In this post you'll find out what the most popular flowers often mean, which style suits you and where a flower tattoo looks best.
Why a flower?
A flower grows, blooms and comes back every year. That's why many people see a flower tattoo as a symbol of growth, a fresh start or a memory of someone. You can choose a flower for its meaning, or simply because you think it's gorgeous. Both are great.
What does a rose tattoo mean?
The rose is the classic among flowers. A red rose often stands for love and passion, while a white rose is often seen as a symbol of new beginnings or remembrance. A rose with thorns shows that something beautiful can have sharp edges too. Roses work in every size: from a mini rose behind your ear to a large rose on your forearm or shoulder.
Other popular flowers
- Sunflower: it turns with the sun, so it often stands for positivity, warmth and joy.
- Lotus: it rises out of muddy water, which is why it's often seen as a symbol of strength and starting over.
- Daisy: small, sweet and simple. Often chosen as a sign of innocence or as a reminder of childhood.
- Tulip: the flower of the Netherlands. A lovely choice if you want to carry Amsterdam with you forever.
- Birth flower: the flower that belongs to your birth month, or to someone you love. A personal idea without needing any text.
Which style suits your flower?
- Fine line: thin, delicate lines. Perfect for a small, refined flower.
- Minimalist: just the outline, sometimes drawn as one continuous line. Simple and timeless.
- Realistic or black and grey: with shading and depth, so you can almost feel the petals. Looks best with a bit more size.
- Colour: a red rose or a yellow sunflower really pops. Ask your artist which colours are possible and work well on your skin.
Where does a flower tattoo look good?
Flowers are super flexible. A stem follows the line of your forearm, collarbone or ribs beautifully. A small rose fits behind your ear, on your ankle or on your wrist. A bouquet or vine can fill a larger area, like your shoulder or thigh. Thinking of a tiny flower on your finger? Read Finger tattoos first, because tattoos there tend to fade quickly. Also keep in mind that very fine details soften a little over the years. Your artist will advise you on the size that suits your design and placement.
Tips for your flower tattoo
- Bring inspiration, but let your artist turn it into a design that fits your body.
- Think about the shape of the spot. A long stem suits your arm, a round bloom suits your shoulder.
- Plan ahead. A fresh tattoo has to stay out of the sun while it heals, so keep your holiday plans in mind.
- Think long term. A big floral piece on your belly, hips or thighs moves with your body. Read how weight loss and weight gain influence your tattoos.
Aftercare for your flower 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
Can a flower tattoo be really small?
Yes, but the smaller it gets, the simpler the design needs to be. Your artist will tell you honestly what will stay readable at your size.
What does a rose with thorns mean?
Often that love and beauty can come with pain or hard times too. But in the end, you decide what your rose means.
How much does a flower 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 bloom?
Your tattoo by Ivor
Ivor Keserovic has been part of Piercings Works from the very beginning and has been tattooing for 10 years. He wrote the book series for the Basic Tattoo Course (in Dutch), teaching young people to tattoo and passing on his knowledge. Check out his work on Instagram, send him a message on WhatsApp (+31 6 8187 6076) or book your appointment directly.
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 flower with our artist.