Many people choose to get family tattoos as a meaningful way to express the deep connections within their family. The wonderful aspect of family tattoos is that there are endless possibilities to symbolize these strong bonds. Whether it’s a humorous quote that has become an inside joke among siblings, the name of a cherished grandparent or matching tribal designs, all of these make for excellent family tattoo ideas.

Family Crest Tattoos

Family crest tattoo on spine of woman holding her hair up
Goodshoot

Family crest tattoos are a commonly chosen design to honor our family members. These tattoos often feature the top section of a family’s coat of arms, including intricate scroll work and filigree. They can be used alone or as part of the entire coat of arms, creating visually striking and detailed tributes to our heritage.

Colorful Gems and Birthstones

If you are paying homage to your family, and want to make it bright and colorful, birthstones are very tasteful. With Septembers sapphire, Aprils diamond, July’s ruby and Mays emerald, this tattoo will literally be treasure. This is a great family tattoo idea for those with several siblings, with an array of different birthstones. Plus, siblings with the same birthstone can be tied into just one of the gems.

All in the Family Tree

Family tree tattoo example
Canva


For numerous individuals, their family’s surname serves as a physical connection to past and future generations. It’s no wonder that family name tattoos are a top choice for those wanting to honor their loved ones with a permanent mark on their skin. With the family tree, you can always add-on as your family grows.

Names and Initials

One of the most well-liked and simple family tattoo options involves including names or initials. This method is straightforward, very personal, and can be tailored in numerous ways. From graceful script fonts intertwining the names to creating a design or symbol with the initials, these tattoos serve as a subtle reminder of your loved ones, keeping them close to you at all times.

Sacred Numbers

Roman Numeral Family tattoo on the arm of a father holding a baby with a woman nearby
FatCamera

For individuals who like a more understated way to honor their family and important dates, incorporate birth dates and significant numbers into tattoos. It’s a way to carry those special moments with you, permanently etched in time and ink. Number tattoos can also be very masculine, very feminine, minimalist, maximalist and everything in between to match your style.

When Families Tie Knots

When two families come together through marriage, the knot symbol is a great representation. Three options include the Celtic knot, which represents interconnections; a trinity knot, which represents the Son, Father and Holy Spirit; and the triquetra knot, which symbolizes the main stages of our lives, youth, adulthood and old age.

Symbols of Representation

Lion tattoo on a man's back, ship tattoo on a man's back
Vlada Karpovich

Symbolic tattoos go beyond just literal representations and provide a more abstract way to express family connections. For example, choose animals to symbolize each family member’s personality, such as a pride of lions to represent a fiercely protective family. Or, an anchor tattoo can resemble your commitments and strong bond with your family.

Family Tattoo Ideas That Last a Lifetime

The key is to make the tattoo your own, so it truly reflects the essence of your family. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not consider getting matching family tattoos? They could have small differences, but then you’d have your own special symbol that cements your family bond.