If you want fresh ink, these tattoo ideas for men are cool, timeless, and versatile pieces that will elevate your artistry. These awesome tattoo designs will inspire you to get creative and create some amazing works of art. Whether you want a small, simple design on your wrist or a sleeve that covers your forearm, these popular tattoos for men can help you create a stylish yet meaningful piece.
For inspiration, we'll show you examples of the best tattoos for men. From masculine to artistic, these cool tattoo ideas will transform and take your ink to the next level.
tattoo ideas for men
small tattoo
Small tattoos are great for professionals or people who don't want their tattoo to define them. The best part is that you can get a small tattoo anywhere on your body.
Whether you choose a tiny design on your arm, hand, wrist or chest, you can always hide the artwork if you wish. In the end, small tattoos are a good first and easy tattoo for men.
simple tattoo
Simple tattoos are proof that designs don't have to be intricate or complicated to be cool. A simple idea can add more meaning and allow for creativity and style. In general, small and simple tattoos are very popular among men.
religious tattoo
Religious tattoos come in a variety of shapes and styles. Some of the most popular religious tattoo ideas include the cross, Bible verses like John 3:16 and phrases like "Only God can judge me".
Of course, the Christian religion isn't the only one that can be immortalized in ink; other tattoos can represent Greek, Roman, and Norse gods. These tattoos are perfect for guys who want to show their devotion for life.
cross tattoo
Crucifixes and crosses tattoos are by far the most popular Christian designs you will see. As a symbol of God, Jesus and your faith, the cross tattoo offers many style options.
tattoo quote
Quote tattoos continue to gain traction among men due to their ability to accurately represent a life philosophy or belief. When considering quote tattoo ideas, meaning, size, location and font are all important factors to consider – all of which play a crucial role in emphasizing the message.
Also remember that a longer quote will take up more space and too small a font or font can make it difficult to read.
Ideally, a single phrase or phrase is best, and most guys choose powerful quotes from their favorite songs or authors.
lion tattoo
If you are looking for designs that represent strength, courage and family, the lion tattoo is an excellent option. The lion is one of the fiercest predators on Earth and can serve as a symbolic reminder of one's strength.
Lion tattoo ideas can stand alone or surrounded by other images in a beautiful collage, making them perfect centerpieces for artwork on the sleeve, chest or back.
wolf tattoo
The wolf tattoo is one of the best animal tattoo ideas for men. By symbolizing family, strength and loyalty, it can immortalize your relationship with family and friends.
Guys can choose wolf tattoo designs that represent the entire body or just the head howling at the moon.
skull tattoo
Skull tattoos are by far one of the craziest tattoo ideas. Talented artists have reinvented skull tattoo designs in thousands of different and unique ways. Whether you want a small design for your hand or forearm, or a fiery 3D version on your back, chest or shoulder, the possibilities are endless.
Although the skull has traditionally been used to represent death, this is not always the case. Skull tattoos for men can symbolize rebellion, power, passion, rebirth and mortality.
rose tattoo
While rose tattoos can look feminine, roses are often incorporated into many designs for men. While the traditional red rose tattoo is the most common, artists can transform a traditional rose into a masterpiece by making it realistic or 3D.
The rose represents new beginnings, growth, potential, peace and even a tribute to loved ones. Much of the meaning depends on the color of the rose and the specific artwork.
owl tattoo
Owl tattoos symbolize intelligence, wisdom and knowledge. Designs can be drawn realistically or more in a traditional tattoo style, and can even be pasted onto other images. Little owls are perfect for wrists, ankles and even hands.
However, the largest ones can be located on the back, chest, thigh or upper arm. If you want a unique tattoo that doesn't conform, get an owl tattoo.
phoenix tattoo
The phoenix tattoo is all about new beginnings and rebirth. Sometimes a new life is the best way to move forward and this is exactly why many men get phoenix tattoos. A phoenix rising from the ashes can symbolize transformation, virtue and potential.
It is incredibly common among recovering addicts and those who have faced great loss but are moving on in life.
Drachentattoo
The dragon tattoo is another powerful mythical creature and design idea. Dragons represent strength, power, greed, intellect, wisdom and rebellion. There are dozens of different types of dragons, and each has its own meaning.
Horned dragons are the strongest, heavenly dragons are protectors, and earth dragons are very similar to kings and rulers. Dragon tattoos make for amazing designs, especially stretched out as a full sleeve tattoo or on the arm, shoulder, back and chest.
