[A] genuine tattoo.... tells a story. I like stories and tattoos, no matter how well done, and if they don't tell a story that involves you emotionally, then they're just there for decoration, then they're not a valid tattoo. There has to be some emotional appeal or they're not, to my way of thinking, a real tattoo. It tells people what you are and what you believe in, so there's no mistakes.
Leo, tattooist, 1993, quoted in Margo DeMello, Bodies of Inscription, 2000
As the name states, sleeve tattoos are the tattoos which are inked on your arms or legs covering the major portion of your skin. They give an illusion as if the person is wearing sleeves, hence, the name -- sleeve tattoos. Most people today go for these designs because of two main reasons. One, these designs are usually huge and give the person an option to use their skin like a canvas. Two, these designs are very much visible to not only us, but also others, giving us a chance to display our tattoo boldly, without any fear.
In reference to the quote mentioned in the beginning of the article, I must remind you that your tattoo is a reflection of who you are. So choose a design after giving it a good thought. The following sections will show you some options that will to relate to different people in different ways.
Tribal Designs
This is one of the most popular designs for men, but some of the women too go in for tribal tattoos which are a little small and feminine. Tribal tattoos are usually black or navy blue in color with some bold and fierce designs, making them one of the most powerful means to show your strong beliefs and your connection with the tribes. Each and every tribal tattoo has a meaning behind it. You can go for tribal animal tattoos, sun tattoos, cross tattoos, depending upon your preference and belief. The fact that you have chosen to ink a tribal pattern in your body would signify that you believe in the connection of your existence to that of the ancient tribes, who believed that nature has all the power that is needed to survive and flourish.
Japanese Designs
The west has always been attracted towards the eastern culture. Having said that, most of the people are opting for inking Japanese designs, which make a great tattoo sleeve design for men and women. You can choose one or more different Japanese designs and incorporate them together to create a unique design of your own that reflects your beliefs and personality. Each and every Japanese tattoo design has a meaning, for example, designs like the Koi fish symbolizing 'never say die' attitude, samurai tattoos symbolize courage and bravery, cherry blossom tree symbolizes life itself, Japanese dragon, Kanji, etc., all of these come with a meaning and also look great. As mentioned earlier, a full sleeve tattoo will give more space to the tattoo artist to use more detailing and colors to give it a classy look.
Celtic Designs
Celtic sleeve tattoos look great due to their bold and strong appearance, no one can miss this tattoo once you have had it inked on your sleeve. The most amazing thing about Celtic tattoos is that they have this amazing art work in the form of the classy Celtic knots that creates a uniqueness in itself. The Celtic knots are made in a way wherein it is impossible for a person to make out its beginning and end. This symbolizes the timelessness of the human spirit, which means that the spirit has a journey which is never ending.
Mexican Designs
Mexican designs are another popular choice for sleeve tattoos as there are many symbols and designs that depict a strong cultural belief and meaning. You have a variety of tattoo art to choose from. There are Aztec tattoos which are the religious tattoos of the Aztec tribe, people who love and honor the Mexican culture also opt for inking the Mexican flag. Mexican mafia tattoos are also very popular among Mexico admirers, there are also the Mexican skull tattoos that are famous among the youth when it comes to getting a sleeve tattoo.
Sleeve Tattoo Designs for Girls
When it comes to sleeve designs for girls, the design should be such that enhances the femininity, sensuality, strength, and believe that drives a woman. Gone are the days when women went for the traditional feminine tattoos like flowers, stars, angels, etc. Today, the women are more experimental and adventurous than men when it comes to getting a tattoo inked. Don't you see some really unconventional and "non-feminine" designs above?
Because you are getting your sleeve done, there is a lot of room to expand. Therefore, you can incorporate various elements that define you, and get a unique design done. So, these were some of the most popular tattoo sleeve designs that are appreciated by people all over the world. So, which design did you choose?
Travelling is my life
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