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Spiritual Tattoo

10 Beautiful Spiritual Tattoo Designs (And Their Meanings)

Are you looking for meaningful tattoo ideas? Check out our list of the most beautiful spiritual tattoo design ideas along with their meanings.

Tattoos are beautiful. They convey ideas; they adorn the body and are a fashion statement. About 72 percent of adults have tattoos across the globe.

However, Italy tops the list of countries with the highest number of individuals with tattoos. While different religions and nations associate tattoos with specific ideas and meanings, most will still agree that they have a spiritual attachment.

Spiritual tattoos may be different compared to other forms of tattoos. Often, they take the shape of animals, birds, and images of deities. However, there are other symbols with a spiritual meaning.

Therefore, you can choose a tattoo that expresses your inner world and speaks of your spiritual affiliation.

With that in mind, are you looking for meaningful tattoo ideas? Check out our list of the most beautiful spiritual tattoo design ideas along with their meaning.

1. Lotus

Tattoos can uniquely tell your spiritual story. In Asian religion, the Lotus is a very powerful plant. Its ability to rise above harsh conditions and to bloom into a fragrant plant is something to adore.

The plant can grow in the watery and muddy surrounding. To many Asians and Hindu gods, this is a great plant that represents enlighten.

Getting a lotus tattoo depicts spiritual enlighten most beautifully. It is a tattoo that emphasizes patience amongst Hindus and Buddhists.

2. Om Tattoo

The Om tattoo means the song of the universe. It signifies that everything that has a beginning has an end. In a spiritual world, it means there is an end to every painful experience.

Om still defines an infinite source of knowledge, carnal existence, and talks of a connection of an individual’s energy with a spiritual being.

3. The Trinity Knot

The trinity knot or the triquetra is another beautiful spiritual tattoo design. The history of this tattoo can be traced back to the pagans. It is a Nordic and Celtic symbol that has three interlocking parts.

Spiritually, it signifies unity, the connectedness of the sea, sky, and earth. It illustrates the Trinity, the whole idea of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The triquetra tattoo represents spiritual togetherness and eternity.

4. The Cross

Today, the cross symbol is common in many churches. Christians across different parts of the globe believe that Jesus Christ was born as a baby.

He lived a holy service life and was crucified on the cross to save those who believe in him from sin. The cross tattoo is therefore used as a reminder of Gods unending love, his everlasting grace, and powerful redemptive power.

Small cross metaphysical tattoos on foot still mean walking in faith.

5. A Dove Tattoo

Traditionally, the dove has a deeper religious meaning. It is a bird loved by many religions, including Christians and Hindus. From the Bible, it is the dove that gave Noah the signal that the waters were receding.

The dove in the flood story returned with an olive leaf in its beak to the ark. Today, many Christians still associate the dove with holiness. It is a representation of the Holy Spirit.

A dove tattoo for Greeks is a representation of love, as it is considered a symbol of the goddess of love, the Aphrodite.

A dove tattoo for some people is a healer tattoo. This can be healing from an illness, loss of a loved one or from a heartbreak.

6. Water Tattoo

A water tattoo is wavy like. Water is life-giving. It is essential, and it is treasured across global religious setups as a source of life.

Amrita, a mixture of sugar and water, is drunk by Sikhs during initiation ceremonies. During such ceremonies, attendants commit to observe different principles of their religion.

Christians, Jews, Muslims, and Shintoism followers use water as a symbol of purity.

In other religious setups, water is a symbol of creation, immortality, and destruction. Therefore, you can have a water tattoo as a symbol of life regardless of your religion.

7. The GV Tattoo

The GV tattoo, according to many Christians, means God is great. He is above the challenges, the highs, the lows, and the superpower. Having the GV tattoo is considered a reinforcement and the belief that there is a greater God.

The spiritual symbol tattoos signify the supernatural God who can carry you through all the bad and tough times to the most peaceful and enjoyable moments.

8. The Tree

Trees are naturally beautiful. They are a source of hope. Traditionally, trees remind you of the existence of life and the interconnectedness of different aspects.

Trees are a symbol of growth, resilience, strength, and hope even when you face life’s challenges. Storms are part of life; trees can endure different seasons and remain strong.

