If you want new ink, modern tattoo ideas are cool choices that feature stylish, masculine and meaningful artwork. These stunning men’s tattoos are incredible designs that allow you to express yourself with timeless, classy and visually-appealing pieces. While some images are decorative, most designs for guys generally represent family, love, respect, loyalty, wisdom, friendship and inner peace.
Although beauty may run skin deep, the coolest tattoos are about personal reflection and using the body as a living canvas. With endless options, getting tattooed can be a creative, clever and powerful way to express a beautiful thought or inspiring message.
Whether you want small and simple ink or awesome artwork that will turn heads, the best tattoo ideas for men will make a statement and transform your vibe.
Check out these examples of the most popular male tattoos to inspire your creativity and artwork for an impressive finish.
Awesome Tattoo Ideas For Men
Skull Tattoo
A skull tattoo is a versatile and badass choice for men who want a profound design with an intimidating feel. Guys can incorporate bold lines and heavy shading for dimensional and contrasting artwork or stick with a simple outline that looks crisp, clean and artistic. To soften your styling, add flowers to the eye sockets or mouth of your skull.
Small Tattoo
A small tattoo is a creative and refreshing option that can still make a large impact with clever design work and thoughtful imagery. You can place your ink anywhere on the body to look discreet and maintain a clean-cut and professional appearance. If it’s your first time getting tattooed, a tiny design on the chest, back or foot is bound to look charming.
Lion Tattoo
A lion tattoo is a popular idea for guys who want to experiment with masculine and daring ink that looks fierce. You can get a photorealistic lion roaring on a full sleeve for an eye-catching result or a family design that incorporates an entire brood across your back. Whatever styling you choose, your ink will symbolize courage and fortitude.
Simple Tattoo
A simple tattoo is a classic design for men who want to feature minimal shading and basic linework for a casual and fresh style. The most popular minimalist tattoo ideas are often small and unique pieces that use symbolism or creative artwork to illustrate a bigger concept. While some guys may prefer a quote or initials for a meaningful and personal approach, others might like roses, geometric shapes, the sun, moon, waves, an anchor or outline. Although basic, these simple tattoo designs often represent something special to the men who get them.
Cool Tattoo
A cool tattoo is generally a unique and refreshing design that incorporates daring artwork for an eye-catching result. The coolest tattoo ideas are interesting and artistic pieces about your family, life philosophy, hobbies or things that have a special meaning. Whether you prefer a tribal style or a textured geometric piece, these awesome designs should be highly personal and something that you can’t wait to showcase.
First Tattoo
The first tattoo is generally a small design that allows you to get comfortable with the process and artist. The most popular first tattoo ideas for guys are meaningful pieces that will stand the test of time. Some cool designs include your children’s names or birth dates, a special quote, compass, anchor or rose. When considering placement, the forearm, shoulder, back, chest or upper thigh can be good spots that allow you to conceal your artwork at your discretion. For a first tattoo, invest time finding a skilled professional artist who can walk you through your ink and help you with the aftercare and healing process.
Meaningful Tattoo
A meaningful tattoo can be used to bring yourself comfort when times are tough. You can choose a shaded heart to represent a loved one, initials or dates to symbolize the birth of a beloved family member or short phrases that simply speak to you. If you want to be constantly spurred on by your ink, choose visible placements on the wrist or forearms that you can easily see.
Crown Tattoo
A crown tattoo is an iconic design that represents strength, authority and independence. This royal styling immediately shows that you mean business, and you can incorporate impressive shading, florals or skulls to dial up the impact of your piece. Get minimalist artwork on the arm for an edgy conversation starter or a collage across the chest for an irresistible reminder of your power.
Cross Tattoo
A cross tattoo is an attractive way to showcase your faith with fashionable and exceptional artwork. Depending on your taste, you can recreate Jesus Christ on the cross or a daring sleeve that incorporates meaningful verses and floral imagery. If you want a subtle design, a small piece on the hand with rosary beads can be attractive.
