Tattoos are the ultimate in self expression. They make a statement about who you are and what you are about. Different tattoo designs have different meanings. Adaptations of various designs can add your own stamp to the body art so you can make your own statement.

Tribal Tattoos

Symbolizes belonging. The Tribal designs were by far the most popular, coming in with approximately one third of requests. In the past, tribal body art identified different tribes and were very important to the identity of the tribe and the individual. Today, tribal body art is an appealing fashion statement, that allow people to show off their individuality combined with a bit of mystery. These tats use aggressive dark lines in jagged symmetrical shapes and are most common in black and skin tones but can also be infused with color to brighten the overall look.

Stars

A symbol of protection and guidance. They are popular because they can go anywhere on the body and can be any size you want. They are also popular because they are timeless. Compass and nautical stars were very popular amongst sailors as they relied on stars to guide them on their journeys, so they used the tattoos as luck. These days, the meaning of stars depends on the number of points it has. The most popular places for the star designs are around the shoulder, ankles and navel.

Angels

Symbol of devotion, spirituality and faith. Angels are popular because they are very symbolic, representing many values such as peace, spirituality, and protection. Some of the more popular tattoo designs relate to Religion and Spirituality (due to angels being seen as the link between heaven and earth), Love, and the Struggle between good and evil.

Crosses

Strong religious symbolism. Popular as a symbol of faith, belief and hope. Crosses are popular because they can be effectively combined with other designs. The cross tattoo is very versatile because they look good most places on the body and small or big.

Wings

Symbol of spirituality and freedom. Wings are associated with angels, representing protection and guidance from above. Wings are also associated with butterflies, birds, dragons, fairies and a host of other animals. Wings represent freedom for many people and rising above problems. Some wing designs spread right across the back, which look very impressive. A popular place for women to get a wing tattoo design is on the lower back.

Where to get good designs

The next step is to look at some pictures or flash to get ideas to work from. A cost effective option is to download a package of thousands of popular designs from Chopper Tattoo. Then add your own touches to your favorite one for the artist to incorporate. That way you get top quality body art that is totally original for a fraction of the price it would cost for a tattoo design to be drawn up from scratch.

Without a doubt, dragon tattoo patterns are some of the most popular styles out there. Don’t take our word for it-just go to any local beach and check out the array laid out before you. What is it about these mythical creatures that drive people into tattoo studios in droves? The following is an explanation of the phenomenon of the dragon tattoo, and why it’s become so popular in the past decade.

First, it’s important to look at the beast behind the design. Amazingly, dragons are embedded in cultures throughout the world. In studying ancient civilizations, one comes across the dragon in one form or another in European, Oriental, and Iranian tradition. The dragon certainly has some grounding in real life. Look no further than monitor lizards or other scaly serpents and you’ll find real world examples. How the dragon became so ubiquitous in cultures across the globe may be a mystery, but it is certainly a testament to how powerful and appealing these mythical creatures are. No matter who you are or where your ancestors came from, a dragon can fit into the way you define yourself.

Dragons are generally depicted as reptilian creatures. While their appearance varies across cultures, dragons usually share the same characteristics regardless of what culture you’re studying. In virtually every case, this mythical beast is capable of rapid flight, as well as the ability to spit fire, sending enemies reeling. The combination of these two factors make the dragon one of the most fearful creatures roaming the earth, so watch out!

Your dragon tattoo represents something different to everyone who views it. Apart from just being an intricate, beautiful design, the tattoo holds symbolic value as a way to express the things that are important to you. On a man, the dragon might represent power, or wisdom. Many people see dragons on women as a sign of cunning and deviousness.

It’s important to remember that dragons can both help and hurt human beings. Mythical dragons often served as the wizard’s steed, providing transport into and out of battle. At the same time, evil dragons were dangerous creatures capable of destruction without so much as a second’s notice. Their hot fire could instantly melt the bravest of warriors. Perhaps that’s part of the dragon’s appeal; contemplating this beast makes people run the gamut of emotions. Without more information, there’s no way of knowing whether the dragon you see is helpful or harmful. In a sense, you’re almost forced to inquire further details. That’s one of the benefits of an interesting, provocative dragon tattoo: it’s an instant conversation starter. After all, isn’t that one of the reasons people get tattoos in the first place?

If you’ve been thinking about getting another tattoo (or your first!), you should strongly consider a dragon as your chosen style. These powerful creatures evoke the powerful emotions from tattoo artists, and you’re sure to come out of the studio with a design that will astonish everyone lucky enough to see it.