Since ancient times, tattoos for men on the wrist have been of great importance in determining a person's activity and his life position.
With the growing popularity of underwear painting in the wrist area, there is a need to understand the features of tattoos, recommendations for their choice, the correct interpretation of symbols and signs. Knowing this information will help future owners make the right choice and not regret the tattoo done.
Features of men's wrist tattoos
The wrist is a part of the body that men often choose for their future tattoos. Since ancient times, representatives of the stronger sex have been using the wrist area for tattoos.
At first, body painting meant the activity that a man was engaged in; in the modern world, tattoos acquired a different meaning - a reflection of the soul, self-expression. That is why tattoos can tell about the character, life position and even memorable dates of the owner.
The wrist is the ideal place for those who hesitate to apply a 3D image to the hand and wants to decorate her body with a small but eye-catching tattoo.
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages | disadvantages |
Wrist tattoos attract a lot of attention, which allows you to show your individuality to everyone around you. | Tattoos next to the hands will not be practical. This is due to frequent human contact with chemicals that fade the image. |
Arm tattoos are easy enough to hide by wearing a shirt or other long-sleeved clothing. | Tattooing the curves of the arm increases the likelihood of future distortion of the tattoo. |
The wrist will not deform as you gain or lose weight, so stretch marks on your hands will not distort the printed image. | A tattoo on the wrist is subject to frequent adjustments that need to be done once a year. But even this will not save the image from distortion and fading. Therefore, after a few years the tattoo will have to be covered and completely renewed. |
Choosing a tattoo site
Wrist tattoos for men are attractive because they can be hidden under clothes with long sleeves.
This is a significant advantage for people who are prohibited from having tattoos in prominent places due to their profession. Also, from an aesthetic point of view, arm tattoos are the most attractive. This is due to the fact that the wrist is the part of the body that people most often pay attention to.
When choosing a place for a future tattoo, you must be guided by the following recommendations:
- body parts that are often exposed to the sun or chemicals are impractical for body painting;
- tattoos at the place of the bend of the arms or legs need frequent correction;
- so that the applied image is not distorted, you need to choose parts of the body for the tattoo, where stretch marks rarely appear;
- It is most painful to tattoo areas with thin skin.
Does it hurt to get a tattoo on the wrist
The degree of pain from getting a tattoo on the wrist is different for each person. This area of the hand is distinguished by the thinness of the skin, therefore, from the point of view of anatomy, the procedure will be painful.
You can note factors that determine the degree of pain when applying a tattoo on the wrist:
- individual pain threshold;
- professionalism of the master;
- a specific area of the wrist;
- puncture depth.
How to choose a sketch
When choosing a sketch for a future tattoo, it is necessary to take into account the types of body painting that are most popular among men. Often, representatives of the stronger sex prefer brutal patterns or hieroglyphs.
But most often men choose inscriptions in English or Latin as a type of tattoo on their wrist.... Also popular are images of animals, abstract paintings, patterns and art drawings, ranging from hand to elbow.
Color spectrum
Wrist tattoos for men can be applied in any color scheme, depending on the preferences of the wearer.
But it is advisable to focus on the well-known rules that depend on the type and style of the future tattoo. For example, it is recommended to apply the ornament only in black solid color.
Also, a dark shade will look appropriate in inscriptions, drawings in the style of minimalism and hieroglyphs. Colored tattoos are more suitable for depicting animals, plants, mythical characters. As for portraits, 3D graphics, subject images, here the color of the painting depends solely on the personal preferences of the person.
Clock
The clock is a special symbol that carries a deep philosophical meaning. Each person interprets it in accordance with their views, but most often this image means fate and the transience of life... This meaning came to the modern world from Ancient Greece, where the clockwork reflected the gods who ruled over the destinies of people.
Due to its great history and deep meaning, the clock is very often used as an idea for a tattoo. Often people draw a sketch of a mechanism on their wrist, implying the transience of time or the memory of a certain moment in their lives, which is reflected by the position of the arrows.
Men who have chosen a watch as a future tattoo have a philosophical mindset, prudence and rationality.
Cross
The cross is the oldest symbol of many cultures and peoples, which has multiple values:
- symbol of Christianity;
- reflection of the four cardinal points;
- designation of natural elements;
- the sign of the elements of the universe.
The cross applied to the wrist most often means patience and strength, the elevation of honor.
