105 Cross Tattoo Ideas for Men In 2023 – Bold, Unique, and Daring Designs

Written by Finlay Mead

The cross is probably one of the most common designs that Christians settle for when they want a tattoo that represents their faith. It’s no secret that the cross is a symbol of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice for humanity, and many cultures have been using it over time. Therefore, it might be a great honor to have this inked onto your skin. 

Now, while the idea seems simple, there are many models you can choose for a cross tattoo. And with so many design choices, it can be difficult to figure out what to do. You can go for something small, large, simple, or complex, and you can even add different elements to the cross.

So, if you’re still confused about the design you should choose, here are some of the best cross tattoos for men in 2023.

Minimalist Cross Tattoo

If you want something small and symbolic, a minimalistic cross tattoo might be the best choice. Besides, something small is always a good pick when it comes to biblical root tattoos. Because it is so straightforward, it will be easy to notice without taking the attention away from the other art pieces you have on your skin – if any. 

Jesus Cross Tattoo

To make your tattoo more detailed, but also to create something that is representative of your faith, adding Jesus Christ himself to the cross can make your tattoo more special. This can be done in many ways. You can go with the classic symbol of Jesus on the cross or find other ways to include the savior of humanity in this design. 

Wings Cross Tattoo

A cross with wings can be a wonderful way to show your love for God. You can add some uniquely-shaped wings in a tribal design, or go with angel wings. The latter can symbolize the perception of love. Besides, it can serve as a reminder that God is always by your side. 

Three-Cross Tattoo

Lately, lots of men have been settling for the 3-cross tattoo, not only for religious reasons but also for artistic ones. The best thing about this design is that it can represent different things. It can be a symbol of Jesus Christ and the other 2 men who got crucified with him or represent the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit. 

Celtic Cross Tattoo

What makes Celtic crosses so popular is their unique design, defined by stylized knots and rings. This is a historical and powerful symbol, and if you have Celtic roots, you can represent this aspect by getting it tattooed on your skin. 

Thorn Cross Tattoo

The thorn crown was placed on Jesus Christ’s head before his crucifixion. If you are a proud Christian, a thorn cross tattoo can be a great way to show your respect for Christ’s sacrifice. Besides, this tattoo idea can be suitable for individuals who have been through difficulties and want to remind themselves that they can overcome them.

Heart Cross Tattoo

Heart cross tattoos can symbolize love, faith, or both. This design can represent different things depending on the elements you add. For instance, a heart cross design could symbolize how faith connected you and your significant other or even the fact that you love God. At the same time, a bleeding heart could show the love God has for humans. 

Name Cross Tattoo

Adding a name to a cross tattoo is a way to honor a loved one who passed away. The name can be placed next to the cross, or you can have it on top of the cross. This design works very well on your arm, hand, neck, or chest. 

Rose Cross Tattoo

When you combine a cross with a rose, you automatically make the tattoo design more unique. If you’re English, this can even be a patriotic tattoo for you. However, the rose also symbolizes joy, martyrdom, and purity in Christianity. 

Infinity Cross Tattoo

Are you looking for a way to show your endless love for God? Then you can go for an infinity cross tattoo design. This way, you show to the world that no matter what, you will never give up on faith, and God will always be there for you. 

Tribal Cross Tattoo

If you love tribal designs, then you can add this type of element to your cross tattoo. Because the points and curves of tribal models make unique designs, you’ll end up with an original piece if you choose the right artist. 

Folded Hands Cross Tattoo

Prayer connects you to God and lets you rely on Him for help and guidance when you or a loved one deal with difficulties. In this case, a great tattoo for you would be a cross with folded hands. It shows your gratitude, as well as your faith.

Upside-Down Cross Tattoo

Contrary to common belief, the upside-down cross is not an anti-Christian symbol. In fact, it has been a symbol from as far as the times of St. Peter, the first pope. According to historical accounts, he asked to be crucified upside down when he was martyred. Therefore, an upside-down tattoo can symbolize your faith and sacrifice.

3D Cross Tattoo

It’s possible to make your cross tattoo look more realistic by giving it a 3D effect. This allows you to make the art more creative, but it also brings more attention to it. This way, you can let everybody know that you’re a man of God. 

Dragon Cross Tattoo

Dragon cross tattoos for men are not only a way to make your cross tattoo look cooler, but they can also have a higher meaning. Usually, dragons are symbols of good luck, and they are believed to help keep evil spirits away. 

Necklace Cross Tattoo

Wearing an actual necklace all the time might be uncomfortable, and you may not be able to wear it in all circumstances. But by getting a tattoo of a cross necklace, you’ll always have this religious symbol with you. On top of that, it will look amazing around your neck and you can showcase it whenever you want. 

