165 Sunflower Tattoo Designs to Brighten Up Your Day

An incredibly popular choice, sunflower tattoo designs are endless. From black and grey to bright colors and simple to detailed, there are many choices available.

As an artist who has designed countless sunflower tattoos, I can show you the various categories of tattoos while helping you narrow down your options.

Sunflower Tattoo Ideas

Here are the top categories for sunflower tattoos:

Black and Grey Sunflower Tattoos

You may think most tattoos without color are black and white. However, when it comes to a traditional sunflower tattoo, this ink is more likely to be black and grey.

The black outline combined with the grey shading helps create a clearer distinction between the elements. A black and grey sunflower tattoo also looks more artistic.

There are different levels of shading for black and grey, as you can see in the images below. The lighter shading is more reminiscent of a yellow sunflower.

The darker shading, on the other hand, moves the sunflower tattoo into a different territory. It's more brooding and dramatic. Due to this, a greater level of shading can alter the meaning of your sunflower tattoo design.

Talk to your tattoo artist to discover just how much black and grey shading should be incorporated into your sunflower tattoo to get the desired result.

Black and White Sunflower Tattoos

Of course, if you prefer traditional sunflower tattoos, you might want a black and white one.

Well, you're in luck as there are plenty of black and white sunflower tattoo ideas to borrow from.

If you're looking for a simple sunflower tattoo, this is a great option for you. It includes a minimum number of details but it's quite cute all the same.

These tattoos have more detail but the distinction between the black outline and skin is notable.

This is technically a black and white sunflower tattoo, but there is a twist. The leaves are colored in, while only the sunflower has no color. Interestingly enough, it helps the sunflower stand out the same way if the petals were yellow.

Colored Sunflower Tattoos

Of course, there is nothing quite like a vibrant yellow sunflower, with bright yellow petals. Color can bring your sunflower tattoo to life.

There is more than one shade of yellow ink to use in your sunflower design. A pale yellow sunflower tattoo has a more retro feel. This also lends it a more delicate appearance.

Such a shade is a good option for your sunflower tattoo design if you want a more subtle piece.

If you want your sunflower tattoo to symbolize happiness and positivity, you'll probably decide to go with bright colors. This can make for some truly stunning sunflower tattoos.

The only thing to be mindful of here is that bright colors can fade pretty quickly. Not to mention, you're more likely to notice the fading as well. Due to this, you will probably need touch-ups more often. To figure out just how often you want this, speak to your tattoo artist ahead of time.

Watercolor Sunflower Tattoos

A watercolor sunflower tattoo is a great way to reinforce sunflowers as a positive symbol but do something a little different at the same time.

Keep in mind that the watercolor sunflower tattoo can mean different things to different artists. So, it's a good idea to take a specific image to your tattoo artist.

Don't worry, here are some watercolor sunflower tattoo ideas you can take inspiration from:

Small Sunflower Tattoos

A lot of sunflower tattoos seem pretty big. As they are meant to be symbols of joy, most people prefer getting large images or a full sleeve sunflower tattoo. If this isn't your thing, this don't worry!

You can find small sunflower tattoo or even tiny sunflower tattoo designs that can be subtle yet beautiful.

Looking for a small sunflower tattoo that boasts a simple design? It doesn't get any smaller or cuter than these delicate sunflower tattoos:

Want to throw some color into the mix for your tiny sunflower tattoos? Here's how to do this:

Of course, the great thing about a small sunflower tattoo is that it can be placed anywhere. Check out this ear sunflower tattoo:

In case you prefer a behind-the-ear sunflower tattoo, here is one that may work for you:

If you think an ear tattoo is too unusual, a wrist or ankle sunflower tattoo may be a better option.

As you can see with these tiny sunflower tattoo ideas, you don't have to choose a minimalistic design if you don't want to. Your sunflower tattoo can be as detailed or as bold and bright as you want.

Realistic Sunflower Tattoos

Most sunflower tattoos look fairly authentic. However, there are some designs that take things to the next level.

If you prefer a realistic sunflower tattoo, there a few designs you can check out.

Keep in mind that you will need a really talented artist to pull off the perfect, realistic sunflower tattoo look.

