35+ Blackwork Tattoo Designs And Meanings

Ever had a blackwork tattoo done before? Have you considered getting one, or is this your first time hearing about it? Well, either way it may be, we will inform you as well as overwhelm you with our tattoo options! Keep on reading and enjoy different ideas as well as tattoo placements down below.

What Is A Blackwork Tattoo?

The word itself may suggest the answer. A blackwork tattoo is a bold work over your body where special art is used. The only color and ink that is used is black. Mostly these tattoos will form a unique outcome and will tell an amazing story due to their different shapes, sizes, as well as patterns.

Why Go For Blackwork Tattoos?

Do you love and enjoy mysterious tattoos? Are you a fan of black and simpler art? Blackwork is for minimalists who wish to have a unique story to tell with their tattoo. You might enjoy it if you are:

A fan of black art
You enjoy puzzles & tattoos that tell a story
You dislike color

People who are on a budget will usually spend a lot less money on a colorless tattoo

What Blackwork Tattoos Are For Men?

Any tattoo can suit you when it comes to the beauty of blackwork ideas. However, placement is key in your case. Stick to your neck, chest, arm, bicep, as well as calf tattoos. Do not go for something feminine or provocative in this case.

You can also check out: 95 Great Tattoo Ideas for Men: Ultimate Guide (2023 Updated)

What Blackwork Tattoos Are For Women?

Women will prefer smaller & minimalistic designs. How about a butterfly, a whale, or a pop art idea? Stick to your wrist, ankle, rib, as well as thigh & arm tattoos. Usually, these placements are the best go-to ideas for women & when it comes to blackwork art.

7 Arm Blackwork Tattoo

1. Blackwork Tattoo Styles Dinosaur Inspired

Were you a fan of history? Even more specific, how about dinosaurs? They might be long gone, but still to this day they are one of the prettiest and coolest tattoo options for those who are trying to represent and honor their existence.

This design will tell that you’re a person who enjoys the wildlife, good stories, and you appreciate the history. If you’re a fan of adventures this tattoo can also represent that part of you.

2. Snake Traditional Blackwork Tattoo

Are you loyal and up to commitment? A lot of guys and girls who are willing to take their relationship to the next level will appreciate this tattoo.

A snake print along with a rose image shows the struggles that you have encountered yet have managed to come out of it as a strong-willed couple. Your relationship is demanding, but who’s isn’t?

3. Blackwork Tattoo Ideas Animal Inspired

Animal lovers will appreciate this funky black and white cheetah tattoo. You can show your artsy side with a similar tattoo and with something unique such as this symbol.

This cheetah or panther tattoo with loads of different hearts will show that you’re a tough individual who knows how to love others, despite your arrogant personality and all the flaws.

4. Blackwork Tattoo Style Scary Ink

Do you enjoy scary and demonic tattoos? Are you a fan of different tattoos and you love to stand out when it comes to your choice? A lot of men prefer black artwork such as this one. If you’re someone who loves to seek attention you will enjoy this tattoo.

It symbolizes your true self and represents your past intentions, as well as a rough path that you have had. Guys who are aware of the fact that they are not angles and that they do have a lot of work to do on themselves will enjoy this piece of art.

5. Blackwork Traditional Tattoo Nature Inspired

Someone who enjoys their time in nature and people who are spiritual individuals will love this tattoo. It is the perfect go-to for men or women who have struggled to find peace within themselves.

This mountain image will represent your struggles. If you have come a long way and you wish to show that off with your favorite tattoo give this one a chance. It is perfect for anyone who has struggled with identity issues in the past, yet has overcome tough obstacles by now.

6. Japanese Blackwork Tattoo Tiger Idea

Are you an animal lover? Do you love the zoo, or possibly even a safari? This is an amazing forearm tattoo that you will appreciate over your arms, especially if you work out. This is a gorgeous manly design that true lovers of precision will appreciate.

A lion symbol will stand for your fiery and feisty personality. Tigers stand for the same thing. So, do you feel like a warrior who can conquer it all?

