Top 61 Unique Compass Tattoo Designs: Discover Your Perfect Ink
Let your inner compass be your greatest guide to lead you towards thrilling adventures.
Joyce Joyson is a beauty and lifestyle writer with over a year of experience crafting short-form content for the beauty, fashion, and lifestyle niches. She has a triple majors bachelor’s degree in History, Political Science, and Geography from IIS University and a master’s degree in Mass Communication and Journalism from Kristu Jayanti College.
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Experience: 7 yearsAnjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy.
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Experience: 3 yearsManjari is a beauty and lifestyle writer with over three years of experience in writing across different niches, including beauty, health, wellness, and technology. She first discovered her passion for writing in school and has since honed her craft to perfection.
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If you live the life of a nomad with a desire to explore the world, then you may want to consider getting a compass tattoo to honor your wanderlust spirit. Compass tattoos look incredible and serve as a reminder to go miles and see the world around you. These tattoos have a timeless appeal and often involve the use of shading and grayscale tones to create realistic renditions. They also feature the use of clean lines, solid fits, dot work, or negative spaces to bring out the details of the mechanical parts of the compass. These tattoos are highly detailed and involve heavy use of black ink. Keep scrolling to find some creative compass tattoo designs for those who are always on the move. Read on!
In This Article
The Meaning Of Compass Tattoos
A compass makes for a fascinating, practical, and reliable tool that has been used for navigation for centuries by sailors and travelers. It’s also important to know a compass tattoo carries more meaning than just navigation. Here are some common meanings associated with these tattoos:
- Navigation
For centuries, merchants, sailors, explorers, and other travelers used the compass to navigate their way through unknown territories and find their way back home. Hence, a compass tattoo may symbolize navigation, discovery, knowledge, and adventure.
- Stability
A compass always points to the true north. Thus, these tattoos encourage the wearer to stay determined and focused no matter what challenges they encounter in life.
- Balance
A compass features four cardinal directions such as north, south, east, and west. Thus, it represents a need for balance and harmony in life.
- Guidance
A compass provides guidance, leading you towards the right direction. Hence, a compass tattoo may symbolize inner guidance or finding one’s calling in life.
- Protection
In maritime cultures, a compass is believed to ward off negative energy and bring good luck to its keepers. Also, traditionally compass tattoos are a symbol of protection in many cultures such as Japanese, Chinese, Scandinavian, and Native American tribes. They are believed to protect the wearer from harm and provide a sense of safety and security.
- Journey
A compass is something that one takes with them on a journey. So, these tattoos may signify self-discovery and growth.
Compass tattoos carry various symbolic meanings right from personal guidance to staying true to your values. They truly make for a meaningful piece of art. Once you have figured out what you want your tattoo to mean, it’s time for you to fix on its design. Scroll down to check some of the top trending designs for some inspiration.
Key Takeaways
- Compass tattoos have a classic appeal and make for a detailed and balanced inkwork.
- A compass tattoo can signify staying true to one’s moral or spiritual compass.
- A compass tattoo symbolizes guidance, direction, and finding one’s true purpose in life.
- These artworks are meaningful, inspiring, and highly versatile.
61 Iconic Compass Tattoo Designs
There are many tattooing styles and techniques that you can consider to make your design stand out from the rest. Scroll down to check out some interesting compass designs that have been turning the world upside down!
1. Compass Rose Tattoo
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This compass tattoo makes for a great memorial design to honor the passing of your loved one. The design features a compass with a red rose and a pink flower with foliage. The use of shadows, bold outlines, negative spaces, and vivid hues makes this a traditional tattoo. This upper arm tattoo represents love, romance, direction, and self-discovery.
2. Nautical Compass Tattoo
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If going on a journey brings you joy, then let this intricately shaded compass be your guide. This tattoo features nautical signs, geometric designs, dotwork, and abstract lines. This elongated tattoo perfectly fits the contours of the natural body. The shading gives the design a timeless appeal, while the additional elements make the composition look visually appealing.
3. Compass Tattoos For Men
This outline tattoo adds a modern spin on the classic compass design with subtle shading. The use of negative space and clean lines make the tattoo stand out more vividly. The solid black ink work adds a sense of boldness to the design.Though the design is simple, it certainly captivates the eye. This tattoo may symbolize the urge to travel and explore the world and one’s own expectations.
