butterfly back of neck tattoo meaning

30 AMAZING COMPASS TATTOOS FOR WOMEN TO TRY IN 2024

The compass tattoo is becoming increasingly popular among travel enthusiasts and those who love exploring new places. It is not just a piece of art but also carries deep and spiritual meanings. Compass tattoos can be designed in a simple or intricate manner, often incorporating coordinates or other map elements. They attract not only those passionate about wandering but also embody spiritual values. Below is a compilation of 25 tattoos of compass designs for women with diverse meanings and ideas. Let’s explore inspiration for your own tattoo.

NEO-TRADITIONAL COMPASS TATTOO

The neo-traditional compass tattoo featuring colorful sparrows is an ideal expression of your passion for travel and adventure. Its intricate details and lively color palette render this design an appealing option.

COMPASS AND MAP TATTOO

This innovative compass tattoo showcases distinctive line work depicting the world map, coupled with an understated yet intricate compass design. The carefully crafted details of the world map form a visually captivating journey across continents. Interwoven seamlessly into this map is an elegant yet distinctive compass design, adding an extra layer of symbolism to the overall composition. The intricate lines on the world map not only provide accuracy but also evoke a sense of adventure and exploration.

COMPASS AND ANCHOR

This compass tattoo is sure to captivate those who appreciate meticulous shading, much like myself. The artist has skillfully executed shading, and the incorporation of the watercolor technique adds a visually appealing touch as well.

TRADITIONAL COMPASS TATTOO

If you’re in search of a minimalist yet classic compass tattoo, this design is sure to captivate your interest. The tattoo artist skillfully crafted a black compass, elegantly situated on the upper arm. The simplicity of this traditional compass tattoo adds a timeless and understated charm to the overall look.

COMPASS WITH WATER SPLASHES

This compass, encircled by dynamic water splashes, serves as an ideal design for individuals who harbor a deep love for the ocean and a connection to aquatic surroundings. To enhance the water-themed elements, one could consider incorporating shades of blue ink, contributing to the overall aesthetic and reinforcing the maritime feel of the tattoo.

HAND-POKED COMPASS TATTOO

Hand-poked tattoos, a method devoid of electrically powered machines, stand as a unique approach to body art. Distinguished by the utilization of a single needle, this technique involves the meticulous process of manually pushing ink beneath the skin’s surface. This traditional and intimate method emphasizes precision, allowing for a carefully crafted tattoo with a distinct and personalized touch.

COMPASS AND MOUNTAIN

A tattoo featuring a compass and mountains serves as a symbolic representation of life’s journey. The compass acts as a guide, navigating through the challenges and trials, while the mountain embodies your aspirations and ambitions. Together, these two symbols serve as a constant reminder to stay the course, maintaining focus on your goals and staying committed to your life’s path.

TATTOO OF COMPASS ROSE

To create a captivating arm sleeve, consider incorporating various elements into your compass with rose tattoo. This particular sleeve showcases a compass, a watch, and a prominent red rose.

COMPASS WITH BUTTERFLY AND FLOWERS

Add a touch of femininity to your tattoo design by incorporating delicate elements such as butterflies and flowers. This artistry is perfect for individuals seeking a symbol that embodies hope and signifies new beginnings. Incorporating these intricate details not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also adds depth to the underlying meaning of the tattoo, creating a beautiful and meaningful piece of body art.

COMPASS WITH ARROW

Upon closer inspection of this tattoo, it becomes evident that the artist has skillfully integrated dotwork into the intricate compass design. The meticulous use of dotwork adds a unique and captivating texture to the overall composition, elevating the tattoo to a level of detailed artistry. This technique not only showcases the artist’s precision but also enhances the visual appeal of the compass, making it a standout feature in the tattoo.

simple compass tattoo design

For individuals passionate about travel, exploring the possibility of incorporating an airplane or alternative modes of transportation into their tattoo design adds an extra layer of personal significance. This thoughtful addition goes beyond a simple compass, introducing elements that directly symbolize the adventurous spirit associated with exploration and the love for journeying to new destinations. 

COMPASS AND FLOWERS

For those inclined towards intricate tattoo designs, draw inspiration from this compass encircled by delicate flowers. The compass, a tool for navigation and finding one’s way, is complemented by the symbolic presence of flowers, representing both beauty and the essence of life. This elaborate design not only captures the practicality of a compass but also infuses it with elements that evoke the aesthetics and vitality found in nature. 

