Female Full Back Tattoo of Oriental

Female Full Back Tattoo of Oriental

Tattoo Jepang Wanita - Japanese Tattoo

Gargoyle Tattoos

Female Japanese tattoo

Traditional Japanese Tattoo Design

Japanese Religius Tattoo Design

Japanese Religius Tattoo Design1

Japanese Religius Tattoo Design

Japanese tattoo

Zodiac Symbol Tattoos

People usually get zodiac symbol tattoos purely as an expression of their belief in the art of astrology. They feel compelled to show pride in their place in our solar system. However, the manner which people go about this are as varied as the signs themselves.

Simple designs are common in zodiac symbol tattoos. Small symbols featuring the western zodiac signs (an arrow for Sagittarius, waves for Aquarius, etc.) lined in black are simple, stylish and easy to place. Another example of this is the Chinese zodiac symbols. These are in a similar design, but use kanji script as an indication of each particular sign. These small, unique symbols can also easily be transitioned into tribal tattoos. Making the softer edges into sharper ones, and even adding touches of red.

Though simplicity is one option, many people choose to create much larger displays for their zodiac symbol tattoos. They may use symbols, or a more literal translation of their sign. For instance a Taurean may use a strong and aggressive looking bull pressing through the skin with a determined look; or a Gemini might create a modest symbol of a set of cherubic twins embracing.

If a person is born on a cusp, they may choose to blend both of their zodiac signs together in a tattoo, thus symbolizing the energy of both signs. Some may also like to blend their star, sun and moon signs together, so as to express the full spectrum of their astrological influences.

An interesting option for those born between November 30th and December 17th is Ophiuchus. It is under a good deal of debate as to whether or not this truly is the 13th sign of the Zodiac, but for those with a keen interest and an eye for design, this can be a great idea. This sign is often depicted with a Greek-like god struggling with a massive serpent. In symbol form, it is seen as a winged staff with two snakes coiling around each other. The staff is often surrounded by the zodiac wheel.

Zodiac symbol tattoos are one of several ways a person can express their personal identity, and can show just one of many things that make them who they are. Though practically everything in life changes over time, a person’s birth and the stars will always remain

Tribal Tattoos

Tribal tattoos make up at least one third of all tattoo designs worn be individuals. There is a vast amount of reasons a person might choose to adorn themselves with tribal tattoos. Symbolization varies by origin of the design. Whether the tattoo is worn for graphic design or personal reasons, tribal tattoos are definitely one of the most popular tattoos around.

While tribal symbols vary, reasons for tattooing were generally the same among each ranging from marriage, rite of passage, animals represented by the totem, spiritual and even magical. Certain tribes tattooed as a means of family standards. Family lineage could be traced among the exquisite and unique design of the tattoo that an individual wore across their face whereas many tattoos were given to represent puberty.

There are various types of tribes existing from Native American which usually represents culture, ritualistic beliefs, spirits and nature to Polynesian which symbolize tradition, values, legends, and values of religious aspect. Hawaiian tribal symbols can be worn as identification, protection or mourning and Maori can be used for courage and usually consist of elaborate curves and distinct shapes.

Animals can be used as a large number of symbolization among tribal tattoos. These meanings of course vary by which animal you choose. For example, a bear represents good nature or luck. The butterfly symbolizes spiritual immortality. The Eagle is a sign of might and spiritual growth whereas the feather shows creativity and rebirth.

Most tribal tattoos are done in black and should be colored evenly which can be very challenging. Attentiveness is needed when designing tribal tattoos with their swinging arcs and curves.

Tribal tattoos were given to people of a tribe in order to either represent or reveal certain aspects about a person. A woman who couldn’t bear the pain of a tattoo was also shunned with the thought that she would not be able to handle the pain of childbirth. The tribe or type of tattoo you get can also hold significance when choosing a location to place the tattoo on your body. Maori were commonly known for their facial tribal tattoos. Now people are found with tattoos of varying types and sizes on their legs, ankles, shoulder blades, lower backs, upper backs and more. Just about anywhere that there is skin, a tattoo can be placed.