Trees are also a source of shelter, a place to relax or take refuge, and a source of nourishment. Trees are also a symbol of life in other religions.

According to Buddhists; Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhist’s faith, was enlightened after meditating under a Bodhi tree. To the believers, a tree tattoo is a symbol of spiritual enlightenment.

9. The Anchor

The anchor tattoo design symbolizes salvation, hope, joy, and eternal life. Many anchor drawings can be traced back to the third century and are etched inside Roman catacombs. There are also many anchors in early Christian martyrs gravesides.

10. A Heart Tattoo

A heart tattoo is beautiful and with a spiritual meaning. It is a symbol of kindness and a soul full of love. It conveys compassion and generosity. Depending on the heart tattoo style you choose, your tattoo could also mean

The love for God because in Hindu religion, the heart is the house of Brahma. For Christians, it means Gods temple.
It can reflect your inner spiritual world.

Tattoos Define You, Choose the Best Tattoo Design

Beyond the beauty and simple ornamentation of your tattoo, there lies a deeper meaning. Spiritual tattoos are a visual form of communication.

They define who you are, your culture, your spiritual being, your desires, and your aspirations.

To learn more, contact us here.

Military Tattoo Ideas

15 of the Best Military Tattoo Ideas and Styles

15 of the Best Military Tattoo Ideas and Styles

If you served in the military and want to get a tattoo that is military-related, click here to see a list of the best military tattoo ideas.

A military tattoo is a great way to show your support for our troops. People have used tattoos to honor soldiers and warriors for most of human history. And a military tattoo is a bold statement. It can be a personal memorial to a lost loved one. It becomes a part of your identity. Your tattoo can be a sign of protest, of the burdens you carry, or the support and honor you hold. But it’s something to take on carefully. Tattoos are riddled with personal symbolism, and you need your tattoo to reflect that. If you’re considering a military tattoo, check out these great military tattoo ideas.

1. Dog Tags

Dog tags are a staple when it comes to military tattoos. Add them to nearly any other tattoo to give it a militaristic touch. Furthermore, you can leave a dog tag tattoos blank. Or you can add a specific name or date if there’s a particular person you want to honor with your ink. Consider pairing your dog tags with roses, boots, flags, firearms, or leave them on their own.

2. Firearm and Helmet

The helmet on the butt of a firearm is another iconic and simple military tattoo. Add boots, roses, a name or a motto. This iconic tattoo is a favorite because it’s simple, elegant, and respectful.

3. Flags

Flags are another common staple in military tattoos. Many enjoy a flag showing through ripped skin style. Others like a saluting soldier silhouetted against a flag. Keep the flag either on it’s own, or pair it with any other idea on this list.

4. Branch Seal

Is there a particular branch you want to give a shout out to? Consider incorporating a military branch seal into your design.

5. Soldier Silhouettes

Soldier silhouettes are another great, iconic way to shout out to our troops. Silhouettes can be as simple as a single troop saluting, or an entire line marching. Do you have an idea you think might look good with a silhouette? Make sure to talk to your tattoo artist about it! They can usually come up with great ways to piece together your ideas.

6. Traditional Army Tattoos

Traditional army tattoos take on more of a caricature appearance. Typically, they’re an eagle holding a US Army banner. But if you want to branch out, look at other military branches. The navy has the traditional anchor tattoo and the bulldog in the helmet. There’s a lot you can do with traditional tattoos.

7. Camo

Camo is a great way to give a more subtle shoutout to the military. Consider layering it behind roses, eagles, flags or silhouettes. The pixelated nature of military camo lends a cool asthetic to any tattoo.

8. Memorial

Many military tattoos like to incorporate war memorials into their artwork. Some iconic memorials are the Veteran’s War Memorial, the Vietnam War Memoria. The US Marine Corps War Memorial of soldiers raising the flag on Iwo Jima is probably the most iconic.

9. Bald Eagles

Bald eagles add a patriotic touch to any tattoo. Layer them with flags, silhouettes, or memorials. Even if you don’t want the full, eagle, eagle wings or feathers can be enough to add a patriotic feel.

10. Bombs Away

Bombs away is another iconic military caricature. Most often, bombs away tattoos have a cartoonish aspect to them. Many of them have a bomb baring its teeth or smoking a cigar. These are great tattoos to get in color. You can learn more about color tattoos here.

