Cross tattoos are incredibly popular, and you don’t have to be a devout follower of any religion to have one on your skin.

Any tattoo artist can tell you that Celtic tattoo designs in general are always in demand. However, Celtic crosses are among some of the most popular cross tattoo designs. Celtic cross tattoos are full of intricate knot work, never ending and never beginning. Some people decide on Celtic cross tattoos simply because of their beauty. They do have deeper meaning than that to others though. Irish, Scottish, and Welsh descendants often have a Celtic cross tattoo to show their pride in their heritage. The cross also symbolizes constant spiritual development.

Another cross tattoo design that some may get because of their heritage is the Iron Cross. Originally the Iron cross was the symbol of the Teutonic Knights in the 14th century. Later it became a German military symbol in 1870. Today those who decide on Iron cross tattoos may decide on them because they stand for honor and strength. The Iron cross is a shorter version of the typical cross, along with it being wider at each end.

The Gothic cross generally has no religious or heritage based meaning behind it. Its basis is on the Christian cross, but it’s usually the center of attention in a tattoo design, along with things like knives, swords, or wires woven through it.

The Christian cross tattoo is obviously another very popular cross tattoo design. There are generally two main crosses that can then be interpreted artistically from the tattoo artist. The Latin cross is the simple wooden cross. The Crucifix is the cross with Jesus on it. It may or may not include the nails and the crown of thorns.

With any of these cross tattoo designs you can add whatever you need to make it your own. Some people decide to get a cross tattoo that also serves as an in loving memory tattoo. Tattoo artists can easily add a banner with names and/or dates to incorporate into your cross tattoo. Another popular idea is rosary beads with the cross at the end. A tattoo artist could work wrapping the beads around your wrist.

For less religious symbolism, some people like to have cross tattoos designed out of things that generally wouldn’t be considered a cross. For example, two swords crossing in the middle or a skull with the blades crossing through it. Others enjoy a simple wooden cross with vines or roses wrapped around it. The possibilities are endless.