Having your body part inked is quite in trend these days, especially among the youth generation. The youth or the people of every age are getting fascinated with different tattoo designs which help them in representing their thoughts and views to the viewers. Among the various tattoo designs, cross tattoo ideas are widely adopted by Christians. However, other people also get this holy symbol inked to show their religious side, or to show their acceptance to the symbolization it provides the user with. The cross generally is related to Jesus, which is used to spread the divine message he gave out to the human beings at the time of crucifying.
Introduction, history and religious significance of the Cross: The Christian Cross is the most recognised symbol on the face of the earth. The symbol has its roots established in the Christian religion. The use of the Christian cross as a form of a tattoo can be traced back in history as far as the inception of Christianity itself. The cross is used as a tattoo to represent sacrifice, the crucifixion of Christ, and his resurrection. The symbol went as far as the Christian religion reached. It blended with the local tradition, previous belief and culture to form unique artwork. From 3d cross tattoos to simple cross tattoos, cross tattoos meaning changes with the context. The cross tattoo designs remain one of the most widely adopted tattoo design until today.
Best and Stylish Cross Tattoos for Men and Women:
Are you also thinking to get a cross inked on your body part! Here are some adorable designs that would help you in getting the perfect tattoo cross according to your passion.
1. Cross with Folded Hands Tattoo:
The most modest tattoo among the cross tattoos is the tattoo with folded hands with it. The cross in this tattoo is the Sleeba Cross, which signifies the importance of St. Thomas in the Christian religion. The folded hands and the rosary means the prayer of a saint to almighty Jesus. This is perhaps the pictorial representation of St. Thomas praying to Jesus Christ, and remembering his hardships while being crucified. This also shows the prayer to Jesus to remain with you forever.
- Best Suitable For: The imagery used in the tattoo signifies the crucifixion, and ones nature of thanking God for his ultimate sacrifice. Any man who has gratitude in his heart for what God has given him can get this tattoo done.
- Preferable Ink: Pure black.
- Where: Cross tattoo on arm.
- Size: Medium size.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown complexion.
2. 3D Cross Tattoo Design:
Cross tattoo designs, when given a 3D touch, provide a realistic effect to the wearer. The cross in this tattoo is made in the form of a sword tied with strings, which is centred through the skin. The end of the cross shows blood flowing from the skin. The tattoo shows that even after suffering from various problems, one should not lose faith in God and his blessings.
- Best Suitable For: The flesh piercing cross made out of the nails used to crucify Jesus Christ. Men of any age can have this amazing 3d cross tattoo done that reignites the sacrifice that was made for humanity.
- Preferable Ink: Black, silver, and red.
- Where: On the wrist.
- Size: Medium size.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin complexion.
3. Cross with Wings Tattoo Design:
Tattoos of crosses when given wings give a heavenly look. The wings of the cross relate it to some famous person to whom the tattoo is dedicated, and who is similar to an angle to your life like parents, guardians, friends, etc. Along with this, the tattoo also shows the presence of Jesus himself in the form of an angle in your life.
- Best Suitable For: The cross solidifies your belief in the religion, and the wing represents the loss of a loved one and is now in heaven amidst God. Men who have suffered similar loss can have this tattoo.
- Preferable Ink: Black, and silver.
- Where: On the Back.
- Size: Medium or large.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin complexion.
4. Alphabetical Cross Tattoo Design:
This kind of tattoo gives a unique touch to your selection. The cross in this tattoo is made using words of a famous quote, which shows the trust in Jesus. To make it more likely, red blood stains are added that signifies crucifixion of Jesus. The design can also be made with the quote that synchronises with your life to make it more significant.
- Best Suitable For: The words can say anything that you want and hence could represent your personal experience, and also display your religious belief. Men and women can have this tattoo.
- Preferable Ink: Black, and red.
- Where: This is an excellent design for a cross tattoo on arm.
- Size: Medium or large.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin complexion.
