70+ Butterfly Tattoo Ideas That Are Sure to Flutter Your Heart

Butterflies have long been a popular tattoo choice for their beauty, symbolism, and meaning. Often associated with transformation, hope, and new beginnings, butterfly tattoos can honor life’s changes and personal growth. They make for especially meaningful tattoos for those who have overcome challenges or want an uplifting daily reminder.

When it comes to placement, butterfly tattoos look great just about anywhere, though common spots include the wrist, shoulder, back, or thigh. Their slender shape lends itself well to both small and large tattoo designs. Costs can range dramatically based on factors like detail, color, size, and artist experience. A simple black outline may start around $50-100, while a large, vivid multi-color butterfly with extensive detailing could be $200 or more.

Below I’ve compiled 30 beautiful butterfly tattoo ideas for inspiration. Ranging from minimal to bold, take a look through these creative designs to find artwork that resonates with you. Whether you want something subtle or eye-catching, you’re sure to find a butterfly tattoo that matches your style and symbolic meaning. Scroll down to view the butterfly tattoo designs.

Black & White Butterfly Tattoos

1. Rib Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CclPObup3qY/

Cool and edgy, this side rib butterfly tattoo will suit women who like delicate and sensual placements.

2. Black Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ccln2wFvlqo/

Simple and straightforward, this tattoo will look great for both genders. Give it a go if you’re into black & white gorgeous outlines.

3. Forearm Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CcllDkCJRg7/

Women who like cute and feminine tattoos will like this detailed tattoo. It stands for your pure sensual spirit.

4. Simple Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CcpzSTHpkCX/

Go for a detailed outline and enjoy the minimalism of this cute butterfly tattoo. Perfect for those who dislike the tattooing process.

5. Foot Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ccp34rqrlAE/

Not a lot of people dare to go for a foot tattoo. Do you? Heads up since it is a painful placement to consider.

6. Feminine Butterfly Tattoo Idea

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ccp5-h2oGdy/

Feminine and detailed, this black ink tattoo will look amazing on creative guys or girls.

7. Neck Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ccp75FiKJco/

Heads up when it comes to this giant neck butterfly tattoo, it is a time-consuming piece to go for.

8. Small & Simple Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cco4C-3rfcE/

Cute and delicate, this tattoo is perfect for men or women who dislike the feeling of needles.

9. Butterfly Tattoo With Flowers

https://www.instagram.com/p/CclgouaIb__/

Artsy and feminine, this butterfly will symbolize your inner & pure energy.

10. Arm Butterfly Tattoo Design

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ccp_I2zub90/

Such a gorgeous tattoo that can have a powerful story to tell. Heads up since it is a painful design to go for.

11. Black Butterfly Tattoo For Women 

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cxn3HA9MktB/

Butterflies belong to the insect order Lepidoptera, which includes moths as well. How fun and cool is that description, along with this black butterfly tattoo?

12. Butterfly Tattoo With Flowers 

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cx0hEsQPJrQ/

There are over 20,000 different species of butterflies worldwide, with a wide range of sizes, colors, and shapes. However, some people may prefer this simpler black-and-white rose and butterfly print.

13. Blackwork Butterfly Tattoo 

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClL03A-IEFa/

Only a talented tattoo artists can create such a masterpiece! With this blackwork butterfly, you will feel like a butterfly queen!

14. Book and Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClLqmfyJswt/

Are you a book lover? Then, why not combine it with butterflies? In this tattoo, papers fly and they turn into butterflies!

15. Dagger Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClHI6P5pvDH/

Are you a person who is willing to do whatever it takes to make your dreams come true? If your answer is yes, go and get this tattoo.

16. Floral Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClHE2efLLxS/

The balance and harmony between a butterfly wing and flowers are amazing, aren’t they?   Then why not get it inked on your arm?

17. Minimalist Butterfly Tattoo on Finger

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClHC8OiPwhE/

If you want your butterfly tattoo super visible, getting it on your finger is a great idea.

18. Triple Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClG-GmPs5Pn/

Three butterflies represent your past, present, and future selves. Get this meaningful tattoo to show that you are happy with all stages of your life.

19. Butterfly with a Moon Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClGgp_JNsES/

A butterfly tattoo with a moon is a symbol of rebirth and renewal. The moon represents a goddess while butterflies are symbolic of transformation, metamorphosis, and life cycles.

20. Butterfly Line Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClGb7qmr5gN/

A butterfly line is a classic one but it never gets old. Let’s show the beauty in simplicity with it.