11. Uniform Replica

A simple, elegant military tattoo is a replica of your uniform sleeve over your shoulder. Being a soldier becomes a part of your entire identity. This is a simple way to pay homage to that aspect of yourself.

12. Maps

Did you serve in iconic places oversea? Consider getting the nations tattooed. Make note of the different areas you served. Pair the maps with flags, eagles, or dog tags to make the military link stand out. Love the idea of a map tattoo? Check out these travel tattoos here.

13. Skull and Helmet

The skull and helmet is a darker, but still real, image of war. It’s common in many military tattoos. Change the helmet to change the war your tattoo represents. Different expressions, embellishments, and insignia can change the meaning the tattoo conveys.

14. Ultra-Realism

Some people want entire war scenes as tattoos. These can be ultra-realistic, with smoke and expressions. If you want to do an entire scene, take time to get to know your tattoo artist. Ask to see previous pieces and their other samples to make sure it’s a good fit. Ultra-realism can be hard to get right, so make sure you have a tattoo artist up for the job.

15. Gas Mask Soldier

The gas mask soldier works well in any military tattoo, from ultra realism to caricature. The gas mask soldier has a history of representing protest and dissent. This is true especially during Vietnam during gas attacks and chemical warfare. It can also represent anarchy.

Use These Military Tattoo Ideas to Get Started

These military tattoo ideas are just a starting point. You may want your ink to support our troops. You may need it as a way to express yourself. You may need something simple and beautiful as a way to say goodbye or thank you. Military tattoos have a lot of meaning and symbolism behind them. They’re unique to each individual, and the meanings behind them run deep. When you piece together your own idea, take time to talk with the right tattoo artist. The extra effort will ensure a quality piece that is special to you. Want to know how to find the right tattoo artist?

To learn more, contact us here.

Tattoo Ideas

7 Tips To Come Up With An Awesome Tattoo Idea

7 Tips To Come Up With Awesome Tattoo Ideas

Coming up with an idea for a tattoo can be difficult. In order to help, we share 7 tips to come up with awesome tattoo ideas.

Are you thinking about getting a tattoo?

Whenever people run out of ways to express themselves, tattoos are the next best option out there. These skin arts are amazing at letting you express your feelings and interests. Some tattoo artists perform self-tattoos on occasion, showing off their skills as an artist.

Because of this, tattoos have grown in popularity in recent years.

Despite the rise in popularity though, only a few people have gotten new tattoos as of late. For the most part, this is because people find it hard to come up with great tattoo ideas.

Often, this stems from the embarrassment that your idea may not be as great as you thought. You might also have trouble thinking of something to become a permanent addition to your body.

Today, we’ll help you come up with a great tattoo. Below are seven tips to help you get the right tattoo for you.

1. Use Something Meaningful from Your Past

A key characteristic of tattoos is that they hold a special meaning to the bearer. It’s a good idea to take things from your memory when thinking of a design. This should help you get closer to thinking of an idea.

Memories taken from the past are also great as first tattoo ideas. Most of the time, people want something which gives them a sense of nostalgia when they deciding the first tattoo. This tip makes it easier for them to accomplish that feeling.

This also makes it easier to explain the meaning behind your tattoo. One thing people with tattoos experience the most is having people ask why they have a certain tattoo. Since it’s taken from your personal past, answering this question will not only be easy, it will also be full of details.

2. Keep It Simple

A common mistake with people thinking of design ideas is they tend to overthink. This often leads to them coming up with complicated ideas that, when put on paper, doesn’t make sense to anyone. This happens more than you would think and a lot of people fail to get the tattoos they want because of it.

To prevent this from happening to you, keep it simple. A lot of people underestimate the power of having a simple tattoo. Small yet cool tattoos are a rising trend today and there’s a good reason behind it.

Before, when people would think of tattoos, they thought of full-back, colorful ones. While they’re amazing works of art, the trend became tired over time. A simple tattoo serves as a refresher at our current time.

A minimalist tattoo can also have a lot of meanings. It will be up to the beholder to find out what it’s trying to express.

3. Inspire Yourself with Ideas from the Internet

If you’re struggling to come up with an idea, it’s often best to browse the internet for ideas first. There are a lot of tattoos on display for you to view there. This is a surefire way to get some inspiration for your own tattoo.

