2. Black Ink Rune Tattoos

While some people use vibrant color ink to make designs pop, others prefer the effect created by fully saturated black ink standing out against a blank canvas. Stark black ink is especially effective for these rune tattoos: for some people, the focus of these tattoos should be on the symbol itself, and they would rather use a limited color scheme that lets the designs speak for themselves rather than clutter them with color and detail. 

3. Color Incorporated Rune Tattoo Designs

Just as some people prefer the subdued tones of black ink work, just as many people want their tattoos to jump of the skin, and bright colors are a great way to accomplish this. Red ink specifically is an excellent choice for these rune tattoos thanks to its aggressive nature and its historical associations with the fierce Viking warriors from the Norse culture. These tattoos are great examples of how color ink can be successfully incorporated into rune tattoos.  

4. Simple Rune Tattoos

These Norse runes are perfectly suited for simple tattoos. While there is definitely something to be said for intricate details, the stark shapes and simple design of these runes are enhanced by an uncluttered composition. One strategy that some people use with rune tattoos is to go big, using large applications of these shapes to create striking tattoos that stand out despite their simplified designs.  

5. Viking Compass Rune Tattoos

The Viking Compass, or Helm of Awe (Ægishjálmr), is an ancient Norse symbol that is believed to have been mentioned in several of the Viking sagas being used by warriors as a protective charm. In Norse culture a helm referred a helmet, and while some argue that the Helm of Awe was an actual object, most people believe it to be a spell, cast to protect warriors. These unique symbols make for striking tattoos that instantly evoke images of Pagan rituals and fierce Vikings.