The carnation tattoo might be the one to depict love other than a rose. It is a symbol of affection, romance, admiration, fascination, friendship, and deep bonding.
Carnations appear as delicate tattoos, just as flowers do. Nevertheless, its dimension can be heightened by using colors, ink strokes, and the inclusion of other flowers, objects, or a definite message. Whether minimal, vibrant, bold, or edgy, it will always carry the calming energy of a blossoming flower. As well as that, varying the tattoo’s colors may emit distinctive auras.
While it’s possible you have a few ideas or lots, you may find more inspirations from our list of 25 awesome designs. Hoping they’ll pique your interest and guide you to a decision you’ll love.
86 Carnation Tattoo Designs and Meanings
Carnation tattoos may appear alone or in a bunch, linked to words, sometimes in B&W and vibrant colors. Though they convey the same sentiment of love, the proportions and the addition of other elements may change how the tattoo design feels.
For example, compared to roses and carnations, a carnation paired with a snowdrop can symbolize rebirth. Additionally, purple is associated with wildness, while pink and red express gratitude and love. Yellow carnations, in contrast, may denote disdain.
Carnation Flower Tattoo
A carnation flower tattoo is the most traditional one, as it carries a straightforward meaning. It is best to have this type of tattoo if you are solely focused on the flower’s symbolism. Here are some inspirations to get you started.
1. Carnation With a Message of Hope
The positive message linked to this carnation flower speaks admiration and will certainly lift the spirits. This tattoo here features an extended line, which would look excellent on both the forearm and the lower leg.
2. A Trio of Blooming Carnations
The blossoming carnations may be symbolic of close relationships, bonds, and affection. Besides, the delicate flowers with thin black lines definitely give the tattoo a character. Apart from the forearm, it would look perfect on the calves or backs of the arms.
3. Carnation in Full Bright Bloom
With vibrant blooms, this large carnation would look gorgeous on the forearms or back of the arms. Here the light pink evokes affection, but bright colors and bold sizes would convey your zest for life.
Simple Carnation Tattoo
This tattoo style emphasizes the flower primarily, with the flower at its center and dominating the tattoo. Furthermore, it can be accentuated by vibrant colors. Moreover, adding simple words or names to the tattoo could enhance its appeal. For inspiration, take a look at these samples.
4. A Bright Carnation With Snowdrop and Bee
From the wrist to the elbow, this vibrant carnation tattoo with snowdrops wraps the entire front forearm. Here the contrast between the fully bloomed carnation and the smaller snowdrop could suggest triumph over obstacles.
5. A Family of Carnations
The tattoo reminds us of a family bonded by love. Due to its monochrome and thin lines, it may appeal to those who prefer subtle yet edgy character over bold, bright ones.
6. Carnation With Old-Fashioned Letters
A beautiful standalone carnation tattoo with vintage letters is for the one who seeks a soft vibe yet is ready to reflect strong sides. Besides,
its slender shape may make it suitable for the front of forearms, sides, and torso sides.
Carnation Tattoo Designs
A carnation tattoo design can be inspired just by the flower itself. It is possible that all carnation tattoos, regardless of their elements, are symbolic of love. Moreover, the meaning could be influenced a little by adding colors, changing strokes, or other features without changing the primary purpose. Here are some samples to give you some ideas.
7. Carnation With Smudged Ink
This carnation tattoo, slightly smudged, gives off a whimsical impression. By adding a name or a motivating word could definitely bring more depth to it. Besides the forearm, the tattoo would also look great on the back of the arm.
8. Carnation Trio in Bright Red
The carnation tattoo is like one of those still paintings portraying adoration and beauty. In addition, its bright red color absolutely speaks love. Further, its slender shape complements the front and back of the forearm, calves, and torso.
9. Arched Carnations in Pairs
Although this tattoo placement may be a little discreet, it is also indicative of someone who is bold and courageous. Hence, the color is monochrome. Besides, the arc shape accentuates the curve below the chest area.