Angel Tattoo
An angel tattoo is a highly symbolic piece that you can use to pay homage to a guiding light or dearly departed family member. This design can help you stay on the right path in life while the intense shading and natural curves can look irresistible across the upper arm, the back and the front of the chest. For something dark and edgy, the hooded angel of death is undeniably manly.
Badass Tattoo
A badass tattoo can be a scary and intimidating way to showcase your daredevil personality with an awesome piece. Inking photorealistic images of alpha predators like lions, tigers and bears onto the skin is bound to make you appear tough. If you want a large and breathtaking piece, full-back stylings or sleeves of skulls, tribal patterns or biomechanical body parts are also excellent options.
Religious Tattoo
A religious tattoo is directly linked to a guy’s spiritual side and can be the perfect choice for highlighting a lifelong commitment to a higher power. Christians may want to experiment with crosses, doves and icons like the Virgin Mary, while Buddhists can get photorealistic images of buddha, temples or an Aum symbol fashioned into a striking sleeve.
Name Tattoo
A name tattoo is a low-maintenance idea that gives you the chance to immortalize a special person or location. The concept itself is basic, offering guys the freedom to explore different fonts or adornments for their design that will make it effortlessly unique. Abstract pieces look masculine and sexy, but small artwork on the hand or ribcage are subtle alternatives for some guys.
Wolf Tattoo
A wolf tattoo allows guys to experiment with large and fearsome designs for a rugged and manly finish. Wolf designs often represent loyalty and a strong family bond, but they also symbolize a free spirit. Although you can get a hyper-realistic piece with bared teeth, half-geometric or Traditional American artwork are attractive alternatives.
Money Tattoo
A money tattoo is a thought-provoking and refreshing design that represents wealth, fame and success. This contemporary styling for guys can symbolize their internal drive and ability to hustle, but others appreciate the cool shading and recognizable images of classic bills. If you want to be more creative with your ink, ask your artist for money bags or skulls for a gangster feel.
Star Tattoo
A star tattoo is a fashionable design for guys who want a piece that represents hope, guidance and an ambitious character. Versatile and playful, a star can offer an elegant look across the hand, masculine artwork across the chest, or charming ink down the outer bicep. To showcase your patriotic side, throw in pops of red and blue dye.
Music Tattoo
A music tattoo is a timeless and refined piece that represents an unwavering passion for the arts. Although you can choose simple stylings like single notes or a striking treble clef, it’s worth going the extra mile with sheet music, phrases and creative depictions of musical instruments. The flat part of the forearm gives you scope for a detailed and eye-catching piece, but small artwork is equally flattering.
Arrow Tattoo
An arrow tattoo is a trendy and sophisticated design that reminds men to stay focused on their goals and ambitions. These pieces can be complex and ornate with dimensional shading or kept bold and fresh with a simple outline and meaningful coordinates. If you work in professional settings, a subtle finger tattoo is a sharp choice. For something creative, shoot your arrow down the forearm and toward the wrist.
Biomechanical Tattoo
A biomechanical tattoo is a popular design for men who want artwork that looks effortlessly cool and badass. For a stylish and clean piece, a mechanical design requires an experienced and talented artist. When done properly, the cogs and screws should align perfectly with the curves, muscles and bones. To achieve a bold look, keep your artwork monochrome or incorporate color for an iconic and unique style.
Rose Tattoo
A rose tattoo is a timeless and youthful idea for guys who appreciate the beauty of the world around them. Although this bloom is stunning and represents passion, the thorns suggest you have a darker side and are not to be messed with. For a daring design, incorporate dripping daggers or winding vines into your styling.
Phoenix Tattoo
A phoenix tattoo is a trendy and edgy design that symbolizes rebirth and overcoming difficult obstacles. This mythical creature lets guys experiment with flattering colors like red and orange, but this fierce bird also looks incredible in bold black ink boosted with heavy shading. If you enjoy large pieces, the outstretched wings of a phoenix are ideal for statement placements like the chest, back or thighs.
Feather Tattoo
A feather tattoo is a fashionable and handsome option for free-spirited guys who enjoy stylings with delicate linework. Feathers often represent bravery and independence but are also used in Native American cultures to symbolize freedom and power. The stunning shape of this design looks effortlessly chic and you can add fluttering birds and heavy shading for a unique result.
