93 Awesome Rib Tattoo Ideas For Men In 2024

Often, tattoos are obtained in exposed areas for enabling users to wear their hearts on their sleeves. While it is considered a great notion for extroverts, those on the other end could very well count the former trait as an incentive to not give into the act of getting tattoos. However, that’s exactly where men’s rib tattoos come in.

Rib tattoos have been on the rise in men’s fashion for a good amount of years now. Apart from offering a list of options to experiment with, men’s rib tattoos are also considered extremely masculine for the amount of rope they provide to those trying to explore their spiritual selves.

To learn all about rib tattoos and discover the designs that make them so desirable, stay tuned until this guide reaches the finish line!

The Art Of Rib Tattoos: Why The Brutal Process Is Worth Every Ounce Of Soreness

They say beauty is pain, which is a mantra that best describes a rib tattoo. In fact, when assessed, rib tattoos for men are some of the most brutal movements in the world of body modification, especially since the area contains nerve endings, and carries a small amount of fat around it.

While many consider the previous factor to be a dealbreaker, the rest embrace the element, counting it as one of the many primary parts of the process. Doing so can be a bit questionable if you’re a beginner, but the art of rib tattoos is always appreciated by loyal enthusiasts with a direct interest in tattoos.

Jarring Men’s Rib Tattoos To Add To Your Arsenal At This Instant!

If you’ve recently decided to give in to your cravings for getting a rib tattoo, know that there are many options you can skim through. In fact, when push comes to shove, men’s rib tattoos are rather open to interpretation, which gives them tons of freedom to depict anything without providing an explanation.

From minimal concepts to artwork that is time-consuming and lengthy, a rib tattoo caters to everyone. And if you’re curious to learn about the frontrunners behind this movement, skim through the following entries!

Men’s Rib Cage Tattoo

@pantherkid.tattoo

@oliviafrancestattoos

Since rib cage tattoos come in all shapes and sizes, in addition to being open to interpretation, a compelling option on this list is a men’s rib cage tattoo, considered to be the most favorable one in the eyes of many.

The pain level is rather brutal, since the rib cage is all bone and no meat. For that reason, it is advised to use a fine-line needle and obtain just a stencil.

However, if you’d like to rise above, try mixing colours with your picked design. Ice the area right after, since it might sting for a while.

Dragon Rib Tattoo

@irezumitattooglasgow

@inkedbybeth

Dragons are always great for their visuals. Despite being rather complex to install, a dragon can also be a part of a rib tattoo, especially if you’re into Japanese artwork.

With its silhouettes, a dragon rib tattoo can carry the show. While a blank layout should be sufficient, drape the concept in color to make the outlook more compelling.

To learn all about Japanese dragon tattoos and the rich history attached to the movement, don’t forget to take a trip down this article!

Traditional Rib Tattoo

@lewiscarter_tattoos

@lukejinks

Obtaining chunky pieces on a rib tattoo isn’t something that we’d recommend to beginners and those sensitized to pain. However, if you’d like a tattoo that mixes large components with colours, give a go at traditional rib tattoos.

A traditional rib tattoo often covers the whole circumference of the location. On top of welcoming illustrations with solid faded paint jobs, a traditional rib tattoo also makes space for quotes.

Prior to getting this tattoo, consider sitting with a consultant so that the procedure goes smoothly.

Birds Rib Tattoo

@g.r.ii.s

@lu_tattz

Exploring your options is easy if you’ve yet to decide on a concept for your rib tattoo. And if you’re not quite sure of what to depict using the design, consider contemplating species of birds.

A pair of birds is a typical find on rib tattoos. The artwork is quite alluring, and comes in various forms to reprise its uniqueness.

While many glorify the visuals of this tattoo when it’s curated using a colourless palette, wearing vibrant shades is also a feat that this option can easily meet.

Portrait Rib Tattoo

@loubraggtattoos

With enough skill, users can also fit a portrait tattoo as a rib tattoo. The stencil might take a while to perfect, and the creative process might require more than just one kind of needle to make the visuals as real as possible.

However, if you can make time for it, the portrait rib tattoo that you’d like to carry can be curated without a flaw!

The pain involved in this concept is brutal, so be sure to prepare yourself accordingly. If not, try finding contentment in the following designs.