COMPASS WITH DRIPPING WATER

The incorporation of a dripping water effect in this tattoo design is truly captivating. The subtle elegance of the black ink, coupled with meticulous shading, adds a layer of depth and dimension to the overall aesthetic. The dripping water effect not only introduces a dynamic element to the design but also lends a sense of fluidity and motion.

NORTH (N), EAST (E), SOUTH (S), WEST (W)

This North (N), East (E), South (S), West (W) tattoo boasts intricate artistic details, featuring distinct arrows and even incorporating a rope wrapped around one of the arrows. The careful attention to detail in each arrow brings a unique character to the design, while the addition of the wrapped rope introduces an element of texture and visual interest. The incorporation of the cardinal directions adds a meaningful and navigational aspect to the tattoo, symbolizing orientation and exploration.

LIGHTHOUSE AND COMPASS

This captivating tattoo exhibits an abundance of exquisite details. The artist has showcased exceptional skill in crafting this piece, from the intricately designed lighthouse to the meticulously rendered anchor. The addition of blue ink enhances the overall aesthetic, bringing depth and vibrancy to the maritime-inspired elements. The composition tells a rich visual story, incorporating nautical symbols that often carry symbolic significance.

COMPASS AND WHALE TATTOO

Expressing a deep affinity for the sea, this compass and whale tattoo offers a splendid homage to maritime themes. The incorporation of geometric shapes and delicate lines adds a touch of sophistication to the overall design. The precision in the use of lines and shapes contributes to the visual appeal, creating an intricate yet harmonious composition. 

WATERCOLOR COMPASS

Watercolor tattoos captivate with their stunning visual impact. This tattoo style emulates the appearance of a painting, where ink is skillfully applied to achieve a vivid and fluid aesthetic. The technique involves blending colors seamlessly, resulting in a soft and ethereal look that sets watercolor tattoos apart. The use of vibrant hues and delicate shading creates an artistic effect reminiscent of watercolor paintings, allowing for a unique and personalized expression of creativity on the canvas of the skin.

COMPASS ARMBAND

Armband tattoos offer a distinctive and often overlooked canvas for creative designs, and a compass-themed armband can be a unique choice to explore. Unlike more common placements, choosing an armband allows the design to occupy a larger portion of your skin, offering a broader scope for artistic expression. The compass, typically associated with navigation and direction, takes on a fresh perspective when encircling the arm, emphasizing its role as a guide in life’s journey. 

FEMININE COMPASS TATTOO

The artist has infused a distinct feminine touch into the traditional compass design, adding an element of uniqueness that may not be immediately recognized as a compass at first glance. This design takes on a more delicate and graceful appearance, deviating from the typical imagery associated with compass tattoos. Compass tattoos, in general, carry a range of meanings, symbolizing direction, guidance, and protection. Additionally, they can be representative of an individual’s life journey, emphasizing the importance of navigation and finding one’s path.

CHEST COMPASS TATTOO

This exquisite design is well-suited for placement just above the upper abdomen, seamlessly fitting beneath the chest cavity. The monochromatic tones of the tattoo create a harmonious and subtle aesthetic. The mandala encircling the compass serves as a stellar representation of intricate geometric design, embodying the quest to connect with someone who truly understands you. The incorporation of the mandala adds depth to the symbolism, evoking themes of unity, balance, and spiritual connection.

CELESTIAL COMPASS TATTOO

This captivating design is truly a masterpiece, featuring a central compass enveloped in gentle wisps of smoke and adorned with dotted geometric flowers. The addition of the solar system surrounding the compass provides a distinctive and celestial touch. Positioned gracefully on the back of the neck and upper back, this astrological tattoo not only showcases artistic finesse but also holds popularity among individuals drawn to spiritual symbolism. 

BUTTERFLY COMPASS TATTOO

This unique take on the conventional compass tattoo introduces a touch of elegance. The tattoo features a prominent black compass set within a picturesque landscape, enclosed by the graceful wings of a majestic butterfly. Placed on the upper back, this design not only adds a chic and artistic flair but also incorporates symbolic elements that evoke a sense of exploration and transformation. 

ABSTRACT COMPASS TATTOO

This forearm compass tattoo boasts an imaginative design influenced by the ‘dark academia’ art style, featuring eight sub-directions marked by tridents with distinct designs. The central element of the tattoo is a hollow sphere, adding a touch of magic to its overall appeal. This design symbolizes a poised, educated, and disciplined individual.

