Native American Tattoos

Tattoos were a form of self-expression and identification among Native Americans.

And commemorated significant moments in one’s life.

Native American Tattoos were even known to cure toothaches.  And headaches!  So before considering getting one of these designs, please do your due diligence.  And research its history.





















 Spirit Animals

Spirit animals are a common motif in Native American tattoos.  This type of body art carries different messages.  It is such as friendship, dedication, strength, and protection.  Additionally, it demonstrates your affinity for a tribe’s culture and beliefs.

Ancient Native Americans believed that each individual was connected to a spirit animal.  This animal would accompany them throughout life.  And guide them on their spiritual path.  It is often depicted as totems.  Or tribal tattoos on each tribe member’s skin.

Traditional methods for creating Tattoos relied on both hand tools and natural materials.  For instance, Konkow Maidu would use a sharp flint.  To carve designs into the skin, Tubatulabal women used cactus spines to create patterns and coal color effects.

Feathers are an iconic element in Native American tattoos.  They were used in rituals and ceremonies.  It means positive spiritual energy.  Feathers also serve as signs of honor.  And deeply connect to the heavens.

A wolf is a common symbol in Native American traditions.  It conveys leadership, brotherhood, and devotion.  Men and women who wish to demonstrate their power.





















And bravery can use an animal symbol as motivation.

Native American Tattoos often feature the bear.  It symbolizes force, power, and authority.  It helps people conquer the anxiety of insignificance.  In contrast, protecting them from evil spirits.

In addition to the bear, other popular native animal Tattoos include a lion and arrows.

These can be inked onto your shoulder, sleeve, or ankle.






















Arrows are an incredibly strong sign of security and direction.

The tiger is another iconic wild animal.  It is depicted in Native American tattoos.  It represents health, longevity, and the earth.

For many tribes, it carries a deep spiritual meaning.































And often appears alongside a dreamcatcher for safety.

Suppose you’re searching for an eye-catching design.  Tribal tiger Tattoos are perfect.  These ink designs typically consist of black ink with intricate curves and lines.  It makes them striking when worn.
























 Symbolism

Tattoos are an iconic symbol of identity.  And culture for many Native American tribes.

Before deciding whether or not to get a tattoo, it would help if you researched its meaning for those who wear it.

Native American tattoos typically draw inspiration from nature.  It features animals with symbolic importance.  Often, the chosen animal serves as a spirit animal.

A totem animal is a spirit associated with a tribe or individual.  That guides them throughout life.  According to many tribes, each person had nine animal spirit guides who appeared at different points in their journey.  To help guide them along the way.

Spirit animals such as wolves and eagles.  And bears are famous spirit symbols.  Wolves represent loyalty and wisdom.  In contrast, eagles represent force and power.

Bears are a popular choice for animal-themed tattoos.  Not only do they represent strength and protection.  But they’re also seen as protective guardians of the home.

Tigers were a beloved animal among some Native American tribes in the past.  As symbols of power and prestige, many tribes would wear headdresses featuring tigers as symbols.

Feather tattoos are popular among Native Americans.  And hold diverse symbolic meanings.  They signify courage and strength.  And can be found on headdresses or dreamcatchers.

Feathers illustrate eternal life and immortality.  It makes them an excellent choice for those seeking tattoos on their body.

It has been said that feathers can help one communicate with the gods.  And act as amulets to protect from bad spirits.

Native Americans often turn to the dreamcatcher for protection against bad dreams.  And even prevent nightmares from occurring in the first place.  It is said that this object possesses mystical powers.  That help protects those affected by nightmares.  And prevent them from occurring altogether.

 Placement

Native Americans frequently donned tattoos as expressions of their style.  And as reminders of the family or clan.   Or tribe they belonged to.

Michael Krutak, director of the Museum of New Mexico’s Anthropology Department.  Notes that tattoos often indicated status and social rank.  And helped to identify people by family and tribe.  Some people also wore tattoos to commemorate significant events like a hunter’s first kill.

Some tattoos were placed on the arms and legs.  While others adorned the chest, some designs featured cosmetic elements.  It’s like pictures of native women and children.  Others were considered therapeutic.

Some tribes believed tattoos could protect against evil spirits entering the body and were even said to be beneficial for toothaches and headaches.

Markings were used not only as identification.  But could also keep track of a person’s location.  And warn them of danger.  Also, markings could serve as means of communication.

That is particularly beneficial to young hunters.

Another type of marking was the arrowhead.  That indicated defense and protection.  This component of Native American culture served to both instill fear in those around them as well as mentally prepare them for battle.

Feathers are an iconic Native American tattoo symbol.  That conveys trust, honor, and wisdom.

Popular feathers include the eagle, hawk, and deer.  However, many options exist.  Some are bald and golden, while others boast rich hues.

Feathers come in various colors, sizes, and placements.  It is important to be aware of their symbolic meanings before getting any tattoos.  Not understanding their value may make the design less desirable.

Choosing the ideal tattoo design is important.  But selecting its optimal placement is even more vital.  You want your body art to stand out without overpowering other parts of yourself.  There are many places you can place Native American designs.  But some areas work better than others.

 Color

Color is an invaluable element in tattooing.  And there are a bunch of ways to incorporate it into your designs.

Whether you opt for traditional techniques or modern approaches like trash polka or neo-traditional designs, color can bring your art to life.

Native American tattoo styles are popularly tribal.  It features vibrant colors and bold lines.  Many also depict the landscapes these tribes were renowned for.

Another popular option is portraits, which tend to have a photorealist style.  And look stunning on the skin.  You can showcase a warrior or maiden.  Or other beloved figures you wish to celebrate on your body.

Consider adopting a spirit animal, which illustrates an individual’s spiritual nature.  And how they live their life.

Animals such as the wolf, bear, or snake has special significance in Native American culture.

Spirit animals have been passed down through generations.  It will help if you exercise caution when picking one for yourself.  They symbolize many things, from love and romance to family relationships.

Furthermore, tattoos offer an expressive way to show off yourself and express your personality.  Feathers are often chosen for these designs.  They may be vibrantly colored or subdued, depending on the design chosen.

In addition to feathers, other animals can also be featured in tribal-style tattoos, such as eagles and totem poles.  These symbols, usually brightly colored, symbolize the strength of Spirit Animals in Native American culture.

If you want a truly individualistic Native American tattoo, consult an artist experienced in creating tribal designs.  They will take time to understand your background.

And the significance of any symbols in your design.

When deciding on a Tattoo design, there are plenty of Native American symbols.  That fits your personality and beliefs.

Combine them with your favorite colors for an individualized design that stands out.