For men who identify strongly as religious Christians, cross tattoos offer a way to express their faith and commitment to God. Meaningful, popular and cool, cross tattoo designs are the ultimate holy symbol of Christianity, representing the act of Jesus Christ sacrificing himself for humankind’s sins. The cross is also the physical embodiment of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. With so many unique ideas to consider, there is a religious tattoo to represent your love for Jesus. To spark your creativity, here’s a collection of the best cross tattoos for men to get right now. Whether you’re looking for small and simple ink that can fit anywhere or a cross for your hand, wrist, forearm, arm, shoulder, chest, or back, these Christian tattoo designs will inspire you.
Cross Tattoo Designs
As a holy symbol for Christians, cross tattoo designs are powerful, often representing a way for guys to carry their faith and love for Jesus around with them everywhere. The most common design ideas include the crucifix (Jesus on the cross), rosary, angels, wings, flowers, Bible verses, and the names of family members as tribute. Moreover, your tattoo can be small and simple or large, intricate, and a full-fledged scene.
Ultimately, religious tattoos can be Christian symbols or incorporate various imagery associated with Christianity, spanning across different artistic themes and styles. To inspire your creativity, check out these cross tattoo ideas to find ways to personalize your artwork. Read on to discover which designs represent you and your beliefs the most.
Jesus Cross Tattoo
One way to elevate your cross tattoo design is by adding the imagery of Jesus Christ – fisherman, carpenter, messiah. Combining two of the most powerful symbols of Christianity is a literal ode to the man upstairs, plus gives your tattoo artist a chance to showcases his skills.
Cross and Rose Tattoo
Roses make for a beautiful addition to any cross tattoo. If you’re unsure, keep in mind that a floral infusion doesn’t sacrifice any masculinity; instead, they add biblical and artistic layering, plus a little color.
Three Cross Tattoo
For a classic approach, the 3 cross tattoo continues to be a trendy and artistic concept. Three cross tattoo designs can have two meanings. First, the three crosses can represent the holy trinity of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit. Others take the idea to symbolize Jesus Christ and the others who were crucified with him. Simple and unique, three cross tattoos are truly inspirational pieces of art.
Cross with Wings Tattoo
Men who want to honor two separate powerful Christian symbols can do so with an epic combination: a cross with wings tattoo. The wings of an angel – whether a specific biblical figure or representing a lost loved one – span across the cross for a loving tribute.
Small Cross Tattoo
Any size cross tattoo is a large profession of faith, so don’t feel it necessary to max out the size of your ink. A small cross tattoo, whether it’s located on the wrist, arm, or foot, will make a lasting impact, so don’t shy away from the idea.
Cross with Flowers Tattoo
Flowers play a part in many major holidays and events in Christian religions, from weddings to mass to funerals; they are also a logical addition to cross tattoos. You might pick a flower with biblical representation – like a rose – or you can pick some shrubbery that complements your cross or adds some eye-catching color.
Simple Cross Tattoo
Sometimes, especially when it comes to a cross tattoo, simple is the best way to go. A minimal and traditional look is effective for the cross since its biblical roots are straightforward; Jesus died on a bare and simple cross. While there aren’t many details in this aesthetic, it’s full of faith.
Heart Cross Tattoo
At the very core of Christianity is a drive to love others, regardless of who they are or what they’ve done; a heart cross tattoo encompasses this founding principle. This ink can serve as a gentle reminder to have a Christ-like approach to compassion and kindness.
Tribal Cross Tattoo
Christian men with tribal roots have popularized a mix of two identities. A tribal cross tattoo is a bold statement that blends religion and heritage. Shading, patterns, shapes and symbols are distinct elements of tribal cross tattoo designs. This kind of ink is typically found on the chest, shoulder, arm, sleeve and leg. If you want an idea that shows respect to your Christian faith while honoring your family, tribal tattoos are great options!
Maltese Cross Tattoo
The Maltese cross is comprised of four concave arrow-like points. Many men choose the Maltese cross tattoo because the design was created by a holy order of knights. With time, Maltese cross designs have come to symbolize courage, strength and bravery in battle. Popular with military members and firefighters, its captivating history and association make this type of cross a meaningful tattoo for men.
Celtic Cross Tattoo
The Celtic cross tattoo, also known as an Irish cross, is a historic symbol that has survived throughout many generations and eras of religious struggle and persecution. Celtic cross tattoo designs involve stylized rings and knots, which translate beautifully into unique artwork, especially for men with Irish roots. While you can choose a simple Celtic cross, the most powerful design ideas require intricate details and shading, meaning you’ll want to get this ink on a spot with space, like your forearm, chest, back, or leg.