Family Tattoo
A family tattoo is all about honoring loved ones and symbolizing a powerful family bond. Guys might want to get an edgy name tattoo and a family tree across their backs or a daring “Family Over Everything” design across the chest that makes their priorities clear. For something different, ask an artist for a photorealistic portrait or a pride of lions as a trendy sleeve.
Unique Tattoo
A unique tattoo can be dramatic or subtle, giving you the freedom to create dazzling artwork that will make you the center of attention. If you want a custom look, a unique and creative tattoo design can make your artwork stand out. Whether you choose an intricate collage of blooms or an unusual quote with a badass skull, it’s bound to be a conversation starter.
Dragon Tattoo
A dragon tattoo is an eye-catching and dramatic piece that offers guys the opportunity to build large and detailed designs. These striking pieces represent prosperity, wisdom and strength, and are extremely popular in East Asian cultures. Japanese and Chinese dragons are attractive and fierce options if you want a design with colored scales or fire, but you can create a fierce Norse styling with bold lines and traditional knots if you prefer.
Tribal Tattoo
A tribal tattoo is an effortlessly cool way to draw attention to your roots with a stylish and trendy design. If you descend from a Native American tribe, incorporate fearsome predators like lions, bears and eagles into old-school Navajo patterns on the body. For those of Polynesian or African heritage, focus on dense black lines, negative space between symbols and refreshing geometric shapes.
Compass Tattoo
A compass tattoo is a wonderful idea for men who want to symbolize an unbreakable connection to their hometown or a desire to travel. A simple compass etched into the skin looks clean-cut and masculine, but modern shading and coordinates can add an attractive layer to any piece. Although the chest and back are popular placements for this design, the timeless circular shape makes it extremely versatile.
Christian Tattoo
A Christian tattoo is a religious design that gives you the flexibility to express your connection to God with a charming and meaningful piece. While some artwork is blatantly religious, you can experiment with subtle imagery like angels’ wings and verse numbers for a cool and casual look. If you want extreme artwork, large crosses, prayer hands or detailed images of Christ are excellent choices that deserve pride of place on the arm or back.
Japanese Tattoo
A Japanese tattoo is a vibrant and daring design that allows guys to express themselves with bold ink and impressive contrast. The geisha and koi fish are colorful and elegant options, but detailed war scenes, dragons and tigers inked on large areas of the body are guaranteed to turn heads. As this traditional artwork has negative associations with the Yakuza in Japan, you’ll want to consider your styling carefully before diving in.
Military Tattoo
A military tattoo is a stylish and masculine way to showcase a steadfast commitment to your country. From classy to cool, military designs are meaningful pieces that must be personalized. American flags, dog tags and bald eagles are breathtaking symbols that look great on any part of the body, but you can also represent your battalion with shotgun shells, fighter planes, guns or scary skulls in helmets. If you’ve lost a family member to war, important dates can help you find closure.
Heart Tattoo
A heart tattoo is a classic and timeless design that represents eternal love, passion and courage. A design in the American traditional style etched with the name of your sweetheart can look handsome, but don’t be afraid to play around with photorealistic imagery of beating hearts if you want an edgy piece. If you’re brokenhearted or filled with rage, a heart with a dagger running through it is a badass choice.
Geometric Tattoo
A geometric tattoo focuses on rigid shapes and bold outlines to create a unique and eye-catching piece that’s aesthetically pleasing. The intricacy of these designs makes them an excellent option for large placements like the back or thigh, but you can also choose simple and clean-cut stylings for smaller areas that can be easily covered. As large-scale geometric artwork can be time-consuming to create, it’s a better choice for experienced ink fiends.
Semicolon Tattoo
A semicolon tattoo is a simple and meaningful design that requires very little time in the chair. This piece of punctuation is meant to represent solidarity with mental health sufferers and shows that there is light beyond the darkness. This artwork is usually small and subtle, making it an appropriate choice for first-timers.
