Feather tattoo designs are some of the most in-demand designs. Although they originated in the ancient Celtic time, nowadays they are known for their simple and elegant look.
There are a lot of variations of these tattoos. If you have fair skin then colorful designs that pop out will look great. There are also variations for darker skin tones too.
Typically, there will be other elements & styles added to enhance the look of these designs. Especially, filigree style and monochromatic themes are heavily used with them.
In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about these mind-blowing tattoos and their meanings. Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Feather tattoo meaning, ideas, and designs
A feather tattoo means glory, freedom & free spirit. Depending on the design it can be charming and beautiful or aggressive and dominant. They are suitable for both men and women. If you have darker skin try to get the ones with less color to get the best look. Here are some of the best feather tattoo ideas and designs for you to try.
Peacock Feather Tattoo
Peacock is one of the most beautiful birds in this world. Their feathers are a sign of beauty and confidence. They are used in many designs with other elements or incorporated with other variations
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1. Flower Pulp & Feather
Source: clodin_93
The Peacock feather is a symbol of self-confidence & the yellow flower pulps are a sign of softness. The colors on this feather tattoo create a great contrast.
2. Thick Burb
Source: tonistirling
This peacock feather in particular has thick burbs in the bottom. However, they transition to silk and thin variation on the top. This tattoo shows the gradual transformation of life.
3. Blueish Feather
Source: ldayvee
The tattoo on this man’s hand has a blue peacock feather. The colors are primarily blue with a yellow and purple design at the center. A fantastic feather tattoo suitable for men with fair skin.
Small Feather Tattoo
Smaller tattoos are quick and easy to get. They can also be less expensive. They are perfect for forearms and legs. Typically the feathers are tiny in these designs.
4. Infinite Joy
Source: inkoholics_tattoo
There is a tiny bird feather included in this infinity tattoo. The word joy suggests that the person is fun-loving. This piece gently rests on this man’s wrist. A good choice for a small tattoo.
5. Side Forearm Feather
Source: tattoomija
The side of this women’s forearm is inked with this minimal and elegant quill. It goes nicely with her skinny forearm. It’s better suited for persons who have skinny arms.
6. Black Shaft
Source: cosmiccataclysmart
The artist has inked the shaft of the feather with a bold dark color. It stands out from the rest of the burbs which are also light black. A minimal feather tattoo on the wrist of a woman.
Eagle Feather Tattoo
The eagle is the king of all birds. They are might and a symbol of protection & dignity. Eagle feathers add more character to feather tattoos. Usually, they are slightly bigger and suitable for thighs, back, chest & arms.
7. Eagle Quill
Source: lemonade_ben
There is a massive feather of an eagle on the left arm of this young man. The brown and black colors are used brilliantly to transition from a light color to a darker tone. A great feather tattoo suitable for men arms.
8. Tri Feathers
Source: bunny.lucrest
Three disconnected eagle feathers are falling freely. There is also a name and date with them. It might represent a brave soul that he wants to remember.
9. Eyes & Mouth
Source: not2tipicall_ink
This feather is covered with some abstract paintings. It looks like an eye and some displaced mouth and other body parts. It spreads a creepy video. The three red dots suggest that it’ll continue to haunt.
Indian Feather Tattoo
Indian design of feather tattoos usually contains colorful pearls and beads. They represent the Indian heritage and hunting culture.
10. Button Feather
Source: darzeeer
A pair of quills are tied to a button. It looks great on his thigh. The beads and lace suggest that it was a part of an Indian fashion item. A feather tattoo that represents Indian design.
11. Forearm Button & feather
Source: blacklabtattoo
This man’s forearm is decorated with an old-fashioned Indian feather tattoo. The button has some red marks and two quills are tied nicely at the center. The black feathers add some extra depth to the piece.
12. Feather Pen
Source: the_lambo_scoundrel
A unique and colorful feather is cut in a way that looks like a pen. There are some blue and red pearls in a thread that is tied to the bottom of the shaft. It can also be used as a patchwork tattoo.
Feather To Bird Tattoo
Feathers & birds are often used together to show the transformation. It usually shows the process of being transformed into a new being from something different.
