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There are many designs for these Polynesian tattoos – from small patterns around the wrist to large bands with bold black stripes and many elements. In keeping with the Polynesian style tattoos, the ancient Hawaiian tribal tattoos were geometric in design, using triangles, squares, and rectangles. You can almost imagine your custom-designed tattoo as being designed with symbols you’ve chosen and then create it using those shapes or variations of those shapes. Remember, getting a Polynesian tattoo is not just about the design, but also about the cultural and spiritual significance it holds. Take the time to research and find an artist who understands and respects the traditions behind these tattoos, ensuring that your experience is both meaningful and authentic. In ancient Hawaiian culture, tattoos were more than just body adornments.
Floral Designs
Men often bring some life to their Polynesian tattoos with small red details. Polynesian islands are all surrounded by the ocean, and the people have a close and respectful relationship with the animals inhabiting it. The shark, while dangerous, also represents power, and gives the carrier of this pattern strength and courage.
Traditional Techniques and Tools Used in Polynesian Tattooing
If you want to keep up to date with fascinating Polynesian tattoo styles and learn more about this culture, keep reading the article. Also, we have collected the latest Polynesian tattoo designs for your inspiration. So, when choosing your tattoo artist, take the time to review their portfolio, and find an artist whose style and work you love. Trust them to create something unique and personalized for you that you'll love for years to come.
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Hawaiian Culture
There is a misunderstanding that there are spiritual connotations with Samoan tattoos. For example, the word ‘pe’a’ means ‘male tattoo’ and often refers to the dark charcoal-colored ink on the tatau. This is because an artist would actually cut the skin open using bone and add pigment to it. However, the Maori tattoo tools include cerated chisels and flat-bladed chisels, both of which cut deeper into the skin than most other Polynesian tattoo instruments. On the left, a tattoo carries a feminine symbolism, while the right is more masculine.
Meaningful Hawaiian Tattoo Designs To Try In 2024
These Polynesian tattoos for females often blend intricate floral designs with representations of the ocean's beauty and power. Flowers like hibiscus and plumeria are intertwined with waves and marine elements, symbolizing the deep connection between Polynesian culture and the sea. Turtle Polynesian tattoos for females hold significant importance in many Polynesian cultures, where they are highly valued.

There are even people who are not of Polynesian descent that enjoy these incredible tattoos today. For many, the unique designs represent things of importance in their lives. These intricate, beautiful designs continue to hold a special place in modern society.
Hawaii is known for following such a trend and they even have a famous name for it. It is called Ohana, which means an intimate group of people who grow, teach, feed, and learn from each other as a family. Looking at the gender, the left is customarily linked with women and the right to men.
Tiki God of Light and Life
Tattoos were, therefore, a mark of adulthood (which was reached at the age of 12) and of particular achievements, as well as being a sign of courage and strength. Only individuals who have passed a set of rites were permitted to get a tattoo, which would often signify their position and ranking within the local society.
Polynesian tattoo designs and meanings
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There are many different, slightly modified versions of enata you can commonly find in Polynesian tattoos. All in all, Polynesian tattoos speak of this symbiosis of man with nature, and the superhuman elements in all living beings. You can add elements that speak of this connection to make sure you’re respectful of the original Polynesian cultures. In recent years, Dwayne Johnson and other Hollywood stars with Polynesian origins have popularized tattoos in the traditional style of their cultures. Polynesian tattoos have made a significant impact on modern-day tattooing. Many people get these types of tattoos, even if they aren’t of Polynesian descent.
But the most popular ones are the statement pieces that are commonly inked by natives. These large tattoos incorporate essential elements from Hawaiian culture and represent the significance of ancient and tribal designs. A young artist in training often spent hours at a time, or even days, tapping designs into sand or bark-cloth using a special tattooing comb or au.
These creations are based on the wearer's wishes, ideas, life and story. Honu refers to the Hawaiian green turtle that represents unity, faith, good luck, and wisdom. The Polynesians and Hawaiians loved inking native flora and fauna on their body. This small yet aesthetic tattoo of a snake is perfect for those who love wildlife.
Her works immerse readers in the beauty and culture of Hawaii. This tiny yet attractive tribal neck tattoo starts behind the ears and goes all the way up to the middle of the nape. The intricate and colorful design make it stand apart from the rest. If you want to go for the original Hawaiian style tattoo, stick to an all-black tribal design like the one above for the classic Polynesian aesthetics.
Their tattoo design was and, still is, full of distinctive signs. Since many islands in the Pacific belong to Polynesian culture, tattoo styles vary. Traditionally, Polynesian tattoos were done in black ink, but modern tattoo artists have expanded the color palette to offer a wide range of options. Vibrant colors such as red, blue, and green are now commonly used to enhance the beauty and meaning of the designs. In addition to new colors, artists are also incorporating shading and dimension techniques to make the tattoos more visually appealing.