elements.

Lower Back Bow Tattoos

It’s a very eye-catching, feminine symbol and you can’t go wrong that it talks female power the moment you see it. It might be just a bow, but it can speak about someone’s liberation from suppression. Sharing and giving is another symbolic importance of this design. Bow tattoos have limitless styles, color blends, and suits all age groups.

Lower Back Compass Tattoos

Compass tattoos for lower backs are for the free-spirited, flirty, and adventurous women. It could be an anchor, Celtic, vintage, map, the popular star compass, or perhaps, the Nordic compass. Whichever you choose, with or without vivid colors, compass tattoos look grand on the lower back. This type of tattoo genre compliments explorers and traveling women. Different compasses represent one significant meaning to those who have them. They mean guidance and protection for your passions.

Lower Back Rose Tattoos

What makes the rose tattoos admirable, in general, is it can be both elegant and wild. Furthermore, the meaning behind it is quite relatable and encouraging. Rose tattoos express delicate beauty and love that withstands time, even death. It is also a symbol of balance and new beginnings. While the thorns signify the ability to protect.

Lower Back Flaming Heart Tattoos

Passionate love is the precise symbolism of a flaming heart, like the sacred heart of Jesus Christ. Other than it mirrors the feelings of love and commitment, the flaming heart also expresses unique knowledge. The women with this tattoo on their lower backs suggest that they’re not to be underestimated or intimidated. Celtic and Maori inspired designs would be great style choices for a flaming heart as both have cleaner details.

Lower Back Vines Tattoos

Generally, the vines hold the sacred meaning of life (as associated with the tree of life.) In various ancient cultures, whether it is the fruit-bearing vines or with flowers. It’s a mark of survival and hard work. It may seem not “feminine” as it also has its other unfathomable meanings. Vines are mythical elements for goddesses if amalgamated with flowers. But, since vines are habitually inked in escalation, if created with flowers, it can look refined and elegant on the lower back.

Lower Back Ornamental Jewel Tattoos

Originally, jewel tattoos are intended for the chest, back neck, and underboob. But, they make a charming lower back tattoo. Diamonds or any gems, whether a stand-alone tattoo or incorporated into a variety of different symbols. It can simply represent your birthstone or unbreakable love for someone or something.

Lower Back Wolf Tattoos

Wolves are known intelligent and powerful animals with incredible survival skills in the wilderness. Therefore, as a skin emblem, wolf tattoos signify the mark of an archetypal warrior. Wolves also hold the symbol of life and light as they have the ability to see in the dark and live under harsh weather conditions. As a lower back tattoo for women, it represents love, affection, and leadership.

Lower Back Koi with Lotus FlowersTattoos

Koi fish swimming with lotus flowers is a symbol of beauty that comes out of tough circumstances. The two symbols hold a significance reflecting our life stories. Incorporating lotus flowers and the koi together depict boldness, growth, and survival. Both elements together make a stunning lower back tattoo.

Lower Back Tattoo Aftercare Tips

Sure your tattoo artist will provide you with all the must-do aftercare tips. But, you should not take the aftercare of a fresh lower back tattoo lightly. To ensure your tattoo heals well the fact that it is hard to reach needs careful attention. What’s really important is it doesn’t rub against anything, like the waistband of your pants, skirt, or shorts.

First tip: Allow the tattooed skin to breathe

First things first, keep in mind that your artist knows how long your new tattoo needs to stay covered. When the gauze is ready to be removed, allow your skin to breathe.

Second tip: Keep it clean regularly until it heals

It’s a wounded skin. Hence, you need to make sure it does not get infected until it’s done scabbing and peeling. Make it a point to wash your hands before ever touching your fresh tattoo. Use only the fragrance-free soaps and lukewarm water to wash off the plasma and blood residue. Be gentle! Pat the skin to dry using a clean paper towel. Apply a thin layer of the necessary aftercare lotion to keep the skin moisturized.

Third tip: Leave the SCABS alone

Very simple, don’t get tempted to reach your back and peel the scabbing skin, —just don’t. If you do, you will fade off the ink, delay the healing time, and give your tattoo a bigger risk to get infected.

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An octopus tattoo may not be as mainstream as common designs. Nonetheless, it is gaining popularity in the tattoo industry for both men and women; and there is no surprise. The designs are often complex but more than its looks, an octopus’ persona and the mysticism surrounding it gives the tattoo more value.