Doing this also makes it easier for you to explain what you want to the artist. The problem most tattoo artists have is their clients don’t explain what they want well. This tends to lead to a lot of unsatisfied customers and demands of a refund.

By browsing the internet though, you’ll have the chance to snap a screenshot of the design you want. This makes it much easier to convey your desires to the artist.

That said, make sure you don’t copy the exact tattoo of a public figure if you like their design. Tattoos are the intellectual property of an artist. Having a copy of their work on you may open up lawsuits like copyright suits and the like.

4. Consider Using Animal Tattoos

Animal tattoos are popular for many reasons. For one, they can be cutesy and straightforward. Another reason is they tend to symbolize many things.

For example, having the tattoo of a lion may mean strength in many aspects. Wolves, on the other hand, tend to symbolize the fierceness of the bearer. There are endless possibilities for animal tattoos and the meanings behind them, making the task of choosing a tattoo easier for you.

5. Use the Design to Convey a Message

A good idea for coming up with a tattoo is to use it to convey a powerful and meaningful message to you and the people around you. This is shaping up to be a popular trend because of the many symbolisms surrounding our society today. You can use the symbol of a foundation or such for this.

A great example of this is women around the world using the feminist symbol as a tattoo. They mean to inspire everyone around them to become an advocate for true equality all around.

You can also opt for a small tattoo like the date of an important event. This can serve as a reminder for all about what transpired during that day.

6. Think of How You Want the Art Style to Be

Before thinking of what to put as your tattoo you may want to consider the art style you want your design to have. Some art styles work with certain themes of designs. Cartoon, realism, abstract, and symbolism all have a certain genre that works best for them.

7. Think of the Area You’ll Put It On

If you’re still having trouble coming up with an idea, taking a look at the area you want a tattoo on is a great way to help. Like with the art style of your intended design, there are certain areas that work best with the tattoo you want to have.

For small tattoos, it’s often best to place them somewhere you can show people with ease. Places like the wrist or even the ankle are great for them.

For bigger ones, you may want to consider a body part with more area to work with. Your entire arm, chest, or back are popular places for such tattoos.

Come Up with an Awesome Tattoo with the Help of These Tattoo Ideas Today

It’s hard to come up with fresh tattoo ideas nowadays. With the help of our guide though, you’ll be coming up with awesome ideas in no time. Start getting inspired now!

Looking for someone to put your idea from concept to reality? Contact us here and we’ll do an amazing job for you!

To learn more, contact us here.

History of Tattoos in America

Walk Through the History of Tattoos in America

The Americas have a rich tradition of tattooing. Continue reading here to find out more about the history of tattoos in America.

Thinking about getting a tattoo? Do it! You’ll be joining the many that have come to understand the rich art that is tattooing.

Though, tattooing wasn’t always viewed that way.

Before you go jumping the gun, let’s take a look at the history of tattoos in America. You’ll be surprised to find how this art form has developed, and may even find inspiration for your next piece!

Let’s dive in.

Early History of Tattoos in America

Towards the end of the 19th century, tattoos were widely considered taboo in America. Socialite Ward McAllister had this to say about them: “It is certainly the most vulgar and barbarous habit the eccentric mind of fashion ever invented. It may do for an illiterate seaman, but hardly for an aristocrat.”

Though socialites like McAllister may have looked upon tattoos with disgust, there were many who valued tattoos for what they represented. Those in the military, especially, shared the understanding that tattoos were symbols of courage and patriotism.

Records of these 19th century-style tattoos were found in naval logs, letters, and diaries written by seaman. The designs of these traditional American tattoos developed from the artists who traded and improved upon each other’s styles. The tattoos evolved a series of stories and symbols that united soldiers and sailors across the World Wars.

The most well-known tattoo artist of the time was Martin Hildebrandt. In 1870, Hildebrandt opened a studio on Oak Street in New York City, considered the first tattooing establishment in America. He worked there for over 20 years, where he would soon see a shift in the country’s perception of tattoos with the rise of the traveling circus.

The Circus Sideshow

The traveling circus was the spectacle of the year for many small, rural towns across America. There, those who never left their homes and farms could experience such wonders and horrors that seemed out of this world.

