Key Takeaways:
- Spider web tattoos come in various styles, with solid black being a popular choice for its bold and striking appearance.
- Depending on the wearer’s intent and design choice, these tattoos symbolize strength, unity, commitment, and remembrance.
- Before getting a spider web tattoo, it’s crucial to understand the significance behind the design to ensure it aligns with your values and intentions.
Spider-web tattoos have multiple meanings and are frequently misinterpreted. In my experience, these tattoos are often associated solely with negative connotations, such as criminal behavior, due to common misconceptions. I suggest that individuals who choose to get spider web tattoos take action by educating others about the diverse range of meanings they can hold, which might include themes of change or resilience. In fact, by doing this, they contribute to a strategy that encourages better comprehension and appreciation of the depth of meaning represented by these tattoos.
Image: @jacobcrosstattoo
Some of the negativity surrounding this tattoo design involves racism, prison, gangs, murder, and violence.
Although, today, the spider web tattoo has become associated with lots more positive meanings too.
This is a tattoo design that has a deep history, but there is also a lot of controversy surrounding it for this reason.
f you are thinking about getting this tattoo, then you might want to consider some of these things first. In this article, we are going to be exploring the different variations of the spider web tattoo and the meaning behind them.
This includes all of the meanings from racism to spirituality, looking at both the positive and negative meanings of the tattoo. Just keep reading to find out more.
Before You Get Started:
- Meaning and Symbolism: Understand the meaning behind the spider web tattoo.
- Size and Scale: Consider whether you want a small, discreet design or a larger, more prominent one.
- Color or Black and Grey: Decide whether you want a black and gray design or if you prefer to add color.
The Meaning Behind the Spider Web Tattoo
Image: @ guidorent
Let’s face it: the spider web is one of the most popular tattoo ideas for inmates. Because of this, the pattern is linked to crime, gangs, violence, murder, racism, and other harmful things. But spider web tattoos can also have a positive meaning, so we want to tackle both sides and explain the negative and the positive.
Image: @mikeomundson123
Quick Guide to Different Spider Web Tattoo Designs
Traditional Spider Web: Classic and straightforward, typically featuring a symmetrical spider web pattern.
Intricate or Celtic Spider Web: This design features highly detailed and complex patterns within the spider web.
Watercolor Spider Web: This tattoo design utilizes watercolor-style techniques for a more painterly and abstract appearance.
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The History Of The Spider Web Tattoo
The spider web tattoo design is one that comes with a lengthy history as it has had various different meanings throughout time.
We are going to look at all of the different meanings behind this tattoo design below, so you can understand why there might be some mixed feelings about this tattoo.
Prison Association
For a very long time, the spider web tattoo design has been a symbol of incarceration.
It has often been associated with serving time behind bars, and this is the reason why this tattoo gained in popularity during the 1970s and 1980s.
This is due to the fact that more and more inmates were getting this tattoo design to mark that they had served time in prison.
The spider web tattoo design is almost as famous as the teardrop tattoo. The teardrop tattoo represents the same thing as the spider web tattoo does.
Image: @butch_made
White Power
Although the spider web tattoo design is negatively associated with spending time in prison, it also has a far darker meaning than this.
The spider web tattoo was also a symbol for white supremacy groups.
These tattoos were often inked on the elbows of people within these groups as a way to symbolize their loyalty to the cause.
Spider web tattoos started to become increasingly popular in prison systems throughout the United States during the late 1900s. Even today the tattoo is still a popular prison tattoo.
However, in the late 1970s, wearing this kind of tattoo would come at a cost. There were lots of white supremacy groups that had rules when it came to wearing such a tattoo.
Some of these groups even made it a requirement that you would need to kill a minority before you were able to wear the tattoo. This is one of the reasons why the tattoo is thought to be so negative, and for good reason.
Although the spider web tattoo has been known as a symbol of both racism and serving prison time, modern society has put its own spin on the tattoo.
It is often associated with various different positive meanings. Some people like to think of it as a work of art.
A lot of time and energy goes into a spider creating their own web, and this is something that is also reflected in the design of the tattoo.
Image: @edward.velveteen
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Native Meaning
The spider web tattoo design has also been associated with and linked to the Native Americans for hundreds of years.
The spider web in itself is linked to the dream capture and spider woman, who is a Native American character.
It is known that she would weave protective webs over the cradleboards of all of the newborns.
