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Derived from the word tatau, which means the tapping of sounds during tool usage, the simple tattoo for men has been in practice for a long period of time.
The origin of tattoos for men is more than a thousand years old but it took a while to get into the mainstream world as a form of art.
The tattoo culture was initially popularised by the sailors, criminals, and mercenaries showing their fierce attitude and masculinity. With a shift in culture around the world slowly it started to become a form of art and was not only inked by the outcasts of the society.
Whether you want to create something or commemorate a special event or ink down lines or symbols on your skin, tattoos are the go-to choice. And if you are going to dip your toes for the first time in this area, what better way to start than with simple tattoo ideas. You can always go on to more intricate and detailed tattoos later on once you find your liking and inspiration.
Here’s a list of tattoo ideas for men simple in nature for your first inking venture.
Simple Rose Tattoo
There is a misconception that rose tattoos are only loved and done by females and represent feminine traits. Incredible and versatile in nature there are many appealing rose tattoo ideas that can be done by men. The choice of colour for these tattoos is very important as each rose colour demonstrates unique features. The place of choice for this design is the arm, sleeves, forearm, neck, hand, chest, and back.
The immortal symbol of passion, love, and remembrance the rose design when done by a man represents courage, strength, and nobility. For many guys, this is the first tattoo done on their body as a token of love for the woman of their life. Few people add thorns and stem as a special effect but for many, it is the symbol of sacrifice. Other traits represented by this tattoo are loyalty, faithfulness, warmth, and friendship.
Globe Tattoo For Men
Many a few guys choose to travel around the world for adventure and consider it a perfect way to live their life. For them, inking this tattoo is the best option. They can be done as small simple tattoo ideas for men with minimal shading and minimal lines and placed on the wrists, ankle, and shoulders, or as medium ones with realistic depictions using black or colourful ink.
Other than travelling, when done as a tribal design it can represent peace and harmony, when done with flowers it shows infinite connection with nature or it can also be done with an eagle which will demonstrate precision and royalty.
Anchor Tattoo
One of the most simple tattoo ideas is the anchor design which previously was famous among sailors and fishermen. They were believed to be inked by these men as a symbol of safety when they went to the water bodies for a long period of time. They are mostly done with black ink but nowadays bright colours are also being used. The ideal choice of placement for these tattoos for men is the arm, neck, and foot.
The ideas of strength and safety which were associated with the anchor tattoo now have changed. Now the anchor tattoo is done as a symbol of hope and perseverance, where the anchor is the tool through which stability in life will be maintained. Few people also write the names of their loved ones or family to show the stable relationship they have with these people. The tattoo also demonstrates the meaning of conflict resolution and is a perfect choice to remind people that they must not rush into anything which can cause unwanted friction and conflict.
Animal Tattoo For Men
Animal tattoos for guys are one of the basic and common tattoo designs found around the world. They can be either drawn in black or in vibrant colours and range from medium sizes to large ones.
The popular choice of animals for these tattoos include the lion, eagle, wolf, bear, and many more, where they not only serve as a link between humanism and animalism but also represent power, strength, protection, and perception according to the animals.
Wave Tattoo For Men
The wave designs are regarded as cool simple tattoos for men that blossom well both as small tattoos or as large ones. Both aesthetic and elegant the wave can be done inside a circle, with scenarios, or using different techniques and the choice of ink ranges from black and white to different vibrant colours. The great choice of places to put this tattoo is the arm, finger, wrist, shoulder, ankle, chest, and back.
The constant motion of life is demonstrated by the continual movement of the waves. The one who has had a tough time in life can also get this tattoo done reminding him of how he overcame the turbulent times. The owner of the tattoo can also demonstrate his love for the ocean through this tattoo. Recently the artwork ‘Under the Wave off Kanagawa’ by Katsushika Hokusai has become one of the most demanded tattoo designs for its meaningful yet simple look.
Name Tattoo
The name tattoos for men are one of the most elementary designs and are mostly done in black ink. As the name suggests the design consists of a name, which can be either of the people who tattooed it or someone who is his loved one like his children, father, mother, or wife.
The forearm is the best place to get inked with this design, but other portions of the body can also be used as it does not take much space. This tattoo idea is also a great way to pay homage to anyone who holds a great value in the tattooer’s life.