7. Illustrative Blackwork Tattoo Idea

Do you enjoy feminine and flirty tattoos? Are you a fan of playful tattoos and delicate options? A lot of men love to stand out with something like this, while girls can rock it as well. How bold are you?

This forearm tattoo can symbolize your love situation, as well as how caught up you might feel at the moment. A spider’s web is often linked to a feeling of abandoning or feeling trapped and like you have no control. Is this the situation with you as well?

7 Leg Blackwork Tattoo

1. Dog Blackwork Tattoo

Are you a proud dog owner? Or maybe you plan on getting a dog anytime soon? Either way it may be this mysterious and black dog-inspired tattoo will suit men or women who are trying to show off their furry pal.

You can also show your personality with this tattoo. If you are troubled and scary at times, yet you know how to approach different situations in a tactical way you will enjoy this design.

2. Geometric Blackwork Tattoo

Do you love mandalas, Egyptian-style tattoos, or fierce and geometrical ink? Are you into different and ancient designs? This tattoo is for anyone who knows how to stand out and embrace mystical and spiritual tattoos.

You will show off your artsy side, as well as a peaceful side. If you’re someone who doesn’t love to argue and you are all about balance and equality, this tattoo will show it in the most wholesome way.

3. Thigh Blackwork Tattoo Women Design

Thigh tattoos are often go-to by women who are aware of their beauty. Do you love to show off your curves? Are you someone who appreciates thickness and you are proud of it? Show it off and embrace your feminine legs!

This art and black tattoo stand for peace and equality. How often have you had felt discouraged in life due to social pressure? Nowadays, you can scream and show off your sexy pile with the right image.

4. Pizza Blackwork Tattoo Style

Any pizza lovers out there? Are you craving this delicious Italian dish tattooed over your body? You can take it up a notch and go with this unique approach and place different kinds of flowers on it. Funky yet quite artsy.

This tattoo will symbolize your playful and feminine side. Women who are trying to come off as sexy yet peaceful individuals will achieve that with this stunning tattoo.

5. Tiger Inspired Blackwork Tattoo Idea

Animal lovers or tiger lovers specifically will love this art. Often, tattoos can look romantic and artsy. This thigh piece is gorgeous and perfect for women who love their legs, but it can also suit guys who work out and are proud when it comes to their thighs.

A tiger stands for raw power and determination. If you’re someone who has had a lot of ups and downs and you have managed to get through them all on your own you will enjoy showing that with this ink.

6. Heavy Blackwork Tattoo

Do you love abstract art? A lot of men and women prefer this way of tattooing to other “basic” kinds. If you’re someone who loves to seek attention and you’re trying to make yourself visible everywhere you go just know that you can do it with this tattoo.

It has a beautiful meaning – stands for pure intentions and graciousness. If you’ve struggled with self-identity that all can stop once you get the right tattoo.

7. Angel & Demon Inspired Blackwork Tattoo

Are you an angel or a demon? Do you sometimes feel a bit more devilish? If you’re someone who doesn’t know how to connect to yourself on a deeper level yet you’re trying to get something impeccable, this design is it!

Beautiful and perfect for women who are feeling lost or trapped at times. This tattoo will show your feminine and beautiful side, as well as your complex mind and thoughts.

7 Small Blackwork Tattoo

1. Tribal Blackwork Tattoo

Are you someone who prefers tribal tattoos? Are you a fan of smaller designs? This black artwork is the perfect tattoo choice for guys who have masculine arms and who love to work out. Show off your warrior side with this tattoo.

Tribal tattoos are mostly worn by buff guys. This tattoo is quite small and it can be something that is quick and easy to place over your body. Make sure that you feel like an actual beast before you end up getting it.

2. Blackwork Tattoo Style Stomach Piece

Puppy lovers out there? Are you someone who is a proud dog owner? Do you love to take care of your furry pal? This small blackwork tattoo is for pet owners and sentimental sweat hearts.

A side chest or stomach tattoos are quite painful and uncomfortable to get, so heads up, since you’ve been warned. This tattoo is for anyone who loves their furry pal and wants them to stay with them for as long as possible.

