DESIGN
There are many different styles and meanings to tattoos.
If you're looking to find a design which would suit you, you can check sample designs and their meaning here first.
GENRE&STYLE
Tribal / ethnic
Originally, tattoos which made use of traditional Samoan or Polynesian patterns were called tribal tattoos, however, lately, tattoos which use solid black lines have come to be called tribal as well.
Black & gray
Shaded with black and gray, realistic designs.
Color
Illustrations using ink in various colors. Color is also often used as an accent in small fineline designs.
Old school
Traditional American designs, e.g. a swallow or an eagle, many of which hold meanings such as good luck or strength.
New school
Classic motifs made as colorful and humorous designs.
和彫り
Traditional Japanese designs, such as koi fish or hannya demons. Renowned for its uniqueness around the world, they came to be called by the Japanese word ‘irezumi’.
Portrait
There are techniques of drawing the design realistically as if it was a photograph. Nowadays, you can even get a 3D effect tattoo.
IMAGE&MEANING
Chinese dragon
The Chinese dragon is one of the four guardian spirits in Chinese mythology. It's a symbol of luck and according to tradition, it gives protection from natural disasters and brings good fortune. It is said to bring rains of providence.
Chinese phoenix
One of the Four Guardians in Chinese folklore. According to tradition, it feeds on bamboo fruit, drinks holy spring water and only stops on the Chinese parasol tree. It is said when the phoenix appears, it is waiting for the emperor to be born.
Chinese tiger
The tiger acts alone, without relying on anything, and fearlessly overpowers many beasts. Popular motif among men, the Chinese tiger is said to bring good fortune and purify bad energy.
Chinese lion
The Chinese lion is a symbol of strength and bravery. It has been used as protection against bad spirits.
Koi fish
Koi fish represent determination and independence. They symbolize the bravery to go against the current, and are considered to be lucky.
Snake
Snakes as deities are told to bring good fortune, especially money-wise. They have long been a popular motif.
Eagle
The eagle is said to be the king among birds. It symbolizes the sun, royalty, victory and self-esteem.
Madonna
A popular motif, Saint Mary has been depicted in various ways in tattoo designs.
Angel
Being messengers of God, angels give protection and providence to people. They symbolize being kind and of pure heart.
Death
The god of death guides souls of the dead to the other side. It's also a popular motif in tarot cards.
Mermaid
Mermaids have been a popular motif amongst sailors, used by them to get in good favor with the goddesses of the seas and receive their blessings for safe travels.
Owl
Owls are considered beings of exceedingly good fortune.
Lion
Said to be the king of beasts, the lion represents strength.
Wolf
The wolf represents bravery, as well as independence and ability to accomplish things by one's own strength.
Scorpion
Scorpions are famous for their battle stance, as well as their use of poison.
Butterfly
Butterflies symbolize change, thanks to their theatrical transformation. It is also said that butterflies are the souls of dead warriors.
Spider
Though interpretation varies between traditions and cultures, spiders are usually told to weave the threads of destiny, as well as being gods of creative power. They hold a rock n'-roll image, and are used as a design motif in various ways.
Lizard
Being able to stay alive even after having their tail cut off, lizards represent the strong will to live on.
Cherry
Cherries symbolize having a calling and determination.
Flowers
The meaning of flower tattoos varies between the types of flowers, and they can be designed in many different shapes as well. They are also used simply as a decorative element.
Heart
The heart represents life or love. It is often combined with other elements to make a unique design.
Cross
Crosses are often used in tattoo designs. They can represent death, sacrifice or love.
Sun
The sun motif is used in designs in a variety of shapes. It's viewed as a light and warmth giving force.
Crown
The crown that the king wears, it represents royalty and is a symbol of power.
Sword
A sword represents honor, creed, justice, as well as destruction and creation.
Dice
Gambler's dice are a symbol of luck and the uncertainty of fate.
Wings
Wings are often used with the intention to remind oneself to spread their wings and be free.