The compass rose has long been popular with sailors.  Sailors would often have the compass tattooed in belief that it would bring them good luck on their journey, and a safe return home.  The job of a sailor was extremely tough, and they faced many obstacles like weather, starvation, and several other hazards.  They really did need all of the luck they could get.

The compass rose tattoo usually follows a basic design.  North, south, east and west are all positioned in the proper location on a circular base.  The center of the tattoo is usually filled with the design of a star.  This star is believed to be the Northern star.  The original compass rose design was taken directly from old maps.

The compass rose tattoo is usually placed on the arm.  The traditnal colors of blue and black ink are sill very popular, however some people are opting for a more updated look.  If you like the ideas of the compass rose, but want a more modern look you can choose different colors for your tattoo.  You may also want to incorporate some non traditional elements into the tat.  You can use your zodiac sign in the middle of the compass as opposed to the star.  You can also add a tribal or Celtic twist to the compass rose.  Feel free to think outside of the box.  Add the elements that are sentimental to you, and that make you happy.  Instead of adding only the star in the middle of the compass, you could add a moon and smaller stars.

Although many still view the compass rose much like the sailors of days gone by, with the reemergence of this symbol also comes new meanings.  It is used by some as a reminder that all things in life are possible if you have direction.  Others are using this design as a way of remembering and honoring the past while still moving towards the future.

If the compass rose holds a special meaning for you, don’t be afraid to get one.  You can make it as unique as you like.  A great tip on finding color combinations that work for you is to get a box of crayons and start experimenting.  The only way to know if two colors will look good together is to actually see them.  What better way to do that then by playing around with some crayons.

Where to go from here:

• Tribal Tattoos Are For Everyone – Tribal Tattoo Designs
• Tattoo Designs For Men – Men Tattoos
• Broken Heart Tattoo Designs
• Scorpion Tattoo Designs – Tribal Scorpion Tattoos