Knee Tattoos: Make A Statement With These 108 Tattoo Designs

If placement is your thing, explore family ink ideas suited for forearms, wrists, ankles, and more comfortable spots than the knee.

Are knee tattoos very painful?

Yes, the kneecap and surrounding areas are among the most painful due to the high density of bone and nerves. Healthline

Any knee-specific aftercare tips?

Expect swelling; elevate when possible, avoid deep squats/running for a few days, and follow standard clean-and-moisturize care. Cleveland Clinic

How much do knee pieces cost?

Simple linework around the knee typically starts at around $250–$500; complex blackwork/mandala patterns can take several hours at standard hourly rates. See the guide for details. Airtasker

One session or multiple?

Many artists split kneecap work into 2+ sessions to manage pain and swelling.

What Is the Luckiest Tattoo?

Symbolism is key to lucky tattoos! Although there’s no single answer to the luckiest tattoo, some symbols are a great choice to bring good fortune. Let’s explore and find the symbol for the perfect knee tattoo design!

• Four-leaf clover. It is a rare variation of the common three-leaf clover, and finding one is considered a sign of blessing and serendipity. Being a great option for those seeking a lucky tattoo, the symbol represents luck, faith, hope, and love.
• Horseshoe. A horseshoe symbolizes protection, luck, and prosperity. It is also often associated with seven nail holes, representing the seven planets that influence human destiny.
• Four-leaf clover. A four-leaf clover is a rare variation of the common three-leaf clover. It is associated with strength, good fortune, and luck. The four leaves stand for faith, hope, love, and luck. 
• Rabbit’s foot. The symbol of the rabbit’s foot brings good luck, especially in gambling and sports. Rabbits are associated with fertility and abundance.
• Wishbone. There is a tradition for two people to pull the bone of turkey and chicken until it breaks, and the one who gets the larger piece will have their wish granted. The wishbone characterizes luck, hope, and wishes coming true.
• Maneki-Neko. It’s a Japanese figurine of a cat with one or both paws raised, beckoning customers or visitors. The cat’s color, posture, and accessories may have different meanings, such as white for happiness, gold for wealth, or red for protection.
• Numbers. Consider something like numbers as your new, luck-bringing tattoo. In Chinese culture, the number 8 is associated with wealth, success, and independence. In Western culture, the number 7 is considered lucky, as it has many positive associations with religion, mythology, and science. 

In the end, your most fortunate tattoo is the one that brings you joy and assurance. Consider adding personal meaning or symbolism to craft your lucky knee tattoo design.

Knee tattoos are bold and often overlooked. Discover more eye-catching body placements in our complete tattoo design directory.

What Is a Good Tattoo for Knees?

Various designs can work well as knee tattoos for females and males. As these tattoos are usually placed strategically to accentuate the shape and contours of the knee area, different styles can also be employed to create unique designs. Consider these symbols if you seek inspiration for knee tattoos for men and women.

• Spider web tattoos. Spiders can be perfectly incorporated around the knee, emphasizing its natural shape.
• Skull tattoos. Skull designs can be placed on the knee, showcasing intricate details and creating a bold statement.
• Barbed wire tattoos. The barbed wire designs wrap around the knee, adding a rugged and edgy style.
• Butterfly knee tattoos. Butterfly tattoos on or around the knee symbolize transformation and beauty.
• Mandala tattoos. An intricate mandala design can be placed on the knee to create a visually captivating and tribal tattoo.
• Star tattoos. Simple star designs can be arranged creatively around the knee, adding a touch of celestial beauty.
• Floral knee tattoos. Flowers can create a feminine and delicate tattoo design. For example, peonies are an excellent choice for knee tattoos for females.
• Bee knee tattoos. Bee tattoos represent hard work, productivity, and community when incorporated into knee designs. It can also be a perfect fit for a moving tattoo design.
• Shark tattoos. Shark tattoos represent strength, determination, and a fearless attitude when positioned on the knee.
• Bat knee tattoos. Bat tattoos, placed creatively on the knee, can symbolize mysticism, freedom, and nocturnal instincts.
• Wolf knee tattoos. Wolf tattoos on the knee can represent loyalty, resilience, and a connection to the wild spirit.

All of these tattoos look great on both or one knee! Whether opting for a traditional, trippy style or a more realistic depiction, a well-executed tattoo can be a striking and meaningful addition to one’s body art.

Do Tattoos on Knees Hurt?

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room! So, do knee tattoos hurt? Yes, it’s pretty painful and can bring a tear or two to your eyes. Of course, pain levels can vary from person to person. However, it’s often said that knees are one of the most painful places for tattooing due to the proximity to bone and nerve endings. 

The kneecap doesn't have much padding, so the sensation can be more intense. Swelling and discomfort during the healing process are also commonly reported. However, with proper tattoo care, including keeping the tattoo clean, moisturized, and away from sunlight, most people can manage the healing process effectively. 

However, the temporary sting will transform into a permanent masterpiece. Remember, no pain, no gain! And the gain here is a knee tattoo design that screams, “I’m a brave fashion maverick!”

Do Knee Tattoos Last?

Knee tattoos, like any other tattoos, can be subject to fading over time, but their longevity depends on various factors. The skin on the knees is prone to stretching and bending, which can affect the ink’s vibrancy and cause it to fade faster. 

However, the resilience of a knee tattoo also depends on factors such as the ink’s quality, the artist’s skill, and proper tattoo aftercare. Additionally, the shading techniques used in the tattoo can impact its longevity. Well-executed shading and careful placement can help the tattoo withstand the test of time and maintain its appearance for years. 

How Much Is a Knee Tattoo?

The cost of a knee tattoo depends on several factors, such as size, design, complexity, as well as the experience and reputation of the artist. Small knee tattoos cost around $50 to $100, while medium-sized ones can range from $150 to $450. Large knee tattoos can cost more than $500, especially if they cover the whole knee or extend to the thigh or shin. The artist typically determines tattoo rates, and they may charge an hourly rate or provide a flat fee for the entire project.