21. Bert Grimm Butterfly Lady Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClMjfRrvp5V/

This butterfly lady is ready to make you feel like a queen. Plus, it is super creative and unique.

22. Butterfly Tattoo with a Skull

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClMii3Nrd23/

The butterfly represents transformation, and the skull represents death or transformation into something new.

23. Floral Butterfly Tattoo on Back 

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClMbXxMy9fI/

In order to turn your back into an art piece, one of the best tattoo designs is definitely a floral butterfly tattoo.

24. Geometrical Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClMF-lOhK5e/

A butterfly can take your tattoo to a different level! This butterfly with geometric shapes will express your elegance and beauty.

25. Minimalist Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClL4ln2oC9z/

Sometimes all you need is a minimalist butterfly tattoo to change your energy. It won’t take a lot of time to get it, so it’s worth a try.

26. Tiny Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClLxxlnqF49/

Those who are getting their first tattoo will adore this butterfly tattoo since it is tiny and super cute at the same time.

Colorful Butterfly Tattoos

1. Pop Of Blue Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CcqBgJXPbSf/

The color blue symbolizes peace. Give it a go with this tattoo if you’re cool, calm, and optimistic.

2. Big Orange Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CcqBARFLMfV/

Orange color stands for power and warmth. Show your ”true colors” with this design.

3. Pink Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ccp6-LIrPc4/

Small and petite, this pink butterfly tattoo is for women who like minimalism.

4. Green Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ccp1uZRrQsU/

Go for a butterfly tattoo and add an important quote to it to make it even more personal.

5. Feminine & Floral Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CcpyiHGviPq/

If you’re an artsy person this mosaic butterfly tattoo will suit you.

6. Yellow Butterfly Tattoo Print

https://www.instagram.com/p/CcnnhepMwgb/

Yellow color is a color of sunshine and positivity, perfect for naturally cheerful guys or girls.

7. Blue Neck Tattoo Butterfly Design

https://www.instagram.com/p/CcnQf5fPctJ/

Make sure that you have 3-4 hours to spare when it comes to this gorgeous butterfly.

8. Artsy Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CcnpU6usNCN/

This artsy butterfly tattoo is going to look the best on women who like feminine ideas.

9. Aqua Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ccl3hJou8zh/

The color of water and nature, this print is a must-do for women who like aquatic experiences.

10. Chest Butterfly Tattoo For Men

https://www.instagram.com/p/CcpJ7dYowuw/

Bright, colorful, and fun, this chest tattoo is for anyone who likes tribal prints.

11. Colorful & Artsy Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CcoyiezLyFN/

Make sure that you fully trust your tattoo artist before giving it a go with this bold print.

12. Butterfly Tattoo On Arm

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ccptufevfgs/

Feminine and creative, this small butterfly tattoo is fun and creative, and can suit both genders!

13. Realistic 3D Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CclEwAms26l/

Cool, different, and truly realistic, this pink butterfly will look unique and 3D-like if you give it a go.

14. Pastel Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ccn3DxrJ_oF/

Light pastel butterfly tattoo, perfect for gentle souls!

15. Black & Red Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CcmdM9oPA2e/

This tattoo will symbolize your freedom and inner spirit, perfect for both genders.

16. Colorful Big Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cco7QojrCs1/

Colorful and magnificent, this giant back tattoo is for souls who have their own unique story to tell.

17. Giant Butterfly Blue Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CcoeS7UPyNv/

Blue is a color of freedom. Show that you’re looking for it in your own way.

18. Light Green Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CcnmoOiuLNx/

Nature-inspired and delicate, this tattoo will take 2-3 hours to do.

19. Artsy Outline Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CclYhyVJgNb/

Artsy prints and unique outline designs are for creative souls who wish to stand out!

20. Bright Neon Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CcnaG-psAhD/

Cool, bright, and loud, this tattoo will take some time to get, but it is more than worth it in the end.

21. Butterfly Tattoo with Flowers

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClHcD10NXw9/

A beautiful blue butterfly settled on a bench with flowers. If you want to cover up your upper leg and show your love of nature, go for this tattoo.

22. Lion and Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClHY8KlyJzB/

Half lion and half butterfly tattoo may represent the cycle of life predator and prey. If you are looking for a creative design, give it a shot.

23. Buttersnake Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClHOywrjHDO/

Those who want to show a wild animal, as well as a cute and adorable one in a tattoo, should definitely get the one above.

24. Watercolor Splash Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClHEjRvJR0P/

Butterflies have such vibrant colors that it is almost impossible not to be surprised. To celebrate these colors, using a watercolor splash at the back is a nice idea.

