Name tattoo ideas and fonts
A name tattoo is one of the most personal designs there is. The forearm piece pictured is a dog portrait with the name in script beneath it. Here are ways to write a name, and what to think about first.

Names and permanence
A name is permanent, and relationships can change. Names of parents, children, siblings and pets are the usual choices. For a partner, many people choose initials, a date or a symbol instead, which keeps the tattoo meaningful whatever happens. The decision is yours, and the artist can show how each option looks.
Ideas to start from
- Flowing script
- A connected, handwritten look, with a long tail on the first or last letter.
- Signature or handwriting
- The name exactly as the person writes it, traced from a note or a card.
- Initials
- One or two letters in an ornate or minimal style, often with a small symbol.
- Name with a symbol
- A name below a flower, a crown, a heart or a small animal.
- Name under a portrait
- A portrait with the name in script beneath, as in the dog portrait above.
Styles that suit it
Where to place it
Names sit well on the forearm, the wrist, the collarbone, the ribs and the side of the chest. A long name needs a long space, so a forearm or a rib line works better than the wrist. Letters need room to breathe, because tight lettering blurs as skin ages.
Healing and aftercare
Check the spelling aloud and in writing before the appointment. If the name is in another script, have a native reader confirm it.
Read the full aftercare guide.
Questions people ask
What font should I choose for a name tattoo?
Script fonts look personal, and plain fonts look clean. The artist can show a few options with your name on your skin before inking.
How small can a name tattoo be?
A short name can be small, but each letter needs space. The artist will suggest a size at which the letters stay clear.
Can I use someone’s handwriting?
Yes. Send a clear photo of the writing, and the artist can trace it as it is.