Tiger Tattoo
A tiger tattoo is an artistic and daring way to symbolize a strong, powerful and independent spirit. These handsome predators are beautiful choices for photorealistic artwork across the upper arm, thigh or back for a masculine and rugged feel. If you want something more unique, get a roaring tiger across your chest that’s guaranteed to make an impression when you’re shirtless.
Anchor Tattoo
An anchor tattoo is a classic and popular piece suited for guys who are grounded, reliable and enjoy hitting the open ocean. You can easily jazz up this design with seafaring symbols like ropes, compasses and barnacles, but it’s worth incorporating the infamous Kraken for a fearsome design that will help you stand out. If you want bold and brilliant artwork, add splashes of watercolor to the mix.
Quote Tattoo
A quote tattoo is a simple and sharp design that looks incredible on any part of the body. You can channel your religious side with a bible verse or go with meaningful song lyrics that have always resonated deeply with you. Just remember to choose a placement that will house your entire quote comfortably.
Dreamcatcher Tattoo
A dreamcatcher tattoo is an irresistible Native American design that is said to protect the wearer from evil spirits and negative energy. The distinctive lines, ropes and feathers on this design are extremely attractive, and you can dial up your piece with predatorial animals, florals or beads for a unique finish. To add more depth to your artwork, consider pops of color or intricate shading.
Bear Tattoo
A bear tattoo is a distinctive and daring option with a fierce design that will turn a guy into an instant heartthrob. Bears are powerful beasts that represent strength and courage, but they’re also strongly linked with virility and family. When it comes to your artwork, photorealistic bears with bared teeth and ruffled fur are flattering and masculine styles. If you’d prefer an abstract piece, large pawprints or American Traditional ink can be interesting choices.
Clock Tattoo
A clock tattoo is a versatile and stylish pick that makes you carefully think about the importance of our limited time on earth. An iconic watch face can represent a new milestone in your life, a lost relative or inevitable mortality. To achieve a fashionable look, design an eye-catching sleeve with heavy shading that’s embellished with roses or quotes.
Sun Tattoo
A sun tattoo offers guys the chance to create an uplifting and fresh piece that inspires positivity. These sun tattoo designs are most flattering when kept simple with bold lines and perfect symmetry. If you’d like something more unique, a realistic sunset with rays of light or a tribal piece with geometric shapes can look refreshing.
King and Queen Tattoo
A king and queen tattoo is a stylish and daring option for couples wanting to take their relationship to the next level. The placement for this artwork is entirely up to you, but getting it on the fingers, wrists or forearms will keep your passion for each other fully visible. For a bold and unique style, get a design based on playing cards. If you want an intricate piece, masculine and feminine crowns with the words “king” and “queen” can be charming.
Skeleton Tattoo
A skeleton tattoo is a popular choice for guys who want intimidating and rebellious ink for a daring look. While traditionally about mortality, skeletons can also symbolize overcoming adversity and a powerful transformation. A skeleton on the hand allows you to craft a visually-interesting outline of your bones, while a realistic design on the chest can create an expressive piece.
Realistic Tattoo
A realistic tattoo is a fresh and badass choice for a design that instantly commands attention. Photorealistic artwork can be an easy way to stand out from the crowd, allowing the details, shadowing and dimension to create a beautiful piece that remains true to life. Human portraits are top choices, but anything from a beloved pet to a fierce predator or intimidating skull will look elegant in this style. Just be aware that realistic pieces are expensive as they require several hours in the chair.
American Traditional Tattoo
An American traditional tattoo has become a sexy and fashionable piece for anyone who appreciates color and bold linework. This old-school technique generally incorporates nautical imagery and predatorial animals, but florals and depictions of the female form are popular choices for bold younger men. These designs come with a recognizable color palette and vintage feel that make the artwork beautiful.
Matching Couple Tattoo
A matching couple tattoo makes a striking statement about your commitment to a significant other. When it comes to designs, the sky is the limit. You can choose matching cartoon stylings that are deeply personal, a lock and key, two halves of a phrase or even animal imagery for a fierce and cool look. Although there are endless options, ensure that your relationship will last before getting inked.
