A tattoo is not just a design on the body. This is a way of self-expression, emphasizing individuality. Tattoos often carry sacred meaning, serve as a talisman or reminder of an important event. Men's tattoos are designed to emphasize the strength, masculinity, will and brutality of their owner.
Location of tattoos for men
Men in most cases prefer large tattoos, so they choose places that will accommodate a voluminous design.
Common places for tattoos in men:
- Hips
- Back
- Breast
- Side and back of neck
Men's hand tattoos most often done in the upper part. The shoulder is considered a universal place for this. The pattern emphasizes the power of the biceps, and a correctly filled pattern will also “come to life” from the play of the muscles. Large images are best suited for application on the shoulder: animals, ornaments, etc.
If you plan to put a tattoo on your back, chest or neck, then you should think about the integrity of the plot. So that the pattern on the shoulder smoothly transitions to another area.
Forearm
The forearm, as a place for body art, is popular due to the low sensitivity of this area to pain and openness to prying eyes. All kinds of inscriptions and quotes are suitable for applying to the forearm. On the wrist, men often get a closed tattoo that encircles the entire wrist. These could be images of watches, ornaments, bracelets, a growing forest, etc. Men also put small designs on their wrists, such as barcodes, inscriptions, and other small symbols. Wrists are sensitive to pain.
Men's tattoo on wrist and forearm
Legs
The calves have recently become a favorite place for tattooing. They can get tattoos on one leg or both. A paired design is applied to the calves, one plot divided into two legs, or unrelated tattoos, but made in the same style. The design is most often large, sometimes it is applied to the entire lower leg. It is believed that the calves are not very sensitive to pain.
A large pattern is also printed on the hips, representing a whole plot or images in the same style. This pattern can be located either on the front of the thigh or completely enclose the leg. It hurts most on the inner thigh. The pain on the front and outer thighs is tolerable.
Back
The back is the most great place for tattoo. Entire plot paintings, military battles, or simply a large image of something are usually painted on the back. Because of its flat surface, the back is the most convenient place for tattooing.
The back is a painful place because there are a lot of nerve endings along the spine. And you need to keep in mind that a tattoo on your back will be inconvenient to take care of yourself.
Breast
A universal place for male tattoo also is the chest. The size of the chest area allows for large-scale paintings. Men most often get tattoos on the upper chest, emphasizing the breadth and power of the shoulders and sternum. Due to availability pectoral muscles, it's pretty without sore spot. Exceptions: nipple areola, collarbone area, armpits, these places are quite sensitive.
If you plan to build up the pectoral muscles, then the tattoo should be postponed until muscle mass won't get enough. Otherwise, if the tattoo is done before the muscle volume increases, then it will stretch and this will spoil it appearance.
Neck
A neck tattoo can be either a continuation of other tattoos or a separate image. Such tattoos can be small or large. The neck is almost always visible to others, so this should be taken into account when choosing a sketch. The neck is quite a painful place for piercing.
Large-scale tattoos and covering the entire body with a design are gaining popularity. Such a tattoo can begin on the foot and end on the neck. An example of a large-scale “sleeve” tattoo, a design tattooed on the entire arm, which can go to the back or chest, represents one plot.
Themes of men's tattoos
The popularity of tattoo themes includes:
- Large predatory animals and birds (wolf, bear, lion, tiger, eagle);
Leo - victory, nobility, justice, pride.
The wolf is a symbol of strength, courage, loyalty, bravery and freedom.
Bear. A raging bear means strength, courage, power, courage. Calm bear - wisdom, confidence.
- Mythical, heraldic animals (dragon, chimera, unicorn);
Centaur - thirst for freedom and adventure, desire for independence.
Chimera-mysticism, aggression, fascination with esotericism, fatalism.
The Dragon. For Eastern culture, it is a symbol of courage, kindness, nobility. For Western culture - strength, aggression, courage.
Unicorn - courage, strength, purity.
Gargoyle is a talisman against evil and temptation.
- Gothic drawings (Skeleton, skull);
The demon symbolizes a vice that the bearer has or that he wants to get rid of.
The skull is a reminder of the finitude of everything, a talisman of death.
- Japanese motifs (samurai, geisha);
Geisha - desire for beauty, love for women.
