Are you looking for a bold and striking tattoo? Maybe something a little darker in nature? Look no further! In this blog, we explore 25 of the best captivating, dark tattoo ideas to help you find the perfect design that’ll look amazing on your skin. Whether you’re searching for a traditional motif or something more modern and unusual, there’s an idea here for everyone.
Dark tattoos tend to not only read as bold and black, but often they contain subject matter that is equally dark in tone. Expect to see plenty of creepy designs but have no fear; we also have some pretty and elegant ones to share. Now, let’s talk dark tattoo ideas!
As we mentioned, dark tattoos often celebrate morbid themes and creepy motifs. Often, there is a rock n’ roll or heavy metal vibe to these designs. Hence, skulls are very popular in this style.
Black and white ink tattoos are a recent trend that has begun taking hold. They take an otherwise dark tattoo and give it contrast for visual interest.
Here’s a very cool dark tattoo that features a portrait of the iconic Marlene Dietrich. What gives this design edge is the letter “tattoos” on the face of the star.
One of the best ways to make a dark tattoo pop is by providing plenty of contrast between the light and dark elements. This creepy skeleton is helped along by the candle in the center with light that seems to be absorbed into the black surrounding it.
One of the most popular subject matters for dark tattoos is moths. People love making them beautifully weird in a number of ways. There’s no right or wrong way to go about it, but putting an eye inside is a beloved option.
This is an example of a blackout tattoo. Generally, these consist of large portions of skin completely covered in ink. At the top and bottom, we find almost abstract details that look like liquid with organic shapes.
Here’s another dark tattoo that features a face. Portraits are somewhat popular but far less than other subject matter. We get a very horror movie-feeling design here with a character with a finger placed over her mouth. We can keep a secret!
We find more white ink here with a design that looks like an eclipse. We think this turned out really well, and it’s the only time we have seen something like it. A very cool idea!
In tattoo parlance, “blackwork” refers to all-black ink tattoos that often show off the artist’s skill in making crisp, clean lines. We could think of no better example than this one that is so sharp it hardly looks real.
Here’s a really cool concept that the artist who shared the design referred to as a “snake butterfly.” We think they pulled it off with two snake heads forming the shape of wings.
While black and grey ink will be top of mind for those considering dark tattoos, you can always throw some colorful ink in for good measure. One of the very best color combinations for black ink is red. It really pops!
Spider web tattoos are extremely favored, especially around elbows and knees. Here is an inky example with plenty of shading to give it an ominous look. While web tattoos are popular, you can always get one with a twist.
Spooky birds are always a wise choice for dark tattoos. There is something about them that feels like a bad omen. The artist has really gone in on this black bird that is darker than most others like it.
Well, when we set out to research dark tattoos we did not expect a Furby to be on this list, but when we spotted this gem we just had to share it with you. If you’ve ever wondered what the inside of a Furby looks like, you now know it’s much more thrilling than expected.
And once more, we find a white ink design sitting on top of black ink. Mandala tattoos are wildly popular today, and it’s no mystery why. They are ornate, pretty, and visually arresting. If you like this one, keep reading, we have another style to share with you.
Yes! A demonic cat, just what we wanted. Turn to n nature and wildlife, especially for a winning dark tattoo that looks so alive. This design has so much energy that we hope you can bring to your own.
“Sacrificial goat,” the artist who shared this image captioned it. With a dagger through the back of its head, we suppose this goat is just that. Live your lives, folks.
The classic horror film Nosferatu proves great inspiration in this coffin-shaped dark tattoo that stars the titular character. Think of your favorite horror movies and creepy art, and let them inform your tattoo’s design.
As promised, here’s another mandala design that still fits into the dark tattoo mold. We love all the twisty, turn-y, curly lines that have a sharpness to them. The artist really understood the assignment here.
Wow! Take a look at the artist has created chiaroscuro with light reflecting off of the metal of the helmet. It’s so masterfully executed that this dark tattoo is one of our favorites on the list. Find yourself an artist who can pull something like this off, and never let them go!
While this tattoo might beg you to “look,” you might just want to turn the other way! This eye tattoo is just so creepy that we can’t hang. There’s a level of realism here that is so unnerving. If that’s your taste, lean into it!
There you go! Now you have seen some amazing dark tattoo ideas to get you started. Remember, you do not want to rip off another person’s tattoo. Instead, use these tattoo ideas as springboards for your own design. Happy tattooing!
Andrew is an Assistant Editor for Mamas Uncut with over ten years of experience as a writer in the creative, marketing, and blogging spaces. After studying Film and Art History, he developed a passion for telling stories in a variety of mediums. Obsessively making lists, reporting celebrity news, and diving into emerging pop cultural topics are a few of his interests.
Mamas Uncut is THE online place for moms. We cover the latest about motherhood, parenting, and entertainment as well – all with a mom-focused twist. So if you're looking for parenting advice from real parents, we have plenty of it, all for moms from moms, and also experts. Because, at the end of the day, our mission is focused solely on empowering moms and moms-to-be with the knowledge and answers they’re looking for in one safe space.
