As women have been expanding their tattoo horizons, hand tattoos for women have become increasingly popular. Delicate flowers and butterflies, soaring birds, and winding dragons are just some of the designs out there.
As this trend has sprung up, I have found myself designing more and more hand tattoos. This means that I can help you to identify the top ideas and help you decide on the right one for you. Let's get started!
Here are the most gorgeous women's hand tattoos that you should consider:
Do you like the idea of a hand tattoo but don't actually want to get full hand body art? In this case, a finger tattoo is a great alternative.
You can choose to get the finger tattoo on either just one finger like the index finger or the middle finger. Or, you can choose to get finger tattoos on each on one.
If you want a finger tattoo on a lone digit, here are the tattoo designs to consider.
As you can see, instead of heart hand tattoos, heart finger tattoos are more popular.
Image by @squiishy_iink via Instagram
Image by @newnailsareawesome via Instagram
Image by @derekwaynetattoos via Instagram
Here are some other tattoo ideas to borrow from:
Image by @ink.myth via Instagram
Image by @alyson_finch via Instagram
Image by @samano_tattoos via Instagram
Image by @marimellotattoo via Instagram
Now, in some instances, you may not want your finger tattoo to be that visible. This could be because you work in a professional setting. Or, you may want to conceal the meaning of your finger tattoo.
In this case, you should get the tattoo on the skin on the side of your finger. This way, the finger tattoo is shielded by your other digits. This works well if you are into minimalist tattoos as well.
Here are some ideas you can borrow from:
Image by @ryanta2ist via Instagram
Image by @zltattoo via Instagram
Image by @habibi.tattoo via Instagram
Image by @inkmetoronto via Instagram
Image by @jorichbeauty via Instagram
If you want to get finger tattoos on two or more fingers, there are just as many options available. You can get completely unique tattoos for each finger. Or, you can choose a theme.
Here are some ideas that you can check out:
Image by @merakicosmetictattooartistry via Instagram
Image by @thehaleyanne via Instagram
Image by @kostekk_artattoo via Instagram
Image by @hardblack_tattoo1 via Instagram
Image by @kyralanei.co via Instagram
Image by @zoefrasertattoo via Instagram
Image by @mr.pickles20_ via Instagram
Image by @art_ink.stephi via Instagram
Image by @annahinked via Instagram
Image by @allartnotwar via Instagram
If you're looking for something a little more subtle, here are some side finger tattoos you can get:
Image by @west4tattoo via Instagram
Image by @creative_art_tattoo_studio99 via Instagram
If you want something more unique than a hand tattoo, consider palm tattoos. Because all the nerve endings are here, getting a tattoo in this area is going to be incredibly painful.
If you are willing to brave it, here are some of the tattoo design ideas you can draw inspiration from:
Image by @nk_lyon via Instagram
Image by @nafrayou via Instagram
Image by @remybtattoo via Instagram
Image by @fortheloveoflethbridge via Instagram
This is one of the most common types of hand tattoos for women and it isn't difficult to see why. Flowers are closely associated with femininity. Despite their delicate structure and beauty, they can also be symbols of strength
As you can imagine, rose hand tattoos are some of the most popular tattoo designs by far. They may symbolize love, but it is also a symbol of womanhood.
If you are looking for a simple hand tattoo for women, this is a lovely choice:
Image by @roxy_shetatts via Instagram
In case you prefer more detailed rose hand tattoos, these are some ideas to consider:
Image by @char_patterns via Instagram
Image by @spintattoocehegin via Instagram
Image by @mojoe_ink via Instagram
Of course, if roses aren't your thing, there are still plenty of other floral hand tattoos for women to choose from:
Image by @gavinks_tattoo_studio via Instagram
Image by @kikidee_tattoo via Instagram
Image by @jezzabel_sander via Instagram
Image by @rowenas.tattoo.art via Instagram
Image by @geeroetattoo via Instagram
Image by @spiraledvision via Instagram
Image by @jilliansunflower3565 via Instagram
Image by @beccambtattoo via Instagram
Image by @beccambtattoo via Instagram
If flowers feel a bit mainstream, you may want to consider getting a plant hand tattoo. These may consist of vines, branches, or another part of a plant.
This tattoo idea is perfectly suited to the hand. The winding design allows the hand tattoo to wrap around, creating a sexy and sinuous element to the design.