Passages of rite tattoos were marked upon a member of the tribe once they hit puberty. A person was not accepted as an adult until they bore these markings upon their body. It seems this tradition still holds true today as many adolescents celebrate their eighteenth birthday by having someone tattoo a part of their body as if to say they are now an adult.

Another tradition that seems to remain unbroken is identity tattoos. Many tribes were able to identify one another by the types of tattoos that each one wore. Today, many cultures and groups will bear similar tattoos in order to identify each other. This is also a common practice among many gangs symbolizing who they are and who they represent.

Whatever the reason a person might have to get tribal tattoos, the history is in the ink. The next time you choose to tattoo yourself, you might find that you have more of a story to tell about your symbol than what you may have realized in the first place.

sun tattoos

The sun is the most precious source of light, growth and warmth. It provides us with clarity after a shadowy night and protection from all the things that lurk in darkness. For these reasons alone, sun tattoos can make a deep impact. But these are not the only reasons a person would choose such a design. The sun, much like its astral brethren, carries a good deal of mythology, symbolism and intrigue with it.

The sun god can be seen in nearly every culture throughout history. One of the more popular depictions, however, is the Greek god Helios. Helios is not only god of the sun, but the sun itself. This image can be beautifully translated into tattoo art. The story goes that Helios drove a chariot led by four fire breathing horses every day, thus lighting up the sky. This image can be done in bright and bold colors, or black and white; it can be done in a classic painting style, or in a more modern illustration.

The beauty of sun tattoos is not only the simplicity of shape, but the potential for adaptability in design. For instance, you could try a monotone antique woodblock, or a colorful Celtic mosaic. You can mix symbols to tell a personal story; the sun blossoming from the stem of a rose to symbolize burgeoning love, or glowing behind a religious symbol to show the warmth one gets from their personal faith.

A very popular sun design is the tribal style. Tribal sun tattoos are usually very simple, using minimal colors (most frequently black, reds and occasionally blues), and sharp, clean lines. Although these are most often seen as a simple circle with jagged points jutting from it, there are a few other ways to utilize this style. For instance, you could use something a little softer, creating sun rays that look more like watery waves. You can also include a face or symbol in the body of the sun.

Sun tattoos can be light hearted and simple, or deeply meaningful and highly elaborate. However you so choose to depict this ancient and extraordinary symbol, you will be certain to make a fantastic statement.

Star tattoos

Star tattoos hold several meanings depending on the type and style of the star. They could be a sign of aspiration and goals that you have set in your own life that hold significant meaning. The meaning of a star tattoos can also be dependent upon how many points the star has. Bearers of star tattoos don’t always have a meaning but instead could just be an attractive design that a person chooses to have on their body.

• Shooting Star When considering a star tattoo that represents a significant moment in a person’s life, a shooting star is ideal. This can represent any number of things ranging from a special relationship, promotion, enlightenment and more. Anything that has changed a person can be symbolized by shooting star tattoos
• Nautical Star A nautical star is a symbol of guidance. Old superstitions believed that the nautical star would help guide a person on their journey or back home safely. Often when a person is seeking guidance, the nautical star shows best the meaning of those feelings. This five pointed star holds a special place in protection as well as guidance and can make for great star tattoos.



• Pentagram Star The pentagram is a popular star tattoo and its meaning is generally varied by whether or not the star points up or down. When facing downward, most feel it is a satanic sign symbolizing the head of a Ram. If the pentagram is pointed upward, according to Celtic beliefs, is a symbol of protection, balance, magic and story-telling. The five points represent the four elements with the fifth point on top representing the Spirit who reigns over all of the elements. These star tattoos are recommended for anyone looking to symbolize a sense of harmony as well.
  
• The Star of David The Star of David or hexagram is another popular star among religious aspect. This star originated from the fact that it was said that David once carried a shield that resembled the six pointed star when he defeated Goliath in battle. It symbolizes the Divine’s interaction with man-kind. This star has also been referred to as the Seal of Solomon or the Creator’s Star. This Jewish star has been seen throughout centuries, even back in the days of the Nazis and is one of the more popular star tattoo designs.
  
