Scottish Tattoo Photo #21919

The thistle, tartan patterns, and interlocking knotwork form a visual language that connects wearers to Scotland's history and landscape. Thistle, lion rampant, and national emblems The thistle is Scotland's national flower, chosen for its resilient beauty and the legend that its thorns alerted sleeping Scots to a Norse invasion.

Inspired by jewelry, architecture, and textile patterns, ornamental tattoos create intricate, decorative compositions on the skin. Precision and symmetry are key, giving these pieces an almost meditative quality.

Forearm tattoos benefit from a natural canvas that follows the arm's long shape. Designs can wrap around the arm or sit on the inner or outer surface, giving flexibility in how the tattoo is displayed.