Curious about what hand tattoos for women look like? Here are some options:
Image by @liamrossellink via Instagram
Image by @straight_ink_tattoo via Instagram
Image by @sarah_ollis via Instagram
Image by @justynaglajc via Instagram
Image by @inkyblindersvtx via Instagram
Bird hand tattoos are great for a couple of different reasons. First, these hand tattoo ideas are truly beautiful, especially if the bird tattoo has a great deal of design.
Secondly, birds are a symbol of freedom and independence. If these are traits you associate with yourself, this is a great hand tattoo.
This exquisite bird hand tattoo proves that even small tattoos can be absolutely breathtaking. The tiny details along with the beautiful colors make this tattoo a true work of art.
Image by @ggarttattoo via Instagram
This hand tattoo has a similar vibe but is a good look for anyone who wants a painted appearance to their tattoo.
Image by @kmotattoos via Instagram
This is another truly breathtaking piece of art for a small hand tattoo. The iridescent colors really bring it to life.
Image by @zc.tattoo.cba via Instagram
If you choose this kind of hand tattoo, know that each bird has its own meaning and symbolism.
Some people see swallows as a sign of hope and love. Hummingbirds are associated with determination and hard work. Eagles are fierce and symbols of freedom.
If you want your bird tattoo to be meaningful, choose the type of bird accordingly.
Butterfly hand tattoos are the perfect option for anyone who wants a feminine piece of ink. Butterflies also have a beautiful meaning as they are symbols of transformation.
If you like small hand tattoos for women, you can get tiny, delicate ones in flight. Or, you can choose intricate tattoos that take up your entire hand.
Looking for a full hand tattoo for your butterfly ink? Then check out these options:
Image by @sinners_and_saints_tattoo via Instagram
Image by @alec_pronos_tattoos via Instagram
Check out these full hand tattoos for inspiration for your tattoo. Take a closer look as the butterfly has been designed to blend into the black ink of the floral tattoos:
Image by @mona.nfdt via Instagram
Image by @viktoria_bikiaris via Instagram
Prefer smaller butterflies for your tattoo? Check out these full hand tattoo ideas:
Image by @tattoo_goblin via Instagram
Image by @gallery55tattoos_rotorua via Instagram
A cat hand tattoo is a natural choice for women. After all, an independent woman and a feline have a lot in common.
Not to mention, if you have a cat, it is only natural to get a hand tattoo of your beloved pet.
As an increasing number of women are embracing Wicca, black cats are becoming a favored symbol. Due to this, a black cat would make a great hand tattoo.
Here are some ideas for your tattoo:
Image by @_blackcattattoo via Instagram
Image by @inkedjennasofi via Instagram
Image by @c.p_tattoos via Instagram
Image by @lan_isabel via Instagram
Dragon hand tattoos for women are becoming increasingly popular. This is because they represent strength, intelligence, and honor.
A lot of people see them as symbols for good luck as well. The thing to remember is that there are many different kinds of dragon tattoo designs.
For one, the design depends on the culture you are borrowing the dragon from. A Japanese dragon will differ from a Chinese one.
Also, some cultures incorporate wingless dragons. Due to this, you should always work with a tattoo artist that understands the distinction of each design as well as how to bring it to life.
Of course, if you want a custom tattoo based on your imagination or pop culture, these details will not matter as much.
Image by @tattooman1599 via Instagram
Image by @dustingormley via Instagram
Sun tattoos can be symbols of strength and knowledge. This kind of hand tattoo can also be seen as a positive sign - the dawn of a new day.
Traditionally, you should have a tattoo of the sun on your right hand but there is no hard and fast rule.
Image by @pookypokes via Instagram
Image by @buzzard.ink via Instagram
Here is a sun and moon hand tattoo design. When the sun and moon are featured in a hand tattoo, it can signify a sense of balance. At the same time, this hand tattoo can be a symbol of two opposing forces working together.
Image by @richard_bowers_tattoos_swt via Instagram
The moon is usually associated with emotion. It is often a symbol of femininity and womanhood.
A moon hand tattoo would typically be placed on your left hand but there is no need to stick to this.
Image by @aesthetic.bar via Instagram
Image by @ellebabe.ink via Instagram
Image by @meggalodon via Instagram
When it comes to hand tattoos for women, star tattoos tend to have a different design. You will often see them depicted as a series of dots and circles instead of the traditional design.