Carnation Drawing Tattoo
The carnation drawing tattoo emphasizes the use of ink and drawing techniques while maintaining its meaning. It may largely depend on how the ink is applied; is it a fineline or bold?
While a fineline tattoo may look more subtle, bold strokes may seem overpowering. Some examples you might find helpful,
10. Old-styled Carnation in B&W
This is for those who love vintage and would love to have carnations to represent their passion. Additionally, its size could be interpreted as a strong symbol, as it dominates places like the forearm and back of the arm.
11. An Independent Carnation Tied to Word
A subtle yet strong tattoo like this could perfectly fit a persona who is simple while still having a strong mindset. Moreover, the shape with a word attached would be a perfect fit for body parts like the forearm, sides, and calves.
12. Carnations Paired With Snowdrops
A powerful symbol of overcoming obstacles, this dominant-sized tattoo has blooming carnations connected to snowdrops. Note that, the size is striking, and so does the meaning. A tattoo such as this would perfectly accentuate the upper arm back and the front forearm.
Minimalist Carnation Tattoo
The minimalist carnation tattoo speaks for something delicate yet powerful. Furthermore, the piece should not be too big, crowded, or dominating. Plus, a few additional elements or colors might contribute to the depth, however. Below are some examples to look for.
13. A Carnation With A Name That You Adore
The way this tattoo combines minimalism with boldness together with the blooming flower makes it really stand out. The addition of favorite names or a powerful word is another great idea. Just like the image, it would look great on the sides and front of the arms.
14. Carnations Blooming in an Embrace
With the petite size and thin line, it is subtle and conveys the softest of affections. Moreover, the no added color gives it a muted yet elegant appearance. Due to its size, it’s a great choice for wrists and front and side forearms.
15. The Bright Carnations
Combined with vivid red, these two carnations exude valentine energy. Although they aren’t roses, their embraced assembly and hue could perfectly convey love. Just as on the ankle, it would look stunning on the wrist as well.
Traditional Carnation Tattoo
A traditional carnation tattoo depicts a conventional yet timeless design. Look for the small hints and details in the drawing techniques, stroke ideas, and colors and more.
Moreover, the tattoo could either be overpowering with a large carnation flower, colorful with vibrant colors, or simple with just a carnation and a few wise words to accompany it. Check out these examples for more inspiration,
16. Big And Bright Carnation with Dates
With its vibrant colors, the tattoo represents a strong bond of love. Hence the overpowering size and strong hues. Besides, numbers could signify important dates. Further, it would look great on the forearms, back arms, and back of the hip.
17. A Carnation With An Uplifting Sentiment
This tattoo is pretty slender but has bold lines. As you imagined, it would speak of love but also express gratitude and sentiments that are positive. The tattoo dominates the forearm and would look great on calves as well.
18. Carnation Bouquet With Bee on Top
A glance at it instantly gives off a grand energy. Moreover, as a bouquet of carnations with a bee on top, it speaks of love for nature. Placing it on the arc of the shoulder blades brings emphasis to the area.
Carnation Snowdrop Tattoo
It is common to see carnations combined with snowdrops. In most of these tattoos, snowdrops appear in a bowing posture representing purity and rebirth.
At the same time, the carnation flower seems to be in full bloom. An overall meaning of this might be the revitalization of a person or the achievement through hardship. Check out these examples.
19. A Glorious Carnation With Snowdrop
Carnations in this tattoo radiate an aura, symbolized by the revival. This tattoo on your arm or back could reflect a positive vibe and may represent a new you. By adding your name or something that excites you will make it more personal.
20. Carnation, Cosmos, and Snowdrops
The combination of a cosmos and a snowdrop on this carnation is striking. With its overpowering size, it speaks of strength, yet the cosmos balances it, offering beauty and kindness. Moreover, the size could perfectly fit in the forearms, back arms, and back of the torso.
21. An Arrangement of Flowers
The carnation tattoo features roses, snowdrops, carnations, and more. In addition to representing honor, it could also be associated with a wedding. Besides the upper arm, it would complement the back arm and the lower back.
