Sketch of a male search author. Tattoos for men

Greetings to tattoo lovers and those who are just starting to get acquainted with this topic!

On this page you can find original sketches, photos and drawings of Tattoo. All works are the property of the masters and are posted solely for familiarization and development of their unique ideas.

For your convenience, the catalog is divided into subsections with different styles.
Navigation is in alphabetical order.
Each sketch is accompanied by information about the author, a selection of similar works and the opportunity to discuss it with visitors to the portal.

Why choose an original sketch?

It would seem that the question is so simple that it does not require explanation. Nevertheless, in the presence of chic masters and an endless amount of information on the global Internet, there are those who want to make themselves a tattoo “as in the picture”. Many do not see the difference between a regular drawing and a sketch for a tattoo, but this is very important! Not all images from the World Wide Web are suitable for application to the body, but many of them can be reworked to an individual sketch (taking into account contouring, shadows and color reproduction).

Let us analyze in sequence what the value of an individual sketch is hidden in.

A person with a tattoo in a conspicuous place should be prepared for the fact that public attention to him will be increased. 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 how it will look like in old age, you will hear: “What does it mean?” . If you have a picture that is not quite obvious =) And then few people like to answer: “Nothing, I found it on Google” or “I don’t know, it was in the catalog of standard sketches”. No one says that all drawings on the body should have a deep meaning, which you need to talk about, raising your hands to the sky and rolling your eyes. But it is much more pleasant when you are aware of what you put on your body, and you 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 picture on the body absolutely spontaneously, under the influence of some emotional events. As a rule, such clients then come for the mixing of their "masterpiece".
Since the tattooed body is an object of creativity, it is worth considering how many people want to become the owners of a second-rate work of art? We are now talking about tattoos - copies. After all, it is the originals that are priceless examples of the greatest craftsmanship. Exhibited in museums and bought up in private collections only genuine samples. No one will read the paperwork of an amateur when the greatest works of the literary genre are available. That is why the 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 destroy) =) Avoid tattoo artists who offer to repeat the sketch of one of his clients. The tattoo is a private artistic property in a single copy. It should not be repeated on the body for everyone.

Study the original author's sketches on our website, get ideas and fly to your master on creative wings =) Together you will create a unique piece of artistic tattoo that will become your companion for life.

The male approach to tattooing is often logic and minimalism. In terms of image selection. The size and theme are determined immediately, and the 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 for a girl the main thing 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, Polynesia, 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. Ideally, if the tattoo is inscribed in the relief and anatomy of the body. By the way, this is what usually happens! A well-chosen sketch becomes a luxurious decoration and pride of the owner.

Another interesting area: hobbies and hobbies of men. For example: football, cars, music, movies… beautiful girls ☺ They are portrayed in different styles, from chicano to new school.

Inscriptions and symbolic tattoos (cross, skull, compass, wind rose, gun) are popular with people of different ages and preferences. Their advantage is that the work can be done in different ways, giving uniqueness to a simple plot.

Images of warriors, knights, gladiators are liked by independent and purposeful men. A warrior is a symbol of courage, strength, victory. Or invulnerability. By the way, an armor tattoo would be a great variation on the theme. Complex in execution, voluminous and realistic, it can become a real masterpiece!

Gallery of male tattoos

Photos of tattoos made in our salon are not only a portfolio, but also a catalog of original ideas. Any plot can be taken as a basis and make a unique work. The only thing we don't do is copy 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.

Despite the fact that most tattoos can be classified as unisex, in modern culture, there is still such a thing as tattoos for men. The main difference is that in most cases such a drawing symbolizes something or carries an encrypted meaning. At the same time, a female tattoo is more of a method of decorating the body and a cool way to attract men.

Of course, many young guys get tattoos just to stand out among their surroundings. But true fans of body painting, nevertheless, take each tattoo seriously. This unspoken tradition comes from antiquity, when drawings on the body were an important element of a man's self-identification in society. The tattoo simultaneously played the role of a passport, was used to intimidate enemies and was an original decoration of a strong male body.

An interesting fact is that the culture of male tattoos in our country is in close contact with the prison environment. It was there that tattoos received special recognition, becoming an element in determining a person’s place in the criminal hierarchy. By the way, before getting a tattoo, it will not be superfluous to find out the prison meaning of the symbol you have chosen. Wouldn't you like a harmless decoration to play a cruel joke on you?

