Think aloud
A bug tattoo done well can make you truly appreciate the tiny animals. After all, bugs can represent a myriad of meanings most tattoo-getters aren’t even aware of. With a moth tattoo somewhere on your body, for example, you can celebrate new life, new beginnings, and positive changes that make life worth living.
Moths are oftentimes seen as symbols of hope, too, and that’s why you can get a moth tattoo to remind yourself that even in the darkest times, you can find your way back to the light. Whether you’re searching for ink inspiration or admiring the beautiful bugs for what they represent, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite moth tattoos on Instagram for your liking.
1. A simple moth tattoo on the forearm
Oh, you can’t go wrong with a simple moth tattoo on the forearm, can you? Whether you’re getting your first bug tattoo or thinking of expanding a growing collection of crawling creatures, you might want to give moths a go.
2. A subtle moth tattoo on the back of the shoulder
Moths represent personal growth, too, and you might want to commemorate your progress with a moth tattoo on the back of the shoulder. Back-of-the-shoulder tattoos are great because they’re hidden from unwanted eyes, but you can easily reveal them when you see fit, too.
3. A big and bold death moth tattoo on the forearm
“The bigger, the better!” With a moth tattoo, you can express your creativity and opt for different styles and symbols that represent who you are. Moth tattoos don’t need to be basic and boring when you can make them bigger and bolder than anything you’ve ever seen.
4. A moth tattoo on the sternum
What about a sternum tattoo? When picking the perfect placement for your tattoo, don’t shy away from body parts you’re not used to seeing on your tattoo artist’s Instagram page. Sternum tattoos might not be for the faint of heart, but they’re worth your while – that’s for sure.
5. A sticker sleeve of moths and butterflies
We’re more than happy to get you to hop on the sticker sleeve trend! Sticker sleeves are a great way for you to collect different tattoos, get creative, and opt for designs you might not go for otherwise. Sticker sleeve tattoos of moths, butterflies, and similar winged beasts are a great place to start.
6. A death moth collarbone tattoo
Death moths are strikingly large, but they’re mostly known for the skull-like markings on their thorax that make them appear scarier than they are. With that in mind, though, death moths are seen as omens of death, and that’s one of the reasons why they’re a popular tattoo motif, too.
7. A silk moth tattoo on the forearm
Silk moths are *a lot* cuter and cuddlier. Silk moths are typically seen as symbols of vulnerability and fragility, but they’re tougher than you might think. With a silk moth tattoo on the forearm, you can show the world what you’re made of.
8. A matching moth tattoo
We’re obsessed with matching moth tattoos, too! Whether you want to celebrate your anniversary or commemorate your friendship, you can opt for a tattoo of a moth to represent all the way your relationship grew and developed over time.
9. A moth tattoo under the knees
What a great placement, right? When you’re unsure of where to put your moth tattoos, you can always opt for your knees, thighs, or even shins. With the right tattoo artist, you can create a true work of art.
10. A moth sternum tattoo with a moon and stars
We’ve got another sternum tattoo coming your way! Moths work wonderfully with celestial symbols (for obvious reasons), and you might be on the lookout for designs that consist of stars and sparkles. We’ve got your back.
11. A moth tattoo on the thigh
Moths might not be mighty, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t make them bigger and bolder with a few tweaks. A moth tattoo on the thigh, for example, can be a great way for you to work with your tattoo artist on a piece that takes up quite a lot of real estate.
12. A traditional moth tattoo on the upper arm
We can’t forget about traditional tattoos! Traditional tattoos are characterized by complex color palettes and bold black outlines that might not be everyone’s cup of tea. That being said, though, traditional tattoos deserve a spot in the spotlight, nonetheless.
13. A traditional moth tattoo on the knee
Traditional moth tattoos are bright and bold, and they’re perfect for people who want to attract attention and turn heads everywhere they go. Traditional or not, they’re an excellent way for you to step out of your comfort zone and explore the world outside of “safe” styles.
14. A tattoo of a moth with cat eyes on the shoulder
A moth and a cat? Absolutely!
When working on the overall design of your tattoo, don’t shy away from bringing your ideas to life. A tattoo of a moth with cat eyes might not be at the top of everyone’s tattoo bucket list, but that’s not your problem – you do you, boo.
15. A crystal moth tattoo on the back
We’re obsessed with how whimsical and vibrant this tattoo is! If you’re on the hunt for something different, something you’ve never seen before, you might be interested in bringing this tattoo to your next appointment!
16. A realistic Luna moth tattoo on the arm
Luna moths, with their lime-green wings and white bodies, are some of the most strikingly beautiful bugs out there. Whether you’re a fan of the species or you’re looking for a moth tattoo that’s going to leave everyone gasping for air, we suggest you opt for a Luna moth tattoo.
17. A Bian Lian moth on the elbow
Bian Lian is an ancient Chinese dramatic art form in which the performers wear bright, dramatic costumes with vividly colored masks and move to quick, rhythmic music. We love the fact that this tattoo was inspired by one of the most well-known Chinese art forms. What do you think?
18. A realistic death moth on the back
Realistic tattoos might require time, effort, and energy, but there’s something about them that screams “I’m willing to do anything to get what I want!” With a realistic moth tattoo on your back, you’ll be reminded of all the ways you’re working on yourself.
19. A moth tattoo with eyes on the thigh
Now, certain moths have their eyespots hidden on their hindwings which they use to scare away any predators. Needless to say, you can use your moth tattoo to do the same thing.
20. A fine-line moth tattoo on the arm
We’re ending the article with a fine-line moth tattoo! Fine-line tattoos are becoming more and more popular among youngsters, celebrities, and influences because they’re more simple and subtle than “regular” tattoos. Fine-line tattoos use thinner and more intricate lines to create interesting images.
