34 Best Adventure Time Tattoo Ideas
Natasha Kirmse
Table of Contents
About Adventure Time Tattoos
Whether a fan from the initial run or someone who’s joined the crowd over the years, Adventure Time has gained a loyal following in their fandom, worthy of a bit of attention.
Though it may seem nonsensical and chaotic at first view, the journeys of Finn and Jake speak to more than just a fun fantasy show we watch to pass the time.
Doesn’t matter if you’re someone who just loved the show or someone who loved the greater meaning behind it, I’d argue that an Adventure Time tattoo suits just about anyone who knows the show.
What Do Adventure Time Tattoos Mean and Symbolize?
There’s a lot to discover with a show based around fun and fantasy. While the characters and designs may seem very out there (along with some of the wilder plotlines), there’s actually a lot of meaning to derive from the show and characters themselves.
While some may overlook larger themes, I’d argue that the right tattoos could encompass any of these core themes:
- Time – a big part of this show covers how time is cyclical. There’s nothing that’s occurred that we haven’t seen before. Everything will repeat and it’s all about how we approach the current moment we’re given.
- Growth – a huge part of Adventure Time’s story comes from Finn’s coming-of-age tale. Entering this story as the last real human in a post-apocalyptic world, a lot of the show seems to come down to silly stories, but in reality, it’s tracing Jake’s journey from childhood to a loss of innocence and move to maturity.
Sad, but highly relatable, this tale guides us all through the understanding that things much change. Life may be chaotic, but accepting that allows us to grow. - Normalization – celebrate understanding that everyone is just a person with an Adventure Time tattoo added to the mix. No matter the position or authority held, everyone has flaws and moments they aren’t proud of. We all make mistakes and need some support sometimes in order to really move forward in life.
- Trauma – represented most often through the Ice King in Adventure Time tattoo designs, this show confronts the idea that many who are seen as rough, or evil are simply dealing (or unable to deal) with their trauma.
Due to disassociating with his past, he loses touch with his true self, however, the good in him still appears from time to time making him a complex and beloved character. - Good in all – similar to the last theme, a big thing to note comes from the fact that there’s good in everyone, no matter their original appearance.
Proven most commonly by the Ice King and Marceline, these characters start off strong with dislikable behavior and quickly make their way into the category of fan favorites due as we learn more about them over the years. - Love – if there’s one thing to be said about Adventure time meaning, it’s that the course of love doesn’t run smoothly. In fact, this show seems to combat the notion of rose-tinted glasses when it comes to relationships and instead offers up the understanding that romantic love is hard and really takes effort.
I also have to note that a big part of love in this show comes from their depiction of an LGTBQ+ relationship between Princess Bubblegum and Marceline that develops throughout the show and wins the hearts of almost every viewer. - Friendship – I can’t talk about Adventure Time tattoo ideas without thinking about the theme of friendship. Most often depicted through images of Jake and Finn, this show really emphasizes that above all else in life, friendship is the most important part of being alive.
Understanding that even the worst events can be countered with a good support system in place, the love of friends and found family mean the world to us all.
Where To Get An Adventure Time Tattoo
When looking for that optimum Adventure Time tattoo placement, it’s important to think over what all is looking to be gained by having the design.
Some people prefer their tattoos to remain hidden from the public eye while others are more than happy to show off their new artwork. It’s important to know which one to aim for as that can affect placement when the time comes.
While it’s possible to get an Adventure Time tattoo (or any other design) just about anywhere on the body, there are a few spots that seem to have benefits other places don’t. Some of the most recommended placements appear on:
- Collarbone – ideal for those who have always dreamt of a chest piece, the outer collarbone offers that similar placement with reduced sun exposure. The middle of the chest is far more likely to see shining rays which can reduce colors, and the area also tends to see stretching as we age. The outer collarbone maintains elasticity better and offers better protection for a lasting design.