Choosing a tattoo for men

Before you start choosing a sketch of a male tattoo, you should answer the question of what this or that symbol means. A tattoo is a kind of totem that will be your companion, assistant and talisman everywhere. The owner of the tattoo should choose a plot that will reflect the traits of his character or the qualities that a particular person would like to acquire. For the representative of the stronger sex, symbols denoting will, dominance and aspiration to win will be an excellent choice of tattoo. That is why you can often find tattoos depicting a predator on the bodies of men, because it is these creatures that frighten and rule over the animal world for thousands of years. Among the possible options, we note the following:

or These animals symbolize strength and courage, social dominance, calmness and rebelliousness.
This animal means power and perseverance, steadfastness and great potential.
Since ancient times, this animal has been the personification of freedom and self-sufficiency.

Among the alternative popular male symbols, we note the following tattoos:

This symbol represents the frailty of life and the subsequent incarnation, although at first glance it looks very intimidating.
Weapon. It can be both cold and firearms. Such tattoos symbolize love of freedom and the desire to win.
Armor. Such a tattoo on the shoulder or chest represents masculinity and invulnerability.
Very popular among men who have certain life principles and express them through verbal symbols or even mottos.
patterns. A very popular male format is patterns and tribals on the shoulders and forearms. Such tattoos are more of an ornament than symbolize something deeper.

As you can see, tattoos for guys and men have their own specifics. Body painting for the representatives of the stronger sex is a way of self-expression and creative embodiment of their victories. But there is something pragmatic in a tattoo for a man. In particular, tattoo fans will be pleasantly surprised to learn that girls unconsciously perceive a tattoo on a male body as a victory trophy or a battle scar. Do not hesitate - such a warrior will not be left without the attention of the beautiful half of humanity.

Tattoo art is equally loved by both the male population of the planet and the representatives of the beautiful 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, tend to emphasize their brutality, strength and masculinity.

Such different requirements for wearable designs eventually divided tattoo art into exclusively female images and tattoos for men.

The meaning of male tattoos

Tattoos for men are a huge selection of themes and styles for images on the body, but they all have a number of characteristic features in common.

First, a tattoo can be a great way for a man to express himself. The pattern applied to the body is able to emphasize the individuality of its owner. For example, an image can be associated with a profession, hobbies or favorite genre of music, express the basic life principles and ideals of a person.

Secondly, a tattoo can perform a decorative function, making the image of a man brutal, strong, 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 the fate of a man.

Theme of tattoos

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 outlook on life. The whole variety of themes for men's tattoos can be divided into main groups:

ornamental motifs (these include tribal style tattoos, geometric patterns, Scandinavian, Old Slavic, Celtic, ancient Greek motifs, mandalas);
images of plants (the most popular are tattoos of the tree of life, blackthorn, marijuana leaves, thistles, wild roses);
images of predatory animals (ferocious 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);
the image of people (men often put on the body of their favorite characters from films, actors, singers, portraits of their own children or drawings in the Chicano style);
caricature images (for example, characters from manga, comics, cartoons, computer games in the “new school” technique);
detailed plot canvases (they can be favorite plots 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 areas of male tattoo, the 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. So, 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 quality. A male 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. So, for example, images of plants, animals and caricature characters in the style of “old school” and “new school” are distinguished by their brightness and decorativeness, the use of several colors in such types of tattoos is simply necessary.

When applying plot canvases to the body, as well as realistic portraits of people, animals and plants, the use of a color palette depends on the desire of the customer. Such tattoos look extremely attractive and interesting both in monochrome and using a rich palette of shades.

The location of the tattoo images on the body

Large-sized tattoos (for example, epic story 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

Men's tattoos can differ not only in styles, methods of application, locations, complexity of sketches or colors, but also in size. If we consider a small tattoo for men, then this option is preferred by calm, restrained men, conservatives who prefer minimalism and conciseness.

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, the rules for their execution, choosing a location, color options and styles. Only taking into account all the points can a high-quality result be obtained.

Today, small tattoos often act as the first experience. But this does not mean that small tattoos are somehow 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 ideas for small male tattoos:

Anchor- a symbolic drawing that says that a man has decided in life, has a clear position and principles, is self-confident and unshakable.

Child's footprint- a popular tattoo among newly-made dads, acts as a symbol of love for your child, devotion, bringing the family to the fore.

Butterfly- a symbol of freedom, looseness, inspiration, love of life.

Hieroglyph- the 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 steadfastness of principles, confidence and balance, as well as a craving for adventure.

Zodiac sign- is used as an amulet and a talisman against weaknesses, evil, ill-wishers, enhances the best aspects of character.

Cross- a divine symbol that performs a protective function from dark forces, failures, misfortunes.

Eagle- personifies spiritual strength, freedom, power and wisdom in a man.

Mountains- the philosophical meaning of the tattoo, speaking of 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 are small tattoos for guys, it is worth highlighting their main advantages. This is a minimum of pain, ease of care, rapid healing, clarity of the pattern, low price, comfort.

Why do men choose small tattoos?