Just as with most tattoos, an octopus tattoo often represents the wearer. It gives the world a glimpse of who the wearer is as a person or the story they have gone through before. The most common representation of an octopus in the tattoo industry comes from the creature’s ability to grow back limbs. That means an octopus design could represent the wearer’s ability to stand up once again after facing a great challenge.

Brief History of Octopus and in Ancient Mythology

The octopus is a familiar element in many cultures. In some ancient mythology, the octopus is a symbol of success and good luck. That is because of its eight limbs. Some cultures believe that 8 is a good and lucky number and anything that counts or sums to the number is known as lucky.

However, not all octopus designs and themes were practically good. In ancient Europe, a deep sea mythical creature known as the Kraken is a colossal octopus that attacks ships. It can also be a variation of an octopus tattoo design. While this can mean destruction, it can also represent strength and power. The Kraken is said to be the first octopus to have existed. After its popularity, it has been widely used in art even up to this day.

Meanings of an Octopus Tattoo

The truth is, tattoos have no specific meanings. Each tattoo can have a variety of meanings. It could follow the general symbolism of an element. But most tattoos have a story that is based on the wearer’s own life.

If you want an octopus tattoo, what it means could be based on its general symbolic meaning. However, it can be different and could depend on you. It could be as far as what it often represents as it could be closer to a story you relate to.

Sometimes, these kinds of tattoos do not even have any meanings. Instead, the wearer typically get them for their aesthetic value.

Nonetheless, here are some of the most general meanings and representations of octopus tattoos:

• Complexity
• Adaptability
• Resourcefulness
• Mysticism
• Versatility
• Regeneration
• Knowledge and intelligence
• Diversity

As mentioned above, the most common representation of an octopus tattoo is often adapted from its regenerative abilities. Once it loses its limbs, it can grow it back. As a tattoo, it can symbolize people’s ability to come back from tough situations.

These deep sea creatures are also very intelligent species. They can easily solve puzzles, especially when it means they can escape a place. They use their advanced minds to think of ways out. That can also be another representation of the tattoo.

Octopus versus Squid

The octopus is often deemed as the exact same creature as the squid and vice versa. However, this is entirely not true. They are separate unique species. There are indeed a few similarities between the two creatures, especially with the tentacles. But there are many great differences.

The two creatures both have eight limbs. However, a squid has two fins on its head plus another two tentacles. The octopus do not have any solid bones nor hard shells on their bodies. Meanwhile, the squid has this flexible backbone or the “pen”.

This is a rather important topic for those who wants to get an octopus tattoo. You have to be sure about the design you want. That being said, be clear of the animal that you want tatted on your body. Research beforehand not just of the designs you want but of the exact animal on your next ink.

What your Octopus Tattoo could Represent

Here are more of the most significant meanings of an octopus tattoo which could give you some inspiration for your ink.

• Flexibility and versatility – As said, an octopus does not have any solid bone in its body. Therefore, it is known as one of the most flexible animals in the world. In fact, it can fit itself into a hole much smaller than it is. In tattoo symbolism, flexibility can talk about someone’s versatility. Getting an octopus tattoo means that you are versatile. No matter what you do, you can adapt and learn easily. Despite facing various challenges in life, wearers are often able to cope with the situation and find a way out.
• Intelligence and creativity – Apart from being great at puzzles, an octopus is pretty much a great survivor. Thanks to its ability to adapt and camouflage, its ability to think of a possible escape or trap for its prey makes it easy to survive in the harsh underwater community. For octopus tattoo wearers, this could represent their intelligence and creativity. They can solve puzzles or analyze problems and situations to come up with solutions.
• Femininity – In some cultures, the octopus is a symbol of femininity because of its link to the ocean. The ocean is also associated with the moon, which in turn is a great symbol for femininity. This could be the reason why tattoo designs with an octopus is a common choice for women.

Popular Octopus Tattoo Designs and its Meanings

While some designs draw its meaning from the the main element itself, some designs can mean differently based on the position or the focus.

For example, a large octopus design the back with the tentacles wrapping around the shoulders, arms,  and waist could mean mystery or power. This is a lot similar with some jellyfish tattoos.

If you focus on the eye of an octopus, this could mean either the past or the future. For some, they associate this with higher intelligence. An outstretched limb can also mean holding on to something or letting go. This could depend whether it is clutching or releasing something.

Of course, what it holds onto or releases could be another symbolic element. This can definitely turn your tattoo into a much different design with a more different meaning.