- Religious motives;
An angel-talisman for its owner, protection from misfortunes.
- Ornaments (Celtic, Slavic motif, runes, mandalas);
Mandala - harmony, orderliness inner world.
- Military motifs (warriors, knights, Vikings);
Knight - courage, courage, morality, honor, the ability to overcome everything.
- Marine motifs;
Steering wheel - passion for adventure, changeability.
Anchor - reliability, constancy.
- Inscriptions (quotes, aphorisms, phrases, names, individual words). Inscriptions carry a certain meaning for a person, remind of an important event, and become a life credo;
- Biomechanical images. Such images represent torn flesh, inside of which there is a mechanical structure. The mechanisms are drawn very clearly, faithfully copying reality.
- Depictions of membership in a subculture or group. Such tattoos are tattooed, for example, by goths, bikers, military men, and criminals.
The topics presented can be carried out in different styles and different techniques. The image can be black and white or color, natural or graphic.
Among the different types of tattoos, a separate direction can be distinguished. It is called a tattoo sleeve. In this case, there is a three-dimensional image that is applied to the entire hand or only to some part of it. Men have always been more daring in this regard, and therefore they often make tattoos from wrist to shoulder, sometimes storylines smoothly transition to the neck and chest. As for the fair sex, ladies often prefer to decorate only some part in this way. In particular, tattoos on the arm from the elbow to the hand are popular. It is this type that will be discussed below. IN modern world They are found in both sexes, the difference most often lies only in the picture. As a rule, male and female plots differ from each other, although there may be differences between them common features. In order not to be disappointed in the tattoo after a few years, you need to carefully think in advance what kind of image you would like to apply.
Men's and women's tattoo sleeves
As a rule, decorating your body with tattoos is most popular among the male half of humanity. They are more courageous and decisive in this area, although nowadays girls are increasingly getting tattoos.
from elbow to hand
Male stories
Guys are more prone to brutal subjects, clear sharp lines intertwined in an intricate pattern, flames, Japanese and Scandinavian ornaments. There are often images of faces mystical creatures, skulls, predatory animals and fish. In particular, Koi carp is popular, which carries a special deep meaning. Present a large number of both black and white and color images. Sometimes you can find a very unusual option, when the skin is simply painted over in a uniform black color, which is only slightly small areas diluted with a laconic pattern. Sometimes this is a way to hide previous unwanted tattoos, but in some cases this is precisely the main idea.
Women's stories
Women's tattoos are traditionally made in the form of floral and foliage patterns, butterflies, and Polynesian patterns. But this does not limit the variety of subjects. By and large, there are many options - you just have to use your imagination.
You will learn about the meaning of floral themes in tattoo motifs from the article.
Unisex tattoos
Universal and popular nowadays are tattoos depicting Japanese and Indian symbols, hieroglyphs, and inscriptions. Often there are symbolic images of one’s own philosophy and worldview.
With the help of a tattoo, you can not only decorate yourself, but also display the main trait of your character, lifestyle or your unique view of the world. A tattoo on the arm from the elbow to the hand is the choice of brave, free people who are not afraid to openly express themselves.
Popular tattoo themes and their meaning
Any tattoo is a big responsibility, because it stays with you for life. This is why it is so important to think through the plot of the image and its meaning in advance.
Sakura branch
This Japanese motif is very popular in the West today. Sakura blooms once a year, and this period marks the beginning of something new. Among the samurai, there is an opinion that a person’s life, even if it is short-lived like the flowering of this beautiful tree, should be just as bright. The blossoming branch of sakura is popular among the fair sex. The tattoo in this case is performed in delicate colors with a predominance of red and pink.
Koi carp
This type of fish in nature is distinguished by the fact that it can spawn against the current for several days. There is a legend that this magical fish, having reached the source of the river, rises into the skies. Therefore, the symbolic image of a carp indicates determination, strong will and commitment to the chosen path. The tattoo uses blue tones with the addition of orange and red.
Dragons
This mythical animal is a symbol of power, strength and power. That is why he is often portrayed by men. There may be fiery components present here. The tattoo can be done in black and white or color.
Hieroglyphs
Using hieroglyphs you can express your life position or motto. In tattoo sleeves they are often woven into the pattern, forming a single harmonious picture. Color solution in this case it depends on personal preference.