Warrior Rib Tattoo

@mandalatattooleicester

If you’re hoping to make your mind more resilient and increase self-awareness in this life, a warrior rib tattoo can be an obvious option to experiment with. The artwork usually portrays the sketch of warriors that belong to different races, but it can also carry lightweight components with emblems of shields and helmets.

A warrior tattoo is usually perfect to turn to for developing a thick skin. However, if you happen to be in a dark place mentally, know that a warrior tattoo can be the solution you desperately need.

Lion Rib Tattoo

@beccambtattoo

Lion rib tattoos are usually adopted due to the visuals they provide, but the animal also carry an aura of loyalty, strength, and courage that can only be mimicked by a handful.

The sketch is often of a portraiture tattoo, with distinct elements that contain tons of realism and shading techniques. The artwork contains curved lines and complex aspects, which explains why this tattoo often takes loads of time to create.

Before you even try wearing a lion rib tattoo, really take into account how much pain you’re willing to endure. If you’d like to experiment with another pattern, there are plenty of options that this list provides!

Name Rib Tattoo

@soft__ink__

Since the tattoo offers tons of privacy, many use a rib tattoo as a means of being more intimate with their lovers. And if that happens to be the same case for you, a name tattoo should definitely be a part of your list.

Despite looking plain, a name rib tattoo is rather powerful metaphorically and spiritually. The tattoo makes tons of space for supporting designs, is relatively painless, and can be jazzed up using fancier fonts to cater to those that prefer good visuals over strong metaphorical values.

Script Rib Tattoo

@marcelina.tattoo

If you consider words to be more powerful over a highly-detailed work of art, a script rib tattoo can be a great idea to entertain. It is a concept that you can consider if you’re fond of pain, since the needle used for this design is gentle on the skin.

A script rib tattoo can be used for printing a poem you wrote for someone, but may even be used as a way to give flowers to your favorite song. In certain cases, a script rib tattoo can also be a good way to show some love to a significant other, especially with the help of name tattoos.

Floral Rib Tattoo

@_jediart

@lwoodstattoo

Among the best options is a floral rib tattoo, which is a unisex design that even men can try out. The genre not only offers tons of concepts that are up for grabs, but also carries physical means that are compatible with the visuals of other designs.

From daffodils to sunflowers, a floral rib tattoo can depict anything, starting from happiness to feelings of pain. To make things more relatable, try curating a pattern that applies to a scenario you’re in.

Skull Rib Tattoo

@chunmong_tattooer

@261tattoos

Intimidating the crowd can very well work as an incentive in your eyes. And if so, there’s definitely a rib tattoo that can get the job done in no time.

Although anything can be showcased with terror, nothing compares to a skull rib tattoo, associated with life and death. The sketch is quite flexible in size, but allows a specific set of colours to enhance its visuals.

Small Rib Tattoo

@pigeon.tatts

@zoeink.zone

As stated earlier, there is beauty in the pain that rib tattoos cause. However, if you’re a beginner or have thin layers of skin to begin with, you don’t necessarily need to follow that mantra.

A small rib tattoo is the perfect solution for your cause. It has no rope or requirements for one, and tends to go with the flow. The procedure is also quick in terms of duration, and lenient in terms of pain.

Wolf Rib Tattoo

@ricassoart

If you’re big on loyalty, the graphic of a wolf can easily accommodate you. Additionally, if you’re fond of portraits, let’s just say the facial features of a wolf tattoo can also work in your favor.

Wolf rib tattoos run high in components, and should always be installed by a professional. If you’re vulnerable to pain, be sure to apply numbing cream 30 minutes before your appointment.

Yin Yang Rib Tattoo

@jpruett_tattoo

The beauty of Yin Yang tattoos is something else. They not only bring light to how polar opposites often gravitate towards one another, but also carry exciting elements on the outside.

A Yin Yang tattoo can be a great option to express your inner principles with. When depicted carefully, this rib tattoo can also be a compelling concept for a matching tattoo.

Shark Rib Tattoo

@northernrootstattoo

Sharks are quite feared and ruthless, with features that can look wonderful when placed on a rib tattoo. Sure, sharks don’t necessarily symbolize anything that is spiritually moving, but many still pick it as an option for a tattoo due to the affiliations they have with strength.

A shark rib tattoo can be showcased with aquatic lines and shapes in the background. Since it’s not ashamed of being curated without colours, this tattoo can also work as a great design for minimalists.

