85 Amazing Cross Tattoos – Cross Tattoo Designs & Ideas

Cross tattoos have been popular ever since tattoos have been put on the skin of human beings across the world! Even though the most apparent symbolism attached to cross tattoos deals with religion and spirituality, there are several other meanings attached to them.

Types of Cross Tattoos

The most common cross tattoos are connected to the Christian and Catholic religions. It is a significant symbol for people of these faiths. People who love tattoos find the cross fitting to display their love and faith in their God. The typical Christian/Catholic cross tattoos are in a Latin style with three spokes on each side pointing up, and one spoke that points downward. It resembles a lower case T. Some even have the image of Christ on the cross added for more effect.

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There is also the Celtic cross on the list of popular cross tattoos. This type of cross is generally a combo of two symbols; a circle and a Latin cross. The ring is typically in the center of the cross where the lines intersect. Not only are these religiously used, but there is also mysticism about them. The cross itself represents the person’s salvation from Christ. However, the circle symbolizes the circle of life and the idea that life and death are both eternal and cyclical. Some Celtic cross tattoos also feature knots in the design, which can also symbolize the Pagan religion.

Another popular type of cross is the Maltese cross. It symbolizes sacrifice and courage. It is a popular option for firefighters and police officers who use it to represent the dedication they have for their respective jobs. This cross has eight points and pongs that are v-shaped. 

It is easy to see that there are many types of cross designs that people choose for tattooing. Each one means different things to different people, and all of them are beautiful in the eyes of the beholders.

Cross Tattoos for Women

For women who get inked, cross tattoos are a popular choice. The most popular for the ladies is the Celtic cross due to its intricate and beautiful designs. They are unique and have a flair for feminism. 

Egyptian crosses are also popular choices for women. Typically, they are made into small designs and represent life and giving life, hence their popularity with the female species. However, it does have one other symbolic meaning. This meaning is the union of the masculine and the feminine. Many couples get identical Egyptian cross tattoos for this purpose. 

No matter what kind of cross tattoo a woman gets, the most popular placement areas are the shoulder blade, the lower leg, and the lower back.

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Cross Tattoos for Men

When it comes to cross tattoos for men, the designs are more varied. Not because women don’t have a broad range of choices, but because men tend to get a bit more creative with their designs. Also, men have more options where they can place their tattoos.

The most popular places that men put cross tattoos are the upper arms and the middle of the back. The lower leg is also a good spot but not as popular as the previous two spots. When deciding what type of cross tattoo to get, there is no one specific type that men find most attractive. However, the latest trend has been the Celtic cross tat and tribal crosses. Some men prefer a plain cross, while others like to add wings to it, an image of Christ, praying hands, or flames.

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Sizes of Cross Tattoos

One of the great things about cross tattoos is that you can get them in any size. Of course the size you choose will depend upon the area of your body that it will be placed.

Placements

For small cross tattoos, the following places are the most popular:

• On the finger – Many people like to get crosses tattooed on their fingers as if it were a ring. In fact, there are couples that get cross rings tattooed on their ring fingers instead of using a traditional wedding band.
• The wrist – Tattooing a cross on the wrist in the form of a bracelet is a popular choice for both men and women.
• Behind the ear – While I am not sure why this is such a popular option, it is nonetheless.
• The hip is an excellent place for any small-sized tattoo!
• Putting a small cross tattoo on the chest is always a nice touch for both men and women.

For large cross tattoos, the following places are the most popular:

• In the middle of the back – This is typically a place that men put their cross tattoos. It is so popular because the back is such a large area that it allows you to add other details along with the cross. Some of the most intricate cross designs are done over the person’s entire back area.
• For men with large or muscled calves, a large cross tattoo looks fantastic!
• Around the bicep is a good place for a large cross tattoo for a man.

Designing a Cross Tattoo

While many designs go out of style, the cross tattoo will never do so. People will always have faith and be able to find deep meaning in cross tattoos. The choices of cross tattoo designs are endless, and there will always be one that pleases everyone who is looking! Take your time choosing. Never settle on something you think is “okay,” and figure out what you want your cross tattoo to symbolize in your life. 

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Maybe you can take your inspiration from some famous people who bear cross tattoos! Rihanna got a beautiful cross tattoo a few months back. Angelina Jolie has one on her upper hip that is simple yet stunning. Drew Barrymore has one in the same place as Brangelina! As far as the men go, Marshall Mathers (aka Eminem Eminem), Mark Wahlberg, and Justin Timberlake sport sexy cross tattoos. Maybe your favorite celeb has a cross tattoo that you wish to emulate? Think about it!

Cross Tattoos on Wrist

You can get cross tattoos anywhere on your body, including smaller areas, such as your wrist. The inside of the wrist has always been a popular spot for cross tattoos. The inking on the wrist is visible to the wearer, making it ideal for a meaningful symbol such as the cross.

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Cross Tattoo on Finger

Try a finger tattoo if you want a subtle cross tattoo. It is up to you which finger you use. As a symbol of commitment, some men get the cross tattoo on their right ring fingers. In Scripture, the right hand also signifies strength, power, and blessings. If you want to be discreet, get the cross tattoo on the side of your finger. You can also combine other side finger tattoos to create a hidden message.

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Small Cross Tattoos

Get a small cross tattoo if you want to honor your faith in a subtle way. These tattoos are very personal and individual, and they reflect your belief in God. You can put a small tattoo anywhere on the body, but many people choose to place a cross tattoo on their arm or wrist so that they can see it all the time. You can also cover a small cross tattoo on your arm with a shirt.

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Simple Cross Tattoos

People often choose bold and elaborate designs for their cross tattoos. Some prefer a more minimal look. The symbolism of a simple cross tattoo can make it one of the most striking designs. In this design, there are no other elements besides faith. Simple tattoos look good on any body part. Regardless of what you choose, your tattoo should reflect your personality. Every tattoo is unique, just like their relationship with God.

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Cross Tattoos on Chest

Chest tattoos are meaningful because they are, literally, close to your heart. It is also one of the more painful places to get tattoos, so only the most important designs are worth it. For those reasons, many Christian men choose to get cross tattoos on their chests. The wide and flat chest area allows you to get a bigger tattoo.

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Cross Tattoo on Neck

Due to their criminal connection, neck tattoos were once considered to be rebellious. In recent years, their popularity has grown. Many athletes, musicians, and actors are getting tattoos on their necks. Neck tattoos are very visible and painful, makes them ideal for your most meaningful tattoos. The cross tattoo on your neck is a powerful way of showing the world how important your faith is.

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Traditional Style

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Cross Tattoo Designs on Arm

Tattooing the arm dates back to the original sailor tattoos. The arm is one of the least painful places to get inked, so it’s ideal for your first tattoo. In recent years, the back of the arm has gained popularity against the bicep. When it comes to a cross tattoo, the arm is an excellent placement if you are looking to express your faith to others. Due to its association with strength and power, Christians often choose to tattoo a cross on their right arm.

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Cross Tattoos on Forearm

The forearm is the most traditional and masculine place to get a tattoo. You won’t have to worry about it going out of style as you age. Furthermore, this placement allows you to showcase elaborate designs, but it also looks excellent with simpler designs. It is a popular tattoo placement because the tattoo can be visible all the time. As you can add various other symbols and designs to the cross, it can also start a sleeve tattoo.

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50 Cool Cross Tattoo Designs and Ideas