Sketch of a man topic. Small tattoos for men: beautiful designs
Tattoo art is equally loved by both the male population of the planet and representatives of the fair half of humanity. However, the aesthetic requirements for tattoos are absolutely different for boys and girls. If lovely ladies want elegant patterns and cute images designed to emphasize the tenderness and sophistication of female nature, men, on the contrary, strive to emphasize their brutality, strength and masculinity.
Such different requirements for body designs ultimately divided tattoo art into exclusively female images and tattoos for men.
The meaning of men's tattoos
Tattoos for men offer a huge selection of themes and styles for images on the body, but they all have a number of characteristic features in common.
Firstly, a tattoo can be a great way for a man to express himself. A design applied to the body can emphasize the individuality of its owner. For example, an image can be associated with a profession, hobbies or favorite genre of music, and express the basic life principles and ideals of a person.
Secondly, a tattoo can perform a decorative function, making a man’s image brutal, strong, and strong-willed, which is important when a person needs to gain self-confidence.
Thirdly, a tattoo image can carry a sacred meaning, serving its owner as a protective amulet and talisman, or be a reminder of extremely important and memorable events that once played a key role in a man’s fate.
Tattoo themes
The themes and ideas of men's tattoos are interesting and diverse, because every person on earth is an individual who has his own interests and views on life. The whole variety of themes for men's tattoos can be divided into main groups:
- ornamental motifs (these include tattoos in the tribal style, geometric patterns, Scandinavian, ancient Slavic, Celtic, ancient Greek motifs, mandalas);
- images of plants (the most popular are tattoos of the tree of life, blackthorn, marijuana leaves, thistle, wild rose);
- images of predatory animals (fierce tigers, wolves, wolverines, bears, snakes, dragons);
- image (for example, Katrina’s skull using the “old school” technique or a realistic drawing made according to all the rules of anatomy);
- images of people (men often paint their favorite characters from films, actors, singers, portraits of their own children or drawings in the Chicano style on their bodies);
- caricatures (for example, characters from manga, comics, cartoons, computer games using the “new school” technique);
- detailed plots (they can be favorite scenes from films, epic sea battles);
- tattoos in the form of inscriptions (for example, quotes from your favorite philosophers, names of dear people, your own life credo);
- tattoos in the form of a samurai (one of the popular trends in men's tattoos, an image of a Japanese warrior in a decorative or realistic style).
Did you know? According to research conducted in 2011, currently every fourth man on earth has at least one tattoo on his body.
Stylistic decision and color design of the tattoo
Depending on the chosen theme of the tattoo, it can be designed in different ways. For example, ornamental motifs (tribal tattoos, ancient Greek ornaments, mandalas) can be applied using only black dye. The main advantage of a monochrome image is its graphic nature. A men's ornamental tattoo, made in one color, looks interesting and beautiful.
Tattoo inscriptions, small drawings in the style of minimalism, as well as Chicano tattoos will look harmonious and stylish in black and white.
There are, however, original tattoos, the expressiveness of which is largely achieved through the use of a rich palette of colors. For example, images of plants, animals and cartoon characters in the “old school” and “new school” styles are distinguished by their brightness and decorativeness; the use of several colors in these types of tattoos is simply mandatory.
When applying subject paintings to the body, as well as realistic portraits of people, animals and plants, the use of a color palette depends on the wishes of the customer. Such tattoos look extremely attractive and interesting both in monochrome and using a rich palette of shades.
Location of tattoo images on the body
Large tattoos (for example, epic subject paintings, Chicano style tattoos, portraits of people, three-dimensional images of animals and plants) can be placed on large surfaces of the body, for example in the area
A tattoo is an expression of a person’s will, character and inner world. Men's tattoos, as a rule, are distinguished by clearer lines, bold shapes and brutal subjects. This does not exclude the presence of floral motifs in the sketches. Especially if these are works in the style of Japanese tattoos, Chicano or Santa Muerto.
The palette is dominated by dark shades, as well as rich bright tones. For example, blood red, deep orange or deep blue. Every detail of a man’s tattoo is designed to emphasize individuality, and any design is selected taking into account its location.
Hands
When choosing a place for a tattoo, you need to understand how the design will look after it is applied. For example, tattoos on men’s arms do not imply full-scale paintings in which every detail is important. And small drawings will simply get lost on the back. One of the main rules of a spectacular men's tattoo is respect for scale. We should not forget that the human body is not stable, which means the applied pattern will change with it.
