Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Tattoo"

To sign 'tattoo', form an '8' handshape with your dominant hand, where your middle finger touches your thumb and your other fingers are extended. Tap your middle finger against your non-dominant upper arm a couple of times. This motion mimics a tattoo needle working on the skin.

Examples Using "Tattoo" in a Sentence

1

I want to get a new tattoo.

To sign this, point to yourself for 'I', sign 'want', sign 'new', and finish with the 'tattoo' sign on your upper arm. Keep your expression enthusiastic to show your excitement about getting the new artwork.

2

Do you have any tattoos?

Point to the person to sign 'you', sign 'have', and then sign 'tattoo'. Since this is a yes/no question, remember to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly while holding the final sign.

3

Her tattoo is beautiful.

Point to the person or their arm to establish 'her', sign 'tattoo', and then sign 'beautiful'. Use an admiring or appreciative facial expression during 'beautiful' to convey how much you like the artwork.

How to Sign "Tattoo"
To sign 'tattoo', form an '8' handshape with your dominant hand, where your middle finger touches your thumb and your other fingers are extended. Tap your middle finger against your non-dominant upper arm a couple of times. This motion mimics a tattoo needle working on the skin.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'tattoo' is a wonderful example of an iconic sign in American Sign Language, meaning it visually resembles the concept it represents. The '8' handshape, combined with the rapid tapping motion against the skin, perfectly mimics the fast, up-and-down movement of a traditional tattoo machine's needle. By placing the sign on the upper arm—a very common location for body art—the sign creates a clear, instantly recognizable visual picture of the tattooing process.
Signing Tips
While the upper arm is the standard dictionary location for this sign, ASL is a highly visual and spatial language. You can actually sign 'tattoo' directly on the specific body part where a tattoo is located—such as your forearm, shoulder, or chest—if you are describing a specific piece of body art. Just remember to keep the tapping motion quick and light, ensuring your middle finger is the primary point of contact to clearly distinguish the sign.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is using their index finger to tap their arm instead of the proper '8' handshape. Using just the index finger can make it look like you are simply pointing to a bruise, a spot, or an injury on your arm rather than signing 'tattoo'. Additionally, be sure not to hit your arm too hard; the motion should be a light, rapid tapping that mimics a needle, rather than a heavy punch or jab.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Tattoo" in a Sentence
1

I want to get a new tattoo.

To sign this, point to yourself for 'I', sign 'want', sign 'new', and finish with the 'tattoo' sign on your upper arm. Keep your expression enthusiastic to show your excitement about getting the new artwork.

2

Do you have any tattoos?

Point to the person to sign 'you', sign 'have', and then sign 'tattoo'. Since this is a yes/no question, remember to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly while holding the final sign.

3

Her tattoo is beautiful.

Point to the person or their arm to establish 'her', sign 'tattoo', and then sign 'beautiful'. Use an admiring or appreciative facial expression during 'beautiful' to convey how much you like the artwork.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sign 'tattoo' on a different part of my body?

Yes! While the upper arm is the default dictionary location, ASL is a very spatial language. If you are talking about a tattoo on your wrist or leg, you can tap the '8' handshape directly on that specific body part to show exactly where the art is located.

Does the number of taps matter?

Generally, two or three quick taps are perfect for this sign. Tapping just once might look like you are simply pointing out a specific spot on your arm, while multiple quick, light taps clearly convey the continuous action of a tattoo machine working on the skin.

What handshape is used for this sign?

The standard handshape is an '8' handshape. To form this, touch the tip of your middle finger to the tip of your thumb, while keeping your index, ring, and pinky fingers extended. Your middle finger is the part that makes contact with your arm during the tapping motion.

ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!