Some tattoos look like they could fly right off your skin. Butterflies, swallows and other birds have been among the most popular motifs for years, and we get why. They're light, graceful and full of symbolism. In this post you'll learn what they often mean, which style suits them and how to choose your design.
What does a butterfly tattoo mean?
A butterfly starts as a caterpillar, goes into a cocoon and comes out completely different. That's why a butterfly tattoo often stands for change, growth and a fresh start. Many people choose a butterfly after an important chapter in their life. A butterfly is also often chosen in memory of someone who's no longer here: light, colourful and always a little bit close.
Fun butterfly ideas:
- a small fine line butterfly on your wrist or ankle;
- a butterfly surrounded by flowers;
- a butterfly with one wing made from the fingerprint of someone you love;
- two half butterflies for you and your best friend.
What does a swallow tattoo mean?
The swallow is a true classic from old sailor tattoos. The story goes that sailors got a swallow as a sign they would make it home safely, because swallows return to the same place every year. That's why a swallow often stands for home, loyalty and coming back. Curious about the stories people carry in their ink? Read 10 life lessons people with tattoos can teach you.
Other birds and what they mean
- Birds in flight: a few small birds often stand for freedom and letting go.
- Owl: often seen as a symbol of wisdom.
- Hummingbird: small and fast, and often chosen as a sign of joy and energy.
- Eagle: often stands for strength and freedom, and works well as a larger tattoo.
Which style suits it?
- Fine line: graceful and light, ideal for small butterflies and birds.
- Minimalist: a few lines are enough to show a bird in flight.
- Realistic or black and grey: for a butterfly or bird with real depth, shading and texture. You'll need a bit more size for this.
- Colour: bright wings make a butterfly playful and cheerful. Ask your artist which colours are possible.
Great placements
Butterflies and birds fit almost anywhere. Think of your collarbone, shoulder blade, neck, ankle or the inside of your forearm. A row of little birds can follow a line beautifully, for example along your collarbone or up your ribs. Thinking of a tiny bird on your finger? Read Finger tattoos first, because tattoos there tend to fade quickly.
Tips for your design
- Choose what suits you. The meaning is lovely, but above all you should love the design.
- Mind the size. Very small wings with lots of detail can blur together over the years. Your artist will tell you what works.
- Think about movement. Wings that follow the shape of your body make the design feel alive.
Aftercare for your tattoo
You'll get aftercare advice from us, and everything is in our tattoo aftercare instructions (PDF). In short:
- healing usually takes about 2 weeks;
- touch your tattoo as little as possible, wash it twice a day with a mild, fragrance-free soap and pat it dry;
- if you like, apply a thin layer of Bepanthen Wound Cream or another suitable tattoo aftercare cream; regular Bepanthen only once your tattoo is fully healed;
- no Sterilon or Betadine, no plasters or bandages and no tight or dirty clothing over it;
- while it heals: no swimming pools, hot tubs, natural water, saunas or steam baths (showering is fine) and no sun or tanning beds, even with sunscreen; after that, always use a high SPF;
- extreme redness, swelling, pus or severe pain? Contact your doctor straight away.
Frequently asked questions
Is a butterfly tattoo just for women?
Not at all. Butterflies and birds are for everyone. A larger black and grey butterfly or a bold swallow looks just as good on a guy's arm.
Can I have a fingerprint worked into my tattoo?
Bring a clear print and talk to your artist about how to work it into your design and at what size it stays readable.
How much does a butterfly or bird tattoo cost?
That depends on size, detail and placement. You always get a personal quote. Read how the price of a tattoo is determined.
Ready to spread your wings?
Piercings Works has been around since 1998 and at Reguliersbreestraat 46, right in the heart of Amsterdam, since 2004. We hold a GGD licence, have more than 2,000 reviews and our team speaks six languages. We tattoo from age 18. Walk in or book a tattoo appointment in advance and talk through your design with our artist.