If you're looking for truly bold tattoos for men, black tattoos are one of the loudest body art statements. Some of the simplest tattoos, blackwork, have been around for centuries, especially in indigenous cultures like Hawaii or Samoa. Today, art styles have expanded greatly to include almost any style or design you can think of.

         If you came here because you are a fan of black and gray style tattoos, you should know that black tattoos are NOT black and gray. Unique compared to any other tattoo style, there is no lighter pigment involved in black paint. You only have one color option and you can guess what it is.

         There are so many great options out there, so we've rounded up some striking black tattoo ideas for you to think about before you sit down on your chair

          1. TRADITIONAL BLACKWORK TATTOOS

        Norman Collins (aka Sailor Jerry) is credited with creating the 'traditional' style by combining tattoos from Japan with his own American style. Traditional American tattoos are known for their strong lines and sharp contrasts. Some of the most popular traditional blackwork tattoos are snakes, roses, daggers, skulls, and tugboats.

2. BLACKWORK TATTOO FLASH

If you're not familiar with the term, all the small pictures hanging in tattoo shops are called flash. They are for those who are undecided about an image; you browse, pick what you like, and get ink for that painting or something similar. Most flashes are simple and even if it's not a black tattoo flash, it can be easily enough converted into a black tattoo flash. Just talk to your artist and see what they can do for you.

3. BLACKWORK FLOWER TATTOO

Blackwork flower tattoos can be extremely impressive or they can be a total mess. The more complex the blackwork tattoo idea, the more confusing it can be. If you plan to scale up, layout becomes even more important, so make sure you find a good artist. In the right hand, you will have black flowers that are guaranteed to attract attention.

4. GEOMETRIC BLACKWORK TATTOOS

Geometric black tattoos can be some of the most beautiful, mesmerizing works of art in the world. When done well, any geometric tattoo can have such a calming and hypnotic effect that even tattoo skeptics will be unable to look away. Be sure to research some local artists before making an appointment, these tattoos are complex and require a lot of expertise.

5. SMALL BLACKWORK TATTOOS

Say this is your first tattoo and you want to start small and concealable, but still want your body art to be solid? Well, small black tattoos are ideal for stylish but reserved people. They are low risk (unless you keep them on your face), but still allow for freedom and expression when getting a tattoo.

6. BLACKWORK ROSE TATTOO

A branch of a blackwork flower, the blackwork rose tattoo can be the most impressive style. Roses have become the most popular flower tattoo ever since 'traditional style tattoos became popular and their appeal is only enhanced in black. If you want a black flower tattoo and don't have a species in mind yet, get a real black rose tattoo.

7. MINIMALIST BLACKWORK TATTOOS

There's something about minimalist black tattoos that really impresses people and it's a great place to start for those who don't want to sit for long periods of time. The less solid black liner and shade means less pain, less time and less money, so if you have any concerns this could be the style for you. Whether you want to go big or small, you won't need color to accent this attractive line.

8. BLACKWORK WOLF TATTOO

Blackwork wolf tattoos are some of the most difficult pieces any man can get. The wolf is an inherently timeless and powerful image, also available in a variety of styles (traditional noir, realistic, illustrated), you will be able to find the perfect image for you.

9. BLACKWORK SKULL TATTOO

A staple of the Western tattoo world, you really can't go wrong with a black skull tattoo. Blackwork tattooists use their magic to create incredible skull tattoos, which can be as realistic or cartoonish as their skills allow, so there's plenty of room for ink based on the incredible skull.

10. BLACKWORK TATTOO SLEEVES

A black tattoo sleeve can make a big statement. Advice on finding a good artist becomes even more important the larger your tattoo gets. With a smart layout, the right artist, and many hours in the salon, you'll get a top-notch piece of ink.