Small Celtic Cross Tattoos

The Meaning Behind the Celtic Cross

One of the reasons that small Celtic cross tattoos are so popular is because their history and symbolism are varied. Some claim the insignia is rooted in Catholicism, while others take it as a representation of their Irish heritage. And then in a combination, Irish Catholics will explain to you that the circle surrounding the upper part of the cross is a symbol of eternity and the endlessness of God’s love and forgiveness.

Step away from religion, and you are likely to hear people with small celtic cross tattoos explain to you how the ink represents the original phallic symbols carved into stones by Druids. Pagans tend to credit it to an illustrative symbol of the Sun that these same Druids worshipped, and with all of the recently increased interest in all things New Age, more and more people are focusing their tattoo art upon these ancient theories of art and nature worship.

Celebrities with Small Celtic Cross Tattoos

Some may be small, while others take up every inch of arm space – however you gauge it, celebrities love the look of a celtic cross, and people like Justin Timberlake and Robbie Williams are sporting the design. Since the tattoo demands such intricate craftsmanship from the artist, it is also known throughout Tinseltown as a distinct elaboration beyond the typical tattoo.

Others are getting the cross as a reminder of their newfound sobriety, reform, or spiritual grounding after living life too hard or too fast.

As previously mentioned, both the rich and famous and those more common enjoy this particular design as a way to stay true to their ancestral roots. You will find the Irish, Scottish, and Welsh wearing it proudly, and these cultures vehemently claim the celtic cross was originally the idea of their forefathers.

Getting Your Own

If you choose to get a Celtic cross tattoo, then be sure to do your research. Any tattoo you choose to get will be with you for life, so be absolute certain it is the one you want. Surf the net for photos of celtic tattoos (the images are endless), and print out a few ideas of what you want. If you want a different color, attempt to photoshop or find a pen ink in the exact color you want so that your artist isn’t playing a guessing game with your skin as their experimental canvas.

You can also get ideas at the tattoo parlor. Bring a friend with you and peruse the walls of your chosen shop, and don’t feel pressure to get inked that day. Tattoo artists do not have any right to force people into purchasing a design from them, and if you feel the shop owner to be exceptionally pushy, take your business elsewhere. You don’t want a rush job or a cross you are only fairly confident in receiving.

Lastly, you can ask a local artist or talented person from your own life to sketch a celtic cross for you. The thrill of this comes from its uniqueness, as you can guarantee no one else will have one exactly like it. Tattoo artists can replicate any photo, sketch, or picture you find, and your new favorite artist will be honored and pleased you chose to display his work for life.

A small Celtic cross tattoo is a popular choice due to its subtlety. If small enough, it can be covered up for work or formal events, but is fancy and noticeable enough to be flaunted when the time is right. Having a symbol related to religion and history can also add a touch of class to your overall look if you choose to get it in a modest location such as your hip or inner ankle.

Celtic crosses continue to rank highly on the selection scale of those getting tattoos, and the trend shows no sign of stopping. If you love the look or the meaning behind it, consider getting one for yourself.