5. Simple Cross Tattoo Design:
Looking for small and simple cross tattoos! Here is a straightforward design of the cross made in dark ink. The design of the cross can be made on the ankle, wrist, forehand, etc. You can also change the colour of the link to your favourite one. The simple cross designs are best to show your religious side, with a funky touch to your personality. They are also carried behind the ears or near the eyes for a different presume.
- Best Suitable For: The minimalist way to etch across onto your body. There is no fancy designs, nor any message given out. This is the most simple cross tattoos for women out there.
- Preferable Ink: Pure Black.
- Where: This is an excellent design for a cross tattoo on arm.
- Size: Small.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin complexion.
6. Jesus with Cross Tattoo:
Cross tattoos for men is given a new definition with forearm half sleeve tattoo designs. Jesus accompanies the cross in a walking position. The curvy evening background adds a finishing touch to the awesome tattoo. The tattoo also represents the journey of Jesus fighting against evil in the blissful look.
- Best Suitable For: This 3d cross tattoo is quite elaborate, complex and intricate, hence this piece of art. should always be on display. This is one of the best cross tattoos for guys.
- Preferable Ink: Pure Black.
- Where: This is an excellent design for a cross tattoo on arm.
- Size: Large size.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin complexion.
7. Three Cross Tattoo Design:
To make the cross tattoo on hand more striking, two more crosses are added to the tattoo. The starting of the tattoo is given a dark ink which lightens up at the end. The center break portion is linked with the biblical verse of Psalm 23:4 which states that though I walk through the valley of death, I shall fear none as thou art with me. This is also known as Calvary, around where Jesus was crucified.
- Best Suitable For: This is one of the simple cross tattoo designs for men and women, who believe in Jesus and that no one can harm them as they are under the sanctuary of Jesus.
- Preferable Ink: Pure Black.
- Where: This is an excellent design for a cross tattoo on arm.
- Size: Medium.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin.
8. Signature Cross Tattoo Design:
Small cross tattoos are given a new looking when composed with your signature. Yes, it provides a personal and religious touch to your tattoo. The centralised signature is given two parallel lines to give it a cross appearance. The signature cross tattoo can also be made by adding heartbeat lines to the signature if it is small in length. The design is also made with the name or the signature of your beloved in it.
- Best Suitable For: With the word faith rooting the cross, solidifying your belief in the Lord Jesus and his sacrifice for humanity. This is a simple cross tattoo for women of all age.
- Preferable Ink: Pure Black.
- Where: This is an excellent design for a cross tattoo on arm.
- Size: Small size.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin complexion.
9. Celtic Cross Tattoo Design:
Also known as the trinity cross tattoo, the Celtic cross tattoo is made with both light and dark ink for a perfect design. The trinity Celtic bond is formed in dark ink; while the side crosses designs are decoratively made with light ink. The Celtic cross is priory the symbol of the sun that indicates the earth, water and heavenly bodies in it.
- Best Suitable For: The Celtic cross, along with the Triquetra sign signifies one’s belief in the doctrine of Trinity and the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. This is an excellent example of men’s cross tattoo designs.
- Preferable Ink: Pure Black.
- Where: This is an attractive design for a cross tattoo on arm.
- Size: Small.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin.
10. Tribal Cross Tattoo Design:
Cross designs in the tattoo are made more peculiar with tribal designs surrounding it. The dark ink cross in the tattoo is also formed with a curvy look with tribal curves around it. The tattoo is best worn on the legs, hands, neckline, etc. The tattoo indicates felicity, purity, earthly, passion, strength, and much more.
- Best Suitable For: This tattoo right here is an excellent example of cross tattoo ideas for men, wherein the cross has been mixed with the tribal art form. In combination with these, you can come up with some great designs.
- Preferable Ink: Pure Black.
- Where: On the Calf.
- Size: Medium to large size.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin complexion.