Lately, men's shoulder tattoos have become very popular. The location makes it possible to control body designs. Depending on the situation, such tattoos can be easily shown or hidden by adjusting the length of the sleeve. Another plus is a wide selection of suitable sketches. Trendy mechanics and the face of the charming Miss Monroe will look equally good.
The ideal option for the shoulder is a large single pattern with a discreet background. It could be a Celtic cross, a tiger's head, the face of a woman or an idol. Dynamic designs that smoothly transition to the shoulder blade or chest look good. As for styles, it is better to give preference to such areas as:
- biomechanics;
- steampunk;
- cyberpunk;
- abstraction;
- Gothic;
- ethnicity;
- realism;
- tribal;
- graphic arts.
Tattoos for men on the forearm are more limited in the number of suitable options. Basically, symbolic dates or inscriptions are printed on this part. Graphic images, drawings in a minimalist style and ethnic motifs look good. Also, subtle elements of large tattoos are displayed on the forearm, the main part of which is located on the shoulder. These could be the tails or muzzles of dragons, pistols (at length), etc.
As for voluminous work, you can get men’s sleeve tattoos. Recently they are at the peak of popularity. If it is necessary to create a complete picture, sketches are thought out in advance. However, tattoos that are completely different both in theme and in time of execution can be combined on the sleeve. The only thing you should adhere to when making a sleeve is the compatibility of style directions.
The elbows deserve special attention. If it is necessary to make a design on the elbows, then it should become part of the overall sleeve or an addition to a larger element. But they are not used as independent places for tattoos.
Torso
After hands, this is the second most popular location for spectacular tattoos. The back and chest allow you to bring the most incredible projects to life, but you need to be prepared for the fact that they will require a lot of time to complete.
Men's tattoos on the sternum are more laconic. Popular sketches include human faces, animal faces, skulls, mechanical elements, mythical creatures or cartoons. Among the most common techniques:
- abstraction;
- watercolor;
- anime;
- biomechanics;
- cyberpunk;
- ethnicity;
- linework;
- newschool;
- old school;
- dotwork;
- realism;
- surrealism;
- organics, etc.
The most voluminous tattoos are those on the back. Individual large-scale elements can be located here, for example, a soaring eagle or a harlequin. Or full-fledged paintings with detailed drawing of the background, shadows and halftones.
Sometimes only the lumbar area is scored. But most often, painting the back goes from top to bottom. You can use the space of the back completely, paint only one of the shoulder blades or both shoulder blades on top.
The application of side tattoos is associated with increased pain, however, they are quite common and look very original. The main rule for tattoos on the side is raised and elongated shapes. Most often these are various sketches of dragons, snakes, scorpions, lizards and other reptiles. Subject paintings are also not uncommon, but it is advisable to place them in a vertical plane.
Head and neck
Tattoos on the neck and head are done much less frequently due to the painfulness of the procedure. However, this particular location is considered truly masculine, because it has almost no female fans. For the skull, 3D images, graphic designs and ethnic motifs are best suited. The ornamental technique looks great. Also here can be located all kinds of numbers and inscriptions that have special meaning for the owner of the tattoo.
Lettering tattoos for men are well suited for the neck. As a rule, these are short phrases written in the occipital area. For those who like more daring experiments, paintings in the style of blackwork, biomechanics or gothic are suitable.
Increasingly, men are choosing to get a tattoo on their face. This can be a whole picture or individual inscriptions on the chin, cheeks or forehead. The color scheme for such tattoos is selected in dark colors: black, gray, brown, dark green or dark blue. The most popular style solutions are 3D, gothic, and cyberpunk, which recreate the effect of peeled skin or falling holes.
Legs
A tattoo on the leg is quite specific, as it requires constant depilation. However, you can do without it, but such drawings do not look very attractive and illegible. Especially if a woman’s face or skull is chosen as a tattoo.
The most common tattoos are on the calf, knee or thigh. The sketch and its size will entirely depend on the choice of location and area to be hammered. There are no restrictions on the thematic range. It could be a pet's face, a planetary system, or an intricate pattern. The only exception is tattoos in the form of iconic religious attributes, such as crosses or pentagrams. They are more likely to be located in the upper part of the body.
However, any tattoo is chosen based on personal preferences. It doesn’t matter in what style and color scheme it will be made. It could be a grinning predator or a brutal Celtic pattern, a playful picture in the Horror style or a delicate Watercolor. The main thing is that the image is of high quality, pleases the owner and reflects his personal worldview.