4. Feminine Compass Tattoo
This ornate compass tattoo looks beyond beautiful. The intricate design work along with the abstract elements and traditional patterns is heart-winning. The swirling feminine designs along the compass enhance the beauty of the design. The use of black ink, negative space, and tiny dotwork makes the composition look rich. This tattoo can symbolize safety and protection.
5. Compass Hand Tattoo
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Who said compass tattoo designs are cliche? This back-of-the-hand tattoo looks so badass! The compass attached to a sturdy chain and the dynamic shading makes the tattoo look powerful. Further, adding numbers, nautical signs, and strategic shading gives the design a realistic touch. This hand tattoo will surely draw the eye, no matter where you go!
6. Traditional Compass Tattoo
What’s better than a simple compass tattoo? An eight-star one! This tattoo features concentric circles that add a sense of depth and dimension to the design. Take a closer look and you will notice ships and waves alluding to a nautical theme. The swirling pattern and circular border decorated with tiny dots and lines add to the traditional feel of the design. This tattoo symbolizes navigating through the ups and downs of life.
7. Arrow Compass Tattoo
Take things up a notch with this interesting arrow pierced compass design! The use of fine lines adds a sense of refinement and sophistication to the design. Further, the negative spaces add to the weightlessness of the design. This tattoo can symbolize reaching a milestone in life.
8. Anchor And Compass Tattoo
Looking for something more than a simple compass tattoo? This classic anchor and compass design may just light your path! The design features an anchor with a compass at its center. The realistic-looking rope wrapping the anchor alludes to the maritime theme. The use of black-and-gray tones, fine lines, and intricate detailing adds contrast, depth, and dimension to the design. This tattoo symbolizes exploration and finding a sense of ground and stability in life. If you need more ideas you can explore some more anchor tattoo designs.
9. Compass Forearm Tattoo
Add a spooky feel to your compass tattoo with this black-and-gray compass tattoo design. It exudes a sense of mystery, darkness, and the fear of the unknown. Its eerie feel is heightened by the leafess tree and black clouds. The broken elements in the compass add a chilling, supernatural vibe to the design.
10. Minimalist Compass Tattoo
This simple yet impactful tattoo will just inspire you to get a clear sense of direction in your life! This tattoo features a compass with clearly visible cardinal points and intricate detailing. The fine line work, black bold ink, sharp lines, and negative spaces make this tattoo look elegant to the core. This design has an undeniable minimalistic vibe to it.
11. Geometric Compass Tattoo
This tattoo, located on the inner wrist, features a compass rose with cardinal directions and intricate detailing. It is surrounded by a square and a spiral geometric design. The stunning use of fine lines lends a clean and minimalistic allure to the design. Also, this tattoo looks well-balanced, adding a sense of security to its meaning.
12. Celtic Compass Tattoo
When it comes to compass tattoos, the possibilities are endless! The black-and-gray scale, bold black work, and negative spaces lend this tattoo an old-fashioned, artistic vibe. The ornate detailing adds a sense of beauty and complexity to the design. The shading, on the other hand, enhances the design’s visual appeal. This tattoo symbolizes strength, motivating the wearer to keep moving forward.
13. Moral Compass Tattoo
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This tattoo inspires the wearer to accept the good and the bad, whatever life throws at them, with grace. This design features a moral compass with both good and bad written over it, instead of the typical nautical sign. This composition also features a beautifully shaded rose with its leaves. This black-and-gray tattoo with incredible shading can also encourage the wearer to adhere to their morals, beliefs, and values as the true beauty of the soul lies in it.
14. American Traditional Compass Tattoo
Most nautical tattoos, like the compass, are commonly done in the classic American traditional tattooing style. This style uses bold black outlines with vibrant colors to make the design stand out. This tattoo features a compass at the center surrounded by red roses and green leaves. The use of light blue and peach tones on the compass adds a refreshing touch to the composition. This tattoo represents love, romance, and passion. It can also remind one that they always have someone to go back to.