Octopus Tattoo Variations

If you are looking for specific tattoo designs for your next ink or you want to get an inspiration, we have some octopus tattoo variations. These could have different meanings. Then again, what your tattoo represents is entirely dependent on you.

• Cartoon octopus designs – Cartoon styles are never lost in the tattoo industry. While this is often a style that women choose, some men also prefer this. Although this style often makes the theme more cutesy and girly, it does not necessarily equal to that. Some choose this specific design as they can play around with the design. The cartoon facial features can make way to particular expressions that can make your tattoo look and feel different. You can make it look calm, devious, or fearsome. Cartoon styles make it easy to make your tattoo more unique.
• Blue ringed octopus – This certain species may be small. But this is quite the deadly creature. It is a venomous creature with a venom strong enough to kill a human. If you get this as a tattoo, it could mean that your outward appearance is far different from your personality. You may look small and fragile but you are ready and willing to strike when needed.
• Realistic tattoo – This is a common design for many octopus, sea, and animal lovers. A realistic octopus tattoo has great detail that usually makes the tattoo look exactly like the real thing. Instead of being drawn, it can look like it has been captured via camera. Of course, you will need a skilled artist to make this come true. There are over 300 species of octopus so you might want to start your research. Show the design to your artist so they can work on the colors and every detail to make it as real as possible.

Japanese Octopus Tattoo Design

The octopus is a great part of many cultures around the world. However, one of the most popular cultures that emulate the creature into their art is that of Japan’s. In Japanese mythology, the giant octopus-like mythical creature is known as Akkorokamui. This is very similar to the Kraken.

It is no wonder the Akkorokamui is a popular art theme. It appears in paintings and even in body art. Japanese style tattoos often incorporate other elements such as the lily. Apart from these elements, Japanese style tattoos have a different kind of aura as a whole.

Often, it includes vibrant colors of blues, oranges and purples. The drawing style is also a lot different.

Common Styles and Designs for your Octopus Tattoo

Apart from some of the variations we have, there are also some common styles that artists in the tattoo industry use now. Realistic and cartoon styles are two of these. Here are some more plus a few designs that you can do.

Minimalist tattoo style – This is a great option for women and for first timers. Those who want a delicate tattoo but still delivers a strong message can get a minimalist version. Usually, it just contains the line work of the tattoo. For example, it can be a pretty simple line work of an octopus. There is no need for the grueling details nor shadowing and coloring. This is a great design for first timers as it won’t be as painful as with other styles.

Dotted tattoo style – This style might be one of the most grueling techniques and yet the end results are often stunning. Basically, the tattoo artist will work with dots to create the whole design. There are usually no line works. Even the shading is done with dots. This can also be a good design for first timers and those who are still getting used to the pain of getting a tattoo.

3D tattoo style – This is often related to realistic tattoos. However, apart from getting every detail right, 3D styles strive to make the element “pop”. That being said, artists make use of shading and highlighting to make the tattoo appear “alive”; may it be over or under your skin. A good design is a hole in your skin that shows an underwater scene with a realistic looking octopus peering out. Just like with realistic tattoos, your tattoo artist should be extremely proficient in the style.

Watercolor tattoo style – This is another modern technique that is gaining popularity these days. Basically the tattoo includes pastel and washed out colors, seemingly like that of a watercolor painted on paper. The strokes are soft, sometimes with what appear as droplets as part of the design. For an octopus tattoo, you can turn the color into a watercolor style.

Octopus Tattoo Placement

The placement of an octopus tattoo greatly depends on its style. Yes, the wearer has the authority to choose the place where they want the tattoo to be. However, it is still much better to consider the design and the tattoo’s size.

Smaller tattoos are best placed on areas with just enough space for a small tattoo such as the wrists and the ankles. Usually putting it on areas with wider space often make the tattoo lose its value. It gets lost in all the space and can be easily ignored.

For medium-sized tattoos, you can always have it on the hands, arms, and legs. These are perfect places to play around with the design. It has enough space for the details.

Larger tattoos are best placed on the back and the chest. Ample space makes it perfect for bigger designs with more elements and a background. Some choose to even extend their tattoos to the shoulders and the arms. This would definitely work well with an octopus tattoo as you can extend its tentacles on some parts of the body.

Apart from the size, you’d also want to consider the pain level of each place. Getting a tattoo will definitely hurt but you can find some areas of the body with less pain, specifically areas with more fats and muscles.