11. Faith Family Cross Tattoo Design:
Cool cross tattoos which show your love and faith towards your family, along with Jesus, are very beautifully crafted with a circular center. The ends of the cross are given trio leaf design with italic and bold letters in it. The tattoo is widely the prime choice of the soldiers, or for the people who leave apart from families for an extended period. It gives them the strength to face the odd situations.
- Best Suitable For: An elaborate cross tattoo designs for guys that have a lot going for the sleeve cross, the Triquetra, and the word faith running across the cross. The word Family also runs vertically in the cross.
- Preferable Ink: Pure Black.
- Where: On the back, or arms.
- Size: Medium to large.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin complexion.
12. Skull with Cross Tattoo Design:
Want to have a wicked look along with your religious side! Here is a skull with a cross tattoo. The cross carries a skull on the top with a thorn crown, which indicated the end of evil. The tattoo is best taken on the back to give it proper space to show up. The tattoo is inked by the men who love to play with danger or wrestlers.
- Best Suitable For: The anti-religious representation of the Christian Cross, where life is set to end with death, and there is no afterlife. This is one of those cross tattoo designs that men of strength and resilience can don.
- Preferable Ink: Pure Black.
- Where: On the back,
- Size: Medium to large.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin complexion.
13. Lizard Cross Tattoo Design:
Tribal cross tattoos can be given a new looking when combined with lizard tattoo designs. The tattoo is made with dark ink and light shading along with two lizards curved with each other. This is a popular design of tribal tattoos for a cross, which is mostly worn by the women.
- Best Suitable For: A combination of the tribal cross tattoo and the lizard tattoo design is one example of good cross tattoos one can achieve if they let their imagination run wild. Honestly, this is a great cross tattoo designs for guys.
- Preferable Ink: Pure Black.
- Where: On the arm.
- Size: Medium.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin complexion.
14. Anchor Cross Tattoo Design:
Anchor pictures of cross tattoos give an excellent amalgamation of stability and faith. The design shows an anchor which is chained with a cross, with lovely shades in darkish black. The anchor has also been engraved with the initial of the name to make it personal.
- Best Suitable For: The cross tied down to an anchor signifies one belief being held in Christianity. This is a great 3d cross tattoo, and both men and women can etch this on their body.
- Preferable Ink: Pure Black.
- Where: On the arm, or the midriff.
- Size: Medium.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin complexion.
15. Braided Cross Tattoo Design:
The forearm designs for men’s cross tattoos are designed in black. The cross is filled with steel mesh design inside while a dark circle attaches all the sides. The end of the cross is given three tiny flowers to make it one of the best cross tattoos for guys.
- Best Suitable For: The cross strengthened with thick steel mesh defines the strength in the lord and the three small cross underneath brings forth the doctrine of the Trinity. Men who would like to have a manly tattoo on display can choose this.
- Preferable Ink: Pure Black.
- Where: On the forearm.
- Size: Medium.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin.
16. Infinity Cross Tattoo Design:
Cross tattoos for women need to be given a feminine touch, which happens when it is given a curvy infinity design. The tattoo is made on the wrist with slant moulding ends. The small tattoo can also be carried on the neckline, back, leg, etc.
- Best Suitable For: This is one of the most simple cross tattoos for women. It has been designed to form a simple outline of a cross with a loop of the infinity symbol.
- Preferable Ink: Pure Black.
- Where: On the wrist or behind the ear.
- Size: Small.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin.
17. Thorn Cross Tattoo Design:
Thorns and cross have been an essential part of the Christian community. When both are combined to make a tattoo cross design, it shows your dedication towards Christianity and also recollects you with the pain Jesus had suffered while he was crucified.
- Best Suitable For: The thorned cross, is the sight at which any Christian would try to fathom the pain Jesus endured during his crucifixion. This men’s cross tattoo designs can also be a recollection of the pain one might have gone through in life.
- Preferable Ink: Black.
- Where: On the chest.
- Size: Small.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin.
