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Home Tattoos 101 Best Hold Fast Tattoo Ideas You Have To See To Believe!

101 Best Hold Fast Tattoo Ideas You Have To See To Believe!

by Jamie Wilson
Hold Fast Tattoo

Are you looking for hold fast tattoos? If yes, then take a look at these fantastic hold fast tattoo designs– you’ll fall in love with them!

Hold Fast Tattoo
@vrendacarrizosatattoo via Instagram – Love this design? Try a Temporary Tattoo

But what does the tattoo Hold fast mean?

Because the hold fast tattoo is among the oldest sailor tattoos, it’s helpful to know a bit about sailor tattoos to appreciate their meaning—tattoos like these help preserve nautical beliefs, customs, and superstitions of the sailors even today. A hold fast tattoo used to signify that you could manage yourself in even the roughest waters.

All sailor tattoos often had this proverb back in the day. Hold Fast is a beautiful example of an American artistic design, even though the symbolic meanings have developed along with the body art. Even though the hold fast tattoo is associated with sailors, it existed before that. However, the tattoo that we see today may mean different things to different people like stay put or hold your position, or holding on to your beliefs and values. So let’s check out these hold fast tattoos, see what rings true with your experience and beliefs.

Hold Fast Tattoo On Hands

Hold Fast Tattoo On Hands
@sebastiandomaschke via Instagram – Love this design? Try a Temporary Tattoo

The Holdfast tattoo is a classic sailor tattoo that has been around for a long time. Generally, the icons done here are always associated with sailors and seas, like the black and brown anchor and compass. If you are a seaman or feel connected to oceans or sailing and you want a constant remembrance of your sea experience get this tattoo. This tattoo covers both the hands and forearms to create fascinating imagery.

Gangster Style Hold Fast Tattoo

Gangster Style Hold Fast Tattoo
@hold.fast.tattoo via Instagram – Love this design? Try a Temporary Tattoo

If you love to live on the adventurous side of life, here is the perfect tattoo for you to review. Do you believe that you are a natural rebel? What better way to flaunt your independence than with a badass gun tattoo? Tattooing a gun on your body might represent your commanding personality. Because guns are a symbol of self-defense, this gun tattoo would represent your warrior spirit. The entire tattoo is done in dot work shading and covers the forearm. This is a beautiful tattoo design for those who want to express their inner strength.

Hold Fast With A Rose Tattoo

Hold Fast With A Rose Tattoo
@jackthomasnewton via Instagram – Love this design? Try a Temporary Tattoo

Like a hold fast tattoo, a rose tattoo has always been a favorite of many since time immemorial. Here you can see how beautifully both the motifs are combined and almost seem like a part of the same artwork. As seen here, you can add floral motifs to your holdfast word tattoo to create an impactful artwork. Here, the words “Hold Fast” are tattooed on the knuckles in blue-black letters, while the red rose takes up the back of the palm. This holdfast flower tattoo can be an homage to a loved one and the beliefs you shared with them.

Hold Fast Tattoo On Thumbs

Hold Fast Tattoo On Thumbs
@lionsdensd via Instagram – Love this design? Try a Temporary Tattoo

This tattoo has the most fantastic placement for any one who wants a constant reminder of their sea faring days. Or if they want to have made it in the memory of someone who was a sailor. This tattoo is inked vertically, right below both thumbs in black ink. The tattoo artist has done a fabulous work with regards to the fonts and lettering.

Anchor Tattoo With Flower

Anchor Tattoo With Flower
@redliptattoo via Instagram – Love this design? Try a Temporary Tattoo

In vibrant blue, red and green colours, this anchor tattoo represents anchor represents stability, and the flower represents calmness and beauty. Flowers, infinity, birds, ropes, holdfast definition, and wheels are examples of symbols or letters used with an anchor. The symbology, though, remains consistent. Stability, peacefulness, strength, resolve, and enthusiasm are all common anchor tattoo meanings. You can opt for this colourful tattoo hold fast rose tattoo if you want to portray these qualities.

Colorful Anchor Tattoo

Colorful Anchor Tattoo
@needles_tattoing via Instagram – Love this design? Try a Temporary Tattoo

If you want a tattoo to symbolize your love for the sea in a small colourful design, consider this tattoo. A huge anchor in the front in black ink with a fine gradient shading and red edges. A clear, yellow ribbon wraps around the anchor with the ‘Hold Fast’ text in black. With light colors, this cartoon-like artwork looks cool and captivating. This can be your first hold fast meaning tattoo and you can round it off with more motifs later on.