15. Broken Compass Tattoo
A broken compass still looks incredibly beautiful. This tattoo inspires the wearer to find beauty in brokenness. It may also signify a state of confusion or lack of clarity in life. This tattoo features a compass with cracks on it extending on both sides. The upper arm makes for a suitable location for this elongated piece of art. The use of fine lines beautifully translates the brokenness depicted in the tattoo on the skin. It reminds the wearer to stay resilient despite the struggles they have been through.
16. Compass Star Tattoo
Love to travel across the globe? Celebrate your thirst for wanderlust with this star compass tattoo. The black-and-gray tones add intensity to the design and look dynamic to say the least. The negative space brings a nice contrast to the design while preventing it from getting overwhelming. This tattoo located on the back can symbolize exploration, adventure, and discovery.
17. Old School Compass Tattoo
The vibrant yet limited colors, bold lines, and subtle shading in this compass tattoo are indicative of the traditional style of tattooing. The varied concentric circles representing the intricacies of the compass depicted using red, black, yellow, and brown tones lend the tattoo an old-school charm. Further, the leaf detailing on the outer circle along with ornate designs makes the artwork look artistically beautiful.
18. Compass Shoulder Tattoo
If you are brave enough to bear the pain, a compass shoulder tattoo makes for a pretty bold statement. This tattoo features a large compass with cardinal directions surrounded by intricate designs and symbols. The line and shade work lends a three-dimensional effect to the design. Also, this compass tattoo has a tribal feel that can’t be missed.
19. Clock And Compass Tattoo
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This intricately detailed tattoo features a lot of elements, such as a broken clock with Roman numerals, a rope, a map, and a compass. This tattoo uses linework and shading that add to the complexity of the design. This nautical-themed tattoo inspires the wearer to navigate through life’s challenges with resilience. It can also represent a period of transformation in life.
20. Watercolor Compass Tattoo
Who doesn’t love a watercolor compass tattoo? The cool splashes of red, pink, blue, orange, and violet hues look every bit refreshing and soothing to the eyes. The use of fine lines and negative spacing makes the design stand out. This tiny tattoo located on the upper wrist makes for discreet ink. This design reminds the wearer to add a bit of color and spice in their life journey.
21. 3D Compass Tattoo
Compass tattoos have stood the test of time! If you are really into classic designs, then this 3D compass tattoo with a vintage touch is sure to impress. This tattoo features an ornate compass tattoo with a feather pierced on the end. The incredible shading and use of negative spaces lend this tattoo a three-dimensional touch. This tattoo may symbolize the freedom to follow one’s path.
22. Compass Elbow Tattoo
An elbow tattoo not only looks badass but also has a hardcore vibe. This intricately detailed and elaborate tattoo features a vintage embellished compass with other decorative elements. The use of lines, shading, and varied symbols adds to the complexity of the design. This arm tattoo is meticulously detailed and makes for a powerful piece of art.
23. Compass Chest Tattoo
Be the master of your destiny with this classic compass tattoo, featuring a crown. This easy-to-spot-or-conceal tattoo, located on the front shoulder, exudes regal charm, power, and sovereignty. The shading helps to beautifully bring out the delicately adorned crown and the concentric circles details. It gives the tattoo a retro feel and a timeless allure. This black-and-gray tattoo motivates the wearer to shape their destiny through their actions.
24. Family Compass Tattoo
Celebrate and solidify your relationship with your family by getting a compass tattoo on your back. This tattoo features a clean compass tattoo with minimal shading, cardinal signs, and the word ‘family’ inked below it. The back provides a large canvas for this tattoo. This tattoo represents the commitment towards family and signifies that it is the greatest guiding force in one’s life.
25. Sun Compass Tattoo
This beautifully detailed tattoo is an aesthetic add-on that can substitute your real jewelry. The design features the use of black ink with an opulent compass resting on the chest. The dotwork and tiny floral detailing at the center of the compass adds a feminine and dainty touch to the design. The compass looks like the sun shining in all its glory. The use of negative spaces lends a sense of breathability to the body art. This tattoo represents hope and the ability to see the right path to tread on in life.