18. Heart Cross Tattoo Design:
A mixture of heart and cross tattoos for women gives a meek touch to your personality. The dark ink tattoo is made with a cross, which is made through a heart. It can be carried on the wrist, arm, neck, and backline to give a perfect visible appearance.
- Best Suitable For: The heart that forms into a cross, is one of those small cross tattoo designs that could be etched onto any part of the body, and it goes with any dress and occasion. A woman can have this tattoo.
- Preferable Ink: Black.
- Where: On the chest, neck, wrist, hip.
- Size: Small.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin.
19. Henna Cross Tattoo Design:
Henna designs have been the best to give out creative and small cross tattoos. A similar design is made with dark black ink and curvy wines forming cute patterns. The design looks stunning on the forearms, on fingertips, legs or neckline too.
- Best Suitable For: This is one of the simple cross tattoo designs which one can have. It’s cute and small. This is one of those simple cross tattoos for women. This design would go with most women and their characteristics.
- Preferable Ink: Black.
- Where: On the forearm, finger, ankle, or hipline.
- Size: Small size.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin.
20. Cloud Cross Tattoo Design:
Looking for an appropriate arm tattoo! A Jesus tattoo which indicates the sign of a cross, with clouds surrounding it, with divine rays around is the best to draw on it. The tattoo is also given red spots at the feet and hand, which indicates sorrow.
- Best Suitable For: One of the best cross tattoo designs would be the picture of Jesus ascending to heaven. This is an intricate, an elegant piece of art. This is one of the big cross tattoos men can have.
- Preferable Ink: Black.
- Where: On the forearm.
- Size: Small size.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin complexion.
21. Musical Cross Tattoo Design:
Music has been the passion of the musicians and hence, tattoos of crosses when shaped with a cross, represents both passion and religion. The shaded cross is decorated with dark ink musical note tattoo for a combined design of both.
- Best Suitable For: Music is for the mind, as religion is for the soul. The combination of music and religion has been excellently picturized in this tattoo. It shows the harmony of the mind and soul. Both men and women can have this tattoo.
- Preferable Ink: Black.
- Where: On the forearm.
- Size: Small.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin complexion.
22. Mexican Cross Tattoo Design:
The Mexican tattoos are named as the dead tattoos for men. The tattoos carry social symbols like the rose, female, cross, etc., which give various social messages to the viewer. It best suits on the arm, thigh, chest, back, etc.
- Best Suitable For: The Mexican tattoo, reminiscent of the celebration of death, is a mixture of the Mexican tattoo and the cross. This is one elaborate tattoo that men can etch onto their body.
- Preferable Ink: Black.
- Where: On the arm covering the deltoids.
- Size: Small size.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown skin complexion.
23. Wristband Cross Tattoo Design:
Want to have a permanent wristband on your hand! The same pattern can be made with a cross tattoo for a sophisticated look to your design. The tattoo is made with two dark black in parallel lines that indicate the string with a cross in the center in the dark.
- Best Suitable For: This minimalistic tattoo around the wrist is one tattoo that has been carried down for many years. The two parallel lines running around the cross give it the feeling of a wrist band, and this small cross tattoos for guys is everlasting.
- Preferable Ink: Black.
- Where: Wrist.
- Size: Small.
- Skin Tone: Fair to the brown complexion.
24. Cross with Feather Tattoo Design:
Both cross and feathers have been the symbols of purity and divinity. The design is made on the shoulders with dark ink and slight shades which give an adorable look. The cross is made in dark black ink which is covered with the lightly shaded feather, around it.
- Best Suitable For: This tattoo depicts the crucifixion of a feather. A feather has replaced the figure of Jesus. The feather is a symbol of peace, hence this simple cross tattoos for women is another representation of peace in the person that beholds the tattoo.
- Preferable Ink: Black.
- Where: Shoulder.
- Size: Small.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown.
25. Green Dragon with Cross Tattoo Design:
Men’s cross tattoos are given a furious look when the pattern of a dragon is added to it. The Celtic cross is captured with a green dragon, showing the dangerous part of the wearer. The design gives the best look when crafted on the arm, waist, chest or back.
