RIP tattoos are a sentimental method of permanently acknowledging the loss of a loved one.
These timeless tributes are inked by all manner of collectors to capture the pain of bereavement.
Memorial RIP tattoos often represent clear memories and emotions tied to your thoughts of the loved one lost.
RIP tattoos frequently use names and dates or reflect the occupation or love of the family member that has passed away. For Christians, elements of love and faith such as the cross, the Virgin Mary, doves, and angels are also used in RIP tattoos.
While common memorial themes include lost parents, grandparents, spouses, and children, deceased pets may also be honored in this fashion.
The following gallery of the top 35 RIP tattoo ideas will give you options for your memorial tattoo choice.
1. RIP Tattoos Commemorating Dad
2. Forearm RIP Tattoo Designs
3. Half Sleeve RIP Tattoo Designs
4. RIP Heart Tattoo Designs
5. Memorial Tattoo Ideas
6. RIP Tattoo Ideas Featuring a Rose
8. RIP Tattoo Ideas for the Wrist
Are RIP tattoos a good idea?
RIP tattoos are enduring designs that are some of the oldest in the western tradition, going back as far as MOM tattoos and other old-school memorial ink.
For some collectors, getting a permanent reminder of a lost loved one is a way to both commemorate their memory and to assuage some of the pain of their loss.
What style memorial RIP tattoo should I get?
RIP tattoos frequently use names and dates or reflect the occupation or love of the family member that has passed away.
For Christians, elements of love and faith such as the cross, the Virgin Mary, doves, and angels are also used in RIP tattoos.
While common memorial themes include lost parents, grandparents, spouses, and children, deceased pets may also be honored in this fashion.
Where do RIP tattoos get placed?
Historically, memorial and RIP tattoos were placed either on the upper arm (the simplest and most versatile position) or the chest of the tattoo collector (closest to the wearer’s heart).
While these two positions remain popular, the popularity and social awareness of tattoos mean that more contemporary spaces are now places where memorial tattoos are depicted.
Areas such as the inner wrist, hand, and forearm are now popular for RIP designs because they can be in sight (and in the thoughts) of the wearer.
Can you get an RIP tattoo with someone’s ashes?
When it comes to memorial tattoos, ashes are about as personalized as it gets. Tattoos created with cremation ashes – referred to as ritual or commemorative tattoos – are perfectly safe and legal. To create these tattoos, a very small amount of your loved one’s ashes are mixed into the ink used in your tattoo.
Cremated remains are sterile, and therefore perfectly safe for use in a tattoo. Your tattoo artist – preferably one with commemorative tattoo experience – will select the most finely ground, powder-like material to ensure smooth, quality workmanship.
Due to religious restrictions on bodily remains and sentimentality, be sure that all family members and loved ones know and approve of your choice before obtaining ashes for this purpose.
If possible, ask your loved one if they approve and have them tell others that they’ve given your future tattoo their blessing. This can avoid potentially awkward and painful discussions once they’re gone.