Memorial tattoo

Memorial tattoo: keeping the memory of a loved one with you

A father, a mother, a grandmother, a child, a friend, a pet who shared your life: a tattoo lets you carry the memory of someone you miss. In our tattoo shops in L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and Carpentras, this kind of project is prepared with time and attentive listening, at your own pace.

Ideas for a tattoo in memory of a loved one

• Their name, their dates, or a date that mattered to you both, in a handwriting chosen with the tattoo artist.
• Their handwriting: a few words taken from a letter or a card, copied just as they wrote them.
• Their print: a fingerprint, a handprint, or your pet's paw print.
• A symbol that suits them: their favourite flower, a bird, an object, a place, a drawing they loved.
• A phrase they used to repeat, a song, a nickname.
• A larger composition that brings several of these elements together, in the tattoo artist's style.

Preparing your project

Bring whatever connects you to this person: photos, a document written in their hand, an object, an image of what they loved. The tattoo artist listens as you tell their story, then proposes a design that is meaningful to you and will stand the test of time. There is no rush: it is often good to let a little time pass before choosing a design you will wear for life.

For handwriting or a print, a good photo or a clear scan is enough: the tattoo artist redraws it so that it stays legible on the skin. For a small motif, see also our page Small tattoos.

How the project works

• A first visit to the tattoo shop, with no commitment: you present your idea and your documents, the tattoo artist advises on size and placement, and sets the price. Quotes are not given by email.
• The drawing begins once the deposit has been paid, at least 30% of the price, deducted from the price. It is shown to you on the day of the session, and changes are still possible.
• The session, at your own pace: you can ask for a break at any time.

The full process is on our page First tattoo, and the minimum price for a tattoo is €80 (see the Prices page).

The shop's styles

• Japanese
• Old school
• New school and neo-traditional
• Trash polka and blackwork
• Graphic and geometric
• Tribal and Polynesian
• Ornamental and dotwork
• Fine line, minimalist and lettering

Frequently asked questions

Can you tattoo the handwriting of a loved one who has died?

Yes. Bring a clear photo or a scan of the text in their hand: the tattoo artist redraws it, keeping their handwriting, at a size that stays legible over time.

Can you tattoo your pet's paw print?

Yes, from a print on paper or a clear photo. It can be tattooed on its own or together with their name.

Where should I put a memorial tattoo?

There is no rule: near the heart, on the forearm so you can see it every day, or somewhere discreet. The tattoo artist advises you according to the size and the design.

Should I wait before getting a tattoo after a bereavement?

That choice is yours. Take the time you need to choose a design that feels like you: the tattoo artist will not rush you.

What happens if I have to cancel?

The deposit is not refunded if you cancel less than 48 hours before the appointment. So let us know as early as possible.