When you're choosing which tattoo to get, you should definitely think about the color. Sometimes the image itself, the lines of the pattern, are so expressive that it is best to make them monochromatic. But often the plot directly depends on the colors. And it is the shades that give a special mood and expressiveness. It is worth choosing colors in accordance with the meaning of the tattoo.
You will find everything about tattoos in the form of hieroglyphs in the article.
Getting a tattoo on your arm from the elbow to the hand is undoubtedly a responsible and bold step. This decision should be made thoughtfully and give yourself time to think. In addition, you need to discuss the details with the master and, if necessary, ask for advice. Be sure to listen to the opinions of experienced professionals to avoid disappointment in the future.
Body painting is very popular today. But not everyone likes to put huge tattoos on their back, neck or leg. Many people prefer the simplest ones. These will be discussed in our article. There is no place on the arm where a tattoo cannot be applied. They are done on the wrist, palm, fingers, elbows. Small drawings on hands are aesthetically pleasing and practical.
Simple arm tattoos for girls
The female body was worshiped by many poets and artists. Trying to be more attractive, girls choose delicate tattoos to highlight their natural assets. Stylish, but simple tattoo on the girl's hand increases the self-esteem of any beauty. Women's drawings are graceful and small sizes. What are the simplest symbols on the hand that can reflect a woman’s character?
Very often, girls choose symbols that speak about their character traits. Romantic and dreamy people choose small images of fragile fairies, weightless butterflies and dragonflies, flying dandelions, and fluttering swallows.
Girls with a rich inner world decorate their wrists or elbows with zodiac signs, images of stars and planets. This could be a plant branch. The snake speaks of wisdom, the scorpio speaks of sexuality, the lynx's head speaks of independence. Many people prefer cute angels or dragons.
The simplest tattoos are cat paws, symbolic rose, heart. It has become fashionable among girls to apply designs on their fingers near the nails, which emphasizes the beauty of the manicure. To attract good luck, choose a talisman sign - a horseshoe or a hieroglyph.
Various ornaments and images of flowers look very feminine on girls’ hands. A thin female wrist will be decorated with a tattoo in the form of a bracelet, bow, or cross. Some choose an airy feather, symbolizing lightness and spirituality.
Creative people, accustomed to freedom, choose bird signs. A very simple image is an asterisk, but it speaks of changes in the life of the hostess. IN Lately White tattoos on the arm have become very fashionable; they are very feminine and graceful.
A crown tattoo on the wrist has a deep meaning. It is a symbol of power and authority. Both women and men choose this tattoo.
Simple arm tattoos for men
Many men are also limited to a small design on their hand. Simple symbols, inscriptions, amulets on male hand look very original. Treble clef, anchor, heart cardiogram, Chinese characters- this is a small part of a large spectrum simple tattoos. The “yin-yang” sign on a man’s wrist is quite popular.
Many guys choose a flying comet, a parade of stars, a spider on a web. Men write letters and numbers on their fingers. Sometimes this may be an unusual icon in the form of a mustache. Stars are popular among men. Flames, patterns, and zodiac signs are painted on the forearm. Small images of animals and birds are also in demand. A small predator in the form of a wolf, tiger or bear will only emphasize masculinity. Men prefer birds, symbolizing freedom. One of them is an eagle.
Couple tattoo
Very often, two people go to a fashion salon: a guy and a girl, or a husband and wife. There are a large number of couple tattoos for her and him. They look especially impressive if they are performed on identical parts of the arm. Couples choose symbolic inscriptions, personifications of joint hobbies, signs of appearance.
The girl pins the initial letter of the guy's name, and he, in turn, pins the name of his beloved. This symbolizes their unity. Married couples display their children's names on their hands. Lovers often choose different hearts and cupid signs. A dove in the hands is also a symbol of purity of relationships and seriousness of intentions.
Popular inscriptions
Both men and women love hand tattoos in the form of inscriptions. It could be a small phrase, an aphorism or a word with meaning. The inscription on the hand is a person’s life credo, reflecting his aspirations and desires. Most often they choose a phrase in Latin, Arabic, and English. Sometimes they also use Russian.