Handshake And Hold Fast Tattoo

Handshake And Hold Fast Tattoo
@pablo.calavera via Instagram – Love this design? Try a Temporary Tattoo

The tattoo features a handshake with the words Hold Fast written below it in a simple font. The handshake symbolizes the brotherhood, solidarity and loyalty between sailors. It can also signify that one should hold on to their friends and family. This holdfast tattoo design needs a small canvas making it look wonderful on the arm and wrist.

Anchor And Rope With Hold Fast Tattoo

Anchor And Rope With Hold Fast Tattoo
@diegovmannino via Instagram – Love this design? Try a Temporary Tattoo

Generally associated with sailors, the artist has done an amazing job of creating the most popular symbol of the anchor with the Hold Fast idiom. The anchor and the rope wrapped around it are inked in black and grey colour. The fascinating detailing of the rope, anchor shape, and spectacular shading make this tattoo look quite polished. This tattoo is a perfect choice for any sailing enthusiasts. 

All In One Hold Fast Tattoo

All In One Hold Fast Tattoo
@badlittleyou Via Instagram – Love this design? Try a Temporary Tattoo

This tattoo summerises all things a sailor would want, from the ship’s steering wheel to the anchor to the phrase ‘Hold Fast’. The shading done in a spectacular red and black colors makes this one of the best tattoo designs. Another shading is on the wheel and the anchor, even though it is small tattoo, the shading makes it pop out. This way you can add a more motifs to it if you choose!

Crossed Anchor With Hold Fast Tattoo

Crossed Anchor With Hold Fast Tattoo
@dreamybeamy Via Instagram – Love this design? Try a Temporary Tattoo

If you like the color black with red accents, consider this cool black and red Hold Tattoo with crossed anchors on both hands. This tattoo is a wonderful dedication to men of the sea for their service to the country. People often wear this tattoo to show their pride for the Navy. The small anchors are drawn in fine, black lines between the thumb and index finger and the ‘Hold Fast’ text is in thick, block letters.

feature image from Pinterest

What is a hold fast tattoo?

A hold fast tattoo is a traditional sailor’s tattoo that symbolizes strength and stability. It is typically composed of an anchor, rope and/or knot design, with the words “HOLD FAST” written across it. The symbolism behind the tattoo reflects the idea of being able to hold onto something even in rough waters and facing adversity with determination. The tattoo can also symbolize loyalty and commitment, as well as expressing a sense of belonging and connection to the sea. The traditional hold fast design is often seen inked on sailors who have served in the Navy or been part of a ship’s crew. It is also associated with maritime culture and has become popular among civilians who want to express their own connection with the ocean. Hold fast tattoos have also been known to represent strength, resilience and courage in the face of adversity.

What is the meaning of a hold fast tattoo?

A hold fast tattoo typically symbolizes strength, stability, commitment and loyalty. It is often used to express a connection with the sea or one’s own maritime culture. The tattoo also has strong connotations of resilience and courage in the face of adversity. Additionally, it can be seen as a way for sailors to remember their time in the Navy or on a ship’s crew, and to keep the memory of their service alive. It may also be used as a reminder to stay strong and fight for what one believes in despite difficult circumstances. Ultimately, the meaning of a hold fast tattoo is up to the individual who chooses to get it inked. For some, it is an expression of pride for the naval service or a reminder to stay strong and fight for what one believes in. For others, it may be a symbol of loyalty and commitment to their connection with the sea or maritime culture.

How much does a hold fast tattoo cost?

The cost of a hold fast tattoo will vary depending on the size, complexity and color of the design. Typically, a smaller design can range from around $50 to $200, while larger and more complex designs may cost up to $500 or more. Additionally, some artists may charge hourly rates for custom designs. It is important to do your research and shop around to find the best deal. It is also important to select an experienced and talented tattoo artist who can help you create a beautiful design that you will be proud to wear for years to come. Ultimately, the cost of a hold fast tattoo should depend on what works best for your budget and needs.

What are some of the best hold fast tattoo designs?

There are many different hold fast tattoo designs, ranging from simple and small to large and intricate. Some of the most popular designs include an anchor with rope wrapped around it, a sailor knot design, or a combination of both elements. Other variations may also feature waves or sea creatures such as whales, dolphins or seagulls. Additionally, some people may choose to add their own personal touches to the design, such as adding a name or date, or incorporating other elements that are meaningful to them. Ultimately, the best hold fast tattoo design is one that reflects your own unique style and personality.

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