Rose Carnation Tattoo
Carnation tattoos with roses are also common examples of such tattoos. Both roses and carnations may have similar meanings, but the addition of roses could intensify the objective, adding more depth. Furthermore, we will often find either a rose or a carnation highlighted in the overall tattoo. The following are a few suggestions.
22. Carnations With A Rose
This carnation with the rose tattoo, despite its grandeur, portrays the soft emotion of love with flowers and a butterfly. Observe that, it is beautifully wrapped around the upper arm, a perfect place for such a grand tattoo.
23. Partially Bloomed Carnations
Carnations that are partially bloomed could equally convey love and affection. Moreover, the size of this tattoo is overpowering and would be an excellent choice for covering the entire upper arm. It would also look great horizontally on the back body part.
24. Rose and Carnation in Synthesis
The combination of rose and carnation in this tattoo exudate calming energy. Besides, the beautifully drawn image with clean lines and realistic details gives off a refreshing character. It would fit perfectly on a forearm or wrist beside the torso sides.
Carnation Bouquet Tattoo
There is usually an arrangement of flowers used in a bouquet of carnations that creates a dominant-sized tattoo. Therefore, this is an excellent pick when you wish to cover the entire area. Keep in mind that, different flowers with carnations might signify other emotions or accentuate the meaning. Here are some ideas to get you inspired.
25. A Bouquet of Carnation And Rose
This tattoo features a bouquet without being overpowering or crowded. Besides, there is a subtle energy emanating from the simple lines and monochrome tone. Besides being suitable for upper arm areas, it would also be attractive on the lower back.
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Carnation Heart Tattoo
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Carnation Shoulder Tattoo
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Dainty Carnation Tattoo
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Carnation Foot Tattoo
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Carnation Hand Tattoo
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January Carnation Tattoo
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Japanese Carnation Tattoo
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Carnation Mandala Tattoo
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Carnation Wrist Tattoo
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Carnation Capricorn Tattoo
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Carnation Forearm Tattoo
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Carnation Line Tattoo
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Carnation Memorial Tattoo
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Sagittarius Carnation Tattoo
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Blooming Carnation Tattoo
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Carnation Cross Tattoo
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Carnation Fish Tattoo
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Carnation Hip Tattoo
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Carnation Marigold Poppy Flowers Tattoo
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Carnations Bunch Tattoo
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Conclusion
New tattoos, such as carnations, are unique additions to the old tradition of rose tattoos. However, in addition to understanding its meaning, you must also admire the flower. By doing so, you will be able to choose a carnation that best speaks to your emotions.
Be it size, color, stroke, or arrangement of flowers, choose your pick carefully according to the emotion you want to convey. With our list of carnation tattoo ideas, you will hopefully get more inspiration and insights into such tattoos.
FAQ
Is rose or carnation more popular?
In the tattoo industry, roses are more popular than carnations. There are, however, a lot of tattoos that combine roses and carnations. Besides, carnation tattoos are becoming increasingly popular in recent years.
Are Carnations lucky?
A white carnation symbolizes purity and good fortune. Therefore, white carnations are a good choice if you wish to signify luck with your tattoo.
What is the negative meaning of a carnation flower?
A carnation flower, in all its colors, white, pink, and red, expresses love, affection, and positivity, but yellow may not. Yellow, in contrast, represents disdain, frustration, and rejection.
Why are carnations popular?
A carnation is a flower symbolizing devotion, love, and fascination. They could be a perfect swap for rose tattoos. People who don’t desire rose tattoos can attain their tattoo goal with a carnation tattoo.
Are carnations romantic?
The carnations flower, especially the red ones, speak of love and deep affection. So carnation flower tattoo is undoubtedly romantic.
Are carnations on trend?
For many years, it was overlooked due to its uninviting vibe. However, comprehending the depth of the meaning has contributed to its popularity in tattoos and flower businesses.
