Tattoo linework. Meaning of tattoo linework. Sketches and photos of tattoo linework

Mainwork tattoo on forearm
Tattoo heart on forearm

The style of linework has a large number of admirers. Openwork and airy lines decorate the body with patterns or figures. The style has pronounced features, it is used for images of any size.

The advantage of the pattern is the small area of skin involved in drawing the lines. The style is no more than 5 years old. It is believed that it was created in the salons of New York.

What is linework

The name of the style comes from the phrase "linework" literally translated as "line work". It consists of the words "line" from the English "line" and the verb "work" - to work. It defines the basic principles of the technique.

The style came out of the Dotwork trend. Linework tattoo consists of straight lines. The creation of the tattoo is based on the use of a stroke drawing technique. The creation of the image consists of the use of perspective and visual effects.

Mainwork tattoo on the side
Tattoo on the side

Consistent arrangement of dots and strokes allows you to bring out a finished outline. When you look at it in detail, you can see that even densely filled fragments consist of thread-like lines.

Distinctive features of the style

Tattoos in the style of linework look like exhibits of modern art. Linear graphics combine the ideas of the direction of geometry and Dotwork. Mainly lines are used, but a point and oblique stroke are used to fill in certain elements.

Distinctive features:

  • openwork compositions;
  • the traditional colors of red, black and blue;
  • the use of geometric motifs;
  • The line as the main motif;
  • volume and perspective;
  • The variety of images, etc.

The linework style tattoos are performed with needles to score the outline. In terms of technique and execution, the work resembles graphics. However the direction is not so conservative in color and use of artistic techniques.

Linework tattoos - animals

Animals for some may have a special meaning (especially wolf and fox). Such a style provides for the performance of the drawing of almost any animal. Of course, some of them are more popular - the wolf and the fox.

Sketch of a wolf in linework style

Can look wolf on the body sketch in different ways. It all depends on the person who wants to draw a wolf on the body:

Linework style wolf tattoo

Drawing of a wolf in the style of linework on the legs

The photo shows two different images of a wolf, from a large scale to a small, minimalistic one. This feature shows the breadth of choice in the style offered.

Drawing of a fox for a tattoo

The fox sketch is made by any master. A typical example of a direction with a fox is shown in the photo:

The fox in the style of Linework can be as follows

Clearly executed lines, with a little addition make the fox tattoo really attractive, despite the dark shade. Similar fox drawings can be applied in bright colors:

Tattoo with a drawing of a fox can be done in color

Tattoo cat for girls

The sketch of a cat is no less popular than the other representatives of the animal world. It is also performed in different ways:

One of the variants of the sketch of a cat in the style of Linework on the hands for girls

You can also so depict a cat in linework style

Much, depends on the master and the vision of the client. It is necessary to have a clear idea of what exactly you want to put on the body. In some cases, professionals are approached with their own sketch;

A lion linework tattoo

The lion is preferably performed in the classic style of direction. A clear example of a lion in the photo below:

Sketch of a lion on a girl's body

Of course, this is not all the animals that can be applied to the body. In some cases, clients ask for images of eagles, rhinos, cheetahs, panthers and so on. The styles are not limited to the options listed above. They are simply the most popular.

Who it suits

The tattoo is ideal for creative natures. Among the bearers are many representatives of the acting and artistic craft. Wearers of the linework tattoo are versatile individuals.

Ornamental designs are suitable for girls. Young people prefer floral prints combined with geometry. Among the fans of the style, there are often fans of the direction of the mandala and Buddhist attributes.

By drawing on the body, the owners emphasize their exceptional attitude to the world. They are cheerful and outgoing members of the tattoo culture.

The innovative approach to image creation makes the drawing unique. The works are almost never repeated, which shows the bright individuality of the owners.

Tattoo in linework style for girls and guys

Linework style is universal for both genders. Because the direction is relatively young, there is no clear hierarchy of the image. The linework tattoo with patterns and pendants is preferred by girls up to 25 years old. Within the style for girls a rich selection of oriental and floral motifs.

Portrait tattoo on chest
Tattoo portrait on the chest

Young people more often stuffed with fractal drawings, geometric paintings and panels created in the image of sculptures. Men from 30 years make in the image of Buddhist symbolism. Popularity enjoy the muzzles of animals.

Popular style tattoos

In the first place are the muzzles of animals. The lion, bear, lynx and wolf are considered favorites among tattoos. Regal lions due to their mane and muzzle shape are especially popular.

The sympathy of girls received lineworks fox. Most often it is depicted in motion. Half of the body of the animal can consist of geometric shapes, the other half realistically depicts the anatomy of the animal.

The undisputed leaders are linework flowers. They are used as independent symbols, or in the composition of other elements. The floral theme came together with a set of traditional Dotwork figures. They are used to decorate the body of both women and men.

Popular places of application


The most sought-after and popular place for girls under the Owl tattoo is the front of the thigh of the leg. Sitting upright and looking with its huge eyes, the bird fits perfectly in this size. In addition, this part of the body is easily draped in case of a strict dress code.

Each of the areas of the body allotted to the tattoo has its own individual shape and different positions of the bird's body. So, for example, the raptor on the back and chest is often drawn with the wings spread to both shoulders, and on the arm from shoulder to elbow, looks good owl turned sideways.

On the neck is popular in the area of the Adam's apple, on it looks particularly effective owl head with expressive, large, as the wheels eyes. But it is better to be predetermined with his life path, as the area of the neck is open territory and is not in honor of government agencies, and society is not always looking through the fingers, and perceived as a sign of informal movement.

Compositions with other tattoo elements

Like many significant animals, deer also have the most sought-after combinations with other subjects, together giving a special individual meaning to the entire tattoo. Girls combine with flowers, men with arrows. If in the first case the drawing is peaceful, in the other it represents the obvious instincts of the hunter.