- Best Suitable For: The iron cross protected by a green dragon is a twist to the message of peace in Christianity. The wielder of this tattoo is protective like the dragon and strong like the iron cross. This is one a great tattoos for men.
- Preferable Ink: Black and green.
- Where: Arm.
- Size: Large.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown.
26. Butterfly Cross Tattoo Design:
Small cross tattoos have a dramatic design when it is combined with a butterfly; it also gives an interesting look which indicates the bright side of the wearer’s life. The center portion of the butterfly is inked with a cross to complete the design.
- Best Suitable For: The butterfly carrying the cross is a cute and colourful tattoo, mostly preferred by girls of young age, probably as their first tattoo.
- Preferable Ink: Multiple colours with blue, green, brown dominating the image. Black is used to highlighting the borders of the tattoo.
- Where: Arm, forearm, or chest.
- Size: Small.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown.
27. Snake with Cross Tattoo Design:
A popular design among the tribal caste Christian believers is the snake tattoo with the cross. A simple cross is handled with a snake in an angry position. The design can be carried on the back, arm, forearm or leg with both black ink and colourful ink.
- Best Suitable For: The cross protected by a vicious Slitherine. This portrays the character of the person too, which means that he is protective about what is his and would not mind hurting others for its protection. This is one tattoo that men can do.
- Preferable Ink: black and brown.
- Where: Arm.
- Size: Medium.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown.
28. Dove with Cross Tattoo Design:
Looking for new cross tattoo designs! A trio combination of the cross, a dove and memorable dates is what perfectly suits your match. The tattoo on the back is made with a cross on which the name and the time of birth and death of the beloved are crafted, with a bird that represents freedom.
- Best Suitable For: This tattoo is made in the remembrance of a loved one. The name, along with the birthdate and death date is etched onto the cross. The Dove with the olive branch states the person is at peace now. Men can do this tattoo.
- Preferable Ink: black.
- Where: Back.
- Size: Medium.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown complexion.
29. Lion Lamb and Cross Tattoo Design:
Want to ink all the symbols that represent the existence of Jesus! A lion, a lamb, and cross would be best to get inked. The lion would show your strength, the lamb your curiosity and forgiveness while the cross would show your religious side. The tattoo suits the best on the back for a complete appearance.
- Best Suitable For: This is a beautiful tattoo which depicts the state of the believer, or the sheep is being protected by the lord or the lion under the guidance of the Christian belief. Men who live under the supervision of Christianity can have this tattoo done.
- Preferable Ink: black.
- Where: Back.
- Size: Large.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown.
30. Deer Horn Cross Tattoo Design:
Cool cross tattoos have been twisted with an antique design which is made with the horns of a deer. The tattoo is made with perverted horn pattern, which is tied with rope to indicate bondage. The tattoo is made with thin layers and blackish shades of the ink perfect to be inked on the arms, leg or back.
The old and straightforward cross tattoos are now replaced with funky and designer tattoos to make them more meaningful and eye-catching. The tattoo is combined with different elements to increase its value, both eternally and cyclically. The indication of the cross tattoo adds some more words when elements like the lion, calves, Jesus, etc. are added to it. Hence, the tattoo cross design is the most uncomplicated design for small areas, as well as the most enhancing one too.
- Best Suitable For: The deer horn tied around to make the imagery of the cross is unique. The antlers of a deer go through a lot during its lifetime, be it fights for territory or survival. Men who have gone through similar problems can have this tattoo.
- Preferable Ink: black.
- Where: arms.
- Size: Medium.
- Skin Tone: Fair to brown.
Cross tattoos may be inked to show your allegiance to God or your internal strength; these are highly customizable and therefore, so much in demand. Make sure you do your research on the kind of tattoo you want and where you want to get inked. Send us your reviews and feedback and let us know if you have had one too or is planning to get one.