25 Unforgettable Tattoo Typefaces for a Lasting Impression

Deciding to get a tattoo means embracing art that becomes a permanent part of you. With the possibility of removal being distant and, frankly, often not pursued, choosing a tattoo involves making sure you’ll be content with it indefinitely.

The choice of font in your tattoo is crucial, especially for text that encapsulates a belief, a personal mantra, or someone’s name. For instance, a whimsical script like Comic Sans might not hold its humorous appeal forever, especially with something as bold as “Meat is Murder” emblazoned in it.

Sifting through the sea of fonts available, it’s important to select one that stand the test of time on your skin.

Font Selection Tips for Tattoos

For tattoos, it’s best to pick fonts that transition well into the freehand skill of tattoo artists. Organic styles like Blackletter and cursive are forgiving for slight skin irregularities, while precise geometric fonts might prove challenging on the body’s curves and as the skin changes over time.

Consider these factors for font selection:

Text design: Think about the actual content you’re planning to ink. For instance, a font that emphasizes a stylish ‘g’ is irrelevant if your intended text is “Jessica.”

Ink placement: Skin varies across the body—in thickness, exposure, and stretching over time. Detail-heavy designs may blur or require future touch-ups.

Design orientation: Take into account the angle at which the tattoo will be viewed. An arm tattoo looks different when your arm is raised versus at your side.

Design size: Large or small, the design has to be manageable for the artist. Details on a micro tattoo might not last as well as bold, simplistic fonts.

Font treatment: Will your tattoo have shading, outline, or color? Not all fonts lend themselves well to every style.

When in doubt, consult your tattoo artist! Their expertise can guide you through what will heal and age gracefully and they may even craft a unique font based on your preference. Lettering specialists can be especially helpful here.