• Seven Pointed Star The seven pointed star, known as the septagram, is appealing to the mystical side of any individual as this is what it represents. This can be tied to many Hindu symbols when paired with the seven planets. The fact that the number seven itself has always held significance in superstitions of luck and fortune also plays into the septagram. It is also believed that this star represents the perfect male.
  
• Octogram Star Anyone who bears a sense of fullness might find themselves interested in the octogram or eight pointed star. Rooted among Pagans and Egyptians alike, the octogram holds meaning when paired with the Pagan wheel or the Ogdoad of ancient Egypt. Also used as a symbol for American firefighters, these star tattoos hold a wealth of meaning to the bearer.
  
• Nanogram Star Last but certainly not least, the nanogram is also known as the nine pointed star and represents stability or things achieved in a person’s life. Tying into the Norse mythology, it is said to represent the nine worlds.

No matter the reason a person chooses to get star tattoos, there is either significant purpose or symbolization of that tattoo or an attractive adornment that one chooses to have upon their body.

Skull Tattoos

Though always a popular design amongst enthusiasts, the popularity of skull tattoos has risen. Prior to this rise in fame, the symbolism was highly misunderstood as being something profoundly dark, sinister and rebellious. However, there are many positive connotations to be had from this design. The skull is often seen less as a signifier of death, and more as a signifier of life. Or, rather, the understanding and acceptance of all things that come with living — even death.

Although there are many positive implications, there are, of course, some negative ones as well. However, some people choose to use these designs as a symbol of toughness or endurance. One of the most recognizable symbols is the skull and crossbones. This symbol is often used to indicate poisonous material.

Skull tattoos have also long been a symbol for bikers and pirates. Biker tattoos usually depict a skull that is flaming, covered in barbed wire, or with red eyes. They may also show a snake coiling in one eye socket and out of the other. Though this symbol can seem tough, it may also be seen in a positive light. For instance, in some cultures the snake is seen as a sign of knowledge, thus indicating that the knowledge and understanding of death may indicate power. Pirate skull tattoos, though, are often very clear about their meaning. They usually represent everything to do with pirate culture; a crossbones style skull with blades instead of bones, a pirate hat and a menacing stare, are all quite common.

Some people also like to balance out the ominous appearance with something a little lighter. For instance, flowers growing around or in the eye sockets of a skull shows a balance of light and dark, life and death. Skull tattoos may also have significance for those in the medical field, or those who have suffered and survived accident or illness. These tattoos may include many features that or important to the wearer and are often very realistic in appearance.

There are many reason to get a skull tattoo, but weather it is a symbol of life or a symbol of death, you will be certain to create a stir with this popular and misunderstood design.

tribal rose tattoo

Rose tattoos have a surprising history and carry a good deal of symbolism. In the 16th century, rose tattoos were given to prisoners who were sentenced to death. Today, though, the meaning has undergone a massive change. Rose tattoos are now often associated with romance and love. They are can also symbolize deep religious respect (as the red rose is seen as a representation of the blood of Jesus Christ), death and even beauty.

When getting a rose tattoo, it is important to remember that each color has its own significance. For instance, orange represents desire; white means purity; red means love, etc.

After choosing the color, you can decide on a design. Though a lot of rose tattoos have a distinctly feminine appeal, there are also more masculine aspects that can be intertwined with the image. Many people choose a tribal rose tattoo as opposed to the more literal depiction. The dark colors and sharp edges make this a great unisex choice. Roses can also be used in designs featuring crosses, skulls, angels and even koi fish (which are a well known symbol of masculinity).

Some people like to use a more striking image in their rose tattoos. For instance, a monotone scene — a portrait of a person, a scroll with stylized writing — with a large, bold red rose growing alongside of it.

Rose tattoos can also be used alongside the yin and yang symbol. The rose is usually seen as a symbol of femininity, whereas the thorns on a rose are generally a symbol of masculinity. Showing dark and light, thorned roses intertwined, placed in a similar manner as the yin and yang, may create a similar meaning — that is, male and female; light and dark, and balance as a whole.