BACK EAR COMPASS TATTOO

Indulge in a stylish delight with this tattoo delicately placed behind the ear. Its vibrant design features a set of finely outlined compass arrows at the center, surrounded by a dynamic burst of purple and blue hues in the background. Pairing this quirky and colorful design with a pixie haircut adds an extra touch of flair, creating a distinctive and bold statement.

LOWER BACK COMPASS TATTOO

Explore this thoughtfully designed tattoo that elegantly graces your lower back. The intricate design incorporates a captivating play of colors in the background, featuring blue waves crashing against a striking black compass. The addition of flowers on the top left provides a unique contrast, adding depth and symbolism to the overall composition. 

ANIMAL COMPASS TATTOO

Embrace the symbolism and allure of this tattoo, featuring a turtle intricately positioned behind a compass on your arm. The turtle, representing strength and stability, becomes a central theme in this design, capturing attention with its detailed and eye-catching presentation. Beyond aesthetics, the turtle is often considered a symbol of good luck.

SIDE BODY COMPASS TATTOO

The essence of adventure with this captivating waist tattoo design, tailored for the spirited soul. Its semi-colorful style harmonizes an intricate central motif with a lively watercolor splash in the background, creating a visually striking and abstract composition. 

SPIRAL COMPASS TATTOO DESIGN

Your ink game with this well-crafted compass tattoo, designed to grace your calves or arms. The tattoo features a central compass, a directional star at the bottom, and an intricately wrapped rope encircling your arm. The backdrop portrays a cartographer’s map, adding a touch of artistic detail to the overall design. This tattoo is a poignant expression for avid travelers, embodying a deep affinity for exploration and adventures.

CONCLUSION

With its flexibility and profound meanings, simple compass tattoo designs can symbolize various aspects such as direction, guidance, and protection. They also carry symbolism for the journey of life and personal adventures. This diverse collection of compass tattoos hopes to inspire and provide ideas for those seeking a special symbol to express their love for exploration and life.

30 MEANINGFUL SMALL BUTTERFLY TATTOOS TO INSPIRE YOU THIS SPRING & SUMMER

Butterfly tattoos are an excellent choice for those. Despite their widespread popularity, these tattoos retain their allure. To help you find unique tattoo ideas, here is a collection of 30 small butterfly tattoo ideas and from black and white to vibrant colors. These artworks are sure to inspire your next tattoo. Keep reading!

BUTTERFLY AND SWORD

A samurai sword symbolizes the soul and honor of a samurai, treated as an extension of their identity in Japan. The combination of swords and butterflies in tattoos reflects the courage and fighter spirit, with butterflies historically representing samurai clans like the Taira clan. Despite its apparent simplicity, this intricate butterfly tattoo carries significant weight and meaning due to its historical context.

BUTTERFLY AND CHRYSANTHEMUM NECK TATTOO

If you’re born in November, you might know the chrysanthemum, the month’s birth flower. Beyond its beauty, the chrysanthemum represents life and rebirth, similar to a butterfly. Each color of chrysanthemum holds a distinct meaning; for instance, the red chrysanthemum in this butterfly neck tattoo symbolizes love and passion.

BURNING BUTTERFLY

While butterfly tattoos typically symbolize change and beauty, this burning butterfly adopts a more serious tone. With one wing vaporized, it narrates a story of challenges and struggles, portraying a poignant metaphor for resilience in the face of adversity.

BUTTERFLY AND SEAHORSE TATTOO

The butterfly embodies the spirit of spring, the seahorse symbolizes the essence of summertime, and the maple leaves serve as a nod to the vibrant colors of fall. This tattoo beautifully encapsulates the ever-changing seasons, creating a harmonious blend of nature’s transitions.

BUTTERFLY AND MORNING GLORY FLOWER

The exquisite flowers forming one of the wings are morning glories, known for their vibrant blooms that thrive from summer to early winter. These flowers, easy to cultivate, often attract butterflies, creating a harmonious and lively atmosphere. Just like in this colored butterfly tattoo, the combination of morning glories and butterflies forms a beautiful symphony of life.

SIMPLE SMALL BUTTERFLY TATTOO

Butterfly tattoos don’t always need vibrant colors; they can be just as beautiful in black and white, as seen in this simple outline wrist tattoo. An advantage of black and white tattoos is their longevity, as they tend to preserve better over time. If you’re concerned about color fading, opting for a straightforward outline butterfly tattoo might be a more suitable choice.

