A turtle tattoo is naturally appealing for many collectors.
In small tattoo design, the turtle can be a focal point of many different styles and application, whether in color or black and gray.
The turtle often symbolizes patience and tenacity and is a sacred motif in Polynesian and Eastern Asian cultures.
The following list of top 81 small turtle ideas showcases an amazing array of skillfully executed designs, while towards the end of the gallery you’ll find useful FAQs to help further inform your tattoo decisions.
1. Technical Black and Gray Small Turtle Tattoos
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2. Color Realism Small Turtle Tattoo Ideas
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3. Small Tattoo Designs for the Ankle
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4. New Wave Small Turtle Tattoo Ideas
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5. Geometric Small Turtle Tattoo Ideas
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6. Cartoon Style Small Turtle Tattoos
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7. Innovative Shell Small Turtle Tattoos
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8. Small Forearm Tattoo Ideas
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9. Realistic Black and Gray Small Turtle Tattoo Designs
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10. Tribal Small Turtle Tattoo Designs
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11. Small Turtle Tattoos for the Upper Arm
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12. Traditional Black and Gray Small Turtle Tattoo Ideas
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Small Turtle Tattoo FAQs
What does a small turtle tattoo symbolize?
Turtle tattoos are reminders of patience, stability, and tenacity. Their lengthy lifespan is also suited for those wanting to experience longevity in their existence.
In symbolic sailor tattoo designs a simple turtle tattoo means the subject has crossed the equator.
What does a turtle represent in Polynesian Tribal tattoo?
According to Aitken Smith’s Tattoo Dictionary, the turtle represents the link between this life and the next in Polynesian cultures.
The turtle will help individuals move on to their next resting place, a concept which makes them a prominent subject in traditional tattooing and the wider creative arts.
Generally, the turtle will be incorporated into the wider tattoo story of an individual or used as the outline for a traditional design to work within.
What type of small turtle tattoo should I get?
The shell is the main emphasis in many turtle tattoos. These elements allow their owners a chance to get creative within an otherwise realistic style piece. Utilizing hibiscus flowers, maps, different patterns, and a range of linework and shading applications can create beautiful works of tattoo art.
For others, complete realism and black and gray or color is desirable, while for those with a more lighthearted view turtles can look wicked in cartoonish cute form.
Where should I place my small turtle tattoo?
A great thing about turtle body art is that it can be etched with precision and detail on an area the size of small change from your pocket. This allows the subject to choose practically any area in which to show off their ink.
For those who enjoy full visibility, the neck, hands, arms and lower legs are popular small turtle tattoo areas. If versatility in cover or discretion is more your thing, the back, ribs, shoulder, upper arm and thigh create options for each subject.
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