Rose tattoos can be big and bold, or small and monotone. They can be intricate or simple. But whatever way you decide to go about featuring the rose, it can be an expression with a good deal of meaning and emotion attached.

Learn more about the rose flower and see rose flower pictures

Religious Tattoos

Tattoos go against many peoples’ beliefs. In several religions the body is considered a temple and should not be marred. In contrast, though, some people believe that religious tattoos are one of many ways to express their devotion to their faith, and see it as a way to solidify and show the permanency of their devoutness.

There are many examples of Western religion in tattoos. Symbols of both Christian and Catholic worship can be seen everywhere in crosses, praying hands and images of deities, saints and even angels. The crucifix is a favored depiction. This shows Jesus hanging from the cross, frequently in black and white, with the slightest bit of red for blood. These often contain quotes in Latin, directly from the bible or simply stating the location that it can be found. Many people also like to use the image of the mother Mary. Her expression is often sad, and her arms are usually set wide apart in a welcoming fashion, though she is occasionally depicted holding the image of the sacred heart. Although in Judaism tattoos are considered forbidden, many people still like to use the Star of David, and use religious quotes in beautiful Hebrew lettering.

There are also many Eastern religious tattoos. The Buddhist wheel is a popular design. It is said to represent the cyclical nature of life and the afterlife. The endless knot is another good example of religious tattoos interpreted from symbology. This symbol is meant to show the endless wisdom and compassion of the Buddha. Some people also like to use the intricate and colorful design of the Ashtamangala — or, eight auspicious symbols — which combine eight symbols that the Buddhist find especially lucky. There are also several other symbols that can be used in this style of art; the Four Guardian Kings, the Buddhist flag, and many beautiful offerings, amongst other things.

Hinduism is also quite broad in its symbolism. One of the most frequently used symbols is the Aum (or Om), which is said to be one of the most important emblems of this faith. It is a representation of several important triads, one of which is the three worlds; heaven, atmosphere and earth. The lotus is another important symbol. It represents beauty and detachment. This detachment is important as it frees a person from being reborn.

This by no means covers all the possibilities of religious tattoos, nor all of the faiths. Every religion carries its own symbols, styles and beauty. With research and patience, you will certainly find the perfect style to express your personal devotion.

Phoenix Tattoos

Phoenix tattoos are said to be the ultimate sign of rebirth and eternal life. To the Greeks and Egyptians, this symbol represented the sun dying at the end of a day and rising in the morning to be reborn. The phoenix is also said to live for five hundred years, then goes to rest by building a nest which it sets aflame, the fire consuming both. After three days the phoenix will rise again from the ashes and begin anew. These tales have struck a cord with many people, and to express their new beginning — or ‘rising from the ashes — they decide to get a phoenix tattoo.

Phoenix tattoos are generally a rather considerable scale, encompassing large sections of the body such as the back, chest or wrapping around the leg or upper arm. There is a good reason for this, as most of these pieces are very detailed, and given that it is an expression of a new life beginning, it makes sense that these should make a powerful statement.

Phoenix tattoos are usually very colorful. Most will contain reds, yellows and oranges, as the phoenix is closely associated with fire and the sun. However, for a more unique look, some will use blues, purples, greens and tones of copper and gold. Less frequently, people will use blacks and grays, and only outline the massive wings and body of the phoenix.

Some of the most popular phoenix tattoos are seen with the sizable bird surrounded by fire. It can also be seen partially obscured and rising from its ashes, or bursting through the sun. A unique idea that can be used to symbolize the shift of days is having your phoenix surrounding the globe, its tail shadowing one end, and its face brightening the other.

Many also like to use the Egyptian phoenix. In early incarnations of this figure, the phoenix had the body of a man and the expansive wings of the phoenix. This image has changed over time, it became a wholly bird-like creature eventually, but the story has remained the same, and is seen in art as being immersed in flame so as to begin its transformation.

So whether you are beginning a new life, have survived troubled times and have become stronger for it, or the idea of such a masterful creature appeals to you, phoenix tattoos will always make for a beautiful and strong choice.

