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AN OVERVIEW OF ALL TATTOO STYLES

The tattoo industry is constantly evolving, and today, there’s a vast array of tattoo styles to choose from. We’re not kidding—our list includes over 60 distinct tattoo styles, each explained in detail and accompanied by plenty of pictures. Our goal is to help you find the perfect style for your next tattoo and to clear up any confusion you might have. To make things easier, we’ll present these styles in alphabetical order. Ready to dive in?

WOOD CARVING TATTOO STYLE

In the Stonework Tattoo style, imagine yourself as a stone sculpture, with the tattoo giving the illusion of carved stone. For the Wood Carving Tattoo style, envision your body as a piece of wood, with the tattoo resembling intricate carvings. Both styles can achieve strikingly realistic effects, but they require a high level of skill and technique from the tattoo artist.

White ink Tattoo Style

White ink for tattoos might seem unusual, but it’s indeed used. While it’s not the main color and often goes unnoticed, it can create striking effects when combined with other colors.

Some Watercolor artists we want you to know

The world of watercolor tattoos is captivating, with many talented artists making their mark. We’d like to highlight two you should definitely check out: Laura Caselles and Kathycaboom.

Both are Spanish, yet their styles are distinctively different. Laura Caselles creates elegant, harmonious tattoos often inspired by movies, series, or manga. In contrast, Kathycaboom’s work is a vibrant burst of colors, featuring dynamic and energetic designs. Both artists are known for their unique and eye-catching styles.

Watercolor Tattoo Style

Watercolor tattoos are a prominent style, often serving as a foundational element in various other styles. What sets them apart is their unique color palette and distinct allure, which come from their versatility in different compositions.

Tribal Tattoo Style

Tribal tattoos encompass styles from the Pacific region, including Polynesian, Maori, and Hawaiian, among others. While it may seem broad, grouping them together is often the easiest way to address the diverse styles within this area.

Trash Polka Tattoo Style

Trash Polka is a unique and striking tattoo style that originated in Germany. It blends elements of collage with motifs like swords, bombs, and smog, creating a raw, edgy aesthetic. The color palette is predominantly black and red, often making these two colors the defining feature of the style.

Torn / Ripped Skin Tattoo Style

The Torn or Ripped Skin tattoo style creates a striking optical illusion that makes it look as though the skin is torn or ripped. This technique is quite challenging and requires the expertise of a highly skilled tattoo artist.

Surrealism Tattoo Style

Surrealism, which emerged in the 1920s as a style for painting, drawing, writing, and other forms of art, can also be applied to tattoos. So, absolutely, you can create a surrealistic tattoo as well!

Stonework Tattoo Style

Stonework is a remarkable tattoo style, though it’s not as widely known as one might expect. The idea is to create the illusion of a sculpture on your skin. When executed by a skilled artist, the results are truly mesmerizing.

Sticker Tattoo Style

The Sticker Tattoo style stands out by blending elements we love, such as 3D effects, vibrant colors, and imaginative designs. The goal is straightforward: to make it look like you have a sticker on your skin rather than a traditional tattoo.

Stick and Poke Tattoo Style

We’ve debated whether to include the Stick and Poke Tattoo style, and here it is. This method involves inking with just a needle and ink, without any machines. While it can be appealing to some, we generally don’t recommend it due to safety concerns—unless you find a highly skilled and reputable artist.

Stained-Glass Tattoo Style

When you think of stained glass, you probably envision a medieval church, right? The Stained Glass Tattoo style aims to bring that same intricate, colorful aesthetic to the skin. By translating this classic design into a tattoo, you capture the essence of stained glass art on your body.

Small/Micro Tattoo Style

Not everyone prefers large tattoos, and that’s perfectly okay. You can opt for a small or micro tattoo in any style you like. The key requirement is simply that it remains small.

Sketch Tattoo Style

We love Sketch Tattoos because a skilled artist can turn them into something truly spectacular. Essentially, the technique involves transferring a sketch from paper to skin, resulting in a striking, detailed design.

Silhouette Tattoo Style

Silhouette Tattoos resemble portrait tattoos but are typically done in black ink, creating a shadow-like effect. They are visually striking yet more subtle, making them a great option for those looking for a more understated design.

Quote/Words Tattoo Style

To be honest, the Quote or Words Tattoo style is quite similar to lettering and script tattoos. The main difference is that this style focuses on inking quotes or meaningful words, rather than names.

