Cross tattoos are one of the most popular tattoo designs for guys. Easily inked by a skilled artist, cool cross tattoos for men are timeless, bold and meaningful. Not only does a Christian cross tattoo have religious and cultural significance, but the best artwork looks awesome on any body part. From a cross tattoo on the chest, arm, shoulder, back, sleeve, hand, or neck, guys can get a beautiful religious tattoo anywhere. In fact, you can even get a tiny cross tattoo inked on your finger or wrist.
But with so many different cross tattoo ideas, such as the crucifix, Celtic cross, Maltese, tribal, cross with wings, and the variety of color schemes (black vs colorful) you can ask for, it’s vital that you find the right, unique look for you before visiting an artist. Check out our gallery of the top 101 best cross tattoos for designs and inspiration.
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Types of Cross Tattoos
Some Christian cross tattoos have religious connotations, but many have secular followings and meanings. While lots of Catholic men focus on the biblical “Jesus on the Cross” tattoo as a symbol of sacrifice, it is important to be creative and unleash your imagination with an elaborate, illustrative idea.
Whether it’s your first tattoo or not, surveying pictures of different cross drawings is key to finding what best conveys and expresses yourself. Don’t be afraid to mix and match for a badass half or full sleeve!
Christian Cross Tattoos
The Christian cross is connected with religiosity and belief, but is appreciated for its striking aesthetics. It symbolizes Jesus Christ, God, Christianity, faith, strength and triumph, and can be decorated with roses, a rosary, Bible quotes, wings, or the image of Jesus Christ.
Common in black and grey, a cross tattoo can also be colorful and vivid when combined with a rose or angel wings.
Celtic Cross Tattoos
The Celtic cross is the most intricate of the cross designs. Also known as the Irish cross, it is a symbol of Celtic faith, and represents unity, hope, and balance. Some interpretations have the cross composed out of loops and knots as they represent the connection between the physical, spiritual and the circle of life.
Celtic cross tattoos are generally very symbolic and used for the remembrance of lost loved ones. They look nice in black, gold, green, and red.
Maltese Cross Tattoos
The Maltese cross may look familiar to you. Signifying courage and sacrifice, the arms of the cross are symmetrical and sword-like. This cross tattoo is often sported by military members, soldiers, fireman, police officers, and other public servants.
Tribal Cross Tattoos
Tribal cross tattoos offer a cool way to customize your artwork. By combining a cross and tribal design, guys can create a sprawling image that will fit nicely on the back or chest.
Where To Get Cross Tattoos
The cross tattoo can be carried on most parts of the body and depends on what style and size you’re gunning for. The middle of the upper back, chest, upper arms, and lower leg are typical spots for guys as they provide larger canvases for an artist. The crucifix, Celtic cross or cross with angel wings looks especially awesome on your back or chest if you’re muscular.
For the hand, wrist, or finger, we’d recommend a small, simple cross tattoo.
Furthermore, the forearm or arm makes a great canvas for decorated cross tattoo sleeves that sprawl up the bicep and shoulder. You can pair a crucifix with angels, warriors, a rosary, and maybe a tribute to family.
Ultimately, the cross is one of the best tattoos for men. It can be loud or subtle, saturated or bold, on the chest or back, and can accommodate the coolest design ideas. It’s what you want it to be.
Cool Cross Tattoo Ideas
No matter what your reason for getting inked, here are best cross tattoos to get in 2019.