There are religious inscriptions that carry spiritual meaning. Capture an important event in life are decided by a memorable date on the hand. Sometimes people themselves come up with symbols that carry importance and meaning only for them. Even a simple drawing on the hand reveals the inner world and indicates the character traits of its owner.
Body drawings have long become commonplace, ceasing to be part of magical rituals or a sign of belonging to. Arm tattoos – interesting way demonstrate your individuality and personal philosophy to others. Girls prefer neat and delicate patterns that emphasize femininity and character.
How to choose a place for a tattoo?
The selection of the location of the picture depends on lifestyle, profession and style. If a woman is not ready for constant attention to your person, does not strive to be extravagant and look provocative, it is better to choose something inconspicuous and on the hand for girls, which is easy to hide. For bold individuals who always want to demonstrate individuality, bright and large permanent pictures or inscriptions in open areas are suitable.
Forearm tattoo
This area can only be hidden with a long sleeve, so in the hot season the pattern will be constantly visible. A tattoo on the arm in the area in question is not too painful to apply, and this place often becomes a “canvas” for applying different images. Most women choose neat, medium-sized pictures that are printed on the inside of the forearm. Less commonly, large patterns are applied that completely cover the presented area (in a circle).
Forearm tattoos for girls can be done in monochrome or color, in accordance with personal preferences and the general idea of a permanent design. Most popular sketches:
- abstract pattern;
- images of animals, birds and snakes;
- geometric figures;
- flowers, climbing plants;
- inscriptions;
- Indian symbols, guardians of dreams;
- stars, planets;
- landscapes;
- ethnic patterns;
- national symbols.
Hand tattoo
In the described area there are many nerve endings and practically no fat layer, so it is painful to clog it. Tattoos for girls on the arm in the area of the hand are mostly small and thin, the needle is not inserted deeply. Such drawings will have to be updated frequently, visiting a specialist every 5-10 months, but timely correction is carried out quickly and is less painful than the first application of the picture.
It is most popular on the hand. It can be done in a realistic style so that the drawing looks like jewelry. If you want a more unusual option, the bracelet is stuffed in the form of plant stems, barbed wire, abstract patterns or geometric shapes. Other popular designs for hand tattoos:
- feather;
- star;
- treble clef;
- birds;
- inscription;
- tree of life;
- musical instruments (guitar, violin);
- Rose of Wind;
- compass;
- hieroglyph;
- animals, insects;
- mandalas;
- Indian mehendi patterns;
- symbols of secret societies;
- wings;
- heart.
Tattoo on finger
This is one of the most painful areas for permanent drawing, but you won't have to endure it for long. Artists only fill small tattoos on the hand in the indicated part; a large design simply does not fit on an elegant woman’s finger. The most popular option is the inscription on English language on the side. You can put one word or inscription, for example, a life motto, a favorite aphorism or quote.
Another common finger tattoo for girls is a small design or symbol:
- diamond;
- crown;
- heart;
- star;
- flower;
- musical notes;
- treble clef;
- pin;
- dragonfly;
- feather;
- butterfly;
- muzzle, mouth of an animal;
- bird;
- sign "yin and yang";
- infinity;
- important numbers;
- crescent;
- wing;
- anchor;
- religious symbols;
- ethnic patterns;
- revolver.
In salons, paired tattoos on the fingers in the form of wedding rings. They can be filled in the classic style, with one continuous line, or in other ways:
- ornament;
- date (circumference);
- abstract, geometric symbols;
- floral patterns, weaves;
- inscription, lover's name.
Sleeve tattoo
This type of permanent pattern is a bold decision for a woman. A large tattoo on the arm, covering the entire skin from shoulder to wrist, will be hidden only by a long sleeve; in most summer clothes it will be clearly visible. Such images are chosen by creative individuals who are independent of the opinions of society, people with an unconventional view of the world and their own philosophy of life.
Sleeve tattoos for girls can be performed in any available styles with different patterns:
- black work;
- flowers;
- portraits of people and animals;
- mandalas;
- Indian paintings;
- comics;
- landscapes;
- ethnic ornaments;
- abstraction;
- birds, wings;
- polka trash;
- watercolor;
- biomechanics and others.
