Name Tattoo Ideas
Short answer: A name tattoo puts the name of your child, spouse, mother, a loved one or your own name on your skin. The most popular placements are the wrist, forearm, collarbone, ribs, shoulder and leg. Name tattoos are the most emotional kind of lettering tattoo, but also the riskiest; regret is especially common with partners' names, so think it through carefully before you decide.
A name tattoo makes love, commitment and memory permanent. Names of children, parents and siblings usually carry a lasting meaning. Partners' names, on the other hand, are considered risky because they depend on the future of the relationship.
Types of name tattoos
Children's and family names
Your child's name, birth date or footprint. The names of parents, siblings and grandparents. This is the most lasting type and the one least likely to cause regret.
Your own name
Your own name, nickname or signature. Personal and original.
A partner's name
The name of your boyfriend, girlfriend or spouse. The warning "don't get your partner's name tattooed" is common in tattoo culture; even if the relationship ends, the tattoo stays. Think carefully even in marriages and long-term relationships.
Pet names
The name or paw print of a beloved companion.
Names of loved ones you've lost
Memorial tattoos; they can be combined with a date and a symbol.
Couple names and initials
For a simpler option, you can use just initials or an abbreviation.
Where to put a name tattoo
- Wrist: Small, fine lettering; can fade quickly
- Forearm: Horizontal or vertical; visible
- Collarbone: Elegant, horizontal; sensitive
- Ribs: Vertical and private; high pain
- Shoulder and upper arm: Can be covered with clothing
- Leg and ankle: Simple, small lettering
- Chest (close to the heart): An emotional choice; can be covered
For placements, read Wrist Tattoo Ideas and Rib Tattoo Ideas.
Font and design ideas
- Script: Elegant and emotional.
- Real handwriting: A loved one's actual handwriting or your child's first writing; very meaningful.
- Typewriter and simple fonts: Modern and minimal.
- With symbols and flowers: Combining the name with a flower, heart or bird.
- Date and name: With a birth date or special day.
- Fingerprint or heartbeat line: A personal symbol next to the name.
For choosing a font, read Tattoo Lettering Ideas.
Before getting a name tattoo
- Check the spelling: Make sure the name is spelled correctly and any special characters (such as the Turkish ç, ğ, ı, ö, ş, ü) are used correctly.
- Think twice about a partner's name: The future of a relationship can't be predicted.
- Consider the person's consent: If you're getting someone else's name, it's nice to talk it over with them.
- Don't get the size wrong: Small, very thin lettering can become unreadable over time.
- Wait: Let the decision mature for a few weeks.
How long does a name tattoo take?
A short name usually doesn't take long; it depends on the complexity of the font and the size. Your artist will give you an estimated time. For pricing, read How Are Tattoo Prices Determined?.
Can a name tattoo be removed or covered up?
Name tattoos are often covered up. Dense flowers, animals or geometric designs are usually used to cover lettering. For details, read Cover-Up Tattoo Ideas.
Choosing an artist
- Choose an artist with lettering work in their portfolio.
- Check the letter spacing and line quality.
- Look at healed examples.
In the TattooVerseCo Artists section you can use the style filter to find artists experienced in lettering and minimal work. With Get quotes you can get a quote for price and time.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a name tattoo take?
Short names don't take long. It depends on the font and size.
Should you get your partner's name tattooed?
You can, but it's considered risky. Even if the relationship changes, the tattoo stays, which is why many artists and tattooed people advise caution.
Where do you put a name tattoo?
The wrist, forearm, collarbone, ribs and shoulder are the most common spots.
Can a name tattoo be covered up?
Yes, it's often possible. The artist assesses it after seeing the old tattoo.
What should I do to get my child's name tattooed?
Check the spelling, choose a simple font, and you can add a date or symbol. Finalize the design with your artist.
Your loved ones on your skin, with care. Plan your name tattoo with the TattooVerseCo Artists section and the Design Studio.