26. Map And Compass Tattoo
If you dream of traveling the world then let this inkwork serve as a constant source of motivation for you! This black-and-gray tattoo features a retro-aesthetic compass with the world of the map beneath it. The design also features an armband tattoo below the map, giving the tattoo a cool-chic look. The clever use of line work stunningly translates the intricacies of the compass and the map details onto the skin. This tattoo may signify good luck and a love for travel and exploration.
27. Mountain Compass Tattoo
Embrace your inner wild child with this mountain compass tattoo. This black-and-gray tattoo features a compass with a dainty leaf design and the imagery of a mountain and serene waters below it. The use of shadows, highlights, and contrasts takes this tattoo to a whole new level. The dotwork and negative spacing on the circle depicting the cardinal signs looks stunning. This tattoo symbolizes stillness, obstacles, desires, and hope. It encourages the wearer to head towards the direction of their dreams and encounter challenges with strength.
28. Viking Compass Tattoo Design
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This tattoo inspired by Viking culture features a combination of elements. Though elaborate, the design somehow feels light on the skin. This tattoo features a compass-like Viking symbol at the top with half-concentric circles. squares, and other tiny symbols. This tattoo symbolizes power, strength, and devotion to the family.
29. Antique Compass Tattoo
While tattoo trends come and go, there are always a few designs that are here to stay! Like this antique tattoo located on the front shoulder. The level of detailing captured in the design is mind-boggling. The shading and shadow work give this tattoo a realistic rendition. Placed on the front shoulder, it makes it easier to show off your love for evergreen pieces of art. The very use of rustic brown tones and the intricate detailing of the compass gives a timeless quality to the design.
30. Realistic Compass Tattoo
This arm sleeve compass tattoo screams power! The bold, realistic-looking design extends from the front shoulder to the arm. The gray tones define intricate details such as cardinal points, needles, and concentric circles. The line work used to depict the outer circles of the compass adds a sense of lightness to the design. Also, the complex rose designs extending down the sleeve add a sense of beauty and make the design look complex. This tattoo symbolizes finding true love.
31. Feminine Compass With Flowers Tattoo
No matter the decade, fashion sense, or place, floral tattoos are always in vogue. This tattoo features a modern compass surrounded by colorful roses, flowers, and leaves. The blooming flowers add a sense of brightness and vibrancy to this compass design. This tattoo oozes femininity to the next level. It symbolizes finding a sense of purpose in the journey of life laden with both breathtaking beauty and challenges.
32. Compass Neck Tattoo
The right placement is the simplest way to make the tattoo stand out! This inkwork located on the front neck features a simple compass design with cardinal points and subtle shading. The simplicity of the tattoo is winsome, while the use of fine lines gives a clean aesthetic to the design. Further, the mere use of black color also makes the tattoo look less cluttered. This tattoo can symbolize the willingness to step out of one’s comfort zone.
33. Compass Cross Tattoo
The fine-line needlework in this tattoo makes it an instant eye-catcher. Imbued in simplicity, this compass tattoo has a neat and sophisticated feel. The clever use of negative spaces between the concentric circles adds an airy feel and makes the compass needle stand out. The use of solid black ink draws attention to the center. The tiny cross at the top of the design signifies sacrifice, suffering, and pain. This tattoo represents the hurdles and lows one goes through in a journey called life.
34. True North Compass Tattoo
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Listen to your inner compass and find out your true north! This compass tattoo inspires the wearer to connect with themself at a deeper level and find their place in the world. This tattoo located on the upper arm features an arrow depicting the ‘north’ with thin lines radiating at the center and making the artwork look like a compass. The dot detailing on the design further heightens the tattoo’s whimsy allure.
35. Compass Back Tattoo
The thin outlines in the tattoo stand in contrast to the bold compass, creating a powerful visual. Its location on the upper back perfectly suits the size of the tattoo. Further, the addition of 4 extremely thin lines rising in four different directions adds a unique touch to the design.
36. Compass Wrist Tattoo
This compass tattoo on the wrist shows one’s willingness to step into the unknown and embrace the winds of change. This tattoo encourages you to show up for yourself and move in the direction of growth. This easy-to-hide tattoo features a tiny old-style compass with subtle shading, fine lines, and the use of lots of negative spaces. The tiny white ink work on the outermost circle of the compass adds a classic touch to the design.