Nautical Star Tattoos

The old school 3-D nautical star tattoos bears five points that have a line splitting them in half down each point. Each triangular half of the point is filled with alternating colors, generally black and white (early days of nautical star tattoos) or red and black were the basics. Now days you will see them in a variety of alternating colors giving them that 3-D illusion.Nautical Star tattoos date back over a century ago with sailors looking for some sort of direction, guidance, protection, and safe return home. In the early days, sailors counted on the stars for navigation. Sailors relied on the stars to direct them correctly, putting all their faith in them that the stars would never fail them in their return trips home. This is what began the now common sailor tattoo, the nautical star. The star symbolized this and their path home. Soldiers are also fond of this tattoo for similar reasons.

Now days, the symbolic meaning has taken a bit of a spin but not far off what the sailors used this tattoo to symbolize. Today, when people get a nautical star tattoo it can come with various meanings to them, some in remembrance of a sailor or solider in their life, with others it can mean direction in their own life. Stars tattoos have never been fixed to any one religion or way of life. It appears though that guidance is the universal definition of nautical star tattoos, whether it is personal guidance or remembering where one was and where they are headed in life.

Ireland looks at the nautical star as a sign of good health, whereas the gay and lesbian community get nautical stars tattooed on their inside wrist to symbolize unity their relationship preference. Many punk rockers also sport the nautical star tattoos. Aaron Carter sports one on his is on his right arm. It is said that when the star is pointed up (say on the arm, the longest point would be facing towards the sky) it symbolizes that person has a brighter outlook on life situations.

Nautical star tattoos are a very popular design, once worn primarily by sailors and soldiers can now be found on many different individual in all walks of life. This universal design brings a constant reminder of

Koi Fish Tattoos

Koi fish tattoos are traditional tattoos symbolizing good luck in the Japanese culture. The idea behind this belief comes from the natural perseverance of the actual koi fish in nature. The koi fish must swim many miles upstream to spawn and continue its species. Japanese legend surrounding the koi says that if one of these mythic fish succeeds in traversing both the upstream voyage of the river, and in climbing the falls of the Dragon Gate on the Yellow River, it will then magically transform into a dragon. So not only are koi fish tattoos a symbol of luck, they are a symbol of ambition in the face of adversity, success, and advancement in life.

Koi fish tattoos can be worn by anyone wanting to represent the struggle humans go through as they swim through the ocean of life’s natural trials and hardships, just as the fish makes its way upstream. The koi fish tattoo looks really cute on women’s feet, wrists, and shoulder blades. While the traditional color of the tattoo is a golden orange, this can be changed to reflect the wearer’s preferences in this matter. Koi fish tattoos are not the type of tattoo one would want on their mid lower back, this is an artistic representation of struggle and success which should be proudly shown, and not a bit of sexual innuendo much like lower back tattoos.

Men can wear the koi fish tattoo as well as women. There are also masculine versions of the koi fish tattoo that depict this mythic creature’s transformation from fish to dragon. Full back spreads can be created tracking the voyage and quest of the koi fish on its way to being transformed into the dragon at the mouth of the Dragon Gate on the Yellow River. Men who are secure n their masculinity can leave off the dragon aspect and simply embrace the symbolism of a single solitary koi fish tattoo.

Celebrities are even catching on to the trend. Charlize Theron and her mother both have matching koi fish tattoos. They got them after Charlize’s mother successfully battled breast cancer to symbolize her successful struggle in the face of adversity.

Japanese Tattoos

With the variety and skills of tattoo artists, one has to wonder why Japanese tattoos are still so popular today. But the truth is, it is not all that surprising. With the colorful history and vast array of designs, Japanese tattoos are not only aesthetically pleasing, but can carry a good deal of meaning.

The remarkable history and style of the Japanese culture has always mystified the Western world. Signs of this are seen most commonly in tattoos. One of the most popular of these is the Kanji tattoo. Kanji is a calligraphy style writing used by the Japanese. The beauty of this particular style of tattoo is both its simplicity and its diversity. You can convey practically any message you wish with the simple and stylish characters.