It has long been believed that the less body drawing falls under the eyes of others, the deeper its sacred meaning, the stronger the influence on fate. The first male 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:

it's 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 prone to wear;
the procedure does not require complex preparation and care;
tattoos are less traumatic for the skin and heal faster;
it is also an economical not costly option;
a huge selection of sketches;
conciseness, minimalism, ease of perception.

And the reaction of the environment to small wearable drawings will not be so expressive and ambiguous, this is especially true in a working and official setting. It is worth noting that such simple tattoos correspond to men of all ages, different temperaments and images.

Where do men usually get small tattoos?

How a tattoo with meaning will “work” largely depends on its location on the body. Small tattoos can be placed anywhere, but they will most harmoniously fit 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, self-confidence. For example, an anchor, muzzles of strong animals, birds.

Forearm

On the forearm, the tattoo is more demonstrative, used for self-expression. Most often, inscriptions are applied here, various mythical and real animals that you want to imitate.

Wrist tattoo

The wrist is the most sensual zone, as it traces the pulse and connection with the human heart. Therefore, at the same time, simple, but the deepest in meaning personal tattoos are performed on the wrist - inscriptions, symbols.

Tattoos on the palm, on the hand and fingers

Hands are an important energy center, this is what a man earns, develops, affects the world with. Various amulets, talismans, amulets are applied here to protect themselves from wrong decisions and actions. Tattoos are also appropriate here, which awaken creativity.

Tattoo sleeve

The sleeve is a complex composition that cannot suggest the presence of a small tattoo. There may 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 applied here, like the credo of life and the principles of a man, symbols and objects that can affect consciousness and worldview, improve brain function.

Breast

Different versions of tattoos will harmoniously look on the chest, whether they are 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 relating to heart and soul affairs. If these are animals, a man seeks to imitate them, if symbols, they are needed for balance and self-confidence, if inscriptions, they relate to family, love.

Hip

Tattoos on the hips can affect the intimate component of life, relationships with a soul mate, and the emotional background. Overly emotional and passionate natures beat sketches that help to achieve balance, men who are too clamped and constrained, on the contrary, choose what to wake up 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 various parts of the drawings, for example, angel wings, paw prints, etc., will harmoniously look here.

shoulder blade

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, attracting good luck, success, love, and happiness to a man's life. The ideal choice for a leg sketch is the signs of the zodiac and constellations, which are the most powerful amulet and amulet.

Tattoo tips involve 3 steps. Namely:

Preparation. Make a sketch of the tattoo, do not use other people's ideas, print the finished version on the photo in order to take it to the master. Before the procedure, it is forbidden to drink alcohol and medicines. Determine the place for the tattoo, color, style of execution.
Procedure. Conduct a paint allergy test with the master. Designate for yourself the time of the work, so that you are ready for a motionless pastime.
Care. Listen from the master to all the tips for caring for the healing area of the skin. First, the tattoo will be covered with a film, later it is removed, and the skin is treated with various preparations.

Important! Find out in advance for yourself the price of a tattoo, 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 masters.

How to choose a tattoo sketch?

To make it easier to choose a sketch for a small tattoo, ask yourself a series of leading questions.

Where will the tattoo be stuffed, what size will it be? Taking into account the anatomical forms of the body and according to the principle of proportionality between the tattoo and the site, it is possible to narrow 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 thought-out format. Each style accepts a certain complexity and scale, and according to them the sketch is determined in relation to the place on the body.
Is this your first tattoo? For the first experience, simple tattoos with positive energy are chosen, 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 do you plan to get? Remember that a lot of 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 opposite qualities. You need protection and luck, in this 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 sketches and ideas. But most often in recent times, masters have resorted to the following methods of execution:

Tribal, Celtic, Polynesia– original execution of patterns, abstractions and ornaments;

Minimalism- small concise tattoos without unnecessary details and lines;

Graphic arts- the predominance of straight and clear lines;

Oriental- East style;

Geometry- an ideal style for symbolism, conveying pictures in geometric shapes.

The main emphasis in the performance of small tattoos is on black and white, especially if it is symbols, inscriptions, small objects. If living beings, nature are depicted, the master can use different colors of red, green, blue, brown, yellow and their similar shades.

Symbols that can be combined with a small tattoo

Small tattoos can be drastically modified with additional symbols, as well as their meaning. The most commonly used characters are:

inscriptions

Flame

Cross

Scull

Flowers

Hieroglyphs

Weapon

Lightning

Heart

Stars

The choice of a 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 unverified masters or amateurs. You can get guarantees of safety and quality results only 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 conciseness and restraint, a minimum of unnecessary attention, and a deep sacred meaning. It remains only to choose a cool idea, draw up a personal sketch, choose a site on the body for it, style and color scheme.