DRAGON BUTTERFLY TATTOO

The distinctive feature of this butterfly tattoo lies in the concealed oriental dragon intricately woven into the wing patterns. This extraordinary blend of delicate beauty and mythical strength forms a captivating narrative on the wearer’s skin.

BUTTERFLY TATTOO COVER-UP

This shoulder tattoo, unlike the typical combination of butterflies and flowers, has a unique twist. Originally a single butterfly tattoo, it underwent a transformation as the patterns faded, evolving into a design featuring both a flower and a butterfly. Vibrant colors now conceal most of the old tattoo, but upon closer inspection, the original butterfly can be found at the center of the new one, symbolizing a sense of rebirth.

SMALL BUTTERFLY TATTOO IDEAS

A small butterfly tattoo need to convey its profound meaning. Compact butterfly tattoos can create a striking visual impact, reflecting your individual character. Amidst various small butterfly tattoo ideas, the most compelling ones embody themes of love, hope, and positive transformation. From my perspective, an exemplary small butterfly tattoo serves as a potent talisman, serving as a reminder of the wearer’s remarkable achievements.

HAND BUTTERFLY TATTOOS

One of the prevalent butterfly tattoo designs is the butterfly hand tattoo. Opting for a design that is not overly elaborate, the hand placement complements the butterfly’s shape effectively. Although hand butterfly tattoos are exposed for everyone to see, they convey warmth, friendliness, and a loving nature. Additionally, these tattoos symbolize open-mindedness, adventurous spirit, and a connection to nature. Ultimately, a hand butterfly tattoo on a well-groomed hand can enhance your overall allure.

unique BUTTERFLY TATTOOS

Butterfly tattoos don’t always need intricate details or colors to be beautiful; simplicity and subtle shading can be just as captivating. Black and white simple butterfly tattoos often age well over time. Choosing a minimalistic approach, akin to a moth tattoo style, adds a touch of uniqueness to your overall style. If longevity and avoiding color fading are concerns, a simple outline butterfly tattoo is a timeless choice.

NECK BUTTERFLY TATTOOS

Neck tattoos carry symbolic significance related to communication and engagement. Specifically, neck butterfly tattoos symbolize an individual’s openness to new connections and experiences. These tattoos represent the wearer’s willingness to share their journey of overcoming past challenges and evolving into a better version of themselves. Currently, a prevalent choice for neck butterfly tattoos features a light-shaded butterfly design with intricate wing patterns.

BUTTERFLY WITH FLOWER TATTOOS

Combining flowers with butterfly tattoos adds an extra layer of beauty and meaning. Whether it’s roses or chrysanthemums, flowers complement butterfly tattoos, infusing them with additional symbolism of love, passion, and sensuality. The choice of flower colors also plays a crucial role, allowing for variations that make your tattoo stand out uniquely.

SEMICOLON BUTTERFLY TATTOOS

The semicolon tattoo, when standing alone, serves as a symbol of support for individuals facing suicide, depression, addiction, and various mental health struggles or for those who have triumphed over these challenges. Much like the semicolon prompts a pause in a sentence, those adorned with the semicolon butterfly tattoo use it as a powerful reminder that their narrative is ongoing. This tattoo is a meaningful choice for suicide survivors and individuals confronting emotional trauma daily.

MANDALA BUTTERFLY TATTOOS

In various cultures, the back and spine are symbolic of life’s core. A butterfly tattoo on the back serves as a celebration of life, embodying vitality and strength, especially when paired with complementary symbols. A mandala-style butterfly tattoo covering the entire back can be breathtaking! Additionally, incorporating quotes into your back butterfly tattoo, with delicate flowers serving as stems, adds a unique touch.

THIGH BUTTERFLY TATTOOS

The wrists, neck, shoulders, fingers, and ankles, being among the most visible parts of the body, are well-suited for small butterfly tattoos. Conversely, larger butterfly tattoos find an ideal canvas on the back, legs, chest, and thighs. Thigh butterfly tattoos, in particular, bear a deeply personal or sentimental touch, narrating tales of love and synergy. To personalize the effect, you can complement your butterfly thigh tattoo with flowers according to your preferences.

BLUE BUTTERFLY TATTOOS

Blue butterfly tattoos serve as a reminder to find inner peace and harmony in your life. The color blue, associated with calmness and joy, paired with the butterfly’s symbolism of birth and rebirth, signifies transitioning into a new phase on your life journey. Additionally, the blue butterfly tattoo carries meanings of faithfulness and reliability.