This is a great option if you are looking for a star hand tattoo with a minimalistic design and clean lines.
On the other hand, if you want a more traditional star hand tattoo, this is something you can discuss with your tattoo artist.
Stars are a great tattoo design for anyone who wants a small hand tattoo. This kind of hand tattoo takes up minimal space but can also be turned into unique tattoo designs if you want something different.
Image by @malodobra.dziara via Instagram
Image by @sampadechinela via Instagram
Image by @eth.ink via Instagram
Image by @janetattoo_nz via Instagram
The great thing about a moon hand tattoo is that there are plenty of ways to get creative with it. From whimsical to gothic, there are different directions you can take with this hand tattoo.
For the most part, a cross hand tattoo is used to showcase a person's faith. The hand tattoo could be a symbol of their relationship with Jesus.
A faith-based hand tattoo may be accompanied by a rosary or other religious iconography.
In some cases, a cross hand tattoo may function as a memorial tattoo, signifying the loss of a loved one.
Image by @el.diablo.tattoo via Instagram
Image by @juvis.ink via Instagram
Large tribal tattoos aren't as popular as they once were and many women are getting hand tribal tattoos instead.
The thing to keep in mind is that there are no specific designs for a tribal tattoo. The only thing to know is that the hand tattoo is entirely done in black ink.
Due to this, you and your tattoo artist need to decide on the design for this type of tattoo.
If you want a more traditional hand tattoo, here are the tattoo designs to consider:
Image by @sarahschortattoo via Instagram
Image by @venomink_tbc via Instagram
Want to incorporate a floral element in your hand tattoo?
Image by @innerartsouterparts via Instagram
Image by @hinano__wearing via Instagram
In case you want a hand tattoo rooted in culture, here are the tattoo design ideas to check out:
Image by @harrybullardtattoo via Instagram
Image by @tavita_mose_tattoos via Instagram
Image by @kristenpaigetattoo via Instagram
For the longest time, Medusa was a sight to be feared. Lately, however, as the origins of the myth of Medusa have been revealed, she has taken on a completely different role.
In fact, Medusa is now seen as a feminist icon. So, anyone getting a Medusa hand tattoo is championing their right to be a proud and independent woman.
Since there has been a revamp of Medusa and her identity, most hand tattoos for women have a fairly modern design. That being said, you are free to consider a more classical design.
These are not simple hand tattoos. They work best as full hand tattoos as there is a lot of detail that needs to go into it.
Image by @mandalatattooleicester via Instagram
Image by @mr.mason_58 via Instagram
Image by @tattooist_eliya via Instagram
If you have a memory you don't want to forget, getting a tattoo of it on your hand is a great way to achieve this.
This is why tattooing an important word or a phrase on your hand is a great idea.
If you have a child, partner, or loved one that is close to your heart, a name tattoo on your hand is a good idea.
These work well as a small hand tattoo idea if you want a more subtle or simple hand tattoo.
Image by @ts_art.tattoo via Instagram
Image by @the_arquettes via Instagram
Image by @charlynschaper.ttt via Instagram
Image by @ace.inks via Instagram
There are a few different reasons that women get hand tattoos.
Some tattoo designs are better-suited to the hand and look a lot better displayed there. It is also a great way to showcase your tattoos. This makes them the perfect choice for women who love bold ink and visible tattoos.
In general, they are also a great option for women who want to feel both feminine and confident. Hand tattoos can essentially be like jewelry but is also the mark of a strong woman who isn't afraid to show off her ink.
Despite being a unique tattoo placement, it is not symbolic. The meaning of the tattoo holds more significance rather than the location.
That being said, the right hand is associated with logic, dominance, and the sun. The left hand, however, is more closely associated with emotion and the moon.
If you want to get a hand tattoo, you need to brace yourself. It is one of the more painful places on the human body to get a tattoo. The skin here is very thin and tends to shift quite a bit during the tattooing process.
On top of this, there are lots of bones and ligaments to contend with too.
It isn't easy to tattoo this area either. The artist will often have to go over the same area again and again with the tattoo needle. Naturally, this will make the hand tattoos hurt more than other types of tattoos.
It is also why you should go to a skilled tattoo artist for this type of body art.
If you have a hard time finding the right hand tattoo design, your search is over! Here you can find some of the most beautiful and unique ideas from around the world. Your decision just got a whole lot easier.