The male approach to tattooing is often logic and minimalism. In terms of image selection. The size and theme are determined immediately, and details are added as the sketch is developed. Although another option is possible: a combination of several ideas. Usually, when creating a sleeve, a tattoo on the back... In general, something extensive.
If the main thing for a girl is intrigue and beauty, then for a man the priority is status and quality. They often choose black and white works and complex styles: biomechanics, realism, oriental, Polynesian, Trash polka. Tattoos with animals in realism look great - bears, lions, tigers, wolves, sharks and other predators. Usually they repeat the “habits” of the owner: determination, leadership, honesty, independence, loyalty. It is ideal if the tattoo is inscribed in the relief and anatomy of the body. By the way, this usually happens! A well-chosen sketch becomes a luxurious decoration and the pride of the owner.
Another interesting area: men’s hobbies and hobbies. For example: football, cars, music, cinema... beautiful girls ☺ They are depicted in different styles, from Chicano to new school.
Inscriptions and symbolic tattoos (cross, skull, compass, compass rose, pistol) are popular among people of different ages and preferences. Their advantage is that the work can be done in different ways, adding uniqueness to a simple plot.
Images of warriors, knights, and gladiators appeal to independent and purposeful men. A warrior is a symbol of courage, strength, victory. Or invulnerability. By the way, an excellent variation on the theme would be an armor tattoo. Complex in execution, voluminous and realistic, it can become a real masterpiece!
Gallery of men's tattoos
Photos of tattoos made in our salon are not only a portfolio, but also a catalog of original ideas. You can take any story as a basis and create a unique piece of work. The only thing we don’t do is copies of other people’s sketches. This makes no sense, because the embodiment of your ideas is much more interesting and promising. Come on a tour of the studio - we will be happy to discuss your future tattoo.
We welcome tattoo lovers and those who are just starting to get acquainted with this topic!
On this page you can familiarize yourself with original sketches, photos and drawings Tattoo. All works are the property of the artists and are posted exclusively for information and development of their unique ideas.
For your convenience, the catalog is divided into subsections with different styles.
The navigation is organized in alphabetical order.
Each sketch is accompanied by information about the author, a selection of similar works and the opportunity to discuss it with portal visitors.
Why choose an original sketch?
It would seem that the question is so simple that it requires no explanation. Nevertheless, with the presence of smart artists and an endless amount of information on the global Internet, there are those who want to get a tattoo “like in the picture.” Many people don’t see the difference between a regular drawing and a sketch for a tattoo, but this is very important! Not all pictures from the World Wide Web are suitable for application to the body, but many of them can be processed into an individual sketch (taking into account contouring, shadows and color rendering).
Let’s look step by step at what lies the value of an individual sketch.
- A person with a tattoo in a prominent place should be prepared for increased public attention. Some will simply look at the drawings with interest, while others will not hesitate to ask questions. After the standard topics about whether it hurts, how much it costs and what it will look like in old age, you will hear: “What does it mean?” . If your picture is not entirely obvious =) And here few people like to answer: “Nothing, I found it on Google” or “I don’t know, it was in the catalog of standard sketches.” Nobody says that all drawings on the body should have a deep meaning, which needs to be talked about while raising your hands to the sky and rolling your eyes. But it’s much more pleasant when you are aware of what you put on your body and can easily explain your motives (at least to yourself, because no one is obliged to account for their tattoos to anyone else). Of course, someone decides to put a drawing on the body absolutely spontaneously, under the influence of some emotional events. As a rule, such clients then come to get their “masterpiece” mixed.
- Since a body with a tattoo is an object of creativity, it is worth thinking about how many people want to become the owners of a second-rate work of art? We are now talking about tattoos - copies. After all, the originals are priceless examples of the greatest craftsmanship. Only authentic specimens are exhibited in museums and bought into private collections. No one will read the scribbles of an amateur when the greatest works of the literary genre are available. That is why an original sketch, developed individually for you, is so highly valued.
- An experienced and talented master is always happy to work with clients who bring him new and reckless ideas. As an artist, he wants to create and create (but sometimes also destroy) =) Avoid tattoo artists who offer to replicate the design of one of their clients. A tattoo is a private artistic property in a single copy. It should not be repeated on the body for everyone.
Study original author's sketches on our website, gain ideas and fly to your master on creative wings =) Together you will create a unique example of an artistic tattoo that will become your companion for life.
Men's tattoos can differ not only in styles, methods of application, location, complexity of sketches or colors, but also in size. If we consider a small tattoo for men, then this option is preferred by calm, reserved men, conservatives who prefer minimalism and laconicism.