Japanese Rib Tattoo

@harrisvtran.ink

Japanese rib tattoos also have a massive fanbase amongst this movement, curated with a diverse series of components. From dragons to cranes to even tigers, a Japanese rib tattoo is a compilation that one simply cannot dismiss.

The sketch of a Japanese rib tattoo is often complex and full of jarring colours, so prepare yourself accordingly. However, if you’re seeking something simple, try using symbols and quotes instead.

Mask Rib Tattoo

@collective_art_tattoo_riga

As we get older, living a double life, or behind a mask, if you will, becomes the norm. And while we’re wholeheartedly against that movement and regularly preach transparency, we can’t deny the potential of a mask rib tattoo, which was initially curated to demonstrate the former feeling.

A mask rib tattoo is equivalent to a portrait tattoo, coming in various forms. Often, the artwork prefers being accompanied by a black and grey scheme.

Koi Fish Rib Tattoo

@misterwritetattoo

If you’re in dire need of maintaining your composure, getting a koi fish tattoo can be a good way to regain some control in your life.

Just like tons of aquatic creatures, a koi fish brings a sense of stability in the life of the wearer. It is quite stretchable, possessing the ability to morph into multiple sizes at once.

Berserk Rib Tattoo

@jolie_angel_tattoos

Berserk tattoos are quite rare, but also have a developing fanbase when rib tattoos are taken into account. The artwork is quite simple to replicate, and offers a lenient amount of pain, making it a diamond in the rough for beginners.

Before getting a berserk tattoo, consider contemplating your purpose. If you’d like to get stronger as an individual out of your decision, this tattoo can be the perfect tool to wear.

Wing Rib Tattoo

@waz_ink

Wings can either provide you with protection, or be used as a rib tattoo to pay homage to someone you once used to know. The artwork is quite simple, but has a symbolism that words cannot often express.

Doubling the quantity is a great move for wing rib tattoos, since the illustration looks less empty that way. For an enjoyable process, it is advised to use a fine-line needle.

Roman Numerals Rib Tattoo

@hattiefaithtattooartist

Since using dates is quite common, there’s very little one can do to stand out with a rib tattoo if numbers are involved. In addition to keeping the artwork simple, one can also resort to using Roman numerals to rise above conformity.

Roman numerals are popular symbols that offer better visuals. The artwork is relatively easy to maintain, which is the selling point of this option.

Spartan Rib Tattoo

@king_ahab

Another option that considers the importance of the warrior spirit is a spartan tattoo, which can be depicted as a rib tattoo in many ways. Although a sketch figure is definitely the most common variant, you may also use the accessories they used to offer a simpler aura.

Spartan rib tattoos have more to them than meets the eye, so don’t sweep them under the rug. Try using the components of other patterns if the graphic feels empty.

Cherry Blossom Rib Tattoo

@cactusinkbucharest

A multipurpose option that has a huge following when it comes to rib tattoos is a cherry blossom rib tattoo, which depicts feelings of beauty and brings more light to the inevitability of death. It is also a popular design that collabs with Japanese tattoos, mainly due to the influence it has on Japanese culture.

A cherry blossom tattoo kills two birds with one stone, carrying a powerful inner meaning and compelling accessible components. It also has a soft color palette, which can only be modified using light borders.

Snake Rib Tattoo

@danieladventureland

Healing is important when growing as a person, which is where a snake rib tattoo emerges to the top.

While the creatures were initially seen as bad omen, snake tattoos rose to stardom in the world of art after their healing powers were unveiled. Under the guidance of a snake rib tattoo, wearers can recover from and come to terms with traumatic events from the past.

Blackwork Rib Tattoo

@nic_tattoos

Putting in the work always results in great success. Likewise, if you’re hoping to invest tons of time into curating your rib tattoo, a blackwork tattoo should definitely not be dismissed.

Blackwork tattoos contain a palette that is glorified by simple-minded individuals. Although the colour scheme contains quadruple layers of neutral shades, and adds to the price of this variant, the element allows the illustration to age gracefully.

Cross Rib Tattoo

@ginnytattoos

Struggling with faith is definitely not something that is out of the ordinary, and can easily be sorted with a tattoo. Similarly, if you’d like this battle to be a private one, a cross rib tattoo can help massively.

From large designs to small concepts, a cross tattoo can be worn in many ways. To learn all about it, don’t forget to take assistance from our dedicated guide!

Galaxy Rib Tattoo

@nb_tattoo_designs

Using components that gravitate towards astronomy can be quite clever if you’re obtaining a rib tattoo, which can eventually be morphed into a galaxy rib tattoo.