Kompass Tattoo
Often underestimated, the compass tattoo offers a classic idea for men who want a small, simple design with deep meaning. Traditionally, a compass is the icon of a traveler, but some people like to extend the representation to include life's journey.
The compass symbolizes happiness and guidance as we walk our own path, helping us to distinguish between right and wrong so that we can achieve happiness, health and success.
3d tattoo
3D tattoos represent our favorite designs and can be really captivating. Only the most extraordinary artists can create cool 3D tattoos.
Some of the best 3D tattoo ideas include optical illusions, mechanical gears or robots as body parts, cut skin and much more. Finding a reputable artist for this type of tattoo is important, but other than that, the designs are limitless.
tribal tattoo
Tribal tattoos date back to ancient history and culture. Symbolizing family, strength, power and courage, tribal designs are bold and beautiful. For an intricate and timeless tattoo, get tribal patterns.
Stern-Tattoo
Star tattoos have been on the rise in recent years. The star can be small and simple like ink by itself, or large and elegant for a masculine look. In the end, the star tattoo can look good on any man.
Engel tattoo
Angel tattoos can represent your faith, your belief in angels, or just the beauty of the design. Your angel tattoo idea can be beautiful and serene or badass and daring. In any case, angels make excellent body art.
Musik-Tattoo
A music tattoo is an excellent idea for guys who are musicians or just deeply appreciate music. Share your passion for music with artistic sheet music, instruments, lyrics or other representations.
arrow tattoo
Arrow tattoos look great on any part of the body. In fact, arrow tattoo ideas are the best first tattoos because they are simple and elegant. Popular points are the wrist and forearm.
Feder-Tattoo
Feather tattoos are rich in symbolism and versatile enough to fit anywhere. While you might think that feather tattoo designs are simple, consider taking a creative approach to stand out.
crown tattoo
Crown tattoo for men means you are royalty. Crowns are often part of matching couples tattoos, where a boyfriend and girlfriend or a man and woman get a king and queen tattoo to celebrate their relationship. Because of this, crown tattoos can be very powerful symbols.
family tattoo
Family tattoos are an expression of love and togetherness. Some of the best family tattoo ideas include quotes like "Family First", "Family is Forever" and "Family Above All", or names, portraits and family trees.
The family tattoo is very meaningful and special and few men regret this type of ink.
scorpion tattoo
Scorpio tattoos can celebrate the Scorpio horoscope or represent passion, sexuality, intimidation, power, perseverance, evil and death. As a powerful work of art, choose the scorpion tattoo carefully.
meaningful tattoo
Meaningful tattoos come in all shapes, sizes, and styles, all depending on the message you want to convey. Whether you choose a quote, symbol, name or some other really cool design that speaks to your soul, men are always looking for unique tattoos with meaning.
name tattoo
A name tattoo can be a great way to show love for a family member or close friend. Whether you want to celebrate your love for a spouse, sibling, child, grandparent, or best friend, name tattoos are all about styling the design.
where do you get a tattoo
Now that you have a few different tattoo ideas when it comes to placement on your body, it's time to start thinking about the actual design. Sometimes you might see a piece of art that you love for no apparent reason, and that's just as acceptable as a date or something symbolic. Here you will learn about the best tattoo design options that are popular with men.
sleeve tattoo
A sleeve tattoo covers the upper arm and can be a great canvas for big, powerful messages and designs. While a full sleeve covers the entire arm, a half sleeve can cover either the upper or lower arm. Many guys wrap a sleeve tattoo on their shoulder, back, and chest for a really badass job.
Although the pain factor varies, areas closer to the bone, such as the elbow and wrist, may feel more tender than larger areas, such as the forearm, back of the upper arm, and shoulder.
When it comes to choosing artwork for a full or half sleeve tattoo, just about any design you can imagine can be brought to life. Some men choose a single image that wraps around all or part of their arms.
Others choose to turn their sleeves into a collage of images that reflect their hobbies, accomplishments, or even artwork they admire.
tattoo on forearm
Arm and forearm tattoos are a little different in that they are individual pieces of art and do not cover the entire arm like a sleeve. The forearm is a great place for a variety of tattoos, and most of the time, the pain you might experience is minimal.
If you're a professional who works in an office, you can cover an arm tattoo with a long-sleeved shirt, but it's much easier to hide ink on your arm.
If you want to get a tattoo on your arm, anything is possible. The arm can contain the best tattoo designs and ideas.
Brust-Tattoo
Chest tattoos are growing in popularity each year and represent some of the most masculine and badass tattoo ideas. However, a chest tattoo may or may not be right for you.
