Tribal Tattoos Designs

Tribal tattoos make up at least one third of all tattoo designs worn be individuals. There is a vast amount of reasons a person might choose to adorn themselves with tribal tattoos. Symbolization varies by origin of the design. Whether the tattoo is worn for graphic design or personal reasons, tribal tattoos are definitely one of the most popular tattoos around.

While tribal symbols vary, reasons for tattooing were generally the same among each ranging from marriage, rite of passage, animals represented by the totem, spiritual and even magical. Certain tribes tattooed as a means of family standards. Family lineage could be traced among the exquisite and unique design of the tattoo that an individual wore across their face whereas many tattoos were given to represent puberty.


There are various types of tribes existing from Native American which usually represents culture, ritualistic beliefs, spirits and nature to Polynesian which symbolize tradition, values, legends, and values of religious aspect. Hawaiian tribal symbols can be worn as identification, protection or mourning and Maori can be used for courage and usually consist of elaborate curves and distinct shapes.

Animals can be used as a large number of symbolization among tribal tattoos. These meanings of course vary by which animal you choose. For example, a bear represents good nature or luck. The butterfly symbolizes spiritual immortality. The Eagle is a sign of might and spiritual growth whereas the feather shows creativity and rebirth.

Most tribal tattoos are done in black and should be colored evenly which can be very challenging. Attentiveness is needed when designing tribal tattoos with their swinging arcs and curves.

Tribal tattoos were given to people of a tribe in order to either represent or reveal certain aspects about a person. A woman who couldn’t bear the pain of a tattoo was also shunned with the thought that she would not be able to handle the pain of childbirth. The tribe or type of tattoo you get can also hold significance when choosing a location to place the tattoo on your body. Maori were commonly known for their facial tribal tattoos. Now people are found with tattoos of varying types and sizes on their legs, ankles, shoulder blades, lower backs, upper backs and more. Just about anywhere that there is skin, a tattoo can be placed.