Containing various shapes, frames, and patterns, a galaxy rib tattoo is definitely not something that can be completed overnight. However, if you’re hoping to add to the value of your rib tattoo with compelling visuals, this option can definitely meet the benchmark.

Sword Rib Tattoo

@jimmyduvall

A basic design on this list of rather elaborate patterns is a sword tattoo, which can be a good option for those sensitized to pain. The artwork is quite limited in size, despite carrying the trait of being open to change.

Sword tattoos can be important for those dealing with hardship, as it provides a ray of hope that many components can’t replicate. The tattoo is also easy to maintain, making it ideal for newbies.

Fox Rib Tattoo

@bigrusstattoo

While peculiar, foxes are also quite popular figures in the world of rib tattoos for men, typically hailed for the loyalty they carry. Alongside their strong principles, many find contentment in the physical means of a fox, which contains tons of realism when curated properly.

A fox rib tattoo can be perfect for those that consider themselves to be family men, and can prove to be mandatory for character development.

Tribal Stingray Rib Tattoo

@tattoozge

If you’re a fan of tribal patterns, try thinking outside the box a little, especially if you’re working on a rib tattoo. Consider taking notes from this tribal stingray to stand out without an issue.

Stingrays are associated with chameleon-like qualities, which can be important when overcoming adversity. The visuals it offers are complex, but jarring to the eyes.

Whale Rib Tattoo

@tattoo_francis

Aquatic creatures come with notes of wisdom, which explains the popularity of whale rib tattoos in men’s fashion. Although the visuals are quite enormous and the graphic takes up more than what is offered, a whale rib tattoo is definitely worth every penny.

Apart from the lengthy installation process, a whale tattoo requires daily touch ups, so be sure to prepare your wallet accordingly.

Sagittarius Rib Tattoo

@bryborbstattoo

If you’re known as one of the livelier and passionate individuals amongst your crew, we assume you’re a Sagittarius. Additionally, if our previous remark was a fact, try getting a Sagittarius tattoo on your rib.

While keeping it minimal is also permissible, many often obtain a multidimensional design for this tattoo. If you haven’t yet come up with a concept, take notes from this design.

Mandala Rib Tattoo

@jamesespinolaart

Shapes and patterns look best when skimming through mandela tattoos, often known for being affiliated with spirituality. While complex, the patterns can also be installed as a rib tattoo, which can be mandatory for those seeking to change themselves for the better.

Mandala rib tattoos are difficult and painful, so be sure to find yourself a good tattoo artist. To deal with the soreness, ice the location on a daily basis.

Abstract Rib Tattoo

@tatsbychloe

Using abstract illustrations for your rib tattoo can be a plus, especially if you gravitate towards tattoos that speak on a spiritual level rather than expressing themselves using objects. Since the instruments used for abstract paint are also quite lenient on skin, this option can be a plus for those with vulnerable bodies.

Before skimming through the rest of the options on this list, try reading our issue on abstract tattoos, especially if you’d like to make one of them a part of your collection.

Spider Rib Tattoo

@stayyw0ke

Spiders may seem like a black sheep on this list, but feel like a maze to the eyes when depicted on a rib tattoo. The concept is full of multi-dimensional layers, which usually looks outstanding when meshed using black and grey hues. The positioning of the artwork is rather high, but you can adjust it as much as required.

Associated with balance, a spider rib tattoo can definitely be a ray of hope in the eyes of many.

Medusa Rib Tattoo

@tattoosbyjohncabs

Entertaining your obsession towards Greek mythology is a task that a rib tattoo can do, especially if the driving force behind it is Medusa. While time-consuming, you can even get a portraiture tattoo of Medusa with hints of realism for achieving fulfillment.

This graphic is definitely not a walk in the park to mimic, so be sure to reach out to a professional artist instead of upcoming talents. Consider using blends to highlight Medusa’s facial features.

Eagle Rib Tattoo

@cassie_rollz

Reeking of wisdom, an eagle rib tattoo is seen as a great component for individuals in need of growing emotionally. The creature not only makes for a great tattoo with engaging colour schemes, but can also help out those working around times of hardship.

From small options to elaborate pieces, an eagle tattoo knows no bounds. To explore them all, check out our guide on eagle tattoos.