Getting the yellow petals right on these realistic sunflower tattoo designs is only half the battle. It is just as - if not more - important to pay attention to the disk of flowers at the center of the sunflower head. This is what can take a simple sunflower tattoo to the next level.

Adding realistic green leaves to the ink is also a good way to make the image look more authentic.

You don't need to stick to a colorful design. Just take a look at this gorgeous black and grey design. The attention to detail and shading is absolutely exquisite.

Also, if you look a little closer, you will notice that in addition to the black and grey, there are little flecks of white. This helps to add dimension to the tattoo and to pull it all together.

Sunflower Sketch Tattoos

Maybe you want to go in the complete opposite direction of a realistic sunflower tattoo. You might want your sunflower tattoo to look like a work of art - literally.

Well, this is why you should consider getting a sunflower sketch tattoo. There isn't one specific definition for this kind of sunflower tattoo.

It could mean a sunflower tattoo that looks like it has been drawn. Or, it could be a more abstract approach. In any case, here are some examples and options to give you a better idea of what to pick.

If you're looking for a cute and simple sunflower tattoo, here are a few to choose from:

Want a more professional look to your sunflower tattoo? Here are some great examples:

If you prefer an abstract approach to your sunflower tattoo, check out this black and grey artwork. Not only is the technique unique but it also gives the sunflower a slightly dark and stormy look - very unlike what you would expect from a traditional sunflower tattoo.

Here is a really interesting sunflower tattoo idea - it almost looks like a child's drawing, except that the lines are cleaner and crisper. What really makes these tattoos stand out is that the colors and technique create a crayon-like effect.

If you would like a foot sunflower tattoo, here is a good idea to borrow from. As you can see, the stem wraps around the toe.

Sunflower Bouquet Tattoos

The only thing that's better than one sunflower is many sunflowers! If you're looking for a sunflowers tattoo, there are different types of floral tattoos for you to choose from. Let's break them down.

The most basic options for your sunflowers tattoo are those in black and grey.

A sunflower bouquet tattoo design doesn't need to consist of sunflowers alone. In fact, it can look prettier when there are a myriad of other flowers too.

These tattoo designs tend to be larger, which is why they work well as an arm sunflower tattoo, sleeve sunflower tattoo, or forearm sunflower tattoo.

If you want something that's both sexy and hidden, a thigh sunflower tattoo can work just as well.

Here is some inspiration:

Here are some sunflowers tattoo designs in color:

This is a particularly interesting sunflower tattoo. Only one flower has color in it, while the rest are black and grey. This allows the color of the single flower to stand out even more.

Sunflower Band Tattoos

Your sunflower tattoo can be designed to look incredibly small and delicate. This way, it can be drawn to go around, making it a wrist or arm sunflower tattoo.

At the same time, this delicate design can be fashioned into other shapes too. These designs will look lovely as a hip sunflower tattoo.

Blooming Sunflower Tattoos

These are some fairly unique sunflower tattoo designs. This option is usually reserved for lotus and similar flower tattoos but it's still absolutely gorgeous when applied to sunflowers.

This sunflower tattoo could have a symbolic meaning as well. It could represent the stages of life you go through, particularly as a woman.

At the same time, it may also be symbolic of maturity and growth. Only the younger flowers seek sunlight. As the sunflower matures, it stops doing this.

This tattoo design is excellent idea for someone who has wised up with time. It also works well for anyone who has transformed from an optimist to a realist.

Sunflower and Butterfly Tattoos

Sunflowers and butterflies go together beautifully. As a result, featuring them in a single tattoo creates a gorgeous image.

Interestingly enough, a sunflower tattoo with a butterfly has its own meaning as well. Butterflies are associated with transformation and rebirth. Sunflowers are about happiness and positivity.

In the same tattoo, they can be used to signify someone who chooses a more positive light or path. This sunflower tattoo also works well for someone who has emerged from a dark chapter in their life.

If you want to create a greater distinction between the sunflower and the butterfly, you can have the sunflower in black and white and the butterfly in color.

This is a more subtle look as most of the tattoo is done in black and grey. However, the little touches of white make all the difference.