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While many get tattoos for its aesthetic value, we can’t argue that many still get one to share a story. The common thing to do for these people are create designs based on unforgettable moments of their life. But what more can pay homage to these moments than the dates itself? We can simply remember the happiest moment of your life, but always remembering the date is something else. That is what a Roman numeral tattoo is for. Let’s face it, not everyone can actually remember some memorable dates, no matter how important the event was.

Roman numerals may be quite simple without any design to go with it. However, it can be versatile as another element to a design. You could add other subjects that complement your tattoo. Not only does this give the tattoo a more pleasing look, it also brings a new meaning to your ink.

Brief History of Roman Numerals

As the name suggests, this numeric symbol came from the Romans. These included graphic symbols to represent numbers. Today, the predominantly used symbol for Roman numerals are letters. This was used for almost 2000 years by the ancient civilization of Rome. In fact, almost the entire Europe adapted the system until Arabic numbers was introduced around 1300 A.D.

Roman numerals were still in use even after Ancient Rome fell. Though not as widely used as Arabic numbers, it is still used today. It has even become a popular tattoo design in the industry.

Roman Numerals Today

Besides being on the face of various old-style and expensive clocks and watches, Roman numerals are not something you encounter often. Sure, you might have learned them at school one time but it’s no surprise you and many others have mostly forgotten about them.

However, more people are researching about this numeric system, especially the ones that best represent certain dates and years. In truth, it is quite complicated and confusing. But once you get the hang of it, it will be easier to convert dates and numbers to Roman numerals. This will be important if you want a Roman numeral tattoo.

Why Get a Roman Numeral Tattoo?

If you are thinking getting inked, you would probably want to have a Roman numeral tattoo. This is a way to immortalize moments in your life through the dates. It can be the different birthdays of your kids, your parents or your significant other. It could be your birthday or your birth year. You can have a tattoo of your wedding date. There are lots of possible dates that you can include that is most memorable for you.

Apart from dates, you can also put numbers that mean a lot to you. It could be your lucky number. You can even have tattoos of your order as siblings. This is one of the most common design for families.

But apart from what it could mean, a Roman numeral tattoo is versatile in terms of where you can place it. You can have it almost anywhere on your body. However, certain places are getting more popular as placement ideas.

Placement Ideas for Roman Numeral Tattoos

Here are some placement ideas you can choose for your Roman numeral tattoo plus some common designs:

• Collar bone – The collar bone might be a painful place to get a tattoo. But it is getting more popular these days especially for clean, long tattoos. Roman numerals are perfect for both men and women and can add an ounce of charm and sexiness. A simple design is enough for this. You can either have your birthday or birth year or a certain date or number.
• Shoulders – You can also choose to put your tattoo on your shoulders. The space is enough for long tattoos such as quotes, numbers, and Roman numerals. Just like with the collar bone, there is a certain charm to a shoulder tattoo. It is also great for both men and women.
• Forearm – The forearm is another perfect place for longer tattoos. Since the space is bigger, you can add elements such as a clock, a tree or a tree branch, or an arrow. A tree usually means resilience while an arrow is moving forward or getting propelled forward. Adding these elements could adapt those meanings. You can make a tattoo design that would remind you of when you have moved forward or when your resiliency was most tested. Of course, the meaning could be entirely different and it is up to you.
• Arms – While the arms are usually the place for bigger sleeve tattoos, your Roman numeral tattoo could find a home there as well. You can put the birthdays of your children or loved ones.
• Chest or back – The chest and the back are two wide spaces that could make way for bigger tattoos. Most common design is a pocket watch with Roman numerals and gears. You can have it surrealistic or realistic style; depends on you really. You can also create more unique designs that best suits your personality.
• Ankles or wrist – Many put Roman numeral tattoos of their height on their ankles. It’s a nice way to be proud of who you are, even though you are merely 5 feet in height. One other design is transforming one side of the “V” into a flock of flying birds.
• Spine – Another sexy and attractive place to put long tattoos is along the spine. Although this is a painful place to get a tattoo, the pain is worth it.

More Roman Numeral Tattoo Ideas

The best tattoo designs are the unique ones that mean a lot to you. But really, it’s hard to be creative without a few ideas. So to help you out, here are some common designs that could inspire you to create a one-of-a-kind Roman numeral tattoo.

Crossed arrows and numerals – Crossed arrows usually signify friendship. The numerals can signify the date of when the friendship started. Others also use the crossed arrows to signify a relationship with their partner. The date could either be when they met or when they got married.

Roman numerals and swirls – The swirls are really just for improving the tattoo design. You can have it as a border or just one side. You can choose simple swirls or more complicated ones. Other elements like hearts and dots also make great decors.