Other popular styles of Japanese tattoos are steeped in real life or fantasy. From dragons to koi fish, qilin — which are said to be a good omen, bringing serenity and prosperity — to romantic flora like cherry blossoms and lotuses.

The beauty of Japanese tattoos is that you can go well beyond symbols or small, meaningful signs, and create masterful pieces that can cover large areas of your body. For instance, many images can portray beautiful outdoor scenes with large billowy clouds, wind or even fantastic, old fashioned scenes of a wavy ocean. These are often taken from the ukiyo-e or “pictures of the floating world”, which is a genre of Japanese woodcuts. These remarkable scenes can be mixed with many figures from either an outdoor scene, such as flowers or animals; folkloric characters, or something more meaningful to you personally.

Another thing to keep in mind is placement. For instance a hikae, or chest panel tattoo, is a classic placement. This tattoo starts at the chest and blends out into the shoulder, and often down the arm. A nagasode tattoo is considered a “sleeve” piece and starts under the shoulder and down to the wrist, while a shichibu is 7/10ths of the sleeve and gobu is 5/10ths.

Many people take Japanese tattoos further than just covering large portions of their body. Instead, they opt to cover almost their entire body, from neck to mid-thigh. These are often seen with a multicolored pictorial tattoo of the Suikoden, which was, and still is a massively popular set of four novels in Chinese literature. It was originally translated in Japan in 1757 and woodcuts were created for these stories in 1827. Since then, many people enjoy these rich and colorful tattoos that tell classic and unmistakable stories.

Despite the fact that tattooing is still considered rather on the taboo side in Japan, those who seek out either rebellion or a sense of beauty will find themselves drawn to the mystical, unique and splendid style of Japanese tattoos. This style will continue to have a draw for its variety and its colorful

Heart Tattoos

Heart tattoos often mean love — love for another person, love for yourself, and if you mix this symbol with other items, love for a particular thing. This is understandable as the heart is a romantic symbol which is said to be at the root of all human emotions. It is also said to be the bearer of the soul and the mind.

What makes heart tattoos such a great choice is the variety of ways you can use this, not to mention the variety of symbolization that can go along with it. For instance, those with a strong Catholic faith might wear sacred heart tattoos. These are typically well shaped and realistic hearts, surrounded by thorns and a bright light. Some depictions may also show the hand of Jesus presenting it to the onlooker. Another example would be the ‘lock and key’ heart. This is used most frequently by married couples, but can also be used to signify a deep friendship, or the bond between parent and child.

Given that this design is meant to be the symbol of lasting love, many people choose to wear a design that is large, red, round and sporting the name of one’s paramour. This trend was actually started with sailors who often placed the word ‘Mom’ in their heart tattoos. Unfortunately, many people regret making this decision. It is not unheard of, though, for the name heart to be redone in the style of the broken heart. This piece will show a jagged strike down the middle of the heart, and can be used not only to symbolize the loss of a lover, but as an indicator of your personal feelings towards the emotion of love in general.

Many people also like to use the literal style when choosing a heart tattoo. Like the sacred heart, these appear more realistic and have significance to those in the medical field, or those who have struggled with illness.

Fortunately, this style can also be less weighed down with meaning and more whimsical. Cartoon hearts, or a stylized version with loops and bold, bright color can also be done.

So whether you choose a style with a deep personal meaning, or something purely for the aesthetic appeal, be sure to choose wisely and have fun your design.

Flower Tattoos

Flower tattoos can be beautiful, feminine and can have a variety of meanings. For instance, the Lilly is the symbol of purity and to some, erotic love. While the lotus flower is a symbol of good fortune, peace and re-birth. Creating a bouquet on the skin can make a many tiered statement of the individual who is wearing it.

For instance, a person who pledges fidelity to their first love might surround a lilac with ivy; or, a person who finds themself to be bold and lucky may make a chain of delphinium and stephanotis around their arm.

Flower tattoos are great for the fact that you can make them small and simple by using one tiny flower, or large and climbing. They can be bright and colorful, or dark and expressive. A most intriguing design is one with a tree with long branches in black, with red, blue or purple blossoms blooming from them.