37. Christian Compass Tattoo
This angel-winged compass tattoo is delicate, detailed, and whimsical. Angels are known as messengers of God who provide help in times of need. This unconventional compass tattoo has our hearts! The very use of fine lines adds an ethereal touch to the design. Further, the soft shading helps to add a sense of depth and a nice contrast to the design. This tattoo symbolizes spiritual guidance, divine protection, and yearning for God’s direction for your life.
38. Compass Tattoo With Coordinates
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Nothing can make you feel more like yourself than your home! Get the coordinates of your hometown, along with a compass, inked on your arm to feel like you are carrying a piece of home with you wherever you go. This tattoo exudes a sense of warmth, comfort, and belonging. The design features thin line work and stunning shading that make it more meaningful.
39. Nature Compass Tattoo
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Display your connection with Mother Earth with this stunning tattoo! This black-and-gray tattoo features the mountains, complete with birds, the sun, and some trees, leading into a well-shaded half compass with cardinal points. This artistically created tattoo involves the use of black ink, lines, shading, and dotwork. It symbolizes finding a sense of balance in life and encourages the wearer to make important decisions in life guided by both inner strength and external guidance.
40. Heart Compass Tattoo
Move through life with an open heart and find joy in the journey! This intricately detailed compass tattoo with an anatomical heart at the center is a sight to behold! The use of solid black ink and negative spacing makes the design look visually interesting and vivid. The bold outlines and shading with red and black tones on the anatomical heart add a punch to the otherwise simple design.
41. Compass Thigh Tattoo
Looking for a minimalistic tattoo that’s dainty? Rejoice! This simple compass rose tattoo features cardinal directions and involves the extensive use of clean, bold lines. The design is Inked on the front thigh, a very nonchalant location that can be easily covered or flaunted as desired. The simple compass may symbolize the wearer’s need to find the right direction in their life, be it for work, love, a place to call home, or enjoyment.
42. Compass Finger Tattoo
Wondering how tiny a compass tattoo can be? Take a look at this awe-inspiring tiny tattoo on the finger. This graceful fine-line compass tattoo features a teeny-weeny compass with its cardinal points. The lines at the center make the itsy-bitsy tattoo look even more alluring. The design, though simple, makes for a bold statement; one’s love for exploration and travel should not be hidden!
43. Wispy Compass Tattoo
Compass tattoos can look especially delicate in the fine-line style of tattooing. Consider this tattoo, located on the neck, featuring a compass rose, concentric circles, and swirling lines. It features subtle shading that adds a sense of depth to the design. The sprawling elements add a romantic, feminine touch to the design, and its very location on the neck gives it a sensual feel.
44. Dainty Compass Tattoo
Clearly, the best spot to get this tiny tattoo is the wrist. It adds to the delicate and whimsical feel of the design. This tattoo features a compass with tiny flowers surrounding it. The mere use of fine lines lends an airy feel to the design. The florals add a charming spin to the tattoo.
45. Neo-Traditional Compass Tattoo
This vibrant and vivid Neo-traditional tattoo features bold outlines and bright colors. The design features a compass with florals, anchors, and ropes. The intricate shading makes the design stand out while adding a sense of depth and dimension. This upper arm artwork represents a maritime connection, stability, beauty, and navigation.
46. Lion Compass Tattoo
If large-scale designs appeal to you, then consider getting this stunning lion compass tattoo. This black-and-gray tattoo features a majestic lion with a compass and a rose at the bottom. The in-depth shading mimics the facial features of the lion and its fur, giving it a realistic look. The tiny dotwork on the face and body of the lion adds a soft appeal to the tattoo. This tattoo signifies fierceness and honors one’s personal growth in life.
47. Travel Compass Tattoo
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Want to explore every corner of the world? This travel compass tattoo can motivate you to actually do it. This tattoo features a compass, clock, a world map with an airplane, and scenic mountains. Though this design has lots of elements, the subtle shading and use of negative space somehow make it feel less cluttered and aesthetic. This tattoo represents a desire to conquer new heights and surmount challenges. It also signifies a thirst to explore the world and what lies within one.