In doing so, the newborn babies remained protected from anything bad. This is why the spider web tattoo is also thought to be a symbol of protection, providing a more positive spin on the tattoo design.
This highlights the fact that this tattoo design can be both positive and negative.
If you have been thinking about getting a spider web tattoo, then you will need to think about how it can be viewed by other people.
The opinion of other people may be swayed by the fact that this tattoo has so many negative connotations.
However, it is just as important to not judge someone for giving this tattoo as it is also often appreciated by people for its beauty and value.
Lots of people that get this tattoo will not even be aware of the negative associations with it.
Just because someone has a spider web tattoo, it doesn’t automatically mean that they are a former inmate, racist, or a criminal.
They may have simply been drawn in by the beauty of the design, and all of the positive things that it could also be in reference to.
Just keep in mind that other people might think the same way about you if you were to sport this tattoo.
Although, if it is important to you for a positive reason or because you like the design, this shouldn’t put you off getting it.
Image: @awakeningaura1111
Keep In mind:
ntegration of Elements: If including a spider, decide on its size, position, and style within the web.
Meaningful Composition: Think about the arrangement of the spider web, whether it’s symmetrical or asymmetrical.
Size and Detail: Decide on the size of the tattoo, taking into account the level of detail you want.
Spider Web Tattoo Symbolism
As you know from the information that we have shared with you, the spider web tattoo can have both positive and negative meanings for different people.
It is really important to fully understand the meaning behind this tattoo before you get it. Some of the meanings behind the spider web tattoo include:
- Incarceration
- Death
- Beauty
- Design
- Magic
- Protection
- Safety
- Prison
- Radical
- White Supremacy
- Evil
- Creativity
As we have already mentioned, it is essential to be aware of all of the things that are associated with the spider web tattoo and what it can stand for or represent.
It might still take a long time for the tattoo design to get rid of all of the negative things that it is associated with, but this might never happen.
The spider web tattoo can also be combined with lots of other different symbols. One of the most popular designs that is paired with this tattoo is that of the spider.
Although, the most popular type of spider that people get tattooed on them with the web is the black widow.
For those that don’t already know, the black widow is a deadly spider that is well known for its bright red hourglass symbol that can be found on its back.
The female black widow is also widely known for eating her mate after mating, when she no longer needs him around.
The black widow can also be a representation of other things like evil, death strength, or power. It is also a possibility that a person would choose to get the black widow tattoo design as a symbol of a near death experience.
As well as spiders, there are various other symbols that you might want to think about. Due to the face that spider web tattoos are often tattooed onto the elbow, you might consider getting a star into your chosen design.
Image: @kdlostcontrol
Some people will choose to get other symbols, like a heart, skull, or even a diamond. As these tattoos are often seen as a dark symbol, even if they do not have a negative meaning, you might also want to think about other symbols like graves, vampires, or gothic symbols.
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Spider Web Tattoo Placement:
Spider web tattoos can be placed on various body areas, allowing you to express your style. Typical placements include the elbow, knee, or neck, where the design naturally conforms to the body’s contours. It may be a good idea to consult a skilled tattoo artist for the best placement to ensure the tattoo looks its best. Ultimately, you’ll never regret choosing the right location for your spider web tattoo.
Selecting the Perfect Tattoo Artist:
Selecting the perfect tattoo artist is crucial to realizing your vision. With this in mind, research local studios and review their portfolios to find top picks whose style aligns with your ideas. Consultations are all you need to discuss your design, ask questions, and gauge their expertise. Remember, the right artist will never rush you and prioritize your satisfaction, turning your tattoo into a masterpiece.
Remember, your tattoo should reflect your personality and story; the right artist will help bring that vision to life. Take your time, do your homework, and choose the tattoo artist who resonates with your creative aspirations and makes the experience memorable.
Aftercare of Spider Web Tattoo:
After getting a spider web tattoo, pay attention to proper aftercare. Be cautious to keep the tattoo clean and dry during the healing process. Use a mild, unscented soap and water to clean it gently, then pat it dry with a clean cloth. If you’re not sure, consult your tattoo artist for guidance. Prevent excessive sun exposure and avoid scratching to ensure a smooth and vibrant healing process.
Remember that proper aftercare is crucial to the final appearance of your spider web tattoo.