3. Shark Small Blackwork Tattoo

Are you afraid of sharks? Or maybe you find them to be fascinating creatures? Either way it may be this blackwork design is for men and women who have a fun story to tell along with this tattoo.

Sharks usually represent your fear of the unknown, as well as the fear of attachment. If you’re trying to get over your fear and you are working on bettering yourself let this be your inspiration and motivation!

Also Read: 38 Popular and Meaningful Shark Tattoo Design Ideas (2023 Updated)

4. Scary & Small Blackwork Tattoo

Are you afraid of the Illuminati? Do you admire them? Think of them as something unique and crazy? If so, you might want this artsy tattoo. It is funky and funny, as well as ideal for anyone who has a goofy side to them.

This is a small and crazy tattoo that will represent your funky side. Ideal for men and women as well as those who know how to hype up the situation and are considered as class clowns in their group.

5. Blackworks Tattoo Bird Image

Are you in the mood for a shoulder or chest tattoo? This placement is quite popular and common among men, as well as guys who work out. If you’re a fan of your broad shoulders you will enjoy this idea.

A bird tattoo can symbolize your will to fly and to feel free. Sometimes, we tend to feel stuck and lost in our own skin. If you’re trying to fly away and start a new journey you can express the need with this tattoo.

6. Medusa Inspired Blackwork Tattoo

Are you a fan of Gianni Versace? A lot of men and women love to wear this designer high-end brand. However, do you love it as much that you would get it tattooed? This funky piece may not be for everyone!

On the other hand, you can see this and think of it as a Medusa tattoo. If you feel like your dealing with different kinds of responsibilities and people in your life you can show that with this black tattoo. Ideal for anyone who is complex or lost.

7. Forearm Blackwork Tattoo Playful Design

Are you a sporty person? How about an animal lover? Most importantly, do you love to joke around? If all of this does sound like you this design might suit you. It is one of a kind and perfect for flashy people.

This small tattoo will symbolize your personality as well as their clash. If you’re unique and you’re on the lookout for something customizable and fully personalized, give it a go!

7 Dramatic Blackwork Tattoo

1. Giant Raven Blackwork Tattoo Back Design

Back tattoos usually look the best once done dramatic, loud, bold, and big. This back image is for true fans of drama and attention-seeking ideas. If you’re someone who is not afraid of the needle or the tattooing process you will enjoy something as grandiose and different.

This large raven can symbolize your personality as well as any mysterious paths that you might have gone with. If you’re grieving for someone important in your life and you’re trying to show appreciation just know that you can do it with this design.

2. Stomach Blackwork Ideas

Do you live bold and big body tattoos? Are you a fan of stomach tattoos? The placement itself may be a bit tricky and uncomfortable, but this tattoo is for those who need something different and playful.

This black detective can be a fun tattoo that will represent your mysterious side. Are you constantly seeking answers and are trying to make yourself question everything and everyone around you? If you’re a fan of drama this tattoo will look amazing on your side stomach.

3. Versace Inspired Blackwork Tattoo

This is one more amazing tattoo inspired by the brand Versace. Are you a fan of gorgeous pieces and luxury clothing? You can show how extravagant you are with this tattoo.

Versace is a brand that is loved by celebrities. It is one of the best high-end solutions for anyone who wants to get noticed. This image will represent your boujee side, that’s for sure.

4. Octopus Blackwork Tattoo

Do you love scarier tattoos? Are you afraid of an octopus? A lot of men and women dislike this animal since it is so creepy, different, and unusual. If you wish to embrace that funky vibe you should wear this tattoo proudly.

It represents your layers and your hard & determined will. If you feel like you are covered in different layers and you love to think of yourself as a tough and complex being you can show it all with an octopus tattoo.

5. Gorgeous Lady Blackwork Tattoo

Are you a feminine lady, or do you love tattoos of feminine ladies? This one has that gorgeous retro vibe that you will enjoy if you’re an old soul yourself. It is perfect for women and feminists!

