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19 Compass Tattoo Design Ideas For You

There are endless possibilities when it comes to choosing your compass tattoo design. For some people, the compass is a simple symbol of direction and navigation. For others, it may represent a more personal journey or inner exploration. One idea is to incorporate the compass into a larger tattoo of a world map. This can […]

There are endless possibilities when it comes to choosing your compass tattoo design. For some people, the compass is a simple symbol of direction and navigation. For others, it may represent a more personal journey or inner exploration.

One idea is to incorporate the compass into a larger tattoo of a world map. This can symbolize the wanderlust spirit and the idea of being grounded and rooted in one’s home.

Another design idea is to use the compass as part of a nautical theme. Your tattoo could include elements like anchors, waves, or ship wheels.

Compass Tattoo
Neo-Traditional Compass Tattoo

This neo-traditional compass tattoo with colorful sparrows is the perfect way to show your love for travel and adventure. The intricate details and vibrant color palette make this design an attractive choice.


Compass Tattoo
Compass World Map

This compass tattoo is pretty creative. It features unique line work of the world map with a subtle compass design.

Compass Tattoo
Compass and Anchor

This compass tattoo should inspire you if you’re a sucker for good shading like I am. The artist has not only done a great job with the shading, but the addition of the watercolor technique looks pretty cool too.

Compass Tattoo
Traditional Compass Tattoo

Anyone who’s looking for a simple compass tattoo will love this look. This traditional compass tattoo features a black compass placed on the upper arm.


Compass Tattoo
Compass with Water Splashes

This compass surrounded by splashes of water is the perfect design for anyone who loves the ocean and being surrounded by water. You could even add blue ink for the water design.

Compass Tattoo
Hand-Poked Compass Tattoo

Hand-poked tattoos are completed without the use of electricity. This type of tattoo uses a single needle to push the ink underneath the skin.

Compass Tattoo
Compass and Mountain

A compass and mountain tattoo can represent your journey in life. It can guide you through life’s trials and tribulations, while the mountain can represent your goals and ambitions. The two symbols together can remind you to stay the course and stay focused on your goals.


Compass Tattoo
Compass and Rose

If you want to fill up an arm sleeve, you can incorporate different elements into your compass tattoo. This sleeve features a compass, a watch, and a large red rose.

Compass Tattoo
Compass with Butterfly and Flowers

Add a feminine touch to your design by incorporating butterflies, flowers, and more. This tattoo would be perfect for someone looking for a symbol of hope and new beginnings.

Compass Tattoo
Compass with Arrow

If you look closely at this tattoo, you can see that the artist has done a great job of incorporating dotwork into the compass design.


Compass Tattoo
Compass and Airplane

Those who enjoy traveling could consider incorporating an airplane or another form of transportation into their tattoo.

Compass Tattoo
Compass and Flowers

If you’re ready to go intricate with your tattoo design, be inspired by this compass surrounded by flowers. The compass is used to navigate and find your way, while the flowers represent beauty and life.

Compass Tattoo
Compass with Dripping Water

I love the dripping water effect incorporated into this tattoo design. I also love the softness of the black ink and the beautiful shading.


Compass Tattoo
North (N), East (E), South (S), West (W)

Here’s a North (N), East (E), South (S), West (W) tattoo that includes artistic details like different arrows and even rope wrapped around an arrow.

Compass Tattoo
Lighthouse and Compass

As you can see, the tattoo below includes so much beautiful detail. The artist did an excellent job with this piece. From the lighthouse to the anchor to the addition of the blue ink.

Compass Tattoo
Compass and Whale Tattoo

This compass and whale tattoo is a great way to show your love for the sea. I love the geometric shapes and delicate lines used for this design.


Compass Tattoo
Watercolor Compass

I find watercolor tattoos to be quite stunning. A watercolor tattoo is a tattoo in which the ink is applied to make it look like a painting. The colors are blended to create a soft and ethereal look.

Compass Tattoo
Compass Armband

You don’t often see a compass being done as an armband. If you want your design to take up more real estate on your skin, consider getting an armband.

Compass Tattoo
Feminine Compass Tattoo

The artist has put a unique spin on the compass. This design has a feminine look, which you may not recognize as a compass at first glance.


Compass tattoos can represent various things, such as direction, guidance, and protection. They can also be symbolic of a person’s journey in life. I hope you have found inspiration in this compass tattoo collection.