- Inner Arm – similar to the collarbone, the inner arm tends to find recommendations due to its protected location. Less exposure to UV rays keeps ink looking fresh for longer. It’s also an ideal location for easy cover-up as sleeves can cover all.
- Back – the back really comes in for the bigger and bolder tattoos. Offering a larger canvas to work on, this area tends to see those thousand-dollar pieces we all have to admire. Covered constantly by shirts, these designs typically last longer as they not only have protection from the sun, but the skin also doesn’t fluctuate like it would on the abdomen (which is more likely to see weight loss and gain).
- Upper Thigh – offering a larger canvas yet again, the upper thigh provides an expanse of skin that’s easy to cover up to maintain that ‘professional’ appearance. It’s also typically covered during the UV-heavy days. When it is showing off to the sun, slap some SPF 50 or higher on to keep the ink looking top quality for longer.
- Upper Ribcage – those who aren’t a fan of the back and actually want to see their Adventure Time designs can give the ribcage a try. Unlike the abdomen, the area doesn’t fluctuate as much with weight and aging.
The area typically doesn’t see a lot of direct sunlight (aside from beach days), so the ink should remain detailed and colored for much longer than in other spots. - Shoulders and Calves – these spots are some of the best for consistency. Areas don’t typically stretch or wrinkle over time, keeping tattoos clear and easy to cover throughout the years.
Whether searching for an Adventure time tattoo or something else to add to the collection, these prime spots are worth checking out.
How Much Do Adventure Time Tattoos Cost?
While I’d love to offer up some solid advice on exactly how much an Adventure time tattoo may or may not cost, there are a few factors that go into determining the price of a piece:
- Artist – different artists will charge different amounts based on their experience and repertoire. Feel free to look through their work to see if styles match and then reach out for a quote to those you’re interested in.
- Detailing – the more details and colors, the more expensive the piece. Basically, if the plan is to go all out in style, then expect to see those higher prices added to the bill.
- Size – while a large Adventure time tattoo may seem wise, the bigger the design, the higher the price (and pieces can easily go from $30 to $3,000). Larger designs require more time, ink, and effort, so it only makes sense that costs will sit higher.
34 Best Adventure Time Tattoo Design
#1:
#2:
#3:
#4:
#5:
#6:
#7:
#8:
#9:
#10:
#11:
#12:
#13:
#14:
#15:
#16:
#17:
#18:
#19:
#20:
#21:
#22:
#23:
#24:
#25:
#26:
#27:
#28:
#29:
#30:
#31:
#32:
#33:
#34:
History Of Adventure Time Tattoos
I know that an Adventure Time tattoo may not be for everyone, especially those who don’t know the show.
I like to say it’s never too late to step into the game and start learning the plays. Adventure Time ran as a cartoon series from 2010 to 2018, originally based on a short film of the same name.
From the time it first aired, producers had Adventure Time ideas to spare, leading to the show airing on Cartoon Network and appreciated for its indie and unique storylines and graphics.
Noted as almost comic-book-like in nature, the fun and fresh spin on cartoon and adventure tales drew in consistent ratings.
While more mature themes existed throughout the series, the unique plotlines and characters (which made for incredible Adventure Time tattoo designs) often drew inspiration from existing works.
Dungeons and Dragons had a huge impact on this show and their narratives, allowing the writers to exist without limitations on what was possible in the land of Ooo (a post-apocalyptic vision of the Earth).
Which Celebrities Have an Adventure Time Tattoo?
Despite the popularity of the show, I have yet to spot an Adventure Time tattoo on any big-name celebrity. Fans have been quick to start adding new designs and details to their own bodies and the list of possibilities is seemingly endless.
As for the wonderful world of Hollywood, things are currently spotless as no celebrities have come forward to show themselves off as part of the larger fandom outside of offering their voices up for guest roles.
Looking for more inkspiration? We’ve got you covered:
30 Best Sailor Moon Tattoo Ideas