3D BUTTERFLY TATTOOS

Taking a literal approach, 3D tattoos elevate tattoo art to a new dimension. Representing one of the contemporary trends in tattooing, these photorealistic tattoos demand creativity, thoughtful design, and, most crucially, exceptional talent from the tattoo artist. The finest examples of this style aim for a level of realism that closely resembles photographs.

MONARCH BUTTERFLY TATTOOS

Witnessing the migration of Monarch butterflies in autumn, with their stunning orange and black colors, is a truly beautiful experience. I had the privilege of encountering this spectacle during a hike near the Delaware Water Gap, where thousands of monarch butterflies filled the air. The transformation from an unassuming worm to a majestic butterfly makes the monarch butterfly tattoo a symbol of evolution and profound life changes.

RED BUTTERFLY TATTOOS

In the vast spectrum of tattoo colors, there are numerous matching options for butterfly tattoos. Throughout history, red shades have symbolized femininity, and red butterflies, in particular, have been linked to themes of love and romance. Across various cultures, the fluttering wings of a red butterfly are believed to convey a lover’s promise. Red, with its associations of desire and passion, becomes the ideal color for a butterfly symbolizing love.

SKULL BUTTERFLY TATTOOS

Skull tattoos carry symbols of strength and power, offering a sense of protection. They can also represent the demise of an old life, the conquest of the past, and the emergence of positive changes. Combining skulls, symbolizing death, with butterflies, representing new life, signifies triumph over challenging obstacles or a transformative journey through death and rebirth—a symbolic representation of the circle of life and death.

SMALL BUTTERFLY TATTOOS ON WRIST

Wrist tattoos gained popularity in the 50s and 60s, particularly within the gay and lesbian communities. During those decades, individuals in these communities embraced wrist tattoos as symbols of their sexuality. Today, butterfly tattoos on the wrist continue to carry profound personal meaning, reflecting an individual’s sexual perspectives and the challenges they have successfully navigated.

BUTTERFLY TATTOOS BEHIND THE EAR

Behind-the-ear tattoos symbolize “hearing the word of God and letting your faith guide your decisions.” Small butterfly tattoo designs behind the ear carry a similar profound meaning, serving as a constant reminder of your strength to continue walking the path towards a new and improved life.

BUTTERFLY TATTOOS ON SHOULDER

Combining vibrant butterflies and flowers remains one of the most popular tattoo choices for women. The shoulders and clavicles are considered the most feminine spots for placing tiny butterfly tattoos. Striking the right size balance is crucial; going too big may look drastic against your overall look, while going too small may make your tattoo less noticeable.

TRADITIONAL BUTTERFLY TATTOOS

Traditional American, Western, or Old School tattoos stand out as one of the boldest and most iconic tattoo styles, known for clean black outlines, vivid colors, and minimal shading. Traditional butterfly tattoos embody these characteristics, irrespective of the color, shape, or size of the tattoo.

BUTTERFLY TATTOOS ON ANKLE

Placing tattoos on ankles carries profound meaning. In the past, individuals would wear an “anklet” in memory of a loved one, serving as a lasting tribute. Today, an anklet tattoo signifies the conclusion of a meaningful relationship. When a butterfly tattoo is positioned on the ankle, it signifies the closure of a significant chapter in the wearer’s life, yet the memories persist.

ORIENTAL-STYLE RED BUTTERFLY TATTOO

In China, butterflies symbolize the quest for love and freedom, as seen in the well-known Chinese legend, The Butterfly Lover. This tragic love story revolves around two individuals who, despite stark differences in their backgrounds, fell in love. Ultimately, they chose to end their lives and transform into butterflies together. This oriental tattoo not only captures the beauty of the butterfly but also conveys the yearning for freedom, reminiscent of the legendary couple.

DALI’S FLOWER

This tattoo draws inspiration from Salvador Dali’s 1981 painting, Flordali II. The tattoo artist, inspired by the original artwork, reimagines the butterfly wings as flower leaves. While maintaining the essence of the concept, there’s a departure in the choice of patterns and colors. The tattooist opts for a more vibrant and intricate version, making it an ideal choice for individuals who appreciate rich and lively colors.

CONCLUSION

In summary, small tattoo butterfly ideasnot only serve as powerful and inspiring symbols but also encapsulate personal journeys, transformations, and the beauty of life. These designs are a testament to the enduring strength of the symbol and its ability to express individuality in the world of body art. Hopefully, you will discover a butterfly tattoo that truly reflects the essence of yourself.