The meaning of tattoos for girls on the arm
Most permanent designs are chosen simply according to individual taste. Some girls prefer beautiful, feminine and delicate tattoos on their arms, emphasizing romance and sexuality. Others choose brutal, shocking or frightening images, symbolizing a reflection of a complex inner world or a strong, strong-willed character. You can use pictures on the body as an unusual decoration, or put a special, sacred meaning into them.
Lettering tattoos on hand
Words and phrases to hammer into the skin are rarely chosen at random. Women order tattoos on their arms with inscriptions that may mean:
- motto in life;
- quote, aphorism;
- a reminder of an event;
- important name, date;
- connection with the profession;
- favorite city, country.
Popular tattoo inscriptions on the arm:
- Love(Love);
- Per aspera ad astra(through the thorns to the stars);
- Listen to your heart(listen to your heart);
- Never give up(never give up);
- Veni Vidi Vici(came, saw, conquered);
- Believe in yourself(believe in yourself);
- Esto fortis(be strong);
- Forever young(always young);
- Carpe diem(live the present).
Tattoo patterns
Abstract drawings on the body even without semantic load They look beautiful and mysterious, but many of their owners attach special meaning to every turn of the picture. Tattoo patterns on the arm are performed in several basic styles:
- Indian. Native American designs symbolize strength, agility, speed, wisdom and other qualities.
- Biomechanics. The patterns look like a 3D drawing, an optical illusion.
- Ethno. Khokhloma painting, Ukrainian, Belarusian embroidery and other national motifs are chosen by people who value their “roots”.
- Polynesian. Such patterns were used in religious rites ancient tribes from the islands Pacific Ocean. According to legends they have magical power, can protect the owner and bring him good luck.
- Tribal. Tattoos on the arm with sharp ends are gradually going out of fashion; they are applied only by devoted followers of the style.
- Celtic. Crosses and knots are especially in demand, symbolizing spiritual development and unity of body and spirit.
- Indian. Mandalas are responsible for the development and functioning of different chakras, the exchange of energy with the Universe.
- Asian. Lotus flowers, dragons, carps and other attributes of this culture have spiritual significance, helping the owner to quickly achieve enlightenment, improve karma and escape from the wheel of samsara.
- Black work. A technique that involves completely covering certain areas with black paint. The meaning of black work patterns is determined personally by each owner.
- Geometry. One of the most fashionable modern styles. There is no particular meaning in such images, but they look impressive and futuristic.
Tattoo symbols
This type of body decoration is suitable for lovers of laconic small designs. Symbolic women's tattoos on the hand they are often performed in monochrome, less often they are made in color. Girls approach the choice of such permanent images thoughtfully, finding patterns that match their character, view of the world and personal philosophy. Popular symbols for hand tattoos:
- Scandinavian, Slavic runes;
- zodiac signs;
- hieroglyphs;
- Egyptian signs;
- clover (luck);
- Kolovrat (strength, power);
- infinity;
- serpent Ouroboros (rebirth, eternal life);
- lotus flower (enlightenment, spirituality);
- star (amulet);
- Zen circle (enso – reincarnation);
- wings (freedom);
- heart (love);
- feather (lightness, ease) and others.
Flower tattoos
Most women choose the pictures described, guided by personal preferences and the beauty of the sketch. Small tattoos for girls on the arm in the form of a neat flower look very gentle. They decorate the body, but do not look vulgar, and suit any style. Some women take the selection of a design more seriously, first studying its meaning. Flower tattoos for girls on the arm can have the following meaning:
- lily – nobility, purity of blood;
- rose – passion, love (red), chastity, purity (white), sadness (black);
- clover - fortune, success;
- lotus – resurrection and immortality, spirit and matter;
- sakura – transience of life, purity;
- sunflower – eternal love, loyalty;
- orchid - fertility, beauty, sophistication;
- poppy - loneliness;
- dandelion – cyclicality, rebirth;
- violet - modesty;
- lily of the valley – family values.