Men with a cross tattoo can put both religiosity and a manifestation of atheism in the form of a knight's cross into it.
There are cases of reflection in the cross of the memory of a deceased person, as evidenced by inscriptions or dates next to the ancient sign. Also, this symbol denotes masculinity, stamina and determination.
Bracelet
The bracelet as a type of tattoo is most often preferred by women, but men also consider it quite attractive. The stronger sex often wears bracelets on the wrist that reflect an important or turning point in their lives.
There are times when the bracelet becomes the beginning of a large-scale tattoo on the entire arm. But mostly men choose inscriptions that completely cover the wrist, or Celtic patterns, which are associated with strength and determination.
A good choice would be a Polynesian braceletwho looks especially masculine. The Maori tribe used Polynesian bracelet patterns to communicate with the gods. The image can cover the wrist and part of the forearm, making it effective and eye-catching.
Anchor
The anchor symbol appeared more than two thousand years ago. Sailors applied this tattoo after successfully crossing the Atlantic, and later the symbol acquired the meaning of a talisman, which helped to avoid death during a sea voyage.
After a while, the anchor began to be depicted on the body of people not connected with the sea, denoting the stability and safety of life. Men often wear the anchor on their wrists to express a love of the nautical theme or a desire for safety. In general, the tattoo is suitable for those who are afraid of losing their way, losing safety and protection.
Spider
Currently, the attitude towards spiders is rather ambiguous. Despite this, many people put an arachnid on their wrists, based on the meanings known from ancient times.
For example, in ancient Greece, spiders meant harmony, tranquility and balance. This is due to the myth that tells about Arachne, a girl who skillfully owns the weaving craft. The goddess Aphrodite killed the craftswoman out of envy, but later repented and turned Arachne into a spider who knows how to weave beautiful fabrics forever.
In Christian history, spiders played a big role when, according to the stories, they saved Jesus from death as a child. Thus, a tattoo with a spider on the wrist is a symbol of harmony, modesty, neatness, attentiveness, thoroughness and responsibility.
Dolphin
Dolphin tattoos have not lost their relevance for many years. Mammal tattoos were first used by sailors, travelers and rescuers, but due to its positive meanings, the dolphin has become popular among people not connected with the sea.
A more accurate meaning of a dolphin tattoo can be understood by familiarizing yourself with the culture different peoples who interpreted the meaning of the animal in different ways:
- the Celts designated the dolphin as a reflection of the sea;
- in China, dolphins of different colors are depicted, which has the same meaning as Yin and Yang;
- in the culture of Egypt and Greece, dolphins are the personification of deities;
- in North America, mammals are associated with qualities such as wisdom, kindness, and positive energy.
Men put a dolphin tattoo on their wrist, reflecting their friendliness, cheerfulness and optimism. Often such tattoos can be seen on the body of swimmers, sailors and surfers.
Skull
The meaning of the skull image is known to people from legends, legends, historical events and religious subjects. For example, in Christianity, the skull speaks of forgiveness. This is related to the story of Jesus washing the bones of Adam, which meant forgiveness of sins.
The Celts believed that the skull stores the soul of people, and in Mexican culture, the skull reflects masculinity, resilience, and rebirth. An animal skull tattoo is considered a talisman and talisman against evil forces.
Men associate skull tattoos on their wrist with biker culture, which includes freedom, self-confidence, destiny and masculinity. Such tattoos are depicted to remind of their purpose and meaning of life.
Chains
The semantic meaning of a tattoo with chains in ancient cultures was almost the same and reflected a connection that can lead to slave dependence:
- in christianity chains meant vices, namely passion, vanity, addiction to alcohol and gambling;
- in Europe this image speaks of dependence on the opinions of other people;
- in ancient Rome and Greece the chain is the connection between the earthly world and the divine;
- masons considered chains a symbol of brotherhood, since after meetings they usually got up from the table and held hands.
Males often tattoo their wrist in the form of chains. Such body painting most often means integrity, unity, wealth and religiosity. Also, chains sometimes symbolize the desire to free themselves from dependence and the freedom of their owner from the vices of humanity.
Musical paraphernalia
Today it is quite popular to put a tattoo with musical attributes on the wrist. Such tattoos are widespread among musicians, but just lovers of a certain genre or fans of bands and performers often adorn their bodies with certain musical signs.
