34 Best Vegvisir Tattoo Ideas
Amy Fournier
Table of Contents
About Vegvisir Tattoos
Feeling a bit lost at sea lately? Need a reminder that the universe always has your back and that you’ll always find your way? A vegvisir tattoo will most certainly do the trick.
Vegvisir (pronounced vegg-vee-seer) is an eight-pointed way-finder, compass, or guiding device used by ancient Vikings in Norse mythology. This fascinating historical artifact carries different meanings depending on a person’s interpretation of the device.
History buffs may be especially drawn to the vegvisir due to its deep roots in Icelandic traditions and stories. Whether you’re interested in the cultural significance of the vegvisir or you think it looks cool, the vegvisir tattoo will not let you down.
In this article I’ll take you through the following:
- Meaning of the vegvisir tattoo
- Places on your body to get this tattoo
- How much a vegvisir tattoo costs
- The best vegvisir tattoo designs
- The history behind this tattoo
- Famous people who have the tattoo
It’s no strange coincidence that you’ve landed on this page. Maybe the vegvisir has guided you here. Either way, I suggest sticking around to see the various vegvisir tattoo options that are available.
What Do Vegvisir Tattoos Mean And Symbolize?
Tattoos can have great significance to the wearer. If you’re looking for a tattoo that comes loaded with meanings and symbols, then a vegvisir tattoo might just be for you.
- Guidance & Safety: Since the vegvisir is a compass of sorts, a vegvisir tattoo will signify guidance towards the right path for you. By getting this tattoo, you can remind yourself that you are safe, and to trust your instincts when making life decisions.
- Protection: A vegvisir tattoo can also symbolize protection. You can rest assured knowing you are safe and protected due to your strong beliefs and values which guide you daily. Regardless of what happens, you will be okay as long as you stay resilient and courageous on your journey.
- Authenticity & Staying True To Your Roots: Having a vegvisir tattoo can remind the wearer to follow their arrow and continue leading a life that corresponds to their values and purpose, even if it is unusual or off the beaten path.
- Stability & Security: Similar to some of the other symbols mentioned above, the vegvisir tattoo can represent a sense of security. Even if you’re sailing over rocky waters, this tattoo can be a helpful reminder that everything will be okay. You may also see the vegvisir as a way to protect your inner peace in an often chaotic world.
- Groundedness: Everyone at some point in their life faces challenges and obstacles. During hardship, it can be easy to veer off track and lose parts of yourself. However, a vegvisir tattoo can symbolize groundedness and a sense of calm and order, despite what’s happening externally.
- Control Of Your Life: Sometimes we can be swept away by society’s demands. We can be pulled every which way in a direction we don’t necessarily want to go. A vegvisir tattoo can serve as a reminder that no matter what, you are in control of your life. At the end of the day, you choose where your energy goes and what your priorities are.
Overall, a vegvisir tattoo is a powerful symbol that can invoke self-compassion, motivation, and determination. This tattoo can inspire you every day to be your authentic self and not let anything or anyone change who you are inside.
So, do you think a vegvisir tattoo is right for you? Now that you know a little bit about the vegvisir meaning, next up, I’ll get into the specifics and practical aspects of getting one.
Where To Get A Vegvisir Tattoo
The vegvisir tattoo is a simple tattoo that can be placed practically anywhere on your body. However, it looks particularly stunning on certain areas of the body.
Commonly, you can find a vegvisir tattoo on the back of someone’s shoulder. This is a great place for this tattoo because it can easily be seen if you’re wearing an off-the-shoulder top or it can be covered up.
Another popular location for this tattoo is right below your wrist, on the inside of your forearm. You can easily show off this minimalist design without having to strip off any pieces of clothing which is always a bonus.
Also, placing a vegvisir tattoo in this area will make sure you are constantly reminded of the tattoo’s message and the meaning you associate it with. Every time you look down or glace at your arm you’ll see the tattoo.
Last but not least, your legs are a suitable canvas for the vegvisir tattoo as well. Whether you choose to place it on your thigh or calf, getting a leg tattoo will be much less painful than some other areas of the body.
Here are a few other common places for a vegvisir tattoo:
- Back of your hand
- Chest (above the peck)
- Upper back
At the end of the day, you have complete choice and freedom. You can get a vegvisir tattoo wherever you think fits, looks good, and is comfortable (depending on your pain tolerance). If you’re still unsure, you can get a temporary tattoo for a cheap price and try it out on different parts of the body to see what looks best and go from there.
How Much Do Vegvisir Tattoos Cost?
In terms of cost, the price will vary depending on several factors. You’ll need to consider the size, quality, amount of details, and how long your tattoo will take to complete.
Most shops will have a minimum fee to ensure the tattoo artists are being fairly compensated for their work. A simple and tiny tattoo will start at $50 to $200. However, since the vegvisir tattoo requires more in-depth detail than a mere heart outline, you can expect to be paying a bit more than that.
It also depends on the location you’re getting your tattoo and the artist who is doing it. For example, in NYC many tattoo shops charge $150 as a minimum starting price.
Plus, you should keep in mind the cost of tipping your tattoo artist. Expect to tip anywhere from 15 to 30 percent.
It may seem like a lot of money but tattoos are a permanent mark on your body. Unlike a haircut or makeup consultation, a tattoo will last forever. So, in my opinion, it’s better to save up and invest in a high-quality tattoo than to choose a lower-end design.
34 Best Vegvisir Tattoo Designs
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History Of Vegvisir Tattoos
The vegvisir tattoo comes with a lot of history. This symbol was first seen in the Huld Manuscript which was found by an Icleandian named Geir Vigfússon in 1860.
The word ‘vegvisir’ can be broken down into two words: ‘vegur’ which means ‘way, road, or path,’ and ‘visir’ which translates to ‘guide.’ I’m not exactly sure if during this time Vikings tattooed themselves with this symbol or not. It could very well be possible as they were said to be a creative group of people.
Underneath the image of the vegvisir in the manuscript is a powerful message: “if this sign is carried, one will never lose one’s way in storms or bad weather, even when the way is not known.”
Today, the vegvisir symbol is used in the same way. It represents finding your way and emerging strong after (or while) navigating rough waters. So, it’s a symbol of hope which can be very empowering.
Which Celebrities Have a Vegvisir Tattoo?
Now that I’ve shared several vegvisir ideas and you understand the significance behind this tattoo, you may be wondering if any celebs have it too. I found many famous people who wear a compass tattoo but only one who specifically has a vegvisir tattoo.
One noteworthy artist who wears this tattoo on her upper left arm is the nordic singer Bjork. The vegvisir symbol pays homage to the singer’s home country, Iceland. This symbol helps the singer feel more connected to her homeland when she is far away from it.
Perhaps other famous folks also have a vegvisir tattoo but it’s hidden or not spoken about. I wouldn’t doubt if public figures and artists who come from Nordic countries have this tattoo as a way to proudly showcase their heritage.
Ultimately, the vegvisir tattoo is a super cool symbol that possibly Vikings wore back in the day. Plus, I think this tattoo carries multiple important reminders that anyone can make use of.
Many people experience periods in their life when they don’t feel like themselves. So, having a permanent reminder of your place in the world and a guiding symbol that helps direct you in a way that feels right is a gift.
I hope this article informed you all about the vegvisir tattoo and its many meanings along with giving you some handy information about things to consider when getting your tattoo. If it speaks to you, follow your vegvisir and plan accordingly.
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