Tree Tattoo
A tree tattoo is a refreshing and eye-catching design that can look exceptional as a statement piece. These towering plants are often associated with strength and endurance, making them a profound option for men who have suffered hardship in their lives. A styling featuring long roots can create astounding visual interest, while a large family tree across the back is a brilliant way to acknowledge your lineage.
Eagle Tattoo
An eagle tattoo is a manly and refreshing design that can showcase courage, wisdom and an undying love for your country. The eagle can be a powerful bird that stands as a symbol of freedom and sacrifice in the United States. If you’re of Native American heritage, you can incorporate negative space and bold colors into your artwork to represent age-old spiritual totems.
Celtic Tattoo
A Celtic tattoo is an intricate and unique choice that features geometric knots and strong symbolism for a cool and traditional piece. A striking Celtic knot tattoo is a beautiful way to represent an eternal bond, while the cross may represent deep spirituality and lost loved ones. These distinctive styles look flattering in stark black ink, but you can throw in green, yellow and blue tones for a nod to Irish roots.
Owl Tattoo
The owl tattoo is a design that symbolizes wisdom, knowledge, prosperity and luck. You can feature a small owl in your sleeve or create a large unique piece on your arm, shoulder, chest or back. This artwork can be complemented by the moon, trees, branches, vivid colors in the eyes and detailed shading.
American Flag Tattoo
An American flag tattoo is a trendy and elegant design that immediately draws the eye. Popular with military men, this design is a versatile option for any patriotic guy. Depending on your taste, you can choose an enormous full sleeve packed with vibrant colors and realistic shading or a smaller piece that will remind you of home.
Dove Tattoo
A dove tattoo is generally a meaningful style that symbolizes peace, hope and faith, making it an attractive option for spiritual men. Inking a photorealistic bird in flight can be flattering on larger areas of the body, but subtle outlines can be just as impactful if you don’t have much real estate to work with.
Joker Tattoo
A joker tattoo is an unusual and interesting look that balances realistic shading with rich color for a truly eye-catching piece. As this troubled character is one of the most iconic DC villains, this artwork is a refreshing option for fans who appreciate the Joker’s rebellious and mischievous side. Black and bold ink can look striking with this design, but it’s wise to capture the Joker’s maniacal personality with strong color and contrast.
Grim Reaper Tattoo
A grim reaper tattoo is an intimidating style that is perfect for anyone with a morbid side. This icon of death is believed to ferry souls over to the other side and represents a human’s inevitable mortality. However, this macabre creature can also remind guys to embrace each day, live fully and have no regrets. You can choose a cartoon image for a fun piece or a threatening photorealistic design that incorporates a dripping scythe and a spooky lantern.
Gemini Tattoo
A Gemini tattoo is a trendy idea that always looks striking when done well. You can represent the twins in physical form for a breathtaking photorealistic design or work the Roman numeral II into your ink for an ambiguous conversation starter. For a splash of color, experiment with yellow which can represent the cheerful nature of Geminis.
Scorpio Tattoo
A Scorpio tattoo is a cool and versatile piece that can be as simple or complex as you want. You can physically represent your astrological sign using a fierce scorpion with sharp pincers and detailed shading or incorporate the capital “M” symbol for a minimalist design. To create a unique spin on a classic idea, allude to the fact that Scorpio is a water sign with droplets, blue ink or a flowing waterfall.
Demon Tattoo
The demon tattoo is gaining popularity thanks to its masculine imagery, detailed linework and vibrant colors. Although you should prepare to offend a few people with your artwork, bared teeth, undead eyes and splashes of red and orange will instantly lift your design. To avoid unwanted judgment, get your ink on a part of the body that’s easily hidden.
Star Wars Tattoo
A Star Wars tattoo can be a fun and fashionable way to showcase your love for the Millennium Falcon, R2D2 and Luke Skywalker. Character artwork is always fresh and you can dial up the drama of your design with elaborate shading, colors or iconic quotes. If you want to experiment with larger designs, work closely with an artist to recreate one of the epic battle scenes across your back for a show-stopping result.