Arrow Tattoo
Regarded as one of the most highly customisable tattoo ideas, it can be inked in any portion of the body. It can be done as a small tattoo on the wrist, ankle, or finger, or as an illustrated large one on the chest, forearm, calves, and back. Representing war to friendship the arrow design is a great option and a quality tattoo done mostly with black ink.
Most tattoo artists believe that the origin of the tattoo idea has its beginning with the indigenous people of America who used it as a tool for hunting, protection, and a weapon. Now it can be done by someone to pay homage to his ancestors with this tattoo or as a fashion statement. The design also reflects the idea of struggle and triumph to achieve calm and peace.
Geometric Pattern Tattoo
Sometimes done with a simple design and sometimes with a complex style, the geometric ideas for tattoos are gaining popularity recently. Starting small with minimal shading and usage of lines to making it a large one with the various content matter, this work of beauty can be done on the sleeves, chest, shoulder, wrist, calves, and back. The inking material can be either black or colourful to make it more attractive.
Now each and every shape in these geometric tattoo ideas for men have different meanings. Like when a circle is used it represents the endless cycle of life, a triangle demonstrates creativity and harmony, and a square is said to be the symbol of balance and stability. But when the triangle is done by someone who follows Christianity, it may represent the Holy Trinity. There are many other different patterns that can be either done alone or in an overlapping manner and meaning can vary from universal to personal.
Number Tattoo For Men
Mostly done as a small tattoo and in black ink as the name suggests the design of the tattoo consists of numbers. The numbers can be either from the Roman Numeral System or the Arabic Numeral System and can be inked in any body portion.
This simple tattoo mostly represents important dates with the usage of numbers like birth dates, anniversaries or they can represent the number of siblings in a family. They are cute, meaningful, and cool and are very much favoured by young guys.
Watch A Video Of The Best 60+ Simple Tattoo for Men You Need To See!
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Cross Tattoo
One of the most simple tattoo designs for men, it has its usage started in the reign of Emperor Constantine even before Christianity adopted it. From that reign onwards it was regarded as a holy and a spiritual symbol both in a physical and emotional way. The pattern is now preferred to be done in black ink by most men and can range from a small tattoo on the wrist, ankle, or neck, to a large one on the chest, back, arm and calves.
Now the symbols of Christ and his sacrifice are commonly associated with this simple tattoo idea and are done as a source of great inspiration and homage to Christianity. It can also reflect a few other ideas when combined with a few simple designs. Like when done with an oval loop on top it represents Ankh, in Celtic mythology cross with a circle behind it demonstrates hope and faith.
Since the dawn of tattoo history in some cultures, tattoos for men became very important as they symbolised the unique rite of a passage demonstrating the idea of a boy becoming a man.
Other designs which can be done if not satisfied with this list are:
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What are some simple tattoo ideas for men?
There are a number of simple tattoo ideas for men that can make a big impact. A small, discreet tattoo can often be more powerful than a large and flashy one. Consider a simple design that has special meaning to you. It could be something as simple as your initials or a favorite quote.
Another popular option for men is a tribal tattoo. These designs can be both intricate and simple, depending on your preference. They are also a great way to show off your heritage or cultural background.
If you’re looking for something a little more personal, consider a portrait tattoo. This type of tattoo is often very meaningful to the wearer and can be a great way to commemorate a loved one.
What are some easy to cover up tattoo ideas for men?
If you’re looking for tattoo ideas that are easy to cover up, there are a few options to consider. One option is to get a small tattoo in a location that can easily be hidden. This could be the inside of your wrist or ankle.
Another option is to choose a design that is not too detailed or intricate. A simple design that is easy to understand will be less likely to cause problems down the road.
Finally, consider getting a tattoo that can be easily removed. This could be done by getting a temporary tattoo or using a non-permanent ink. These options will allow you to change your mind about your tattoo in the future if you decide you no longer want it.
What are some simple tattoo placement ideas for men?
The placement of your tattoo is just as important as the design itself. You’ll want to consider a few things when choosing the perfect spot for your tattoo. First, think about how visible you want your tattoo to be. If you want it to be seen by everyone, you’ll need to choose a location that is easily accessible.
What are some simple tattoo designs that have meaning?
There are a number of simple tattoo designs that can have a deep and personal meaning. Consider a design that represents your family, your culture, or something that is important to you. A tattoo with a special meaning will be more likely to stay with you for a lifetime.