Nature Rib Tattoo

@stigma_norway

Depicting elements of nature is also a privilege that rib tattoos accommodate, which can be ideal if you’re seeking peace and serenity. The artwork can be painful for sure, but you can also reduce the size to make the pain level more manageable.

From colorless variants to traditional options, a nature tattoo comes in various forms. To explore your options, give our material on nature tattoos a read!

Sketch Rib Tattoo

@lienefetzki

You can easily promote highly-detailed artwork using a rib tattoo, especially if the concept is of a highly concentrated sketch. Doing so won’t just give you a design to proudly boast about until eternity, but also give you the freedom to pick between portraits and traditional pieces.

A sketch rib tattoo is fun to wear, but takes plenty of time. To have an experience with no hiccups, travel with a companion.

Horror Rib Tattoo

@art_in_motion_tattoos

One of the most well-known perks of getting a rib tattoo is the amount of privacy one gets. And although it could be ideal to get something that is sentimentally moving, expressing your love for horror movies through the help of a horror rib tattoo can also be just as effective.

From portraits to depicting specific scenes, a horror movie tattoo can be about anything. To learn all about it, however, skim through our guide on horror tattoos.

Zodiac Rib Tattoo

@litztattoo

Using symbols of astrology can also be a useful way to break free from a creator’s block, especially if you’re currently seeking a rib tattoo. Each symbol isn’t just compact in size, but also has compelling elements around its design.

Since making things relatable is key, try using your own zodiac sign as the main component. Doodle around the graphic if the tattoo seems empty.

Praying Hands Rib Tattoo

@edgsclem

Once we grow older, maintaining faith either gets easier or becomes one of the toughest chores possible. Likewise, if you’re seeking a concept that will allow you to strengthen your faith in religion, obtaining a motion of praying hands on your ribs can be a good notion to entertain.

While the installation process could sting a little, the final outcome will definitely be worth the pain. However, if you have sensitive skin, applying numbing cream might do the trick!

Tree Rib Tattoo

@squirrel_gravy

Different kinds of trees are ideal candidates for a rib tattoo, mainly due to how simple they are to obtain. Although each species carries a distinct symbolism, it is believed that most trees are also linked with the circle of life.

This tattoo can be optimal not only for beginners, but also spiritual thinkers. If you have this tattoo by your side, there’s no doubt that you’ll face some sort of character development.

Rose Rib Tattoo

@ricktattoostudiomauritius

A minimal option on this list that usually serves as a token of love is a rose tattoo, often draped in the shades of red and green. The symbol is rather limited in size, making it a painless option to install on the ribs.

Wearing this tattoo can open multiple doors, as the compatibility of this artwork goes beyond what is expected. For its affiliation, this option is the perfect way to show appreciation for a loved one.

Rib Tattoos For Men: How To Obtain Optimal Results Today!

Having an idea on the timeframe and expected results can be crucial if you’re hoping to give in to your wish of getting a rib tattoo. However, if you have very little time for research, give the following clip a view!

Frequently Asked Question

Now that you’re fully aware of how versatile the world of rib tattoos could turn out to be for men, here are a couple of questions regarding the fundamentals of the movement that can work in your favor.

Q: How much time does it take to obtain a rib tattoo?

Ans: Since the ribs carry a complex structure, tattooing on the location can take a couple of hours, extending by a small number when working with sensitive skin. However, on average, a rib tattoo shouldn’t take over 2 hours, especially if the design is minimal.

Q: Are rib tattoos expensive?

Ans: Rib tattoos require experts, and can hardly be carried out by newbies amongst tattoo artists. For that reason, even a simple variant under men’s rib tattoos can cost $400 on average.

Q: Why are rib tattoos so popular in men’s fashion?

Ans: Apart from shying away from the public eye, rib tattoos are popular in men’s fashion since the artwork allows men to express themselves unapologetically, make peace with the mistakes they made in the past and find more comfort in their own skin.

Conclusion

Rib tattoos have been rather popular in the eyes of men for quite some time now, with a fan base that is increasing in size with each day. Each design ranks quite high in terms of pain, but offers visuals that could be rather tough to install on other surfaces.

Men’s rib tattoos establish a sense of delicacy and vulnerability, both of which add to their appeal. With powerful illustrations and strong words, a rib tattoo can be transformed into something that is metaphorically rich and sought after by tattoo enthusiasts.

To deal with the pain, consider using numbing cream before the session even begins. Apply ice to the area to deal with the soreness of the aftermath.