Psychedelic Tattoo Style

The Psychedelic Tattoo style can be seen as a foundation for other styles like Blast Over or New School, featuring vivid, bright colors. Just as psychedelia influences music and various art forms, it also leaves its mark on tattoo designs.

Portrait Tattoo Style

Portrait tattoos are widely popular across many countries. The concept is straightforward: it’s about having a portrait permanently inked on your skin. Whether it’s a famous figure, a family member, or even your cat, the focus is on capturing the likeness you want to honor.

Pop Art Tattoo Style

Most people can easily picture this tattoo style. Just as pointillism aims to replicate a trend in painting, the Pop Art Tattoo style captures a similar vibrant, graphic aesthetic but through its own unique approach.

Polygon Tattoo Style

The Polygon Tattoo Style was popular a few years ago, particularly for animal designs. The idea is to take any design and render it using polygons. It can be done in black ink or with colors, depending on your preference.

Pointillism Tattoo Style

The Pointillism Tattoo Style takes this concept further by emulating the pointillism technique found in painting but on the skin. It requires significantly more detail, skill, and patience, resulting in a more intricate and painstaking process.

Pixel Tattoo Style

Having grown up in the ’80s, pixels hold a special place for us, especially with our ’90s video game nostalgia. Imagine having a tattoo style that mimics 8-bit designs—pretty awesome, right?

Pinstripe Tattoo Style

The Pinstripe tattoo style is a bit unconventional, but we find it fascinating! This style features intricate designs with precise lines and vibrant colors, resembling a spirograph pattern combined with tattoo art.

Outline Tattoo Style

The Outline Tattoo Style is straightforward and easy to grasp. It consists of just outlines without colors or intricate details. While it may seem simple, a well-designed outline tattoo can be truly fantastic.

Ornamental Tattoo Style

The Ornamental style is a cornerstone in the tattoo world, encompassing a wide range of substyles. In terms of technique, ornamental tattoos are known for their intricate details and can vary from flowing, organic forms to precise, traditional geometric patterns.

Optical Illusion Tattoo Style

We have to be honest: Optical Illusion tattoos are among our favorites. They typically feature bold lines and larger designs, creating a “wow effect” that makes everyone take notice.

Norse / Viking Tattoo Style

Norse culture and symbolism, whether from Vikings or Lapponian people, are widely recognized around the globe. This tattoo style falls under the ethnic category and simply requires incorporating elements from these cultures.

New School Tattoo Style

The New School tattoo style is quite similar to Neo-Traditional, featuring thick lines, vibrant colors, and bold designs. What sets it apart is the incorporation of graffiti techniques in the drawings and color work. That’s the essence of it.

Neotraditional Tattoo Style

The Neo-Traditional style is an evolution of this, featuring thick lines, vivid colors, and a variety of designs. It’s often referred to as Neo-Traditional or simply “Neotrad.”

Negative Space / Blackout Tattoo Style

When you think of a standard tattoo, you likely picture a design inked in black or color. However, a Negative Space Tattoo uses black ink while the design is created with the natural color of your skin. The result is a striking and unique effect!

Native American Tattoo Style

Yes, the Native American Tattoo style falls within the ethnic tattoo category but is distinct on its own. Native American culture is rich with unique symbolism, deities, and traditions, offering a wealth of inspiration for tattoos.

Minimalist Tattoo Style

The Minimalism Tattoo style is one of the most popular worldwide. Its designs are typically simple and small, allowing you to have something unique without drawing too much attention.

Mayan Tattoo Style

Certainly, the Mayan Tattoo style falls under the ethnic/tribal category. Mayan culture is known for its intricate symbols, patterns, and designs, which make for truly fantastic and detailed tattoos.

Mandala Tattoo Style

You’re familiar with mandalas, right? This tattoo style involves either featuring a mandala as the main design or integrating it into a larger piece.

Mambo / Destrutturato Tattoo Style

Yes, this is a new style created by Mattia Calvi in Milan, Italy. It’s called Mambo after the tattoo shop, Mambo Tattoer. The concept involves deconstructing natural forms and reassembling them into more abstract, manageable pieces. We believe it works exceptionally well.

Line Tattoo Style

We’ve seen a myriad of intricate tattoo styles, but line tattoos return to the basics—and we love it. In line style tattoos, the focus is solely on the use of lines. The results can be exceptionally balanced, harmonious, and visually stunning.