If you want a more unique butterfly and sunflower tattoo, here are some great ideas. One wing is a butterfly's while the other is made up of sunflowers. Beautiful!

Sunflower and Bees Tattoos

Sunflowers and bees are a lovely combination. They create vivid images of a happy and thriving environment. So, a bee and sunflower tattoo is automatically a cheerful symbol.

Here is how you can make this tattoo work:

Sunflower and Bird Tattoos

Sunflowers and birds work really well together. Not only are they a natural fit, but they also balance each other in artistic sense as well.

The birds in these designs are intricately drawn. If you like, you can opt for a simpler bird design. If not, make sure you have a talented and experienced artist to guarantee that the tattoo comes out just right.

Head Full of Sunflowers Tattoos

On the surface, this can simply seem like an artistic sunflower tattoo. It certainly is.

If you think about it more, though, you will realize that it represents a positive mindset. The sunflowers in place of the head could indicate that you're working on a new and positive way of thinking.

If nothing else, it is certainly a weird and wonderful way to incorporate sunflowers in your ink!

Sunflower and Skull Tattoos

Sunflowers and skulls may seem at odds with one another but this is also why they work so well together in a sunflower tattoo.

Skulls often indicate the end of something. They also tend to be a symbol of something hardened or a person with an edge. Sunflowers, on the other hand, are all about light and happiness.

These two symbols in the same tattoo can signify balance or the duality of nature and life. It can also be a great way to soften up an otherwise tough piece of ink.

Phrases and Sunflower Tattoos

A sunflower tattoo can be a sign of better times ahead. Due to this, it's only natural to want to pair this symbol with a phrase that is meaningful to you.

Do you need to endow yourself with some positive advice? Consider these sunflower tattoo sayings:

The right words can also transform your sunflower tattoo into a beautiful memorial:

A sunflower is also be a good way to put a positive spin on a reminders that can seem a little bleak:

Geometric Sunflower Tattoos

A geometric sunflower tattoo is an oddly cool combination. The geometric shapes do two things. First, they create an abstract border that helps to highlight the sunflower. At the same time, it helps illustrate the free nature of the flower as it can't quite contain it.

Another thing that the geometric shape does is to act as a juxtaposition to the sunflower. Sunflowers are seen as soft and nurturing while the solid shape can seem unyielding.

Sunflower Mandala Tattoos

The sunflower mandala tattoo is a good option for anyone who wants to focus their thoughts. Mandalas are meant to help you to concentrate better. The petals of the sunflower can be arranged in such a way that it promotes an organized pattern.

Due to the confusing nature of the sunflower mandala tattoo, it is best to go with an artist that has done mandala tattoos before. They will be able to create a good base for you.

Matching Sunflower Tattoos

Sunflowers are all about love, so it is only natural to choose this design for your matching sunflower tattoo. You can choose tattoos that are identical or go with those that are similar but have been custom-designed for the person getting inked.

What Does a Sunflower Tattoo Symbolize?

Sunflowers are usually associated with joy and happiness. Some people also believe that they are a symbol of good luck. They also indicate a long, happy life.

A sunflower tattoo tends to showcase positivity. The young flowers tend to move to face the sun. While this doesn't happen with older flowers, it's symbolic of always finding the light, regardless of how dark the times may seem.

What Does a Butterfly on a Sunflower Mean?

Butterflies are symbols of transformation or rebirth. It can also be a sign that you have decided to choose a new path in life.

So, when a butterfly is paired with a sunflower tattoo, it could indicate that there is a new beginning in your life. You may have chosen a lifestyle dedicated to happiness and positivity.

What Does a Sunflower Moon Tattoo Mean?

This is definitely an unusual combination - after all, sunflowers are associated with the sun. The sun and the moon rarely share the sky at the same time.

These two symbols in one tattoo could be a depiction of two different personalities or circumstances.

It could also indicate balance - how two opposing factors or forces can even each other out.

What Does a Lotus Flower Tattoo Symbolize?

Lotus flowers symbolize purity. Even though they grow in murky water, the petals remain clean.

They are also considered to be symbols of enlightenment.

As you can see, there really are a lot of tattoos to choose from. Now that you know the top designs and ideas, though, you will have a far easier time figuring out what to get. Good luck.