One of these sideshow attractions was that of the fully tattooed person.

Frank and Emma DeBurdg were one of these exhibits. Along with the usual designs of patriotic insignias and religious symbols, the couple also displayed tattoos they shared to represent their relationship and bond.

Frank had tattooed on him a beautiful script with the words “For Get Me Not” inscribed above a pretty portrait of his wife, Emma. She, in return, had their names beautifully adorned and displayed prominently for all to see.

This display of affection for one another caught the attention of the public, appealing to their romantic senses. The DeBurdgs saw great success touring America and Europe, and with their exposure so did the art of tattooing gain appreciation with the public.

O’Reilly’s Invention

Traditional tattooing was a bit cumbersome for the artist.

Early tattoo artists used a needle attached to a wooden handle. They would dip this needle in ink and then manually stab the skin two to three times to imprint the ink onto a specific spot. The technique required great dexterity and mental fortitude.

Samuel O’Reilly revolutionized the practice almost overnight.

In addition to being a talented artist, O’Reilly was a skilled technician and mechanic. He theorized that if up and down motion of the needle could be automated, the artist could tattoo nearly as quickly as they could draw on paper.

In 1891, O’Reilly released his invention and offered it to the public along with enriched colored inks, tattoo designs, and other tools. Tattooing in the United States was turned on its head overnight. O’Reilly was swarmed with orders for his invention as more and more artists entered the field of tattooing.

World Influence

Working class men in America commonly adorned tattoos primarily as symbols of masculinity and pride. Soldiers and sailors that served on foreign lands, however, brought home with them a different form of body ornamentation.

While on their travels, these soldiers and sailors experienced the practices and customs of the indigenous cultures of Asia, Africa, and the South Pacific. Their individual uses of tattoos were a bit different from that of typical American art.

This caused a revival of interest in tattoos in American societies across the country. That is to say, specifically, the rebel youth culture of the late twentieth century.

The Beatniks of the 1950s and the Hippies of the ’60s gained a great appreciation for Asian tattooing practices. They admired the personal expression of spiritual and mysticism found in these cultures.

Conversely, the youth of the Punk movement in the ’70s and ’80s used tattoos as symbols of rebellion. They found solace in tattoos as a representation for their feelings of imprisonment by society’s standards for class and decorum.

Modern Tattooing Practices

While tattooing was once a taboo topic in America, now it’s a rising career field for many fledgling artists.

More and more artists are being professionally trained in academies across the country. A study done in the late 1980s estimated that the number of trained artists per year has doubled in comparison to the number of artists that graduated in the ’70s. However, not as many galleries are being built to host the works of these young artists.

But there are plenty of people looking for tattoos.

As a result, these trained artists are bringing with them the plethora of skills and techniques they’ve learned from these art programs. They carry a sense of innovation and experimentation, already giving rise to new tattoo styles such as New Skool and Bio-Mechanical.

What was previously a disdained and marginalized artform, tattooing has been undergoing a process of cultural reform the past few decades. New meanings of tattoo are being developed by gallery exhibits and critics that reframe the practice for what it is: art.

Get Tattooed Today!

There you have it—the rich history of tattoos in America!

If you’re in the area, give us a shout and we can give you an in-depth look at our history with tattooing. Our artists are always happy to give a consultation on any tattoo or design!

To learn more, contact us here.

wedding ring tattoos

Forget the Diamonds: The Top Tips and Ideas for Wedding Ring Tattoos

Wedding ring tattoos – With 2.3 million couples getting married each year, it’s hard to come up with a unique idea to represent you and yours. But, modern brides are setting new trends every day.

The traditional wedding ring is no exception. Yet, that ring may not be what you’re expecting, these days. Today’s brides are choosing wedding ring tattoos over the diamond.

You read that right. Couples are getting tattoos. Right on their ring fingers to represent the wedding band.

Well, why not?

They’re beautiful. It’s a permanent symbol of your bond. And, if you get the right one, it’s timeless and classy, too.

It checks all the boxes of a traditional wedding ring, without investing 3 months wages.

So, how are couples choosing the perfect wedding ring tattoos? Let’s find out!

Wedding Ring Tattoos: Tips and Ideas to Help You Choose!

It’s not exactly a new idea, but it’s definitely gaining ground. Maybe because tattoos are more popular than ever. Or, it could be the savings involved.

