Monarch butterflies are arguably the most popular insect tattoos for men and women, whether inked in color, black and gray, or simple lines.
They echo other butterfly designs in meaning freedom, beauty, and transformation; they also suit frequent travellers and those with an affinity for realistic design.
The Monarch, as the name suggests, is often associated with royalty, and is symbolic of souls returning during Dia de los Muertos, the Mexican Day of the Dead.
The following collection of top 73 best monarch tattoo ideas showcase a range of design ideas that your tattooist can use as inspiration to draw up your next killer piece of body art.
1. Back Tattoos
2. Ankle and Lower Leg Tattoo Ideas
3. Black and Gray Tattoo Art
4. Forearm Tattoo Ideas
5. Realistic Tattoo Art
6. Rib and Side Tattoo Ideas
6. Shoulder Tattoos
8. Small Tattoo Ideas
9. Upper Arm Ink
Source: @jessimummbles via Instagram
10. Tattoos for the Wrist
FAQs
What do monarch butterfly tattoos symbolize?
The Monarch butterfly symbolizes freedom, beauty, and transformation, which is in line with the general depiction of butterfly tattoos.
They do have an extra layer or two of symbolism, being connected to the Mexican day of the dead – where they are associated with the souls of the departed returning to meet with their family..
As the name suggests, the monarch butterfly is an insect often connected with ideas of royalty and prestige.
Monarch butterfly tattoos also suit frequent travelers and those with an affinity for realistic design concepts, due to their vivid color and expansive migratory practices.
Where should I put my monarch butterfly tattoo?
The most popular places for butterfly tattoos are on the chest, neck, lower back or shoulder, although Contemporary tattoo placements where you’ll often see a monarch resting or on the wing include:
- Behind the ear
- At the top of the shoulder
- On the wrist and forearm
- The hands and fingers
- The foot and ankle
They are also popular for visible tattoos due to their associations with beauty and positivity.
What style monarch butterfly tattoo should I get?
Despite the fact collectors choose an actual – rather than heavily stylized – species of butterfly, the Monarch shows great design versatility.
It’s popular for realistic tattoos and 3D body art, where the ink can make it look like the butterfly is resting on or hovering above your skin.
You may want to personalize your butterfly tattoo in some way that uniquely represents you, through the addition of flowers, script, or other supporting imagery
Some individuals add symbols that uniquely bring out personality, such as zodiac sign, initials, or favorite musical symbols.
How much do monarch butterfly tattoos cost?
There’s a wide range of pricing to consider when choosing a monarch butterfly tattoo.
Small, simple designs can cost as little as $100-$150 when etched quickly with only black ink.
With many seasoned professional artists charging $150-200 per hour, you’ll likely pay in the region of $300 (black and gray shaded) to $500 (flat color) for a mid-sized monarch butterfly tattoo, before tips.
For complex monarch tattoos utilizing precision techniques or a broader color palette, the price could reach $1000 before tips.