Bird tattoos
Images associated with the element of air symbolize flight, lightness of being and the desire for freedom. Beautiful tattoos rations for girls, on the hand with birds can also carry a deeper meaning, depending on the main “hero” of the drawing:
- falcon, hawk - courage, nobility;
- dove - peace, fidelity, protection from evil;
- swan - devoted love;
- eagle - power, greatness;
- swallow - hope, luck;
- flamingo – dreaminess, romance;
- owl - wisdom, magic;
- raven – longevity, intelligence;
- phoenix - eternity, immortality;
- peacock – royalty, beauty;
- seagull - freedom, independence.
Animal tattoos
Girls often associate themselves with representatives of the fauna, so this topic for permanent drawings is very popular. Beautiful tattoos on the arm can be done in monochrome or color. The trendy style is graphics, which are characterized by an abundance of clear straight lines, symmetry, and the absence of areas filled with paint. An animal tattoo on the arm using this technique is considered the most fashionable and modern.
Meanings of different images:
- wolf - loyalty, strength, leadership;
- snake - cunning, deceit, wisdom;
- cat – independence, mystery, dexterity;
- tiger – passion, rage, strength;
- bear - resurrection, perseverance, courage;
- panther – femininity, cunning;
- dragon - eternity, power;
- bat - vigilance, attentiveness;
- panda – peace, tranquility;
- horse - nobility, freedom;
- Leo – courage, greatness;
- deer - beauty, strength, magic;
- fox – playfulness, sexuality.
Insect tattoos
For a long time, the butterfly has held the lead in this topic. body images. Most women simply like it, especially fans of colored permanent designs. The meaning of the butterfly is the immortality of the soul, rebirth and resurrection. The white moth is the spirit of the deceased, it is stuffed in memory of a dear departed person. Other tattoos for girls on the arm with meaning on the theme of insects.
Since ancient times, tattoos on the hands have been very popular and in demand. In tribes, a tattoo on the hands could indicate an occupation, profession, social status. Also, body designs on the hands were applied for beauty, that is, for aesthetic purposes.
In the modern world, the tendency to get tattoos on the hands has continued, because this is the most mobile part of the body, which has many curves. Usually masters divide the hand into several parts: , . Tattoos can be applied to a specific part of the arm, or to several at once.
As a rule, certain designs are depicted on each of the above body parts. Fingers are often used to write letters, numbers or small inscriptions. Recently it has become fashionable to depict a mustache or other original sketches. Names are often written on wrists or stars are drawn on them. The outer part of the palms is characterized by inscriptions and drawings, most often of an individual nature, because the palms are most often visible to other people.
Single tattoos are rarely depicted in the elbow area. More often, the ulnar part of the arm is associated with a tattoo, for example, on the forearm. Images of fire, flames, flowers or small animals are perfect for the forearm. And on the shoulder you can depict almost anything. This place for tattoo artists is often called universal.
It is worth noting that the most popular type of design for tattoos on the hands is still inscriptions. To depict them in the salon, you can choose a specific font and size, because there are a great variety of them. Here, both the client’s desire and the aesthetic value of the tattoo are taken into account.
In addition to individual tattoos on the arms, there is a type called “sleeve”. This is the name of a continuous pattern that completely occupies the space of the hand. This type is popular among both men and women, because in this way you can emphasize a person’s individuality, in addition it great way stand out from the crowd. "Sleeve" can be divided into two categories, depending on the format:
- Long sleeve - the design is applied to the entire arm, from shoulder to wrist.
- 1/2 sleeves - the sketch is printed from shoulder to elbow, or from elbow to wrist.
Sleeve tattoos most often represent an unusual pattern into which, at the client’s request, meaningful inscriptions or drawings are inserted.
Women's arm tattoos are often placed on either the wrist or forearm. Their theme and format are individual, but most often it is something beautiful and unusual. Men's tattoos on the hands, as well as on some other parts of the body, are depicted in the form of predatory animals, significant dates or words. Flames are also popular.
If we talk about the pain of this procedure, then it is worth saying that the process of needling is not the most pleasant, but it is not felt so strongly on the hands. Therefore, not only men, but also women get tattoos on their hands. Pain can be rated at 4 out of 10 on a scale.
Tattoos on the arm have always been considered a manifestation of strength, spirit and emphasize originality.
Video of tattoo on hand
Watch this video of a tattoo artist covering up an old tattoo on his client's arm. The result was a whole sleeve.
Below are various photos of hand tattoos from different artists.