This print of a woman will show that you appreciate and love someone in specific. If you are a family person you can show that with this blackwork tattoo. Heads up since it might take you a couple of tries to get it right and to place it properly over your body.

6. Blackwork Tattoo Sleeve Ink

Do you love and wish for dramatic forearm and sleeve tattoos? Are you a fan of large ink and attention-seeking pieces? This one will take you 4-6 hours to get. It is a must-have for lovers of fierce and different tattoos.

Each new symbol can represent your different and new sides as well as layers. Get more and more new tattoos as time goes on and round up the story!

7. Blackworks Tattoo Lion Mosaic Idea

Do you love mosaic tattoos? Are you a fan of animals as well? People who love the zodiac and who are trying to showcase their artsy side can do it with this tattoo. Make sure that you’re well aware of its power or beauty before you commit to it.

A lion symbolizes power and guidance. Do you feel like you can rule the world on your own? Show your dominant side and your strength with this blackwork tattoo.

7 Unique Blackwork Tattoo

1. Alien Inspired Blackwork Tattoo

Are aliens out there? Do you fear them, or do you find them to be fascinating? Either way it may be they are an interesting topic that you will appreciate discussing with others around you.

This is an artsy tattoo that can represent your traveling journey, along with your funny or skeptic side. Let everyone see how you see the world and share your personal beliefs through one tattoo!

Read More: 70+ Best Alien Tattoo Ideas: Mystic Ink Designs For 2021

2. Dramatic Blackwork Tattoo Portrait Inspired

Are you an artsy soul? How about someone who enjoys dramatic and unusual designs? This one can represent and show your geeky and nerdy side, ideal for guys and girls who love Sci-fi!

You can go for the placement of your favorite character. If you are a gamer or a cartoon/anime lover you will need this blackwork tattoo idea!

3. Dog Blackwork Tattoo Idea

If you have 4-5 hours to spare you can go for this tattoo. Animal or dog lovers will appreciate playful and lively ideas such as this one. You will love its shaded design and its black & white tattoo color combo.

This tattoo represents your dramatic and fiery side. It also shows that you’re willing to attack and make a decision when you’re required. You are a brave soul and a winner, aren’t you?

4. Scary Horror Movie Inspired Blackwork Tattoo

Are you someone who enjoys watching horror movies? Are you a fan of scary tattoos that represent your favorite character as well? This black voodoo design will look the best on men who know how to rock scary and artsy stuff.

Show off your love for true horror movies with this scarecrow tattoo. It symbolizes your passion and your love for unique shows that are only familiar to you.

5. Ghost Blackwork Tattoo Idea

Half girl and half-ghost ink is unique and perfect for those who enjoy different and personalized tattoos. If you’re a fan of horror movies and scary ink just know that this image has all of your needed answers!

This playful tattoo shows that there are two sides to every story. You can tell your beautiful and scary moments with this gorgeous ghost-inspired ink, let it speak for itself!

Also Read: Top 36 Amazing Ghost Tattoo Design Ideas (And Meanings Behind Them)

6. Puzzle Anime Inspired Blackwork Tattoo

Do you need answers to your questions? How about a missing puzzle that demands a purpose? This tattoo is for men and women who love to look mysterious and come out with different stories to their everyday situations, yet have answers to the most complicated questions!

Perfect for thinkers and genius men or women who need to stand out and look mysterious and smart at all times. Show off your playful and anime vibe with this blackwork tattoo.

7. Portrait Of A Woman Blackwork Tattoo

How about some nudity? This is a different tattoo ink that you will adore if you’re a fan of straightforward tattoos. Ideal for girls and guys who appreciate and enjoy the beauty of a woman’s body.

This tattoo stands for beauty and femininity. If you’re someone who likes to show off your curves and your sexy pile you will need this design over your body.

Ready For Your Blackwork Tattoo?

Make sure to let us know which tattoo is on your must-have list! These 35 designs are catered per everyone’s liking, and they will suit men and women who love black tattoo inspo!