Roman numeral and Arabic or worded counterpart – A simple Roman numeral tattoo is enough. But you can always level it up with its Arabic or worded counterpart. It’s also better if you don’t want to be frequently asked what your tattoo means.

Matching finger tattoo – This is great for couples. You can get an ink of the date of your wedding on your ring finger. It’s a nice little way to remember your special day besides your wedding band.

In white ink – While many use bold black ink, you can use white ink. It is often used for highlighting but it’s getting popularity because of its aesthetic value. It could be almost invisible on fair skin and a wonderful color on darker skin tones.

A different font – It’s almost like Times New Roman is the default font for Roman numeral tattoos. However, you can always experiment with the font and try new ones such as script and calligraphy types.

Numerals on rock – In the old days, they often use rocks to write. You can adapt this concept on your tattoo and create a 3D effect with the rock.

Watercolor style – A simple design to improve your Roman numeral tattoo is to add splashes of pastel color. You can do it in a watercolor style, something that resembles a brush or drip of watercolor on paper.

Roman numeral with a rose – Another perfect design for those in a relationship is one with a rose. Red roses as tattoos represent love and passion.

Birthday with heartbeat – If you wanted to have your birthday tatted on you, you can add heartbeat to signify the day you were born.

Roman numeral on infinity sign – You can have any number or date of your choice into an infinity sign. Usually, couples use this symbol as it represents infinite love, eternity, and perfection.

Celebrity Influences

To prove that Roman numeral tats are popular, here is a list of celebrities with this type of tattoo. You can also gain inspiration from your favorite celeb.

David Beckham, a British athlete, celebrity and art lover has a tattoo of the number seven on the underside of his arm. This was his jersey number when he was a player for Manchester United. Justin Bieber, a Canadian pop star is often seen with a collar tattoo of the year his mom was born. Rihanna also had the same idea with a Roman numeral tat of her best friend’s birthday on her shoulders. Her friend also got a tattoo of Rihanna’s brithday on hers.

Translating Roman Numerals

If you want this type of tattoo, here’s the translation and how you can convert your birthday or your favorite year to Roman numeral. As said, Latin letters represent a certain number.

The letter “I” is equivalent to 1; letter “V” is equivalent to 5;  “X” is equivalent to 10; “L” is equivalent to 50; the letter “C” is equivalent to 100; letter “D” is equivalent to 500; and the letter “M” is equivalent to 1000.

Now, these are just divisible by 10s and 5s. How about the other numbers? To form other numbers, you only need to combine the figures. For example for the number 3, it would be III. Nonetheless, IV is for 4. Sometimes, a figure can be done by placing a lesser figure before a higher figure. Doing this means that the lesser value is subtracted to the higher value.

That being said, I or 1 is subtracted to V which is 5 which is equivalent to 4. Another example is CM which is C for 100 subtracted from M which is 1000. This is then equivalent to 900.

Before Getting a Tattoo

If you have decided to ink a tattoo, there are a few things you first have to consider. You have to find a good tattoo artist to help you with the design if you still don’t have one. The design is also another thing you should consider.

Roman numerals are quite simple to do but very confusing if you are not familiar with it. That being said, research is very important. This is a must-do for every design you want to have. A permanent tattoo is something that stays with you for the rest of your life. You don’t want to have a design that you will soon regret having.

As for the tattoo artist, you’d want to find a person that can do the style you want. As with various artists, some people are better at certain styles. If you want a watercolor style tattoo, you would need to find a person who is confident with doing that certain style. The same goes with realistic or 3D tattoos or with tribal ones.

Another consideration for finding a tattoo artist is to ensure they prioritize your safety. They should have a clean parlor with a sanitizing equipment. It’s also important that they use new and unused needles for the tattoo gun.

Aftercare

The aftercare is as important as the initial steps of having a tattoo. In fact, this could be more essential as the aftercare can make or break your tattoo. Proper aftercare can make your tattoo look amazing and perfect. However, do something wrong and it could cause scarring and the destruction of your tattoo.

When you get home from the tattoo artist, they would likely put a cover over it. You might want to wait for at least 2 hours to 4 hours before taking off the bandage.

The ink is still setting on your skin so there would be excess ink. There would also be blood from the punctures of the tattoo gun. You can wash the area to clean it but use mild and fragrant-free soap. You’d also want to moisturize the area but use mild, fragrant-free and alcohol-free lotion.

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