13. Burb’s Transformation
Source: warhippietattoo
An eye-catching thigh feather tattoo on a woman. The burbs of the feathers are tearing away from the shaft and are transformed into small birds. Although the tattoo is monochromatic it has a stunning design. It’s suitable for people with all skin tones.
What does feather and bird tattoo mean?
Feather & bird tattoos are closely related. Feathers are a part of a bird’s body. Feather and bird tattoos together mean how we leave things being when they are not needed anymore. They also mean moving forward from the past.
14. Parents To Child
Source: viciousink_tattoo_studio
Two parent birds are sitting on the base of the quill and at the end are two young birds flying away. It represents how parents help to transform their children to grow. A tattoo that highlights parenting.
15. Circling Birds
Source: tattedup717
A flock of birds drawn with just black ink is flying around the massive plume. They are circling around it in a group. It teaches us about following instructions and giving leads when needed.
Feather Arrow Tattoo
The arrow is an old hunting weapon & adding feathers to it helps it to gain stability. Feathers can also be used as a distraction too. The creation between arrows and feathers is highlighted in these designs.
16. Arrow Tail
Source: samsara.studio
The tail of this arrow is so big that it looks like the arrowhead was added to the feather instead of the feather being added to the arrow. This will only look good on display but will lose functionality.
What does a feather arrow tattoo mean?
A feather arrow tattoo means precision and target setting. It is used to describe how we can set targets and achieve them with accuracy. It can also mean a deadly force from a far distance.
17. Ankle Feather Arrow
Source: tysontattoo
The side of the feet of this individual is inked with a black arrow with a feather on the tail. Although it might be small, it is certainly painful. Only go for this one if you are ready to tolerate the pain.
18. Swirling Feather
Source: inkheart_tattoo_shop
A minimally designed feather tattoo on the back of this lady is looking stunning. The plume is swirling around the arrow just like a ribbon. It shows that there will be many distractions when you want to reach a target.
Feather Tattoos For Women
Feather tattoo makes women look more attractive and appealing. The softness of the feather highlights their hearts and feelings. There are loads of feather tattoos for almost every part of a woman’s body.
19. Extended Feather Transformation
Source: brunogiangiacomo
A massive tattoo on this woman’s body shows birds coming out of a feather. The design covers the back side waist and her abdominal region. If you can bear the pain and get this one you’ll be the main attraction whenever you’re on the beach or a pool.
20. Charming Feather
Source: helen_tinc_etherington
Do you want a design that looks charming and colorful? then this gorgeous forearm piece will be a wonderful choice. It has a charm to it. Also, the colors in the middle make it pop.
21. Strong Shaft
Source: inkgarage_brooklyn
The shaft is the main base where the burbs of the feather grow. This men’s side chest feather tattoo has a very strong shaft. It means that they can tolerate some force just like the man.
Behind The Ear Feather Tattoo
Behind the ear is a painful place to get tattooed. However, the designs look stunning. Feather tattoos on the back of the wars are usually monochromatic or use very few colors.
22. Butterfly Like
Source: 1nkhouse
This tattoo looks very similar to a butterfly. However, If you look closely You’ll see that it’s actually two feathers. The red tie gives the illusion of the butterfly’s eyes. A delusional feather tattoo for girls.
23. Untied Quills
Source: gabriellenicole1895
The quills on the back of her ears look like they came loose from something. the thread is untied which made come loose. But it is still looking gorgeous on her. clear skin.
24. Filigree Behind The Ear
Source: inkfultg1
The design on the back of her neck consists of a mix between the filigree style and the feather tattoo design. There is also a moon hanging from the chains. If you want to have a filigree touch to your design this could be a good fit.
Feather Neck Tattoo
Whenever a feather is used as the main subject of a neck piece it’s considered a feather neck tattoo. They make men look more aggressive & dominant. Women on the other hand look elegant and charming.
25. Feather Outline
Source: chichi_tattu
The back of this man’s neck is covered with a tattoo that looks like an outline of a feather. This design goes well with his bearded face. It also added a touch of masculinity to his look.