Not every man can afford a large, bright tattoo due to his image and circumstances. For them, this article will collect the best sketches and ideas for small tattoos, rules for their execution, choice of location, color and style options. Only by taking into account all the points can a high-quality result be obtained.
Today, small tattoos most often act as a first experience. But this does not mean that small tattoos are in any way inferior to large-scale and beautiful compositions. They have their own charm, mystery and ease of perception. We offer you a top list of the best small tattoo ideas for men:
Anchor- a symbolic drawing that indicates that a man has made his decision in life, has a clear position and principles, is self-confident and unshakable.
Child's foot print- a popular tattoo among new dads, it is a symbol of love for their child, devotion, and bringing the family to the forefront.
Butterfly- a symbol of freedom, relaxedness, inspiration, love of life.
Hieroglyph– inscriptions are most relevant today; most often men choose Asian letters to emphasize their mystery and the depth of their inner world.
Compass- a symbol of steadfast principles, confidence and balance, as well as a thirst for adventure.
Zodiac sign– used as an amulet and talisman against weaknesses, evil, ill-wishers, enhances the best aspects of character.
Cross- a divine symbol that performs a protective function against dark forces, failures, and misfortunes.
Eagle– personifies spiritual strength, freedom, power and wisdom in a man.
Mountains– the philosophical meaning of the tattoo, speaking about the wisdom, will and invincibility of a man, his ability to conquer any heights.
Triangle with an eye inside- such an all-seeing eye, saying that God himself is inside a man, supporting and protecting him from failures and temptations.
Expert opinion
Viola Madison
Tattoo artist, 8 years experience
To understand how appropriate and justified small tattoos are for guys, it’s worth highlighting their main advantages. This is a minimum of pain, ease of care, fast healing, clarity of the pattern, low price, comfort.
Why do men choose small tattoos?
It has long been believed that the less a body design is seen by others, the deeper its sacred meaning and the stronger its influence on fate. The first men's tattoos were not in the form of huge canvases on the arms, back or chest. These were symbols, runes, drawings of mythical creatures, animals and birds in secluded places on a small scale.
Today mini tattoos are chosen for a number of reasons:
- This is a great way to express yourself;
- the drawing procedure is quick and minimally painful;
- a small tattoo can be easily removed with a laser;
- small body designs are less susceptible to wear;
- the procedure does not require complex preparation and care;
- tattoos are less traumatic for the skin and heal faster;
- this is also an economical, low-cost option;
- huge selection of sketches;
- conciseness, minimalism, ease of perception.
And the reaction of the environment to small body drawings will not be so expressive and ambiguous, this is especially true in a work and official setting. It is worth noting that such simple tattoos suit men of all ages, different temperaments and images.
Where do men most often get small tattoos?
How a tattoo will “work” with meaning largely depends on its location on the body. Small tattoos can be placed anywhere, but they will fit most harmoniously into small areas of the male body.
Shoulder
The shoulders are responsible for the reliability and strength of a man, which means that a tattoo can be applied here, giving the character courage, masculinity, strength, and self-confidence. For example, an anchor, the muzzles of strong animals, birds.
Forearm
On the forearm, a tattoo is more demonstrative in nature, used for self-expression. Inscriptions are most often placed here, various mythical and real animals that you want to imitate.
Wrist tattoo
The wrist is the most sensual area, as it traces the pulse and connection with the human heart. Therefore, on the wrist they perform at the same time simple, but the most deeply meaningful personal tattoos - inscriptions, symbols.
Tattoos on the palm, hand and fingers
Hands are an important energy center; this is how a man earns money, develops, and influences the world. Various amulets, talismans, and amulets are placed here to protect oneself from wrong decisions and actions. Tattoos are also appropriate here, as they awaken creativity.
Tattoo sleeve
A sleeve is a complex composition that cannot imply the presence of a small tattoo. There can be black and white or color pictures consisting of different characters and objects.
Neck
The ideal place for cool, laconic tattoos is the neck. Inscriptions are often placed here, such as the credo of life and the principles of a man, symbols and objects that can affect consciousness and worldview, and improve brain function.
Breast
Different tattoo options will look harmonious on the chest, be they objects, symbols, animals or birds. Their main task is to protect against dangers and risks to life.
Side
On the side, men most often depict personal drawings related to matters of the heart and soul. If these are animals, a man strives to imitate them; if they are symbols, they are needed for balance and self-confidence; if they are inscriptions, they relate to family and love.