PRO TIP
Utilize negative space effectively in your spider web design. Negative space refers to the empty spaces around and within the design. A well-thought-out use of negative space can enhance the clarity and visual impact of the spider web.
Image: @outofstepbooks
Personal Opinion
Spider-web tattoos have several interpretations but frequently allude to incarceration or a life of crime. According to these associations, I recommend caution when considering such tattoos. While tattoos are a means of self-expression, it’s important to keep in mind that they might reinforce prejudices and celebrate criminal activity unintentionally. It’s critical to consider the consequences and potential misunderstandings that may arise from wearing such tattoos, as they can carry societal stigmas.
More Spider Web Tattoo designs:
Image: @arttdome
Image: @tattoosnob
Image: @livewirearts
Image: @sincitytattoo_818
Image: @twigsparks
Image: @livleonardi_
Image: @chobananaclub
Image: @tattoos_byruben
Image: @lizzietattoo
Image: @blackliontattoos
Image: @tattooweaver
Image: @zakattattooer
Image: @ascension_tattoo
Image: @tailormadetattoo
Image: @mamatried.tattoosmith
Image: @saitamme
Image: @tattsbycj
Image: @tattoosbyandrea
Image: @broombreaker and deadsurestudio
Image: @sabrinaxsybil
Image: @jersey_tattoos
Image: @alectattooer_
Image: @tat2edbeauty
Image: @badlittleyou
Image: @lisamarietattoo
Image: @kustomhustletattoo
Image: @fernyourstruly
Image: @izzyspell
Image: @livleonardi_
Image: @inkbymik
Image: @imperialtattoocompany
Image: @somentattoos
Image: @anthnybr and mindful.la
Image: @tattoosbyjazzyb
Image: @andrewwloc and primrosetattoostudio
Image: @baby_doodoo
Image: @f.is.the.key
Image: @nikkiheritattoos
Image: @staytruetattooasp
Image: @action_tattoo
Image: @belmonttattoos
Image: @orlandokingstattoo
Image: @orylanstabsthings
Image: @foxandmoontattoo
Image: @katecrane
Image: @bayinktattoo
Image: @danishtattoozhouse
Image: @mattbeckerich
Image: @tatouageelectricave
Image: @_joshhoffmantattoo
Image: @derickmontez
Image: @diabloart_aki
Image: @tattooweaver
Image: @artgustina
Image: @kingsttattoosydney
Image: @paintedhorsetattoo
Image: @emeliamarymae
Image: @nikkiheritattoos
Image: @kvmbtattoo
Image: @allspice_222
Image: @rachaeldtattoo
Image: @rapturetattooemporium
Image: @topnotchtattoos
Image: @hirentattoos
Image: @eastsideringwood
Image: @maggieangulotattoo
Image: @bespoke_poke
Image: @gokchelito
Image: @spideytat2
Image: @skinmachinetattoo and inkspiredyash
Image: @highwaterstattoo
Image: @laluztattoo
Image: @colibritattoo.highpark
Image: @haydenhoketattoo
Image: @freak_body
Image: @ghostfiretattoo
Image: @clairesimonefisher
Image: @infiniteexpressionstattoo
Image: @rudrainktattoo
Image: @nutdub
Image: @tribetattoodenver
Image: @jynk_ink
Image: @jillians.ink
Image: @zaktats
Image: @perfectocreates
Image: @illuminatedtattoostudio
Image: @jakekaramol
Image: @morganhabe
Image: @queenbeeparlour
Image: @mikeyb_tattoo
Image: @paulo_benevides
Image: @bklynbeee and fable.tattoo
Funny Fact
Did you know that getting a spider web tattoo doesn’t grant you any arachnid superpowers? Unfortunately, you won’t be swinging from skyscrapers or catching flies with your bare hands. It’s more about style than spider skills!
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, spider web tattoos are complex and multifaceted, with various meanings and interpretations that can differ significantly based on context and individual choices. While some may associate them with incarceration or certain subcultures, it’s essential to recognize that these tattoos have evolved and may now hold more diverse and personal meanings for individuals. The spider web tattoo can symbolize personal transformation, protection, or artistic expression. However, potential misinterpretations still exist, so those considering this tattoo should carefully weigh its significance and the message they want to convey. As with any tattoo, understanding its history and various connotations is crucial in making an informed and meaningful decision.
Image: @rdtattooer
Image: @kjazz6363
Image: @wildflowers.tattoo
