Often known as highly powerful symbolic expressions, numbers can represent events, order, mathematics, destiny, or luck, and can even go beyond our Earth within the stars and planets. They have a relationship with all things in nature and can serve as guides to one’s own self-exploration.
Numbers have existed since man began to count. The numerals from zero to nine are Arabic numerals, on which medieval Europeans based our modern number system since Gutenberg invented moveable type.
Roman numerals, which are especially popular number tattoos, come from the decimal system based on the number 10. Roman numeral tattoos are usually used to remember and embrace certain events that are greatly important to us, like an anniversary, a birthday, the Superbowl, or the day a loved one passed.
Numbers are very flexible in meaning, which is why their significance differs for every individual. There are some general symbolic values that are known amongst everyone, but in most cases, numbers represent something personally known by the wearer.
For those more in tune with the spiritual world, numbers are linked to numerology, Tarot, or superstition. For example, everyone knows the lucky number seven! There’s an endless list of possibilities one can accomplish with number tattoo ideas.
This lovely little is a good example of a more ornate script used to enhance the visual appeal of a . Here, the 10 — no doubt holding some to the wearer — is created using a formal script that incorporates exaggerated serifs and filigree to produce a more interesting and personalized . The linework is consistent and fairly precise, although there are some small flaws in the fine line filigree work. The use of gray wash shading is well executed and helps to create a more dynamic .
This large black and gray piece is a great example of how striking a can be. The script takes some elements from Chicano lettering but uses a more restrained approach than some of the ornate that come from that style. The smooth gray wash shading and precise linework add contrast and really work to make the negative space pop. There is no doubt this has major to the wearer, and this piece is a testament to the ‘s skill and the wearer’s dedication.
This gruesome piece uses expert color gradation and shading to create a unique . While this design is definitely not for everyone, the skill and technique are impeccable; it really looks like someone carved the 629 into this ‘s arm. The attention to detail is also impressive. The artist used a lighter red tone outside the “cuts” to give the impression of the surrounding being irritated and inflamed. This piece is sure to turn heads and shock soccer moms.
This is a great black and gray of the 13, a commonly used that has held all kinds of meanings and connotations over the years. Here, the artist uses varying tones of gray wash in combination with even and precise cross-hatching to add contrast to this . The at the bottom of this piece is fully saturated and the outline helps give the a rough, jagged quality, while the use of splattered and dripping ink completes this design, helping create a more dynamic . This is a great example of what a simple concept can become with the help of a talented, creative .
This is an interesting design that incorporates numbers and symbols to create a unique . The ragged script evokes images of carved into wood, thanks to the consistent linework and fully saturated . The use of the natural lines of the elbow, with the numbers spiraling out from the center, works well and could hold some deeper . The and stylized script all work well in this and help give this possible occult/numerological piece a mystical quality.
This interesting design uses several different elements to create a unique take on . A binary code, falling like rain from a cloud, could represent the wearer’s profession as a programmer or their passion for mathematics. Or, it could also simply be a design they liked. Whatever the , this interesting black and gray uses excellent stipple shading to create raindrops and uniform, well-saturated linework to create clouds and numbers. This is a great example of the way numbers can be combined with other design elements to create a one-of-a-kind .
This is a classic that evokes images of racecar numbers and old-school Americana. The overall design is even and well-balanced, and the on the back of the arm above the elbow ensures that the wearer can regularly show it off. The linework is precise and consistent, and the gray wash shading within the numerals, as well as behind them, is smooth and increases contrast, helping the numbers to pop.
This is a great piece that effectively uses gray wash to create texture and help it stand out from other . The artist uses varying gray tones to perfectly create the impression of script chiseled in aging marble, evoking images of the Parthenon and Greek art. The linework used to create the cracks completes this effect, while the organization of the text creates a well-balanced composition. This is an interesting design that demonstrates the artist’s skill in creating realistic, life-like textures on the body.
Here is a great that uses different shading techniques to great effect. This piece also makes use of alternating geometric and natural patterns that come from Polynesian designs. The diamonds at the top of the piece, as well as the rolling waves, are all common elements in these tribal tattoos and are perfectly executed here. The precise and consistent stipple work, as well as the smooth lines and saturated black, show off the artist’s patience and diligence and help to set this interesting apart from other pieces that incorporate numbers.
