37 Geometric Tattoos That Play With Lines and Shape

Geometry isn’t just for high school! Characterized by its use of lines and shapes, geometric design is a fashionable choice for tattoos. Geometric tattoos range from traditional, such as tribal designs, to modern, with fractal interpretations of animals and other subjects.
What makes a design “geometric” is somewhat open for interpretation, at least for tattoos. At its most basic, all geometric designs are based on math. Because of that, there is a pattern and consistency found in truly geometric tattoos. However, you and your artist don’t have to run any calculations to create a killer geometric or geometric-inspired tattoo. Read on for some great examples!
Geometric Tattoos
Photo by JJ Jordan on Unsplash

Beautiful Geometric Tattoos

There’s a reason that many tribal and ancient tattoos are geometric – the combination of lines and shapes makes for a pleasing pattern. Mandalas are a great example of a traditional design that is geometric by nature.

Other designs range from ancient to modern but always use shapes and lines to form an effective and intriguing pattern. We love how nicely a geometric tattoo can fit on every part of the body.

 

 

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This one is still in the concept stage, but whoever claims it from the artist will have one gorgeous inked collar.

 

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Tattoos with Shapes as an Accent

Geometric shapes don’t always have to be the focus of a great tattoo – they also make for a chic accent. A realistic figure might be surrounded by lines and shapes or restricted to fit within a particular form. This mashup of styles adds a transcendent and beautiful element to the tattoo.

 

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Modern Geometric Animal Tattoos

Using geometric shapes and lines instead of organic forms gives an animal tattoo a decidedly strong and modern appeal. These tattoos are often done in the black and grey or blackwork styles, though watercolors and other elements can be used for a unique effect as well.

 

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Sometimes the combination of a geometric and realistic or illustrative style can make ink particularly striking. Adding color to the eyes really ties the two opposing halves of the tattoo together.

Lotus Flower and All-Seeing Eye Tattoos Gone Geometric

Lotus tattoos are highly desirable, thanks to their symbolism and beauty (for more on that, check out 25 Amazing Inks to Inspire Your Lotus Flower Tattoo). A lotus tattoo done in (or surrounded by) a geometric style adds a fresh take to a traditional motif.

 

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The all-seeing eye symbol has its roots in many of the same traditions as the lotus flower. Here are two incredible examples of this ancient emblem done in the geometric style.

 

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Geometric Tattoos for the Kneecap

It’s not often that we get to feature a whole section on kneecap tattoos. However, we found enough incredible geometric options for the knees to give these underrated tattoos the credit they deserve.

 

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Full Sleeves for Your Arms or Legs

When you’re planning a full arm or leg sleeve, a geometric design is a great choice. It can be as simple or as intricate as you desire. Either way, it promises one large, cohesive pattern across the entire limb.

 

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And if an arm or two isn’t enough, there’s always the option to go for a full geometric suit. This woman’s dedication to her body art is admirable.

Subtle Geometric Tattoos

As incredible as a full-body geometric design may be, some people may want something a little more subtle. So here are a few great examples of smaller and simpler geometric tattoos.

 

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And we can’t help but include this smart cover-up tattoo with a geometric heart and a strategically placed splash of watercolor in the background.

 

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For the Math Lovers

This last one takes us full circle. If you’re really into geometry as a study, there’s always this ode to the shape of math to put your love on display.

 

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For more tattoo inspiration and information, check out our entire collection of tattoo articles!

 

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