What does a swallow tattoo symbolize?
The swallow tattoo was a symbol used historically by sailors to denote their sailing experience. Of British origin in the early days of sailing, it was the image of a barn swallow, usually tattooed on the chest, hands or neck. It is also said that if the sailor drowns, the swallows will carry his soul to heaven.
What goes well with a swallow tattoo?
Because swallow tattoos go hand in hand with American Traditional style the chest can be used to make a serious combination of imagery. A swallow either side with their own banner can say various things or even names. And they can round out the centerpiece nicely (usually roses, a compass or a heart).
What is the difference between a sparrow and a swallow tattoo?
There are some noticeable differences between the sparrow and the swallow. The swallow is usually blue in shade and has a pointed tail and curved forked wings. Sparrow is plumper with a more dull color like grey or brown and has shorter wings.
What does a swallow tattoo mean in the Navy?
5,000 nautical miles
Swallow tattoos are one of the most popular in the navy and have a number of meanings. Each swallow represents 5,000 nautical miles in a sailor’s career. The circumference of the earth is 21,639 nautical miles – about 4.16 swallows. A swallow with a dagger would be used as a memorial of a lost comrade at sea.
Where do you put a swallow tattoo?
If you want your swallow tattoo design to look chic, then the neck is the best placement idea. You can place it on the side of the neck or the nape of the neck. However, you have to make sure that your design is not too big in size as smalls designs look better in these areas.
Why are swallow tattoos so popular?
Many sailors tattoo the swallows because they believe that swallows will provide them with protection that will ensure their safety while they are on the sea. Many people who travel a lot, use their swallow tattoos to seek protection and safety while they are on the road.
How much does a swallow tattoo cost?
If you’re looking to make a small swallow tattoo for your wrist, or back, you may get it for up to $100. However, larger swallow tattoos are more expensive and more time-consuming to make.
How much is a swallow tattoo?
How far can a swallow tattoo go?
5000 nautical miles
Dagger Through Swallow – This tattoo would be used as a memorial of a lost comrade at sea. You’ll remember the swallow represented 5000 nautical miles, and in this circumstance, it also represented the sailor who sailed those miles too.
How do you earn a swallow tattoo?
Tradition, though, generally holds that a swallow tattoo is used measure how far a sailor travels. Originally, a swallow was earned every 5,000 nautical miles. Due to the enhanced capabilities of today’s ships, a sailor earns a swallow every 10,000 nautical miles.
Why are swallow tattoos popular?