3D Tattoo
A 3D tattoo can be the perfect opportunity to create a textured and daring piece that practically leaps off the skin. Create an optical illusion design with dimensional shading and forced perspective or intimidate those around you with a gnarly skeleton design. When booking an appointment, a quality 3D tattoo design will take hours in the chair to achieve.
Samurai Warrior Tattoo
A samurai warrior tattoo is a masculine design that perfectly complements a bold and assertive personality. Although you’ll want to be careful that you’re not dabbling in cultural appropriation with your artwork, Japanese-born guys can subtly nod to their roots with intimidating swords, badass helmets and sharp arrows. To soften this design, work with color and incorporate a few cherry blossoms into your artwork.
Spider Tattoo
A spider tattoo gives you artistic license to create a striking piece that symbolizes perseverance and a strong sense of dominance. You can focus on the curved body of the spider in your artwork for an abstract style or craft a cool design that will instantly frighten those around you. Place this fearsome arachnid on your hand or ankle for a minimalist result or across the neck or shoulder if you’re banking on double takes.
Greek Tattoo
A Greek tattoo is a cool and interesting choice that allows you to recreate epic battles from ancient times for a breathtaking statement design. Whether you’re a fan of mythology and Greek gods or want to represent an unwavering commitment to your fraternity, this striking piece is guaranteed to stand the test of time.
Bible Verse Tattoo
A bible verse tattoo can be a thought-provoking piece for men who want to embrace their spirituality with an elegant and sophisticated design. If you have the real estate to work with, inking entire lines from a verse can look striking. For those who prefer subtle artwork, refer to a Psalm number in a stunning font and surround it with small adornments like flowers, doves or rosary beads.
Viking Tattoo
A Viking tattoo allows guys to get in touch with their Nordic roots with a fierce and flattering design. A Viking ship can represent the peaceful passing of a loved one, while ancient compasses are said to symbolize guidance, protection and knowledge. You can choose a small design on the wrist, but intricate stylings involving Mjolnir, Odin’s horns or the Helm of Awe deserve prime real estate across the back or chest.
Cloud Tattoo
A cloud tattoo is a fashionable and timeless idea that works equally well as small filler artwork or a detailed piece across the back or thigh. Fluffy clouds can represent the sign of better times to come or the threat of danger and destruction. As cloud designs can be built on over time with sunbeams, raindrops and angelic figures, they are excellent starting points for sprawling sleeves.
Dad Tattoo
A dad tattoo allows you to experiment with symbols, shading and family imagery to create a unique design that stands out. If you’re struggling with ideas, etch the name of your child into your arm with their birth date. Alternatively, an abstract image of a parent and a child in silhouette can be breathtaking with the right shading and detail.
Symbolic Tattoo
A symbolic tattoo can be anything you want it to be, giving guys the power to convey a sentimental message in a cool and stylish way. A symbol tattoo design can be simple like a star sign or complex and detailed like the yin and yang. Whatever you choose, keep your artwork small and close to your heart.
Cowboy Tattoo
A cowboy tattoo is an old-school design that keeps Western roots center stage. You can create a photorealistic piece based on scenes from iconic Clint Eastwood movies or keep your piece timeless with a pair of cowboy boots and a shaded hat. If you enjoy vibrant inkwork, experiment with the bold lines and colors of the Americana style.
Aztec Tattoo
An Aztec tattoo can be a special choice that gives you the chance to experiment with negative space, bold outlines and intricate shading. Although traditional Aztecs used inkwork to honor the gods and threaten invaders, modern men can use these visually interesting pieces to attract attention. Whether you appreciate the beauty of intricate gold coins or the rebellious lion headdresses of centuries past, you can work closely with an artist to achieve your perfect piece.
Virgin Mary Tattoo
A Virgin Mary tattoo is a somber and thoughtful design for deeply religious men who want a realistic piece that beautifully represents their faith. As a sacred image of Christianity, the Virgin Mary is often seen wearing a veil and can be shown holding a cross or roses for a softer result. If you want a pious take on this idea, consider adding tears or a crown to this stunning figure.