Sleeve Cross Tattoo

If you are a fan of large tattoo pieces or simply want to get a cross inked onto your arm as part of a larger design, a sleeve cross tattoo is one of the best ways to do this. You can surround the cross with flowers or cool shapes, but also other religious symbols, depending on the look and idea you’re going for. 

Wrist Cross Tattoo

Perhaps you want a religious cross tattoo that is easier to reveal when you want to show off your love for God. In this case, a wrist cross tattoo is perfect. You can place a simple cross on your wrist or get a rosary to surround your wrist. If you’re creative, you can easily adapt the cross to fit this small area. 

Lion Cross Tattoo

Crosses can be combined with different animals, such as lions. A design of this sort will easily show to the world that you are a strong man who believes in God, and a leader ready to spread love and faith around him. 

Hand Cross Tattoo

Hand cross tattoos for men may be tricky because they are always visible unless you wear gloves, but they have become popular and quite mainstream. A cross on your hand ensures you always wear your faith proudly. 

Dove and Cross Tattoo

The dove is a symbol of the Holy Spirit. So, it’s only fitting that it is added to a cross tattoo design, especially when you want the religious message to be more clear when people see the art piece. Doves can also represent love, innocence, and peace. 

Forearm Cross Tattoo

The forearm is a popular placement for a cross tattoo because it fits perfectly in this area. Moreover, the forearm is great for a large cross tattoo that you can complement with different other elements over the years. 

Angel Cross Tattoo

If you want a religious cross tattoo but don’t want it to be too simple, you can add an angel to it. The angel can be next to the cross or it can even hold the cross. Whatever you choose, an angel will make the design more spectacular. 

Arm Cross Tattoo

Undoubtedly, the arm is one of the best spots for a cross tattoo. What makes it so great is that it’s ideal for multiple designs, whether they’re small or large. The back of the arm is trending now for small, meaningful tattoos, so a small cross can fit perfectly there.

Cracked Cross Tattoo

Cracked crosses look very cool regardless of the placement. They look good in black ink, as well as in color. The significance is that evil cannot harm the strength and love of Jesus Christ. 

Finger Cross Tattoo

If you want to go for something small and more subtle, you can choose a finger tattoo. Plenty of men get cross tattoos on their fingers nowadays. The right ring finger is a common placement because it can represent commitment. 

Anchor Cross Tattoo

You may have seen men rocking anchor cross tattoos, as they are some of the most popular cross tattoos for men. Anchor crosses are worn by United Methodist Church missionaries to remind them how their work should be anchored in love, hope, and faith. 

Chest Cross Tattoo

Since chest tattoos are so close to your heart, adding a cross in this area could mean that religion is very dear to you. On top of being a great way to show your love for God, the chest also makes a great canvas for this type of tattoo because it’s flat and wide. 

Eye Cross Tattoo

For a cool effect, you can get an eye with a cross inside of it tattooed on one part of your body. It could be a way of saying that whatever you do or whatever decisions you make, you always look towards God for the best advice.

Back Cross Tattoo

The back is a wide area that allows you to tattoo any type of cross design in any size you want. This area is great for complex cross tattoos that incorporate various elements. 

Crown Cross Tattoo

A crown with a cross on top of it not only looks cool but is also a symbol of victory. It could mean that you’re looking up to heaven and the rewards that come after going through life and its difficulties. 

Neck Cross Tattoo

Due to being so visible, neck cross tattoos for men are considered rebellious. But they are more popular today, and if you want your faith to be known to everyone who meets you, the neck is a great placement for this tattoo design. 

Face Cross Tattoo

There’s no better way to let people know that you love God than by getting a cross inked onto your face. Now, sure, this is not an option for everyone, as face tattoos have a negative connotation. Nevertheless, if you’re brave enough, something small like a cross on your temple won’t look out of place.

Ankle Cross Tattoo

The ankle is a great area for tattoos because you can show it off when necessary and hide it in certain circumstances. Getting a cross inked on your ankle can show that you are grounded and centered by your faith in God.

Shoulder Cross Tattoo

Shoulder tattoos are extremely popular, so you might want to get one as well. If you get a cross tattooed on your shoulder, it can represent how God always protects you and helps you overcome difficulties. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Cross Tattoos for Men

Final Thoughts

Finding the best cross tattoos for men requires some research, especially if you want a unique design. Consider the ideas presented in this article and add your own elements together with your tattoo artist to create a beautiful and meaningful piece of art.

Take a look at some of the hottest tattoo ideas for men.