Lettering or Script Tattoo Style

Inking phrases or concepts lies at the heart of tattooing, which is why many opt for lettering or script tattoos. This style boasts numerous substyles, from Chicano to Japanese lettering, making it highly adaptable and rich in variety.

Kawaii Tattoo Style

Kawaii is a manga substyle characterized by its depiction of extremely cute subjects, such as animals, plants, and more. In art, kawaii drawings are relatively simple, featuring vibrant colors that translate beautifully onto the skin.

THE MEANING OF A SEMICOLON TATTOO IN MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

If you’ve been noticing an increasing number of people with semicolon tattoos, you’re not alone. The semicolon has become a widely recognized symbol for those who have faced mental health challenges or been impacted by suicide. The meaning behind the semicolon tattoo is both simple and profound: it signifies the decision to continue living, even when faced with hardship.

For many, getting a semicolon tattoo is a deeply personal choice, and its significance can vary from one person to another. Some may choose the tattoo as a reminder to themselves to persevere through tough times, while others may get it to honor a loved one who has struggled with mental health. Regardless of the motivation, the semicolon tattoo has emerged as a universal symbol of hope, strength, and resilience for people across the globe.

MENTAL ILLNESS

If you or someone you know has experienced mental illness, a semicolon tattoo can be a powerful emblem of hope and resilience. Mental illness impacts millions globally, and finding the right treatment or support can often be challenging. A semicolon tattoo stands as a reminder that your story is not finished, and there is always hope for recovery and growth.

Many people with mental health struggles may feel isolated or ashamed, but the semicolon tattoo can help break down those feelings, initiating important conversations. By wearing a semicolon tattoo, you’re showing that you’re unafraid to discuss mental health and are committed to combating stigma and discrimination.

Additionally, a semicolon tattoo serves as a personal reminder to prioritize your mental health and seek help when necessary. It can provide strength during tough times and represent solidarity with others who are navigating their own mental health battles.

BRAVERY

If you’re seeking a tattoo design that embodies bravery, a semicolon tattoo could be a perfect choice. The semicolon is a symbol of hope, perseverance, and the courage it takes to continue living with mental illness or overcome adversity.

By choosing a semicolon tattoo, you are acknowledging your own strength—the determination to keep going, even in the face of hardship. It serves as a reminder that you have the power to rise above obstacles and find hope, even in the darkest moments.

For many, the act of getting a tattoo itself is an expression of bravery. It takes courage to make a permanent change to your body, and a semicolon tattoo carries even more weight, symbolizing a deep, personal journey of resilience.

Whether you are currently battling mental illness or simply enduring a challenging time in your life, a semicolon tattoo can be a lasting reminder of your inner strength and ability to persevere. It’s a powerful, personal emblem that can inspire you to stay strong and keep pushing forward, no matter the challenges you face.

SUICIDE

If you have lost someone to suicide, a semicolon tattoo can be a meaningful way to honor their memory. The tattoo can represent both the struggle your loved one endured and the courage they showed in their decision to keep going, even if for a time. It can also symbolize your own choice to continue living and finding strength in the face of their loss.

However, it is important to recognize that a semicolon tattoo is not a substitute for addressing mental health struggles or suicidal thoughts. If you or someone you know is going through such challenges, seeking professional help is essential. The semicolon tattoo serves as a symbol of hope, perseverance, and a reminder that help is available.

If you’re thinking about getting a semicolon tattoo in memory of a loved one lost to suicide, it’s important to research and select a reputable tattoo artist. You may also want to connect with a support group or a therapist to help you navigate the complex emotions that come with grief.

NEW BEGINNINGS

If you’re looking for a tattoo that symbolizes new beginnings, a semicolon tattoo is an excellent choice. The semicolon is a punctuation mark that signifies a pause, but not an end, in a sentence. As a tattoo, it represents a pause in your life, not the conclusion of your story. It’s a symbol of hope, resilience, and the strength to keep moving forward, even when life presents challenges.

For many, getting a semicolon tattoo marks the beginning of a fresh chapter after overcoming a difficult period. It serves as a reminder of one’s inner strength and the ability to rise from tough times. It’s a deeply personal way to honor your journey and celebrate the progress you’ve made.

