Wristband Tattoos

Wristband tattoos are a great way to adorn your body with ink. From a thin line of Celtic knotwork to more elaborate designs, these tattoos will always be popular.

A wristband of thorns.

What is a Wristband Tattoo?

A wristband tattoo is essentially an armband tattoo that is placed around the wrist instead of the upper arm. It is usually a repeated or constant pattern that is placed around the wrist in a bracelet like shape, and can be inked in a number of styles and colors. The strip is usually unbroken as it weaves its way around the wrist, but some superstitious tattoo artists will not complete a tattoo around the wrist and connect the ends. It is an old superstition that a connected wrist band is "bad luck" so artists may leave a small strip of skin un-inked between the two ends.

Wristband Styles

Celtic Styles

By far the most popular styles of wristband tattoos are Celtic styles, specifically Celtic knots and bands. The variants of Celtic styles can be seen in Irish tattoos or those from Scotland. A typical Celtic knot starts with intricately "woven" lines that form styles that can be angular and boxy or curvy and smooth. Some Celtic knot patterns have specific meanings, such as those relating to marriage, while others are simply variations that are created for their beauty. Additions to a Celtic band can include other Celtic symbols, such as Celtic crosses, shamrocks and thistles (for those from Scotland).

A band of Celtic knots.

Floral Styles

Another popular theme for wristband tattoos is flowers. Many women choose the wristband style of tat, because of the fact that it looks very much like a bracelet. It is also a more feminine look than some other arm tattoos, such as armband tattoos. For that reason, flowers are often found as part of a wristband. Whether it's a vine of one specific type of flower, a chain of roses or ivy intertwined with other blooms, floral themes are often seen. A more unusual floral style would be to get a single rose, one that has the stem curling around your wrist. Floral imagery means that these pretty tats are also more accepted than some other styles of tattooing - many non-enthusiasts actually find them to be attractive.

Unusual Wristbands

A tribal wristband design.

Of course, there are always versions of tattoos that go beyond the ordinary. Some people choose to express just how unique they are by their wrist ink. This can mean tattoos of barbed wire, musical staves, argyle patterns and train tracks - just to name a few. Others choose to have a more conventional tribal pattern, but then accent their wristband with other images that are unique - from skulls to dragons. Chains of kanji, or Japanese symbols, can be inked around a wrist as well. Some even choose to emulate a "real" bracelet, by having a band along with "charms" tattooed along their wrist. Each charm can symbolize an important event or period in your life! A perfect way to make sure that you're always wearing your jewelry.

A Caution About Wristbands

While wristband tattoos are popular and seen on more than a few men and women, it is important to note that these tattoos are often visible. Long sleeves may cover a wristband, but there is always the chance that your tattoo may peek out from under your clothing - and since the wrist is very close to being the hand, some employers may not allow wrist tats. For women who choose this type of tattoo, a smaller, thinner band may be a good idea - you can then cover this tat with a piece of jewelry. For men (and women too) another good idea is to get your wristband tat on the wrist where you wear your watch - a watch can be a good coverup. If you are currently employed, it's always a good idea to check with your boss or employee handbook before getting any new and potentially visible tattoos.

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