Hip
Tattoos on the hips can affect the intimate component of life, relationships with a significant other, and emotional background. Overly emotional and passionate natures choose sketches that help achieve balance; men who are too tight and constrained, on the contrary, choose what will awaken fire and passion.
Back
The back is the most neutral zone, that is, the meaning of a small tattoo will directly depend on the sketch itself. Animals, birds, insects, plants, symbols, as well as different parts of the drawings, for example, angel wings, paw prints, etc., will look harmonious here.
Spatula
On the shoulder blades there are points of concentration of the will, which means that tattoos with a healing meaning, religious symbols, objects with meaning can be applied here, which will help pacify the EGO and base desires.
Leg
Tattoos on the legs often work like magnets that attract good luck, success, love, and happiness into a man’s life. The ideal choice for a sketch on the legs is the signs of the zodiac and constellations, which are the most powerful amulet and amulet.
Tips for applying a tattoo involve 3 stages. Namely:
- Preparation. Make a sketch of the tattoo, do not use other people’s ideas, print the finished version on a photo in order to take it to the artist. Before the procedure, it is prohibited to drink alcohol or take medications. Determine the place for the tattoo, color, style of execution.
- Procedure. Conduct a paint allergy test with your technician. Set a time for yourself to work so that you are prepared for time spent sitting still.
- Care. Listen to all the tips from the master on caring for a healing area of skin. First, the tattoo will be covered with a film, later it will be removed, and the skin will be treated with various drugs.
Important! Find out the price of a tattoo in advance, as this is not a cheap pleasure. It is better to be prepared for financial waste in advance. Do not save on tattoos by choosing unverified artists.
How to choose a tattoo design?
To make choosing a design for a small tattoo easier, ask yourself a series of guiding questions.
- Where will the tattoo be placed, what size will it be? Taking into account the anatomical shape of the body and the principle of proportionality between the tattoo and the area, you can narrow down the search for sketches.
- Will it be a picture or an ornament? For ornaments, you can choose different appropriate styles (tribal, Maori, Polynesian, Celtic, etc.). Patterns are usually executed in a primarily designed format. Each style accepts a certain complexity and scale, and based on them the sketch is determined in relation to the place on the body.
- Is this your first tattoo? For the first experience, choose simple tattoos with positive energy, for example, inscriptions or zodiac signs. In the future, you will already know what a tattoo is, how receptive you are, what you want from a tattoo.
- How many small tattoos are you planning on getting? Remember that many miniature tattoos on the body will not look aesthetically pleasing, if not vulgar.
- What is the purpose of a tattoo? If you are not striving for changes in life, use different neutral sketches - animals, birds, nature, inscriptions, characters. If you have weaknesses, the sketch should work to enhance the exact opposite qualities. You need protection and good luck, in which case choose amulets and amulets.
Do you like small, discreet tattoos?
YesNo
Styles and colors that are popular for small tattoos
It is difficult to clearly narrow down the choice of styles for small tattoos due to the huge selection of designs and ideas. But most often lately masters have resorted to the following methods of execution:
Tribal, Celtic, Polynesian– original execution of patterns, abstractions and ornaments;
Minimalism– small, laconic tattoos without unnecessary details and lines;
Graphic arts– predominance of straight and clear lines;
Oriental- East style;
Geometry– an ideal style for symbolism that conveys pictures in geometric shapes.
The main emphasis in the execution of small tattoos is on black and white, especially if they are symbols, inscriptions, or small objects. If living creatures or nature are depicted, the master can use different colors of red, green, blue, brown, yellow and their similar shades.
Symbols that a small tattoo can be combined with
Small tattoos can be radically modified with the help of additional symbols, as well as their meaning. The most commonly used symbols are:
Inscriptions
Flame
Cross
Scull
Flowers
Hieroglyphs
Weapon
Lightning
Heart
Stars
The choice of symbol directly depends on the semantic and emotional message of the tattoo, its theme and sacred meaning.
Where is the best place to get a tattoo?
Small tattoos do not require special skill and experience, but this does not mean that you can turn to untested artists or amateurs. You can only get guarantees of safety and quality results in a licensed tattoo parlor.
Conclusion
Small tattoos are most often done by men purely for personal reasons, choosing secluded places on the body. Their advantages are ease of execution, external laconicism and restraint, a minimum of unnecessary attention, and deep sacred meaning. All that remains is to choose a cool idea, draw up a personal sketch, select an area on the body, style and color scheme for it.