25 Popular Lock And Key Tattoo Ideas: From Simple To Vibrant

Tattoos
By Ashley Knight
👇

A lock and key tattoo is often seen as a symbol of love and commitment but it can also be a symbol of mystery. However, these captivating elements aren’t made only for couples so even if you’re single, you have every right to ink this design onto your skin.

Since you already have an idea in mind, you’re probably looking for a design that will fit your style and aesthetics. The selection process can be hard which is why we’re more than happy to give you some options we love. Hopefully, you’ll find an idea that will inspire your next tattoo.

Tattoos with heart-shaped locks

Credit: model

Heart-shaped locks have been fairly popular among people, mainly because these tattoos are often seen as symbols of love. If that’s the meaning you’re looking for then you may opt for a design such as this one, especially if you’re into black and gray tattoos.

Credit: ari_tattooer

If you’re looking for something more colorful, this traditional-style tattoo is such a great option. It’s definitely a design that stands out.

Credit: sin___ink

Here we have another black and gray tattoo but what makes it special is all the shading and added highlights. These simple details definitely change the overall feel of the design.

Credit: codydresser

Neo-traditional tattoos such as this one are a perfect choice for all lovers of colors. They’re usually bold, vibrant, and daring which are probably the reasons why some people stay away from them.

Credit: ollieeeee.tattoo

In this case, the lock has the shape of the heart. Literally. This design is unique because of its style and is definitely a great option for all of you who love your tattoos to look like actual objects.

Credit: mandysutattoos

Here we have another colorful design that includes roses. It definitely has a romantic feel and could be a perfect option if you’re looking for a tattoo that’s going to represent your commitment to someone.

Credit: takeiteasyluv

Dainty tattoos will always be in style since they’re so simple and detailed. We love the way this one turned out especially because of the tiny ornaments that surround both the lock and the key.

Credit: lidiadepablotattoo

This vintage-like lock and key is a bit bigger version of your favorite design. But what matters the most is that it’s crafted beautifully, with every detail brought to perfection.

Credit: tattooist_dante

Even though the majority of the previous designs have been a bit more detailed, it doesn’t mean that you can’t keep things simple. Just because you like minimalistic tattoos, it doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice the meaning.

Credit: sharonlmerchant

If you’re not afraid of big and bold tattoos then this is the way to go. All of the details, the bold lines, and the flowers add to the complexity of this piece and make it appear visually appealing.

Credit: isabela.valotti

You have to admit that this stamp tattoo with a lock and key looks stunning. The majority of the shapes are achieved through the dotwork and thin lines only serve to intensify the outline of the objects.

Tattoos with regular locks

Credit: bentausendtattoos

If a heart-shaped lock feels like a bit too much for you, then you can opt for the regular lock shape instead. This design is a cool idea if you’re looking for a tattoo that will show others that you’re currently emotionally unavailable.

Credit: rin_tattooer

A simple fine-line design such as this one is also a great idea when you’re not into complicated tattoos. This one will fit anywhere on your body, without issues.

Credit: nikobiancotattoo

If you’re looking for a tattoo that’s going to fill the spot in between your other body decorations, this is the solution for you. These small lock and key are simple and will easily fit anywhere you want them to.

Credit: darkandchill

Are you a fan of the blackwork tattoo style? Then you’ll love this design! The idea of using only one ink color may sound dull but honestly, there’s nothing boring about this tattoo.

Credit: modul.schwarz

Who says you must be in a relationship to get a lock and key tattoo? You can always play with the placement of these elements and put each element onto one of your arms. Just like that, you get a tattoo that makes sense only when you put your arms next to each other.

Credit: mate_arnold_xvx_

The palms of your hands may not be the exact spot you had in mind for your next tattoo. But no matter what, you have to admit that this design is a cool idea. There’s something about it that screams magical so if you’re into enchanting tattoos then you may like this one.

Credit: kashatattooer

This is another simple lock and key tattoo but still, it doesn’t lack any details. We’re sure you’ll be proud to wear it on your skin.

Matching lock and key tattoos

Credit: dm_dadi_tattoo

We’ve already mentioned that these kinds of tattoos are a common choice among couples. So, if you’re looking to get inked with your SO, this simple design is definitely a cool idea. It’s small but meaningful and what more could you ask for?

Credit: kmoore_tattoos

If you don’t mind tattoos with a touch of colors, then this one could make you happy. It’s not overly complicated and bold but at the same time, there are enough details that make it stand out.

Credit: poloske_tattooart

Geometrical tattoos love to play with different shapes and lines and this design shows that perfectly. We’re particularly impressed by the added red hearts. It’s such a small detail but it makes the whole design more unique.

Credit: jasmer_sandhu

A great thing about couple tattoos is that you can easily adapt them. So, a girlfriend can get something more feminine such as this lock with the ribbon on it while a boyfriend may opt for more masculine details such as the skull on the key.

Credit: skink.social.club

This lock and key have been improved by the added ornaments. The overall design feels subtle but intricate which is what we love about it.

Credit: _freesoul28

If you’re looking for a design with a bit more detail, you can always choose to add some flowers or vines to it. These natural elements make any tattoo ten times better. Prove us wrong!

Credit: dovmeliyim

Last but not least, we have another minimalistic tattoo for couples who prefer to keep things simple. Even though you’re choosing to go with something smaller, it doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice the symbolism. This design proves that.

25 Popular Lock And Key Tattoo Ideas: From Simple To Vibrant 3