48. Half-Compass Tattoo
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If you want to get an elaborate piece of artwork that feels light on the skin, then this fine-line tattoo with minimal shading will pique your interest. It features a half-compass on one side and a reindeer on the other. The design also features concentric circles and arrows. The thin lines make the tattoo look extremely delicate while the shading lends a sense of power to the design. This tattoo symbolizes cleverness, adaptability, endurance, and the ability to navigate through difficult times.
49. Ocean Compass Tattoo
If you have always thought of just packing up and spontaneously traveling, this design is for you! This peek-a-boo tattoo features a compass with cardinal directions and oceanic waves within it. Extensive shading helps to beautifully depict the waves and adds a sense of movement to the design. This tattoo represents restfulness, transformation, and continuity.
50. Sunflower Compass Tattoo
Looking for artistic ways to design a classic compass tattoo? Take things up a notch with this stunning sunflower compass design. The bright colors, intricate detailing, gradient shade work, and simple line work make this tattoo a work of art worthy of being placed in the Louvre! The sunflower may represent the beauty in life and its ephemeral moments, while the compass signifies the desire to travel, explore, and make memories.
51. Abstract Compass Tattoo
This tattoo brings a nice twist to the classic compass design with a splash of color. This abstract piece of inkwork is the perfect way to inject a dose of fun and energy into the design and your life. The tiny dots of varied colors and sizes add a sense of visual intrigue to the design. The artwork also looks modern and incredibly cool.
52. Pocket Compass Tattoo
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The pocket compass tattoo looks cool also on a larger scale! Proving just our point is this compass tattoo hooked with a rope. This design features subtle shading and the clever use of negative spaces. The black bold outlining adds a sense of definition to the design. This tattoo signifies direction, stability, and assurance in a world filled with uncertainties.
53. Irish Compass Tattoo
The use of green, soft orange and negative space is reflective of the Irish flag colors. Not to mention the inclusion of a four-leaf clover, symbolizing love, faith, hope, and love. The ornate details on the sides of the compass add to the beauty of the design. It symbolizes treading on the path of life guided by heritage, traditions, and cultural pride.
54. Male Compass Tattoo
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This compass tattoo has a cool-chic vibe to it owing to the watercolor effect. The use of fine lines, a splash of ink, and Roman numerals takes this design to a whole new level. It looks pleasing to the eyes! The tattoo features the cardinal north at the top with tiny dots surrounding the outermost circle of the compass. All in all, this tattoo design feels fresh and stands out from the rest.
55. Four-Leaf Clover Compass Tattoo
Give a miss to the traditional compass tattoo and sport this new design instead. This tattoo features a four-leaf clover with a compass rose and cardinal directions. The tiny fine line detail used to depict the veins of the leaves adds a delicate touch to the design. Further, the use of black solid ink on compass needles along with skin peeping in looks nothing short of a spectacle. This tattoo symbolizes good fortune, prosperity, and good luck.
56. Compass Ankle Tattoo
If you are brave enough or just have a higher pain tolerance, then try getting the compass tattoo on your ankle. The very offbeat placement gives this tattoo an unmissable edgy feel. This tattoo features a simple compass done in bold black outlines. The use of negative space gives the design a light-hearted touch. This tattoo may symbolize the wearer’s desire to find guidance and groundedness in their life.
57. Symbol Compass Tattoo
Let’s be honest! The back shoulder is such a sensual spot for a tattoo. Just look at this lustful design! The line detailing on the concentric circles of the compass along with the use of solid blank ink at the center renders a sense of depth to the design. The design complements the body, while the negative space gives it enough room to breathe.
58. Shaded Compass Map Tattoo
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Tattoos that inspire you to live your life to the fullest are the best ones. This elaborate tattoo with precise shading makes for an inspirational, personal, and meaningful design. This grayscale tattoo features a world map complete with longitudinal and latitudinal lines. Also, it features a compass on the lower side and another one on the continent. The airplane may symbolize the wearer’s desire to travel. This artwork symbolizes cultural identity, exploration, and power.