Men who have a lot of body hair need to shave their chest before inking, and may need to continue shaving to keep their tattoos visible.
Pain is minimal for the most part, but the areas around the nipples and near the collarbone can be bothersome. The coolest chest tattoo designs include the dragon, the skull, the phoenix, quotes, names of loved ones and anything you want to keep in your heart.
Chest tattoos are among the easiest to cover up in professional and formal settings. Still, take the time to find a talented artist so your paint comes out clean and clear.
back tattoo
The back tattoo is the perfect place for great designs and masterpieces. The back is a blank canvas for all kinds of tattoo ideas. Also, back tattoos can be as bold and intimidating as you want as you can easily cover up ink on your back.
Some of the more popular designs include shoulder-to-shoulder tattooed quotes, vivid scenes of mythical creatures and gods, and smaller artwork such as a cross or a name.
Also, one of the best back tattoo ideas is a collage that you can add to over the years; Many men choose to tattoo their children's footprints and birthdates this way or get inked to commemorate important events in their lives.
If you're worried about pain, the areas just above the sharpest parts of your shoulder blades and along your spine can be moderately painful, but tolerable for most.
shoulder tattoo
Shoulder tattoos are perfect for larger artwork, and some men choose matching designs for both shoulders. This can look great with a tank top but is easily obscured by clothing.
You will also see many tribal shoulder tattoos as they extend from the shoulder to the back and chest.
The shoulder is one of the most painful areas to get a tattoo. But when you get a very manly and daring shoulder tattoo, the pain is almost like a rite of passage.
hand tattoo
Hand tattoos come in many different styles. In general, hand tattoo designs are very bold statements as they are highly visible.
Spelling a word or phrase in fours (or eights if you want to get both hands tattooed) might suit your personality. Some guys opt for a very small, simple hand tattoo, like a crown, rose, or cross.
Knuckle and finger tattoos can be quite painful, but because they are so small, most men don't even flinch. The downside of hand tattoos is that they are nearly impossible for professionals to cover up.
Neck tatoo
Neck tattoos are extremely visible and also impossible to cover up, so we don't recommend this place if you are a professional with a career. If that doesn't apply to you, there are several neck tattoo designs that can work well here.
Simple words that have meaning are popular, as are small tattoos on the left or right side. Some men may also choose to get a tattoo on the back of their neck.
As for the pain, it depends on the location; The neck hurts much less than the sides, but even then the pain is only moderate and well tolerated.
If you like the idea of a neck tattoo, think hard about what you want to convey to the world.
wrist tattoo
Wrist tattoos can look amazing depending on your personality and the type of ink you get. While a wrist tattoo can be difficult to cover up, the inside of the wrist has become a popular canvas for artists. It's a great place for elegant, small and subtle designs that are gaining acceptance in most workplaces.
While the wrist is not a painful area to tattoo, the area just above the bone can quickly become tender. Simple ideas are best here, so it's worth thinking about a cross, crown, spade, symbols and dates.
leg tattoo
Leg tattoos are good for guys who want to show off their tattoo. Thigh and calf are ideal for professionals looking to cover up a leg tattoo, while ankle designs make a statement.
Because of the length of the canvas, the best leg tattoo ideas for men tend to be long like a dragon or a phoenix. However, you can always get a small and compact design.
belly tattoo
A belly tattoo can be sexy and hot if you have a toned body. Whether you want a badass tattoo design on your stomach or just on one side, keep in mind that art can look stretched as you gain weight. Other than that, it's a great place that can be easily hidden away.
finger tattoo
Despite limited space, finger tattoos can be trimmed in a variety of ways. The best finger tattoo ideas are usually small and simple, like a cross, rose, music note, symbol, letter, or arrow. Guys can even choose to get a design on each finger for a collection of designs.
rib tattoo
Rib tattoos can be among the most painful, but the rib cage makes an excellent canvas. Rib tattoo ideas range from a fierce lion roar to a fiery skull bursting into flames.
face tattoo
Although you may see more face tattoos, this type of ink is still considered an extreme look. We encourage you to weigh the pros and cons before purchasing one, especially if you're not in love with the design.
Even so, there are many other parts of the body that can be tattooed that are easier to cover up in the future.
popular tattoos for men
The most popular tattoos for men are lion, dragon, wolf, skull, rose, arrow, quote, tree, anchor and meaningful designs. These tattoo designs can be small and simple or cover your arm, chest, back, shoulder or leg for an elaborate piece. The best tattoo ideas are usually thoughtful, timeless and masculine designs that symbolize something special about the person.