But there is another most common subject. A deer is depicted in its habitat - a forest filled with harmony. Often with the presence of water or a waterfall. The forest provides food, water removes thirst, and the mountains symbolize clean air. An idyll of tranquility and harmony with nature.

With whatever you combine the deer, other elements will be difficult to eclipse the proud loaf of the noble animal.

Tattoo ideas for girls

Each tattoo has its own meaning. Accordingly, girls should pay attention to both it and the logical location.

On the chest

Avoiding the soft area of the chest, you can get a shapely, voluminous tattoo. A common motif is an inscription in Latin. Only before applying, you should familiarize yourself with the meaning of the text. For girls, it is preferable to make the tattoo so that the short lines form a calligraphic font with spirals.

The second common theme of tattoos for girls is flowers. They can be applied in the upper and lower part of the chest, as well as displaying on the whole side. But it is worth remembering that in this case the linework is combined with other styles, and during the work use several bright hues.

Tattoo style linework for girls, men. Sketches, photos on the forearm, arm, hip

The meaning of the flower tattoo is different. He means:

  • life;
  • passion;
  • purity;
  • rebirth;
  • procreation;
  • death.

It all depends on the type of flower and its color.

On the collarbone.

You can paint a portrait of your favorite actor or musician on this spot. This is how popular Marilyn Monroe is with girls. It can be painted on the collarbone closer to the shoulder on one or both sides. Only the master must have the skills of a portraitist, because the similarity of the character and the symmetry of the tattoo play an important role. Women who apply this actress tattoo, trying to emphasize their feminine charm and attractiveness.

On the arm.

The image of the dream catcher will look originally and mysteriously on the back of the palm. It means awareness, wisdom, and contains a sacred, profound meaning.

Tattoo in the style of linework for girls, men. Sketches, photos on the forearm, hand, hip

On the inner side of the palm you can apply a pyramid with an eye - a radiant delta. Its meaning is all of the following meanings:

  • wisdom;
  • fire;
  • knowledge;
  • enlightenment;
  • conscience.

No backdrop is required.

On the forearm.

A linework tattoo depicting a fox is a frequent motif preferred by girls. The application emphasizes the sophistication, playfulness, wit and ambition of the girl. This style can be diluted with a Dotwork-style background and the fox itself can be painted over.

On the wrist.

The bracelet is a suitable option for a stand-alone tattoo and completing the already completed "sleeves". This is why it is so often chosen for application on the wrist.

Tattoo in linework style for girls, men. Sketches, photos on forearm, hand, hip

The main meanings are:

  • amulet for good luck and happiness;
  • Celtic bracelets mean self-confidence and strength;
  • of flowers, twigs and petals - charm and tenderness;
  • of hearts and romantic flowers - experienced emotions;
  • Of the words - the individual meaning.

Also applied bracelets emphasize brevity and romantic nature. If desired, they can easily be hidden under clothing.

On the leg

What can be put on:

  • Feet. An original idea is to mirror 1 panda (full-length or just a muzzle) on them. This symbol of China represents mercy, modesty and unpretentiousness. Bear coloring refers to the concept of Yin and Yang, resulting in a different meaning - the balance between feminine and masculine energy. In European practice, it means openness, virtue and trust. The vegetarians tattoo the image of this animal as a sign of emphasizing the fact that it eats only plant foods. The sketch is made up of black lines and white color is used when painting over it. If desired, a bamboo paw is added near the face. The image of a lotus near the panda adds a new meaning - wisdom. Even more original would be the application of the emblem of the World Wide Fund for Animal Welfare.

    Tattoo in linework style for girls, men. Sketches, photos on forearm, hand, hip

  • Ankle. A swallow, the symbol of the goddess Aphrodite, can be depicted on it. Girls ordering this tattoo, emphasize the beauty, youth, freedom and inspiration. Tattoo of the bird found in creative individuals.
  • Calves. Inscriptions and animals in women on this part of the leg is not as appropriate as the flowers. Preferably the application of large buds of peonies, roses, lilies. Leaves are added to them to complete the composition.

On the hip

Tattoo on the hip area of the leg adds subtlety and lightness of character to its main meaning. Bold, liberated girls stuff mesh lace with bows, flowers and arrows. The pattern is formed of short straight and curved lines of varying thickness. Thin and more sparse ones are applied inside the lace, thicker and closely spaced ones on the outside. In this way the master gets a realistic imitation. Under the bow, beads and other voluminous parts of the lace add shadows. There are no restrictions in the choice of color, as the tattoo imitates the accessory.

On the back

There is no specific area of application. For the tattoo, you can use the entire back, scapula and coccyx, as well as output it on the sides. The main condition - the tattoo must be neat and small. And only the wings are an exception.

Tattoo in linework style for girls, men. Sketches, photos on forearm, hand, hip

Similar to the angelic ones denote:

  • divine purity;
  • spirituality;
  • innocence.

All other wings become a symbol of a girl's love of speed and desire for superiority.

On the neck

Tattoos on the neck on the back side emphasize sensuality and sophistication of the personality. On the back side of this part of the body from the shoulder to the ear can be applied fern. Its ends can be on the left, right or both sides. A vertical twig can look rude if not complemented with rounded lines in the background.

Tattoo in linework style for girls, men. Sketches, photos on forearm, hand, hip

Until recently, this plant was painted on the body only by men to emphasize courage, boldness and spiritual strength. In women, the inflicted image of this plant denotes the presence of hidden talents, painlessness, and on the hand - and loneliness. This tattoo makes the neck visually thinner and more elongated.

Nature

For women

For men