When deciding to get a textual tattoo as opposed to an image, whether it’s a quote from the Iliad or the name of a child, the font is as important as the words themselves. Choosing a font that is evocative of the message conveyed by the tattoo itself can make the tattoo much more appealing.
Location of Tattoos and Types of Ink
The placement of a tattoo will have an impact on how large the lettering can be, so it’s important to consider the amount of space into which the design will be placed. If a tattoo is going in a small area, like a wrist or ankle, choosing a simple sans serif font may be wise; extra curls and flourishes can take up too much space and make the text unreadable.
White and brown ink tattoos make a great alternative to darker inks; because they more closely match skin tones, they can be placed in visible areas with less concern about having a tattoo in a professional setting. Although getting a tattoo in an easily covered area is often advisable, different types of ink have increased the amount of space available for tattoos.
Various Font Types and Designs
The font chosen for a text tattoo is important in representing the intended message of the tattoo. While tattoos are inherently personal types of expression, by their nature they are also social and observed by other people; for someone who wants a tattoo solely for themselves, getting an easily covered tattoo is usually the best option. However, a specifically designed font that is challenging to read is also an option –this will allow the tattoo to be accessible to its wearer, but less so to others.
Depending on the message of the font, there are varying types of fonts to choose from. Most tattoo parlors and artists will have either a book or album of fonts from which a tattoo can be made, or patrons can bring in a typed version of the tattoo from which a stencil can be made.
Handwritten tattoos are an excellent way to really personalize a text tattoo, additionally; having a piece of text in one’s own script or block lettering will make a personal piece of body art even more personal.
Font Size
Another important consideration for someone wanting a text tattoo is the size of the font; letters that are very small may blend into one another over time, especially with white ink tattoos. Larger letters may be harder to conceal or alter later on, but are easier to make detailed.
Choosing the size, location and design of a text tattoo can be a challenge, but for someone with a word or phrase that can only be made meaningful through the use of body art, these challenges are all simply part of the expressive process.
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