An above-the-knee tattoo may be unconventional as far as traditional tattoos go, but it’s quite the trend in today’s world. This unexpected placement usually remains hidden unless you’re wearing shorts or a miniskirt, and then it reveals itself in a burst of delightful surprise for all to see. While most people might think it’s cool to get their knee tattooed, that area is one of the most painful places to be. The area above the knee hits a sweet spot, allowing you to adorn one of the most powerful joints in your body with a creative yet personalized work of art. Discover some classic and unique tattoo designs that work great on this placement, along with their meanings in this article. So keep scrolling and be prepared to take notes!
Meaning of a tattoo above the knee
The knee area is a very unique tattoo placement that has no specific universally attributed symbolism or philosophy. Therefore, the way these tattoos are perceived can vary from person to person. Nevertheless, we can speculate a few meanings based on some general ideas.
For example, as we learn to physically navigate life as we grow up, often tripping and injuring ourselves, our knees often provide us with support, absorbing the heaviest blows and allowing us to get back on our feet. So the knee area can be associated with gratitude, support and resilience. It can symbolize the wearer’s attitude to face and overcome challenges. Some choose this placement because it gives the wearer the freedom to hide or flaunt their tattoo as they see fit.
These tattoos can shape or define the wearer’s aesthetic style, making them appear interesting and unique. Embrace the charm of this tattoo placement and move on to the next section for some cool and charismatic above the knee tattoo ideas.
8 Awesome Above Knee Tattoo Ideas
An above knee tattoo can serve as a piece of everlasting adornment that prominently adorns your joint, making it the perfect accessory for short outfits. And there are so many tattoo styles and designs to choose from! The following ideas may interest you, so take a look.
1. Butterfly above knee tattoo
Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team
The butterfly is not only an aesthetically pleasing element, but also a powerful symbol of transformation, resilience, personal growth, and freedom. Depending on the style of tattoo you choose, you can focus on the beauty or the audacity of the creature, which adds greater value to your design. For example, this American traditional tattoo shows a vibrantly colored butterfly above the knee, which immediately attracts attention and makes the wearer look cheerful and creative. Consequently, a Gothic abstract tattoo would evoke contrasting emotions in the viewer.
2. Birth year above knee tattoo
Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team
Everyone’s birth year is important to their individual identity, so it naturally plays a role in the symbolism of the tattoo. However, the personal meaning of the tattoo depends on the wearer, as they can have their own birth date, that of their parents, partner or children etched onto their skin. One can also have the birth year of a deceased loved one etched as a tribute to their life. Combining the number with other design elements such as vintage or tribal motifs, or small floral shapes, can enhance the tattoo’s appeal.
3. Small above knee tattoo
Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team
As trendy as above-the-knee placement is for beginners, it can be a daunting experience. A small tattoo can be done quickly, ensuring beginners minimal exposure to pain. Furthermore, those with a minimalist aesthetic would also appreciate simple, understated designs, such as a simple and elegant triangle tattoo. It symbolizes the element of fire, but also has spiritual roots in certain beliefs, such as the Holy Trinity in Christianity. Likewise, one can opt for any icon style or simple shape tattoo that means something deep to them.
4. Mandala above knee tattoo
Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team
Mandalas are often created with unique patterns and bold shapes, making them an extremely popular tattoo element. They symbolize the concept of a cyclical life that continues to grow, reinforcing one’s belief in eternal life. Getting this tattoo can help one achieve a sense of inner balance and, when combined with the above-knee placement, can show the wearer’s belief in moving through life with optimism that they will be able to overcome any adversity.
5. Cross above knee tattoo
Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team
A cross is a simple symbol of the Christian faith, representing the sacrifice and love of Jesus Christ. The cross represents forgiveness, resurrection, redemption, hope, and faith. Beyond symbolism, the cross is also an aesthetic symbol that has become popular as a style icon in recent times. A minimal cross in any size can express the faith or rebellion of the wearer and make for an intriguing above-the-knee tattoo.
6. Simple above knee tattoo
Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team
Not a fan of complex, layered symbolism in your tattoos? No problem! You can always opt for a simple design that is more recognizable for its beauty than its symbolism. For example, a tattoo of a simple highlighted rose, complete with colorful leaves, can symbolize passion, wild resilience, and self-growth, but it works just as brilliantly as an aesthetic embellishment. Select your favorite colors or a unique artistic style to further enhance the visual appeal.
7. Text above knee tattoo
Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team
In terms of symbolism, text tattoos make the message clear and decisive. This text tattoo with the word ‘Family’ in beautiful calligraphy, positioned among fresh-looking leaves, shows how important the word is to the wearer. It expresses love for their relatives and hope for their growth together, represented by the newly budding leaves in the tattoo. In the same way, you can choose any other word that has a meaningful meaning for you and combine it with other endearing elements such as hearts or flowers.
8. Cool above knee tattoo
Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team
The idea of getting an above knee tattoo itself is cool because of how your knees are usually hidden, especially on formal occasions. However, if you want to take it up a notch, opt for out-of-the-box subjects in a bold artistic style. This tattoo depicts a realistic full moon, with detailed shading to show off the craters on it, mimicking the look of satellite photos, making for an impressive piece. What’s cool is ultimately up to the wearer, further personalizing the appeal of their above knee tattoo.
And there you have it; our innovative list of chic and stunning above the knee tattoos. We hope you’ve gathered that the placement of the tattoo itself will grab the attention of onlookers, immediately pique their curiosity, and fuel their interest in you. However, you can amplify that impact with your choice of tattoo style and design. You can opt for minimalist designs that you can only share with close friends or go for large, elaborate designs that will have a room full of strangers talking to you and talking about you. Above the knee placement doesn’t have universal symbolism, so there’s no right or wrong way to get these tattoos. Ultimately, it’s up to you to consider your convenience and aesthetic preferences to arrive at the perfect design for you.
Was this article helpful? 
ReviewerAuthorEditorFact Check
Lucas Cummins is an Ohio-based tattoo artist who has been making his mark on the tattoo industry for the past 2 years. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for vibrant expression, Lucas specializes in neo-traditional, colorful, and abstract style tattoos.
Read the full biography of Lucas Cummins
Manjari is a beauty and lifestyle writer with over three years of experience writing across various niches including beauty, health, wellness, and technology. She first discovered her passion for writing in school and has been honing her craft ever since.
Read the full biography of Manjari Uppal
Anjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hair and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these areas. She has 7 years of experience and her philosophy on hair and skin care is simple: if you love it and take care of it, it will be healthy.
Read Anjali Sayee’s full biography
Joyce Joyson is a beauty and lifestyle writer with over a year of experience in creating short-form content for the beauty, fashion and lifestyle niches. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in History, Political Science and Geography from IIS University and a Master’s degree in Mass Communication and Journalism from Kristu Jayanti College.
Read Joyce Joyson’s full biography
Leave a Reply