59. Squiggly Line Compass Tattoo
This tattoo features a compass adorned with squiggly lines that add to its aesthetic appeal. The squiggly lines add a sense of movement, delicacy, grace, and femininity to the design. It’s a tattoo that can charm anyone’s heart. The compass etched at the foot may symbolize the wearer’s desire to travel, while the squiggly lines hint at an artsy personality.
60. Couple compass tattoo
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Cement your love by getting couple compass tattoos. This artwork features two tattoos, one is a simple compass with the words ‘Guide me’ written under it in italics. And the other tattoo on another features a black, solid ink-filled anchor with a bow detailing, and the words ‘Hold me’ inked below it. These tattoos symbolize physical, mental, emotional, and relational stability. It also depicts how a partner can bring a sense of balance and provide guidance in life.
61. Whale Compass Tattoo
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If you are obsessed with whales, then this compass tattoo may just be for you! This black-and-gray tattoo features a planet, a setting sun, trees, birds, a part of the world map, and a compass. The varied types of shading in the composition bring out the essence of the elements on the skin. This tattoo symbolizes growth, exploration, and varied transitions in life. It also depicts a deep connection to the natural world and staying grounded and maintaining a sense of balance even in turbulent times.
Compass tattoos can be done in different styles as they can easily match the varying aesthetics of different tattoo styles, including minimalist, watercolor, and traditional styles. They particularly shine in American Traditional or Old-School styles, where the compass motif appears frequently. However, beyond these classic styles, compass tattoos can be customized to reflect your aesthetic preferences and personality. You can further personalize your tattoo with design elements such as dates or names, and color choices, and experiment with different placements.
With so many designs to choose from, you must be wondering about the best place for each design and, more importantly, what would be the ideal place for your own tattoo. Scroll down to learn some important factors to consider regarding body placement.
What Body Part To Get A Compass Tattoo?
There are quite a few points to consider when picking the right placement for a tattoo.
- Tattoos that are small in size look great on areas such as fingers, wrists, and ankles as these areas are delicate and perfect to fit tiny tattoos. These tattoos are also great spots if you want your ink to be discreet.
- Large-scale compass tattoos should have a prominent location with a large area. Hence, the upper arm, back, and chest make for an excellent spot to put your elaborate artwork on display.
- Also, the other important thing that one should keep in mind is that the tattoo should naturally flow with the contours of the body part or to put it simply, the artwork should complement them.
- Another factor is your pain tolerance. Certain body parts hurt more than others because they have nerve endings, are close to the bone, or are sensitive. You can ask your tattoo artist to take you through the tattoo pain chart to learn more about this.
- You may also want to consider if you may want a design that is concealable. Certain body parts like the shoulder, back, forearm, and thigh can be covered. Other parts like the neck, face, and fingers may not be hidden so easily.
Compass tattoos are rooted in history and make for some of the most popular ink works! These tattoos signify direction, guidance, and journey of life. Hence, these artworks make for a meaningful addition to the canvas of your skin and can leave you with a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment in life. They can serve as a visual reminder to tread new paths, explore the unknown, and keep the adventurous spirit alive in yourself. This tattoo can also encourage the wearer to move with a clear sense of direction and purpose in life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a compass tattoo be combined with other symbols?
Yes, a compass tattoo can be combined with other symbols such as an anchor, rose, map, birds, moon, sun, mountain, or ship to add another layer of meaning to it.
How do I find a reputable tattoo artist for a compass tattoo?
Get recommendations from friends and family members who have tattoos. You can also check online reviews and ratings of studios near you. Make sure to go through the studio and artist’s portfolios and their safety and hygiene standards. Check if their specialty is in the type of tattooing style you want. Sit through a consultation to see how customer friendly they are.
How much does a compass tattoo typically cost?
The cost of getting a compass tattoo can vary depending on the size and complexity of the tattoo, the expertise level of the artist, the style of the tattoo (basic or colored), and the location of the tattoo parlor. Anecdotal evidence suggests that a small compass tattoo can cost around somewhere between $50-$200. While a detailed, large-scale tattoo can range between $500 to $1000.
Can a compass tattoo be personalized?
Yes, a compass tattoo can be customized with dates, flowers, animals, quotes, names, religious symbols, or varied tattoo styles to make the inkwork look uniquely yours.
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