26. Feather Wing
Source: larissatattoo
27. Crystalized Feather
Source: skullduggerytattoos
Feather Forearm Tattoo
28. Rainbow Feather
Source: actuallynesh
29. Feather Ankle-work
Source: totheninestattoo
30. Gentle Landing
Source: chlodrawss
Feather Forearm Tattoo
31. Metallic Feather
Source: tami.ink
32. Red Touch
Source: inkg.factory
33. Thick Feather
Source: lifeafterbeth_tattoo
Infinity Feather Tattoo
34. Infinity Colored Pair
Source: nicolekayetattoo
35. Infinity Love Feather
Source: murugan_tattoo_artist
36. Extended Infinity Shaft
Source: ruhit3937
Native American Feather Tattoo
37. Native Feathers
Source: mel_ociraptor
38. Bow Tied Feather
Source: emptyroomtattoos
39. Underarm Feather
Source: vale.bonelli
Turkey Feather Tattoo
40. Feather Bundle
Source: redbeards_living_canvas
41. Quill Text
Source: tattered71
42. Red Turkey Feather
Source: chucktat2
Colorful Feather Tattoo
43. Feather & Colored Birds
Source: fspiercing_tatto
44. Invisible Shaft
Source: tattooart6990
45. Sidearm Quill Tattoo
Source: leo_salcedo_tattoo
Cover Up Feather Tattoo
46. Sculpted Love
Source: carvillestattoostudio
47. Name Cover-up
Source: kandikotton
48. Black Cover-up Feather
Source: celebrityinkmelbournecentral
Phoenix Feather Tattoo
49. Peacock Phoenix Mix
Source: paintingisntdead
What does a phoenix feather symbolize?
A phoenix feather symbolizes rebirth. It can also symbolize pain and eternal life. Usually, they’ll burn anything that comes in contact with those.
50. Bleeding Colors
Source: cavalasphawkes
51. Flaming Feather
Source: illustrativeclassic
Watercolor Feather Tattoo
52. Blue & Purple Splash
Source: sarahchristinetattoos
53. Colored Mini Butterflies
Source: mariannedawn6
54. Black To Colorful
Source: inkvisible_tattoos
55. Swan Quill
Source: mad_s_tattoo
56. Mom
Source: studio89.bala
57. Shoulder Feather
Source: miss_lucypop
Feather Tattoo On Hand
58. Twisted Damaged Quill
Source: livsilkofficial
59. Side Wrist Feather
Source: mf_inks
60. Broken Feather Loop
Source: black_blood_tattooist
Wrist Feather Tattoo
61. Underhand Love
Source: americanbodyartlebanon
62. Fallen Wing Feather
Source: _dtmi_
63. Loops & Stars
Source: must_ink_tattoo
Feather Sleeve Tattoo
64. Protector Wing
Source: juanguevaratattoo
65. Hard & Soft
Source: owotattoos
66. World Grabber
Source: michiyo_bulle
Feather Finger Tattoo
67. Covered Finger
Source: alt_and_delete
68. Feather Flag
Source: matt.camp.982
69. Feather Dagger
Source: navigatingmyfifties
Feather Tattoo On Arm
70. Purple Curler
Source: frankie_needletattoo
71. Wind Meter
Source: tattoosipa.tetovanie_istebne
72. Bicep Quill
Source: brotherstattoosiliguri
Tribal Feather Tattoo
73. Tribal Feather Transformation
Source: chicomalox
74. Curled Ends
Source: claudio.benve
75. Tribal Turkey Quill
Source: carlos_and.tattoo
Cardinal Feather Tattoo
76. Crimson Feather
Source: reenyb61
78. Paw Footprint
Source: tinadimino
79. Red Burbs
Source: camhubeltattoos
Feather Name tattoo
80. Krishna Feather
Source: oceanblue_param
81. Glittering Feather Text
Source: tattoo__concept
82. Name Change
Source: ellie_simone_artistry
Feather Tattoos For Men
83. Initials & Heart
Source: vanillagorillatattoos
What do feather tattoos mean on men?
On men, feather tattoos mean free spirit. It also means that the man likes freedom and phase lots of courage. He’ll do anything to have his own independence & likes to give leads.