You can connect the many meanings of flower tattoos with the symbolism of leaves. Though, in nature you may not see the olive leaf grown alongside a cosmos flower, by placing one of these blooms bursting in the center of olive leaves, you can express a feeling of peace.

It is also common to mix meanings of flowers with other important symbols. Flowers creeping around a religious symbol have always been a popular image in both art and tattoos. Flower tattoos can also be combined with zodiac symbols. Every sign has its own characteristics from color, to gemstones and also flora. Creating a delicate combination of star sign and their respective flower (Aquarius with orchids, Pisces with poppies, etc.) can make a statement of who you are, and can even be used to express love for those closest to you.

Whether your flower tattoos are purely for aesthetic purposes, or you want to create a deeper meaning with you design, it is always a good idea to see what they might symbolize. With the rich variety of flowers available, and the imaginative history behind them, you are sure to find something that is both appealing and meaningful.

Firefighter Tattoos

Have you been looking at firefighter tattoos but you don’t know which designs to choose from? Here are some tips to help you decide on the design of your firefighter tattoo:

There are many different types of firefighter tattoos. The tattoos usually symbolize a fireman’s passion for fighting fire and represents a fireman’s courage and adventure. It can also remind firefighters of moments with other firemen who died doing their job.

Symbols of Firefighter Tattoos

• Symbols reflecting hope and protection: Examples are: angel wings around firemen, a saint watching over the rescued and the fireman or an eagle with its wings around fire.
• Fire company emblem: Every fire department has their own emblem which may include the city’s symbol, motto, insignia and shield, a perfect design option for firefighter tattoos.
• Symbols of danger or the defiance of death: Examples are demons, skulls, a person taken out of the depths of hell or dragons breathing fire around firefighters.
• St. Florian symbol: Saint Florian is the patron saint of firefighters. According to a legend, Saint Florian was condemned to die because he was a Christian. Soldiers told him he was going to be burned alive. He answer was: I will climb to heaven on the flames. Saint Florian’s job included establishing a fire brigade. It was rumored that he was able to stop a fire using only one bucket of water.
• Maltese Cross: Some fire department shields have the Maltese cross which is said to be used by knights who courageously fought off fire. Some of the knights risked their lives to save their fellow knights. These knights came from Malta, an island in the Mediterranean.
• Celtic firefighter tattoos: Examples are leprechauns or shamrocks with a firehouse symbol.
• Religious: Some firefighter tattoos have religious symbols representing the firemen’s religious beliefs and God. This can establish a since of comfort and protectiveness while doing one of the most dangerous jobs in the world.
• Memorial tattoos: Some firefighter tattoos are memorials of firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty. For example, a fireman may choose a memorial tattoo with the symbol of the Maltese cross and the number of men who lost their lives trying to save others during the 9/11 attack. Other examples include names and dates of firemen and people who died on the job protecting others.
• Scenes of firefighting: Some firefighter tattoos can feature scenes of firefighters fighting fire with a hose, rescuing people from a burning building or a helmet with fire around it.
• Portraits of firemen: An example is a portrait of a known fireman fighting fire or carrying people in their arms.

fairy tattoos

Cute fairy tattoos are very popular especially among women. They are an attractive and whimsical design that can represent many things. There are many types of cute fairy tattoos you could get: a gothic or evil fairy, some sort of angelic image, or perhaps a dainty or precious fairy. Fairies often represent fantasy. They are a coy and elusive creature representing both a mysterious and magical world. Cute fairy tattoos can represent a variety of things from youth, beauty, mischief, imagination, magic, etc.

Fairy tattoos are a flexible design that can be anywhere on your body and any size. Although, cute fairy tattoos are usually found to be small and are located somewhere on the ankle, calf, shoulder, hip, lower back, and foot.

