Here are 25 tiny tattoos to inspire your next appointment.
Delicate Rose
@lindseydreadfuls
A rose is a classic design, but this one’s delicate nature and unique placement make it a memorable choice. As with all body art, determining your tastes is the best way to ensure your design is something you want to live with forever. “It’s more important to figure out what you like rather than what the tattoo rules say,” says Strong.
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Small Suits
@youareyouthful
“If you have very few tattoos, I like them in little tucked-away spots like the back of the wrist or behind the ear,” says Strong. This would-be subtle tattoo gains boldness points for its red hue and unexpected motif, an understated ode to a deck of cards.
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Petite Plane
@alessandromelas
This plane’s playful nature is furthered by its tiny size. And though the design may seem simple, don’t be fooled. “Just because something is small or simple does not mean it’s ‘easy,’” says Strong of tiny tattoos in general.
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Line Wine
@mrs.tattoo_
One of the best parts of a tiny tattoo is the inherent permission to take it all a little less seriously. Though a giant wine glass may seem like overkill, a miniaturized version (complete with tiny heart) reads more sweet than statement.
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Wispy Willow
@raeatwoodtattoos
While some tiny tattoos are all about a single-line style, this wispy willow features texture and detailing that finds it somewhere between realistic and fantastical. This design is delicate and dreamy, all without taking up much external real estate.
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Little Wings
@madkasantirto
Birds can represent so many things: travel, freedom, growth, or just a sweet flight of fancy. This baby bird is minimal, but detailed enough to demand a closer look.
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Cutesy Collage
@ecstacytat2s
Why limit yourself to one tiny tattoo when you can have several? “You can embroider your body over time, adding small tattoos to your collection because there is always room to add a micro tattoo into your skin!” says Melas. This colorful collage style highlights the doodle-like nature of a tiny tattoo — and it’s crazy cute.
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To the Moon
@mrs.tattoo_
Itsy bitsy planets are a fun way to honor the enormity of space. Two views of the world frame a full moon; each diminutive body is detailed yet extremely soft, making for a surprisingly delicate piece.
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Itty Bitty Evil Eye
@alessandromelas
Ankles are one of Melas’ favorite placements for tiny tattoos. Etched on the back of the ankle, this “super tiny evil eye” offers pretty protection (eyes in the back and all) and a forever sort of accessory.
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Baby Bolt
@youareyouthful
Finger tattoos provide a polarizing placement due to fading potential, but that’s never stopped proponents of the look. “Some of my favorite placements for tiny tattoos are the fingers, behind the ear, and actually on the ear as well as the sternum,” says tattoo artist Melody Mitchell.
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Butterfly Band
@ecstacytat2s
Tiny tattoos need not stand alone. A classic around-the-arm band gets a modern twist when built from a flight of tiny butterflies.
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Slight Starburst
@madkasantirto
A tattoo positioned on the top of the finger rather than the side (where the design is destined to rub against digits) means less chance of unwanted fading, along with increased visibility. This incredibly delicate starburst piece makes the case for abstract art and a unique take on the popular twinkle trend.
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Single Shot
@mrs.tattoo_
Calling all coffee lovers. With a small, permanent cup, demonstrate your commitment to your daily dose of espresso. A fine-line design and detached elements result in a slightly abstract (and extra artsy) interpretation.
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Sacred Heart
@alessandromelas
The sacred heart is an enduring spiritual symbol, and Melas’ interpretation features an anatomically correct iteration. “The single needle is the finest line in the tattoo industry and allows me to put a lot of details in a very small space,” explains Melas.
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Single Line Symbols
@youareyouthful
Why not wear your star sign on your sleeve — or fingers? A quartet of tiny astrological signs shows off personality traits (IYKYK) and instantly elevates your manicure.
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Mini Jellyfish
@lindseydreadfuls
The ethereal aesthetic of a jellyfish lends well to a small design. A tangle of tentacles practically demands a fine line, particularly when positioned along the top of a finger.
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Small Stones