Father Son Tattoo
A father son tattoo is a fantastic choice if you want to immortalize a strong bond with timeless ink. Dads and sons can get matching artwork that depicts a special place or design moving images that show you both walking into the sunset. If you want a subtle piece, something representing a shared activity like a fishing hook or basketball can be flattering and sophisticated.
Where To Get A Tattoo
Arm Tattoo
An arm tattoo is a popular option for guys who want to proudly showcase their ink. This versatile placement makes it easy to cover your artwork or show it off when the time is right. If you’re worried about dealing with pain as a beginner, the muscles and thicker skin on the arms should make needle vibrations easier to manage.
Forearm Tattoo
A forearm tattoo is a cool choice for modern men who want a visible spot to display their stylish and edgy artwork. Whether you want a standalone piece or a half sleeve, a masculine forearm tattoo design can take your ink to the next level. The flat surface of this area makes creating a photorealistic and heavily shaded design effortless, but dainty and minimalist pieces look equally sexy. Getting inked in this area is also relatively painless as the skin is thick and the area isn’t close to surrounding bones. Although forearm artwork is more visible than inner bicep or shoulder stylings, a long-sleeved shirt will have you set for the office.
Sleeve Tattoo
A sleeve tattoo can be an intricate and dramatic way to express yourself through the power of ink. The only thing to consider before taking the plunge with a daring sleeve is the cost of your artwork. Sleeves can be extremely expensive as they require time and effort to achieve. But if you’re prepared to sit in the chair for several hours, you can get a breathtaking and cohesive piece that will instantly command attention. Whether you want a realistic family portrait or a bouquet of roses with sharp thorns, your design is bound to look striking on a sleeve.
Half Sleeve Tattoo
A half sleeve is slightly less dramatic than a full sleeve, but it remains a top choice if you enjoy striking and eye-catching designs that can be covered up at will. Not only is the space still large enough to inspire your creative side, but half sleeves are significantly cheaper as they’re less time-consuming than larger designs. You can get a sleeve on your forearm for a visible and flattering look or stick to the upper arm, bicep and shoulder for a manageable style that you can build up over time.
Leg Tattoo
A leg tattoo is a versatile and sexy piece that can highlight strong muscles while adding creative flair to any summertime outfit. The leg provides an impressive canvas for enormous tribal designs, but you can also get Japanese stylings or realistic animal imagery for a bold and intimidating feel. Leg tattoos are generally not too painful thanks to the amount of muscle and fat in this area, making it an excellent spot for beginners. Although this spot allows for refreshing detail and shading, discuss the extent of your design with an artist before committing your entire leg to ink.
Chest Tattoo
A chest tattoo is a sexy choice for men who want to make a bold statement. The chest can be a great spot for cool designs that require space such as outstretched wings and artwork that extends into the shoulder. You may want to create a large and detailed piece, but don’t be afraid to get small artwork that is meaningful to you.
Stomach Tattoo
A stomach tattoo may be a labor of love, but this intimate and badass placement is ideal if you need to cover your ink. With little muscle and fat to cushion the needle, getting artwork in this area can be extremely painful. If you’re willing to grin and bear it, you can get a striking anchor tattoo, an impressive religious scene or words of wisdom that are bound to impress.
Finger Tattoo
A finger tattoo is a small and elegant design that allows men to get rebellious with their artwork without pulling focus. You can get inked on the underside of the finger, around the sides or on the top of the knuckles for a badass and daring piece that is more visible. When shortlisting potential ideas, consider masculine inkwork like letters, dates or skulls for a cool and trendy look.
Shoulder Tattoo
A shoulder tattoo is a stylish and modern placement that offers a large canvas for bold and breathtaking designs. Your styling can be placed straight across the deltoid or extended toward the traps for a badass look that peeks out from shirts. For more impact, ask your artist to create a flattering piece that connects to the chest or back. If you have impressive muscle mass in this area, shoulder artwork can highlight your sexy definition without stretching out over time.
