From Simple to Making a Statement, Here Are 30 Cross Tattoo Ideas for Meaningful Ink

When it comes to tattoos many Christians reference Leviticus 19:28, which states: “You shall not make gashes in your flesh for the dead, or incise any marks on yourselves." However, there are many other people of faith who believe that to be either outdated or taken out of context.

While every person has different reasons for getting or displaying a tattoo, cross tattoos are generally thought to represent a certain faith or religion. From having this art featured in visible locations, like a forearm or hand, to places on the body that are less obvious, like your back or ribs, there are plenty of spots to sport some fresh ink.

No matter what your beliefs are, if you want to get a cross tattoo for any reason we have a great list of 30 cross tattoo ideas for inspiration!

What Does a Cross Tattoo Mean or Symbolize?

A cross is most closely tied to Christ and Christianity and/or Catholicism, as it is typically a symbol of faith. 

Ultimately, however, a cross tattoo can mean something different for each person. While cross tattoos that include scriptures seem to be more straightforward, one with designs, flowers or even a casket can be a bit more difficult to interpret.

If you see a cross tattoo that interests you and you want to know more about it, simply ask the person why they chose what they did. More often than not, tattooed people don't mind discussing their tattoos.

Where Should You Put a Cross Tattoo?

While there are certain areas of the body that are deemed more appropriate than others for certain tattoos, you can put a cross tattoo literally anywhere on your body that you want it to be. Do you want it to be easily visible? Put it on your arm or your wrist. Do you want it to be more hidden? Perhaps a spot on your back would be better for you. (Although based on personal experience, should you choose to put a tattoo on your back, you may forget about it from time to time!) If you want it to be visible but easily hidden, maybe somewhere on the ribs or your foot would be a good place. 

Another factor that should go into your decision on where to put a cross tattoo is your pain tolerance level. While the outside of the arm or the back are less painful areas, the ribs and on top of the foot are said to be the worst. Wrist tattoos fall somewhere in the middle, depending on where on the wrist you get inked. The closer to the hand a tattoo is done, the more painful it is said to be. The same goes for the forearm—the closer to the ditch of the elbow, the more painful. It's all about what you want and what you're willing to go through to have it!

30 Cross Tattoo Ideas

1. Done by Anna Wexler (AKA moonstonetombstone), in Austin, Texas, this subtly intricate cross is nothing short of a work of art.

2. This outline of a cross reminiscent of stained glass encompassed by rose thorns by kaizbeetattoos is such beautiful symbolism for what happened on the cross—both physically and metaphorically.

3. Located in Brighton, UK, tattoo artist kid__argos provides a look at how stunning the combination of tribal style and a cross can be.

4. The use of negative space in this band tattoo of a cross brings another perspective to what you can do.

5. A small cross on the outside of the hand is a delicate yet impactful touch.

6. This cross filled in on the wrist is bold yet just understated enough. Simple and straightforward is a great way to go if you're looking for a no-fuss tattoo!

7. An even smaller, simplistic cross tattoo on the hand is a beautifully subtle statement.

8. A crisp filled-in cross on the wrist with accompanying script is a popular choice, and for good reason! The combination is stunning.

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9. What better way is there to display your faith than with the word itself encompassing a cross? This dainty and clean script by chrisrayfordart_ is a wonderful minimalistic choice.

10. blvckmoon_tattoo provides quite a different, yet equally stunning, version of a cross tattoo. This ebony coffin with a negative space cross is made all the more interesting with the floral notes and spider web with an ensnared moth.

11. joojoobean_tattoo gives us this bejeweled cross, and what a beauty it is! This tattoo is reminiscent of medieval metal artwork.

12. This neotraditional cross outline by _jose_g_p_ is shaded just right, and provides a great example of why less can really be more.

13. The perspective on this cross tattoo by kid__argos is an exciting new angle as opposed to the straight-on crosses that make up the majority of this list. The movement of the slightly tribal accents really amp up this tattoo!

14. The combination of scripted "hope" and the continuing cross from eighthelementtattoo is a wonderfully clean option for those opting for a more subtle look.

15. Located in Ontario, Canada, tat2bymarlonm provides this intricate black and grey cross tattoo which stands out beautifully due to the rays of light and clouds in the background.

16. This subtle rendition of Christ on the cross from geztattoo is small yet impactful. The placement of this tattoo is rather ingenious as it's easily visible, but can still be hidden whenever you choose.

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17. This rosary tattoo from zaman_tattoo_studio has beautiful movement and wonderful shading and hints at medieval style. A perfect option for those who love the culture a rosary represents.

18. This cross tattoo style by kid__argos can also be interpreted to resemble a sword, which is a powerful homage to the battle Jesus fought to redeem humanity's sins.

19. This blank cross in the foreground of beautifully shaded roses by michealltattooartist is a great option for those who want to display a cross along with dynamic elements.

20. michael_tattoostudio provides a fresh take on the cross tattoo with a 3D illusion with crisp lines and perfect symmetry.

21. This minimalist cross tattoo can also be seen as a compass pointing to your true north. Show the world how you can move mountains with this interpretation of the cross.

22. Another coffin cross tattoo design by blvckmoon_tattoo is a beautifully rendered work of art. This is perfect for those who love both Halloween and their faith! (Yes, they can coexist.)

23. While this cross is the smaller portion of this tattoo by raebeat_tattoo, it's no less important! Settled underneath a crown and feminine floral elements, this cross seems to bloom into the true meaning of who is King.

24. This script tattoo from geztattoo is a great amalgamation of the design of a cross and the one who died on it. This is a great option for those who want a fresh take on "Jesus on the cross."

25. The word "strength" is made into a stronger statement with the addition of a cross, while another cross is made by combining both "wisdom" and "joy" in playful scripts. These would be wonderful additions to anyone's ink due to their simple yet impactful meanings.

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26. geztattoo provides a beautifully shaded cross made of lilies. The lily represents purity, rebirth and innocence, which is a perfect flower to combine with the cross!

27. The points of this cross by kid__argos resemble the fleur de lis, which is quite a stark difference from the previous lily cross tattoo, but it's no less impactful! The style of this tattoo looks similar to that of a stamp, which is pretty cool if you ask us.

28. geztattoo gives us a shining medieval-style cross tattoo with the scripture of Mark 11:24 included. That scripture states "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours". What a beautiful statement to carry with you!

29. This outline of a cross from michealltattooartist is centered on the back, just at the base of the spine. While the shadowing provides a subtly shiny effect, the crisp design is perfect for those who want a simple but strong cross tattoo.

30. This cross tattoo by ewetattoo includes the bold script of "strength" at the bottom of the cross, or the portion of the cross that was the foothold for Jesus that supported his body. This tattoo would be a good choice for those who want to make the statement that Jesus is their support and their strength.

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