Unique Cross Tattoo
The bottom line of any tattoo – religious or not – is that it should represent your personality; a unique cross tattoo is one way to customize your design to ensure that it fits who you are. There are many ways to do this, from combining animals to incorporating your favorite psalms to adding names from your life.
Upside Down Cross Tattoo
Though the upside-down cross has a varied history and negative representation as anti-Christian throughout society, there is a biblical alignment for this tattoo. St. Peter was crucified on an upside-down cross, to differentiate himself from Christ. Because of this, the design is rooted in religious humility and self-awareness.
Cross Tattoos with Names
The addition of names to cross tattoos are a widely popular way to show your loved ones how much they mean to you. If family is a priority, then names – of either past or present members – are a natural and sweet fit.
Infinity Cross Tattoo
An epic combination for a religious tattoo is the mix of the infinity symbol and the cross. The cross represents God, Heaven, and resurrection, while infinity speaks to a never-ending cycle. Many Christians flock to this imagery, as a soothing reminder that God’s love is without end.
3D Cross Tattoo
For a unique and unusual rendition of a cross tattoo, consider adding some 3D effects. While still maintaining the special meaning and symbolism of the cross, the 3D element, whether simple or realistic, also gives the design some extra creativity that draws attention to it.
Cross Necklace Tattoo
The ink version of a Catholic rosary, a cross necklace tattoo is a beautiful way to capture the scripture-based prayer. If you keep things realistic and true to inspiration, you can pray your way through each tattooed bead, 59 total.
Cross Wrist Tattoo
The wrist is a viable location for a smaller-sized cross tattoo. It’s easy to showcase, which is valuable when you want to share how essential Christianity is to you. Another bonus is that a cross can fit into this space in a variety of ways.
Cross Forearm Tattoo
A cross tattoo will always look great on the forearm. This location is fairly traditional, with enough space for a substantial tattoo. The space allows for either simple or complex detailing.
Cross Hand Tattoo
One way to always keep Christ in mind is by placing the cross tattoo in a spot where you can see it throughout the day – like the hand. This contemporary ink placement works well with the simplistic shape of the cross.
Cross Finger Tattoo
A finger is an optimal choice for a cross tattoo that is subtle, tiny, and trendy. Because it’s visible in nearly all tasks, the ink serves as a small-but-diligent reminder to keep Christ in all that you do.
Cross Arm Tattoo
The arm is a hot spot for men’s tattoos. There’s a lot of area and room to work with, designs can both stand out and be covered up, and this spot isn’t as painful as others. A cross tattoo also fits here nicely, big or small.
Cross Sleeve Tattoo
Sleeve tattoos have always been cool; with a cross-themed piece, you have the opportunity to blend the worlds of art and spirituality; Christianity doesn’t have to look a certain way. You can be bold and edgy and still be an excellent follower of Christ.
Cross Chest Tattoo
With a chest tattoo of a cross, you’re making a statement that you’re a Christian, loud and proud. In addition to the proximity to the heart, many men choose this location for space and the freedom to go bold with a design.
Cross Back Tattoo
The back is a great spot for a large cross back tattoo. There’s plenty of canvas space to work with and to implement detail and artistic creativity. It can exist as a constant source of faith: though you can’t always see the art, you know it’s there to guide you.
Cross Neck Tattoo
Any kind of neck ink is a huge commitment due to the pain and increased visibility. However, a cross neck tattoo carries extra meaning and can be an empowering way to show off your faith and devotion to God. Unique religious designs can be simple and small or intricate and details, as well as tattooed in the front, side or back of the neck.
Cross Tattoo Behind The Ear
For a trendy and tucked-away cross tattoo, consider a behind-the-ear placement. In addition to being a cool and discreet spot, behind-the-ear is especially perfect for Christian symbolism. The Word of God is practically in your ear, speaking to you at all times.
Cross Shoulder Tattoo
Perhaps one of the best cross tattoo locations for men is the shoulder, thanks to plenty of space and visibility. Because of the extra room, you can add more detail to your design and create an impressive piece.
Cross Ankle Tattoo
One of the most popular places for a cross tattoo is the ankle. This location is discreet – hidden easily with pants or socks – but can also be showcased under the right circumstances.
Cross Face Tattoo
The negative connotation of a face tattoo is not nearly as extreme as it once was; a small, subtle, and classy cross tattoo looks amazing anywhere but is especially powerful on the face. These are popular amongst men who, thanks to God, have nothing to fear nor hide.
No matter what your reason for getting a badass cross tattoo inked on your body, these unique cross tattoo designs are sure to inspire you.