Back Tattoo
A back tattoo is a perfect option if you want to create an intricate design that turns heads. This spot is a solid placement for subtle and minimalist pieces, but the immense real estate in this area gives you untold freedom to create modern and eye-catching artwork. Although getting inkwork here won’t be painless, the high level of muscle and thick skin will lessen the sting significantly. If you struggle with vibrations from needles, keep your ink away from the sensitive spinal nerves.
Rib Cage Tattoo
A rib cage tattoo is a daring and unique idea for men with incredibly high pain thresholds. Most guys can’t handle the severe pain in this area as it’s close to the bone and the skin is very thin. If you can grit your teeth, take advantage of the natural curve of the body with heavily shaded pieces or motivational quotes.
Wrist Tattoo
A wrist tattoo is a delicate and versatile option for guys who adore smaller designs. When it comes to artwork, simple designs like quotes, initials, names, dates, arrows and feathers are always flattering ideas. With nerve endings, thin skin and bones, the wrist can be a painful spot to get tattooed. An attractive look and the freedom to extend your styling into a sleeve down the line may convince you to book an appointment.
Ankle Tattoo
An ankle tattoo is an ideal placement for small and fun designs that aren’t overly visible. The bones and thin skin in this spot will make getting inked relatively painful, but the smaller design should minimize your time in the chair. Whether you want to get a simple design of a fearsome animal that extends down the foot or a delicate bracelet along the ankle bone, this placement never disappoints.
Hand Tattoo
A hand tattoo is a bold and rebellious choice that works well for badass guys who want visible ink. Aside from being a conversation starter, tattoo designs on the hand can allow for a creative approach with artwork that spans to the fingers and upper wrist. While known for fading quickly from overuse and friction, your edgy ink can be touched up if it starts to look dull. Just be careful if you’re getting controversial stylings in this area as it may affect your job prospects.
Bicep Tattoo
A bicep tattoo is a timeless and masculine piece that gives men the opportunity to showcase bulging muscles. A bicep design can be easily incorporated into a stylish sleeve, while a standalone concept may be concealed by clothing. With muscles and few nerve endings, the outer bicep is less painful than the inner part. You can choose quotes or buzzwords for a meaningful design or express yourself with tribal images and geometric swirls.
Spine Tattoo
A spine tattoo is difficult to tolerate while you’re in the chair, but it’s an extremely popular placement for vertical and column designs. As this is a sexy area that can be easily concealed, an intricate planetary or lunar design, a large arrow or Chinese characters are all excellent options.
Neck Tattoo
A neck tattoo is a cool and trendy idea that works well for rebellious guys who love going against the grain. The perfect neck designs can be covered with scarves during the winter while allowing you to show off your ink when desired. If you work in a corporate setting, keep your artwork subtle with a tattoo on the nape or something tucked behind the ear. For a badass look, go all-out with realistic designs, striking symbols or American Traditional artwork.
Thigh Tattoo
A thigh tattoo is a stylish and versatile spot for a trendy design that can be easy to cover while giving you the space to create a detailed piece. The outer and front thighs are usually tolerable for most people, but the inner thigh area should be reserved for small and intimate designs because of the high concentration of nerve endings. Express your inner daredevil with biomechanical ink or dial up the drama with a threatening skull or fearsome lion.
Foot Tattoo
A foot tattoo gives men the power to control who sees their artwork. Although the ankle may be visible most of the time, the front and side of the foot are generally hidden by socks and shoes. This makes the foot an ideal choice for deeply personal artwork. You may need to get regular touch-ups because of the heavy friction in this area, but it’s worth the effort to keep your ink looking fresh.
Popular Tattoos For Men
The most popular tattoos for men are masculine and beautiful designs that include lions, wolves, skulls, dragons, compasses, anchors, bears, names, religious symbols, angels, crowns and roses. If you want cool and meaningful ink, these awesome tattoo ideas are versatile, meaningful and impossible to overlook, creating a fresh and timeless look. If you have artwork in mind, you’ll need to determine the placement, size, styling, color, shading and the artist. As a life-long commitment, the best tattoos will turn your body into living art and offer a space for positive self-expression.