84. Aesthetic Quill Pen
Source: inkpanthers
85. Straight & Pointed
Source: mrjakextattoo
Hawk Feather Tattoo
86. Fading End’s
Source: black_inkdustries
87. Blue Love
Source: femme_fatale_tattoos
88. Tiger Mark
Source: robbiecorsino
Owl Feather Tattoo
89. Cheetah’s Eyes
Source: skagentattoo
90. Night Owl
Source: ride_wp_603
91. Weather Visualization
Source: gentlejentattoo
Raven Feather Tattoo
92.
Source: mrmunchalot
93.
Source: joshshrift
94.
Source: brianriggstattoos
Angel Feather Tattoo
95.
Source: magicaltattoosbypreeti
96.
Source: melancholy_tattoo
97.
Source: ugurpolat.tattoo
Crow Feather Tattoo
98.
Source: sammansbridge
99.
Source: lilyjtattoo
100.
Source: chili_con_farbe
Dave grohl Feather Tattoo
101.
Source: kabukitattoostudio
102.
Source: projetosamsara_
103.
Source: studio.maxtattoo
Black Feather Tattoo
104.
Source: coolkunttattoo
What does a black feather tattoo mean?
A black feather is often associated with darkness and pain. It symbolizes loss and grief. Usually, tattoos with black feathers mean that the person has some grief and loss that they want to share with the world.
105.
Source: socal_ink951
106.
Source: davekmtattoos
Dream Catcher Feather Tattoo
107.
Source: dali_tattooer
108.
Source: goyoutattoo
109.
Source: slv_tattooer
Rainbow Feather Tattoo
110.
Source: bone.orchard.tattoos
111.
Source: sheridizzleyo
112.
Source: ophelia.bespoke.tattooing
Red Feather Tattoo
113.
Source: lariblutattoo
What does a red feather tattoo mean?
Red is a color that symbolizes power and passion. A read feather tattoo means the person is very passionate and loves the feel of power. It also represents violence and freedom.
114.
Source: danii_artist
115.
Source: jheart.tats
White Feather Tattoo
116.
Source: bevk80
117.
Source: adelemagpies
118.
Source: ryze_tattoo
Feather Tattoo on Thigh
119.
Source: devindojah
120.
Source: jaime6tattoo
121.
Source: loveink.tattoos
Feather Memorial Tattoo
122.
Source: samanthagracetattoos
123.
Source: corni.tat
124.
Source: ladybossink
Traditional Feather Tattoo
125.
Source: marshallrathburntattoos
126.
Source: inscriptatattoo
127.
Source: serpentinetattoomachine
Blue Feather Tattoo
128.
Source: dollirium
129.
Source: tattoo.umg
130.
Source: mikey_vee_11
Chest Feather Tattoo
131.
Source: tombetchleytattoo
132.
Source: gaurav_patil77
133.
Source: radiantenergytattoo
Duck Feather Tattoo
134.
Source: valettijane
135.
Source: hendra_tattooss
136.
Source: corry_sauve_tattoos
Feather Wing Tattoo
137.
Source: yann_guitton_tattoo
138.
Source: thedappernomad
139.
Source: inkatattooflensburg
Realistic Feather Tattoo
140.
Source: andyrebbettsjones
141.
Source: pete_b_tattoos
142.
Source: pete_b_tattoos
Hummingbird Feather Tattoo
143.
Source: karinart_tattoo
144.
Source: thechaddhatter
145.
Source: fitratattoo
Butterfly Feather Tattoo
146.
Source: izzyinks
147.
Source: blxckdizztor
148.
Source: inoxbob
Conclusion
We hope these amazing feather tattoo designs we’re able to spark some interest in your creative mind. Feel free to add your own thoughts to them. When choosing a design just keep the placement in mind when deciding the size. A tattoo artist with good experience is always recommended for these designs.
Frequently Asked Question
How much would a feather tattoo cost?
A feather tattoo will typically cost $120 to $ 450.
Are feather tattoos cliche?
Well… Some designs that are generic are sometimes considered cliche.
Are feather tattoos offensive?
No. Feather tattoos are not offensive.
Are peacock feather tattoos bad luck?
No. In fact, peacock feather tattoos are believed to bring good luck.
How long does a feather tattoo take?
A typical feather tattoo would take one to three hours to get.