Wedding ring tattoos are far less expensive than a traditional wedding ring. You can get one for $50 to $2,000, depending on the design and the artist. That’s a lot of money you can save for the honeymoon!

But, the real reason may have more to do with the tattoo itself. The most valuable thing about a wedding ring tattoo is not the price tag. It’s the meaningful design that a couple chooses together.

They’re personalized in a way that the traditional ring isn’t. And, that’s what couples want.

Choose Your Style

Every couple is unique, and so is their personal style. That style will merge into your ring tattoos.

Only about 16% of the world has tattoos. That already makes you unique. But your tattoo style says even more about you.

Here are a few styles to consider.

Traditional/Classic
Tribal
Colorful
Symbolic
Bold & Blackwork
Watercolor
Cultural

There are many more styles to choose from. The style you choose depends only on your preferences.

Symbolism is Important

Here’s where it gets personal. Choosing a wedding ring tattoo should include something symbolic. Something special that represents the relationship between you and your spouse.

Find good symbolism in your past, present, and future. Consider how you met, what you like to do together, and your favorite things.

Places you’ve traveled to and struggles you’ve overcome can be meaningful symbols, too. Find something that represents your relationship and its special strength.

Here are some ideas to think about.

Special Places: beaches/waves, mountains, sunshine, palm trees
Health and Wellness: heartbeats, peace, double hearts, yin/yang, lotus
Love and Closeness: hearts, love knot, Claddagh, Celtic Knot
Dreams, Spirit, and Strength: moon, crescent moon, clouds, stars

These are just a few symbols. Do your research and you’ll find one that suits you! Remember, not all symbols are simple enough for a tattoo. So, make sure you choose one that works.

Speak with your tattoo artist to see if it can work in your ring tattoo.

Keep it Simple

A simple tattoo makes a classy statement. It’s also the best bet for this situation.

Why?

To start, fingers are very small areas! Your tattoo artist will have an easier time and do a better job on a simple design.

Here are a few more good reasons to keep it simple.

It’s a painful area – less is more
Simple lines and shapes look better
Simple finger tattoos blurless
Easier to touch up later

Choosing a simple design doesn’t mean you’re settling for boring. Talk with your tattoo artist to get it right!

Plan It Before You Ink It

This isn’t the kind of tattoo you do on a whim. It’s far more important and symbolic than that. Take the time to plan your design before you have it done.

Choosing an Artist

This is the most important part of the whole process! You need to choose a tattoo artist that understands your vision. And, one that can do the work in the style you like.

Start by checking out some tattoo artist’s online. Look at their web portfolios and read reviews from past clients. Narrow it down to three artists that seem good.

Then, schedule appointments with your top three choices. Meet, ask a few questions, and get to know your potential tattoo artists.

Ask if they have experience with wedding ring tattoos. It’s not a deal breaker if they’ve never done one. But, make sure they are confident they can do the work.

Take a look around the shop. You’ll get a feel for how they handle their business.

Is it clean? Professional? Do you feel comfortable here?

You’ll need to come prepared to discuss your design vision or look at options. Talk about pricing, too. It’s ok if they give you a range, as long as it works for your budget.

Schedule Design Visits

Once you decide on an artist, you’ll need an appointment to plan and complete your tattoo design. Bring notes about your ideas with you. If you’re not sure, as for guidance.

Most artists have many, many options you can choose from right in the shop. But, whatever you choose, personalize it a little bit. Then, negotiate to have it removed from the options.

This is yours. No one else should have it.

Picking the Right Time

Schedule inking appointments, next! It’s up to you whether you do it before or after the wedding.

Talk to your artist about what it’s like to get a tattoo. This can help you choose the right day.

Getting it done on your wedding day is not the best option. Think about everything else going on that day. It’s a very busy day, and you don’t want to add to it.

You can always use plain bands as your symbol during the ceremony. For best results, don’t rush your tattoo appointment. Schedule it during a time when you can relax and enjoy the moment!

Talk to a Tattoo Artist, Today!

Don’t go the traditional route. Look into wedding ring tattoos, instead! They’re personal, symbolic and beautiful.

It’s a unique and meaningful way to represent your marriage!

To learn more, contact us here.