There are countless ways to personalize a semicolon tattoo. Some prefer a minimalist semicolon on its own, while others incorporate additional symbols to enhance its meaning. For example, you could add a heart to symbolize love and compassion or a butterfly to represent transformation and growth. These elements can make your tattoo even more meaningful and reflective of your journey.

Whatever design you choose, a semicolon tattoo is a powerful symbol of new beginnings, resilience, and the ability to persevere through life’s challenges.

ADDICTION AWARENESS

If you or someone you know has struggled with addiction, a semicolon tattoo can be a powerful symbol of hope and resilience. Just as the semicolon in writing indicates a pause rather than an end, it represents the choice to continue one’s life story, despite the challenges faced during addiction. It serves as a reminder that recovery is possible, and the journey continues.

Many people personalize their semicolon tattoos by adding other symbols that reflect their path through addiction and recovery. A butterfly, for instance, can symbolize transformation and a new beginning, while a phoenix may represent rising from the ashes of hardship. Others choose to include meaningful dates, such as the day they became sober, or the name of a loved one who supported them through their recovery.

If you’re considering getting a semicolon tattoo as a representation of your own journey through addiction, be sure to select a reputable tattoo artist who understands the significance behind the design. Additionally, staying connected with a support group or therapist can offer continued strength and guidance as you move forward in your recovery journey.

HOPE

If you’re seeking a tattoo that embodies hope, a semicolon tattoo could be exactly what you need. The semicolon represents the choice to continue on, even when life feels overwhelming. It serves as a powerful reminder that, no matter how tough things may seem, you have the strength to keep moving forward.

A semicolon tattoo is also a symbol of hope for the future. It represents the belief that, despite current hardships, things will eventually improve. It can be a personal reminder that there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel, even when it’s hard to see at the moment.

To further emphasize the theme of hope, you can customize your semicolon tattoo with other meaningful symbols. Adding a bird or a butterfly can represent freedom, transformation, and hope. You might also include the word “hope” or another word that holds special significance for you, further personalizing your tattoo to reflect your journey and outlook.

Whether simple or elaborate, a semicolon tattoo is a beautiful and meaningful way to carry hope with you, serving as a source of strength and inspiration when you need it most. 

SOLIDARITY

If you’re thinking about getting a semicolon tattoo, the concept of solidarity may resonate with you. Many people choose this symbol to express their support for individuals who struggle with mental health issues or who have been affected by suicide.

By getting a semicolon tattoo, you can demonstrate that you stand with those who have faced mental health challenges, while also emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness and support. It can serve as a reminder to prioritize your own mental well-being and seek help when needed.

Beyond individual meaning, a semicolon tattoo represents a broader sense of community. By choosing a tattoo that many others have, you create a connection with people who share similar values and beliefs around mental health advocacy. This sense of solidarity can foster a feeling of unity, knowing that others are walking a similar path and supporting the same cause.

If you decide to get a semicolon tattoo as a symbol of solidarity, it’s essential to research and choose a skilled, reputable tattoo artist who understands its significance. Connecting with others who have semicolon tattoos can also be a way to hear their stories and join a supportive community.

STRENGTH

If you’re searching for a tattoo that embodies strength, a semicolon tattoo is a powerful choice. It serves as a reminder that you possess the strength to persevere, even when life becomes difficult.

A semicolon tattoo can symbolize the strength to overcome mental health challenges, addiction, or any other personal battles you face. It also represents hope and resilience, reminding you that you’re not alone in your struggles and that a brighter future is possible.

To personalize the tattoo, some people incorporate additional symbols of strength, like a lion, eagle, or bear, known for their powerful and resilient nature. Others might add motivational quotes or affirmations that resonate with their journey and offer inspiration.

Whether you opt for a simple semicolon or a more intricate design, the key is that it represents your strength and resilience, serving as a constant reminder of your ability to overcome adversity.

CONCLUSION

You’ve explored the meaningful significance of semicolon tattoos, which represent hope, survival, and perseverance. These tattoos are powerful symbols of mental health awareness and suicide prevention, bringing attention to the challenges of depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.

By choosing a semicolon tattoo, you show support for those grappling with mental health struggles or who have lost loved ones to suicide. It also serves as a personal reminder to persevere through tough times and continue moving forward.

The meaning of your semicolon tattoo is deeply personal and unique to you. It stands as a testament to your strength and resilience. Whether it’s a small semicolon on your wrist or a more elaborate design on your back, it’s a powerful symbol that can help you stay focused and grounded as you work towards your goals.