Good things come in small packages. It’s not just true for diamond rings and expensive watches; the same holxds true for ink. In the hands of a talented artist, small tattoos can be as interesting and unique as any of the large designs that grace the cover of Inked Magazine, and they can be the perfect way to start your journey into the world of tattoos.

While you are most likely to find small tattoo designs on the ankle, wrists, and even behind the ear, the truth is that these little flashes of ink can be successfully applied to just about any canvas on the body. Some people even use a series of small tattoos to create a bigger composition, which works particularly well with the American traditional style flash. 

1. SMALL, SIMPLE TATTOO

Without the space necessary for mind-blowing details, a restrained approach is perfect for a little bit of ink. And small, simple tattoos prove that just because a design isn’t massive and bursting with detail doesn’t mean it can’t be eye-catching and meaningful.


2. SMALL CROSS TATTOO

The power of the cross as a symbol for those valuing faith is unmatched, and it finds a unique expression in the world of small meaningful tattoos for men. For individuals seeking a more personal reflection of their devotion, small cross tattoos offer a subtle yet deeply significant sign of faith, embodying a quiet but powerful declaration of their spiritual journey.



3. SMALL HEART TATTOO

Don’t discount small heart tattoos just because of their miniature size. The most recognizable symbols for love don’t need to be big to get the point across, making these simple but poignant designs perfect reminders that all you need is love.



4. SMALL ANIME TATTOO

With hundreds of storylines and thousands of characters to choose from, anime provides a wealth of material for stunning designs. Whether in the bright colors of the animated series or the black and white ink drawings typical of manga, small anime tattoos are a great way to devote a little flesh to your favorite series and characters.


5. SMALL MEANINGFUL TATTOO

Some tattoos are fun, some are tough, and some are downright crazy, but they all mean something to the people that sit in the chair while the needle buzzes away. That being said, small meaningful tattoos can hold special significance through a bit of script or a powerful symbol.   



6. SMALL SNAKE TATTOO

Snakes are powerful symbols that have been used in folklore and mythology by just about every culture on earth. Then, it makes sense that these lithe animals that represent virility, rebirth, and immortality retain their symbolic weight even as small snake tattoos. 



7. SMALL ELEPHANT TATTOO

Representing power, intelligence and good fortune, elephants are incredible animals that have a long history in art, storytelling and tattoos. Small elephant tattoos hold all this meaning while adding a playfulness when applying such a large animal in a small size. 


8. SMALL ANGEL WINGS TATTOO

Some people use angel wings to represent a lost loved one, while others use them to embody the protection of a guardian angel. Whatever the case, small angel wing tattoos prove that you don’t need a lot of space to create a meaningful and compelling design.


9. SMALL SKULL TATTOO

Skulls have been a part of tattoo culture for just about as long as artists have been slinging ink in the US, so it’s no surprise that these macabre reminders of mortality continue to be popular. Small skull tattoos make a great addition to a sleeve or can be equally as successful when applied to the wrist or hand.