So what fictional characters do people associate with when thinking of these mysterious and magical creatures? Two of the most popular fairies are Tinkerbell and Queen Mab who is not just a fairy, but a fairy queen no less. A lot of different words can be associated with the word fairy, let’s look at some definitions:

• Fairy – A supernatural being that can have magical powers and are most likely to intervene in human affairs. They can be all sizes.
• Sprite – A general word for a fairy that has wings and has a pleasing appearance.
• Elf – An elf is part of the fairy family and generally are mischievous and without wings.
• Spirit – An elf, sprite, or fairy.
• Pixie – A sprite or fairy that has a mischievous personality.

The natural word and fairies are linked together and can be expressed by combining nature with your cute fairy tattoo. Some possible combinations include:

• A fairy and a mushroom
• A fairy hanging from a tree branch
• Incorporating butterfly tattoos with a fairy
• Fairies and flowers
• A fairy and an angel flying together
• A fairy resting on a leaf in a pond
• A fairy with other fictional creatures such as dragons, unicorns, or perhaps a phoenix

Cute fairy tattoos can represent a number of different things and many different things can be incorporated into a fairy tattoo design. Hopefully this has spiked your interest and will lead you to more design ideas!

Armband Tattoos

Armband tattoos are one of the most popular tattoo styles. This is largely due to the fact that they make great starter tattoos, and if placed high on the arm, are very discreet. They can also be incredibly versatile in terms of design.

Many people start with something simple. Pattern designs are the most commonly seen style in armband tattoos. Celtic designs are a classic option; they are elaborate, laden with symbolism and meaning, and easy to change so as to make them your own. Hawaiian armband tattoos are also very popular, as these can be used because of both their aesthetic appeal, and because of their cultural significance. Tribal patterns work great because they are not only stylish in appearance, but because you can create a continuous pattern to reach all the way around the arm.

Although most armband tattoos are patterns, some people may choose something a bit more intricate. For instance, a film strip armband may be a unique touch. This design can feature varying parts of an actual film, or ’scenes’ from the life of the wearer. Dream catcher tattoos are also a good example of this, and can feature anything from animals, feathers and very detailed bead work.

Some people also like to use jewelry in their armband tattoos. A single strand of pearls or a heavy chain with an old watch face dangling at the end. Significant birthstones or lockets with a photo of a loved one embedded into the picture are not uncommon to see in this style.

Alternative styles are also quite favored. Gothic armbands featuring barbed wire, flames and skulls; astrological designs showing the wearers stars and planets; even binary code are all used to create unique tattoo pieces.

Although armband tattoos may not be that unusual, it is very easy to make them into something unique. Be creative with your piece, have fun with it and make sure that it is something you absolutely love.

kannji tattoo

Kanji tattoos are tattoos utilizing Japanese writing. The Kanji is one of the oldest writing styles in Japan and the unique, stylized figures make excellent tattoos. However, be aware of the literal translations when selecting the Kanji lettering. As with any foreign language, literal translations don’t always work or they won’t mean what is intended in that language.

Patience, serenity, loyalty, love, strength, determination and other keywords are all available in Kanji symbols and make great Kanji tattoos. The Japanese alphabet does not strictly translate into the Standard English alphabet. Therefore, going for a direct translation of an American or English name to Kanji won’t work.

Literal and popular phrases may require a combination of symbols, without proper research, the Kanji tattoos will not mean what is intended. It’s important research Kanji for both literal and symbolic meanings. Don’t wait to decide on what Kanji symbol is most desirable when the artist is loading the ink. Do not rely on the artist to determine what symbol best fits the desired word or phrase. The artist specializes in applying the ink, not the translation.

Taking the time to research Kanji tattoos can save a lot of unnecessary grief later. Translator services online may only provide one or two meanings of a symbol and may not provide an accurate translation. If speaking to someone fluent in Japanese is not an option, consider visiting a college or university where Japanese is taught.

A professor of Japanese language or history should be able to provide some insights into the meanings of various Kanji tattoos and help narrow the field of choices down. Public and university libraries may contain volumes on Kanji symbols and dictionaries to provide translations. Finally, there are translation services that can, for a nominal fee, provide the accurate and thorough research and guarantee. The guarantee is important, because if a person obtains a tattoo that turns out to be inaccurate later, that guarantee may cover the cost of removal and a new tattoo.