There are several options for tattoos with images of music attributes:
- Treble clef or bass clef. The image of the treble clef is better known, and therefore tattoo with this sign is most often applied to the body. The treble clef is a fundamental element of music that any musician knows. But this symbol has another meaning - serving a prison sentence for theft, so you should be careful with the image of the treble clef.
- Notes. The melody is built from the notes, which means that there are a huge number of variations in the image and grouping of these musical elements, which will carry a special meaning.
For example, tattoos with notes are often applied to begin a favorite or memorable melody. Musicians can put in such an image the memories of years of study, memorable concerts, turning points of a musical career.
- Musical instruments. Each musician has his own instrument, which played a big role in the development of his musical abilities. That is why music fans often depict their favorite instrument on their bodies.
Also, fans of groups often apply such tattoos, reflecting their love for the sound of a particular instrument or the performer who plays it.
Double infinity
A double infinity tattoo is considered one of the most unusual due to the variety of meanings, great history and special philosophical meaning:
- in China double infinity means good luck, therefore some people, applying this image, hope for a successful financial condition, life planning and successful acquaintances;
- in the culture of eastern countries double infinity - a symbol of the immortality of the soul, a reference to reincarnation;
- infinity cross mean religiosity, as well as a symbol of unity with higher powers;
- from the point of view of philosophy, a person in double infinity is able to move from one loop to another, thereby moving in space and time;
- combination of infinities with a heart in one tattoo means eternity of love relationships;
- the image of infinities along with the inscription speaks of the deep meaning of the inflicted thought, its significance and eternity.
It is advisable to apply such a tattoo on the wrist in black, which will give the image conciseness and depth. Double infinity can be depicted in the form of animals, for example, a snake or a dragon. In general, there are many ways to depict this symbol, so each person can decorate the body with this talisman in their own style.
Celtic
Celtic tattoos on the wrist are considered more suitable for men due to their style.
These patterns resemble woven threads, which are composed of a special ornament. It was used as a way of communication with the divine world, and simply as decoration of armor, household items.
But the main meaning of ancient patterns is the interweaving of the threads of being... Each thread of the structure of the ornament implied certain life periods, and the totality of threads implied complex intricacies and unexpected turns.
There are basic Celtic symbols that are used in tattoos:
- Cross in a circle. This sign can mean the elements of the universe, the cardinal points and the combination of Christianity and paganism, that is, the cross and the sun. In the culture of the Celts, it was believed that this sign is able to protect from the dark forces and endow with wisdom.
- Butterfly... This symbol denotes the human soul, its rebirth and striving for life.
- Tree... The sign of the tree in the culture of the Celts meant the connection of the afterlife, earthly life and heaven. Therefore, the image of a tree in the Celtic style is a tree whose branches, like human hands, stretch to the sky and go underground, where they look like roots.
- Shamrock... This symbol combines the elements of nature. This image is applied as a talisman of attracting good luck.
Inscriptions in Latin
Tattoo on the wrist for men in the form of Latin inscriptions are the most popular among other types of tattoos at the moment. Latin is an ancient language spoken by great people, therefore, wearable inscriptions in Latin acquire special significance and wisdom.
This type of tattoo allows you to come up with your own unique phrase, but there are also spectacular famous sayings in Latin, which are beautiful convey an attitude towards life and its aspects:
- Esse quam videri - To be, not to seem.
- "Facta sunt potentiora verbis" - Actions are stronger than words.
- "Viam supervadet vadens" - The road will be mastered by the walking one.
- "Vincit qui se vincit" - The most difficult victory is victory over oneself.
- "Per ardua ad astra" - Through hardships to the stars.
Hieroglyphs
Hieroglyphs have always attracted the attention of tattoo lovers for their mystery, unusual shape and hidden meaning. Hthe most popular are Chinese and Japanese charactersalthough there are also Korean and Vietnamese who choose less often for tattooing.
Men usually apply small tattoos on their wrists with a simple but meaningful meaning for the wearer. Sometimes you can find an image of a whole life story in the form of hieroglyphs on the hand, since sometimes a small sign of the Eastern language can mean a whole phrase.
The process of applying such a painting is simple, the size of the tattoo is rarely very large and does not exceed the size of a match box. There is a variant of tattooing a hieroglyph along with the main drawing of the corresponding theme (for example, a Japanese dragon). There are also cases of drawing on the body of hieroglyphs depicting the signs of the zodiac of Japanese or Chinese culture.