25. Red Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClGsZwMsqzc/

Butterflies symbolize sexuality and femininity, so when you get this tattoo red, you are sure to double your femininity since it is the color of passion.

26. Pink Floral Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClGltT1KJyw/

This pink floral butterfly tattoo will show everyone that you have a great taste.

27. Roses and Butterflies Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClGkUJkomBB/

A rose and butterfly tattoo is a popular choice for many women. It’s a romantic symbol, as well as an expression of feminine power.

28. Blue Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClM2N6hPrpW/

If you don’t want the typical butterfly tattoo that most people get, get this blue ink butterfly tattoo to stand out.

29. Purple Butterfly and Rose Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClMdU0BpiI6/

The color purple stands for royalty and the butterfly represents freedom. The rose, conversely, represents beauty and elegance. Go and get it.

30. Red Ink Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClMRe2zA3H4/

Red ink is a great alternative because you can stand out with this color. Get a couple of butterfly tattoo that is a sign of good fortune.

31. Traditional Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClMHKCULlM2/

This traditional tattoo involves a great color palette that will leave everyone around you speechless. Are you ready to rock?

32. Orange Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClL2cjNpJbV/

Orange butterfly tattoos are a way to express your inner light and positive energy. Plus, can you see how real it looks?

33. Tribal Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClL1Z6ej7k3/

A tribal butterfly tattoo may symbolize the soul’s journey through life. Let’s give this red and black line tattoo a shot.

34. Couple Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClLetqBLWzg/

Couple tattoos are a nice way to show your dedication to your lover or friend. Plus, butterflies will cheer you up every time you look at them.

35. Ornamental Butterfly Tattoo 

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClKqaxvJGen/

Get this black and red ornamental butterfly tattoo can be used as a mark of beauty and femininity. Let’s show your softness with it.

36. Soft Butterfly Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ClKmYOtpaR6/

A soft-colored butterfly tattoo that consists of colors such as pastel yellow, green, purple and red is all you need to shine.

37. Unique Butterfly Tattoos 

https://www.instagram.com/p/CQGWtVgHU_S/

Butterflies are often seen as symbols of transformation, beauty, and rebirth in various cultures around the world.

38. Butterfly Tattoo On Arm Pink Design

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cx_sjjrqk3R/

Perhaps the most universal symbol of the butterfly is its transformation from a caterpillar to a butterfly, representing profound personal growth, metamorphosis, and the cycle of life, death, and rebirth.

39. Hot Pink Butterfly Tattoo 

https://www.instagram.com/p/CaLdW0qJfys/

In many spiritual traditions, butterflies are seen as symbols of the soul, representing its journey, freedom, and spiritual elevation.

40. Rainbow Butterfly Tattoo On Chest

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cwf2nnnO8Gm/

In many spiritual traditions, butterflies are seen as symbols of the soul, representing its journey, freedom, and spiritual elevation.

41. Butterfly Tattoo On Knee

https://www.instagram.com/p/CxLZL29PywD/

The butterfly’s emergence from its chrysalis is often likened to the resurrection, signifying new beginnings and a fresh start after overcoming challenges.

42. Red Butterfly On Arm

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cxkg5fiol-z/

Butterflies are often used as metaphors for change, reminding us that change can be beautiful and positive, even if it involves leaving our comfort zone.

43. Blue Butterfly Tattoo Feminine Design 

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ct1xCkVvO3m/

The vibrant colors and graceful flight of butterflies are associated with joy, happiness, and the lightness of being. Seeing a butterfly can be seen as an omen of joyous events.

44. Colorful Butterfly Chest Tattoo 

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cx_lxXZOX2i/

In some belief systems, encountering a butterfly is believed to be a sign or message from a loved one who has passed away, providing comfort and guidance.

45. Pink Butterfly Hand Tattoo Idea

https://www.instagram.com/p/CxP1b34JUvW/

Butterflies are often associated with feminine energy and beauty due to their delicate appearance and graceful movements.

Want A Gorgeous Butterfly Tattoo?
Which butterfly you can’t wait to wear and try out yourself? Are you more so into small or big tattoos? Either way it may be we know that you’re going to find one must-have out of the bunch. Let us know which one is ”the one” out of these gorgeous butterfly options. Book your appointment and start rocking it as of today.

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Soheil Khaledi

I've been a tattoo artist for over 13 years, working in 35 states and abroad. My art is prominent in the Pacific Northwest and Hawaii. I also tattoo on military bases in foreign countries. I share my inspirations on my blog.

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