What do swallows represent in tattooing?

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 do two swallow tattoos mean?

There’s a belief that when two swallows are tattooed on separate parts of the body, like left and right hand or foot, it marks the departure and long-distance. Sailors used to tattoo swallows on each side to mark the long journey that they need to pass to get to the final destination.

How do you get 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.

What does the 3 birds tattoo mean?

The Three Little Birds tattoo is also seen as three flying birds. In addition to the idea of positivity, birds flying also symbolizes freedom and the feeling of not being held down. It’s an empowering image that also adds to the idea of not worrying and knowing that things will get better in time.

What does the sparrow tattoo represent?

Sparrow tattoos are usually associated with freedom, love, and commitment, but there are many other great meanings that can be attached to these designs. For decades, they have been used as a standard in animal tattoo imagery.

Why do girls get swallow tattoos?

“The swallow is a bird that chooses a mate for life,” noted FreeTattoo. Therefore a swallow tattoo is also a symbol for love and loyalty to the family. Other symbolic meanings are in the same line: The return home after a struggle, a hardship survived, or a victory gained.”

What is the significance of a sparrow tattoo?

Can a Marine get a swallow tattoo?

5. Swallows. Sailors earn a new swallow tattoo for every 5,000 nautical miles traveled, which is about 5,754 regular miles, roughly the distance between New York City and Tel Aviv.