Brutal
Some men do not seek to reflect a deep and serious meaning in their tattoo, but simply want to show their brutality, stand out from the rest and attract as much public attention as possible with their underwear.
For this, there are certain options for images that will definitely not go unnoticed:
- a wrist bracelet with barbed wire (conviction, addiction, love tragedy);
- a chain on a hand made of skulls (death, absolution, freedom);
- predatory animals in the Celtic style (strength, courage, aggression);
- mythical creatures in 3D graphics (the value depends on the qualities inherent in a certain mythical character).
Commemorative tattoos
Wrist tattoos for men are often applied in order to capture certain moments, periods of life that changed a person, made him think about important things, realize his losses and master valuable experience.
Frequent reasons for applying commemorative tattoos:
- birth of a child... A tattoo in honor of this event can represent the initials of a newborn or prints of his palms;
- graduation... Happy graduates, in honor of the beginning of a new period of life, put on their bodies an academic hat or other signs reminiscent of their academic years;
- end of military service... The tattoo is depicted as a drawing associated with years of service;
- tragic event... It could be the death of a person or any other turning point in life. The tattoo can be in the form of a photograph of a person, an important date.
Subjects that are most often used in memorable tattoos:
- dates, inscriptions, names... Such tattoos remind of a specific moment in life that you want to keep in your memory forever;
- scars, injuries... People sometimes use body painting to emphasize scars so as not to forget about the experience and their trauma;
- professional signs... Tattoos with the attributes of the profession are applied by people who want to emphasize the important role of their activities in their lives;
- a heart... The heart as a type of commemorative tattoo can be depicted as whole or broken. It depends on whether a person wants to reflect his happiness from existing love or suffering from lost feelings.
Symbolic tattoos
Symbolic tattoos are necessary to reflect deep meaning through images. Even in ancient times, through images, people tried to convey hidden meanings and messages.
In the modern world, there are a large number of symbolic tattoos, but you can mark the most popular of them and reveal the meaning that they contain.
Tattoo | Meaning |
The Dragon | mystery, perseverance, nobility, strength, loyalty, beauty |
Wolf | strength, courage, intelligence, loyalty, devotion |
Snake | wisdom, power, hidden danger, temptation |
Eagle | freedom, perseverance, immortality, strength, greatness, courage |
The sun | power, wisdom, eternity, unification of earth and sky |
Tiger | wisdom, power, passion, strength, anger, rage |
Yin Yang | balance, life, struggle |
Henna drawings for men
Henna drawings are temporary, which is why they are so popular among people who do not dare to decorate their body with a real tattoo yet. Such body painting looks like a real tattoo, only the drawing can be washed off at any time.
Of the advantages of applying henna tattoos, one can single out the painlessness of the procedure, the low price, the possibility of quick removal. Of the shortcomings, it is worth noting the limitation in the choice of color, since a temporary henna pattern can be realized only in a red-brown shade.
What tattoos should not be done for men on the wrist
Unfortunately, not all tattoos on the wrist of men look beautiful, effective and appropriate.
So that the future owner does not regret the applied image, he needs to familiarize himself with the list recommendations that will help you not to be mistaken when choosing a future tattoo:
- Cartoon characters.
On a man, such tattoos will look ridiculous and inappropriate, therefore it is not recommended to choose cartoon characters for a tattoo.
- Tattoos with faces of famous personalities.
Such images make one think that the owner of the tattoo is copying someone else's style.
- Symbols and signs belonging to a subculture.
It is impractical to apply such images to the body, since there is a high probability of regretting it after a while.
- "White" tattoos. From a distance, "white" tattoos look like a scar, so from an aesthetic point of view, it is undesirable to apply them.
Tattoos for men on the wrist currently continue to remain relevant, since this part of the body is traditionally popular for drawing. Therefore, it is important for future tattoo owners to realize the responsibility for the applied images, the need to know their meaning and meaning.
The main thing in a tattoo is a deliberate approach to business and a clearly formulated request, and then body decoration will not disappoint, but will become an object of joy and pride.
Author: Anna Fleiman
Article design:Natalie Podolskaya
Video about male tattoos
Video about wrist tattoo for men: