Reviewed and Updated: December 2, 2022 by Jamie Wilson BA
Did you know that the black, upside-down, heart-shaped shape is called spades in the deck of cards? Interestingly, many people love spade tattoo ideas. Check out some of the best spade tattoos here!
The four suit spade symbol was inspired by a French weapon called the pique, a spear used for self-defense in wars.
The spade symbol has been around for so long that it now represents many things. Because of this, it is important to familiarize yourself with the symbolism so that you understand what a particular spade tattoo means and how spade tattoo owners react.
In a deck of cards, a suit of spades is considered the strongest. The ace of spades is considered the highest card among playing cards, which means that the owner could win the game. Now you must be wondering what does a spade tattoo mean? The simplest meaning of the ace of spades tattoo is that the owner loves card games and considers himself a master of cards. Each specific number accompanying the spade card represents its strength.
When reading tarot cards, drawing a spade card can mean ominous or spiteful events are about to happen. Spades also represent the noble class, which could mean some significance for a social position when reading tarot cards.
Spades also refer to digging tools that require hard work and strength. With the working class underrepresented in the world, many people get tattoos of spades to show respect to the hardworking working class.
Both men and women can get a tattoo of spades as spades is a unisex symbol. What is interesting is that sometimes even transgender people quite often get a spade tattoo as a symbol of pride.
Here are some cool spade tattoo ideas!
Black spade tattoo with darker symbolism
The image in the link shows a spade tattoo filled in with a skull. Here the meaning of the black spade tattoo is obscure – a skull and the spades are pierced by a knife with a drop of blood dripping into the spade. This is an old school style colored spade tattoo with a sinister side as such designs mostly represent death. It is a very large masculine belly tattoo featuring the spade symbol.
Spade tattoo with a feminine design
The spade tattoo in the image above is a blackwork tattoo with a unique shape inked into the tattoo which is symmetrical. The style is a more feminine design without much meaning but it is certainly a beautiful spade tattoo. But men can also get this tattoo of spades to show off their artistic side.
Ace flamingo tattoo
This image features a spade tattoo as a reflection of a flamingo falling on water. Only the owner knows exactly what this tattoo of spades means. Perhaps the whole idea behind this tattoo of spades is to arouse the viewer’s curiosity about the meaning of this black spade tattoo.
Ace of spades tattoo
In this image, the owner of this tattoo probably sees himself as an ace, that is, the most perfect and powerful of all who can achieve great things in life. The tattoo is completely inked in black leaving only the space where the letters are supposed to be. Such tattoos of spades are very popular in the card game community.
Ace card spade tattoo design
This is another example of ace tattoo with spades and phrases on the palm. The owner has inked the words “born to lose/live to win” which could symbolize the owner’s love for gambling. For players, the specific card Ace of Spades is the ultimate game changer that could make them win their gambling sport. This spade tattoo shows her good mood for gambling and could signify her lucky number in card suits.
Joker of spades tattoo
This colored tattoo depicts a spade joker that ranks above the numbers. The spade joker has a bittersweet facial expression, with the words “guilt” in the background. It could represent the owner’s love of cards and their guilt related to their gambling addiction – they know it’s not for them, but they can’t let go. The spade tattoo design depicts a rectangular playing card shape with two of spades and the face of a joker.
Ear Spade Tattoo
The image in the link shows an image of an ear tattoo that is in the shape of spades. The spade symbol is completely filled with black ink in a very simple style. Ear spades tattoo can be done by both men and women as it is a unisex tattoo. This is among the simplest tattoo designs and any tattoo artist could create an outline of spades and fill it with black ink. Such tattoos usually do not take much time.
Black Ink Spade Tattoo
This is an image of a black ink filled spade tattoo with symmetrical patterns in it. This is the most popular tattoo of spades among card lovers. It is a very simple black tattoo and you can never go wrong with such bohemian designs. This spade symbol suits both genders as the overall look is neither too masculine nor too feminine.
Black and gray dark spade tattoo
This is an excellent example of a black and gray tattoo. It shows a single eye in a spade shedding a tear. This tattoo can have many different meanings, most of which suggest rather dark images or meanings. Since spades can symbolize death, it could signify the grief that comes with the death of a loved one. The tattoo artist has done an excellent job of capturing the eyes of the spades that bear mourning and making them look very realistic. This tattoo can be done on the arms or the back of your leg, on the calf.
Spade tattoo with a twist
This is a very interesting spade tattoo as it is very difficult to decipher its exact meaning. But that’s the beauty of any tattoo, it’s open to all interpretation based on the general experience of the tattoo owner. This spade’s tattoo contains strange surrealistic symbols that look like babies’ fetus. There are two fetuses side by side in mirror symmetry sharing one eye. The symbols of this spade tattoo can have different meanings and likely the owner has some personal history or symbolism associated with it.
When ranking card suits, spades are highest, which is why some people get spade tattoos to represent power, as opposed to other lower ranks on the deck. Aside from the links and images provided above, here are some of our recommendations for some spade tattoo designs that we hope you enjoy:
1. The King of Spades Tattoo
2. David Spade Tattoo
3. The Spade of Las Vegas tattoo for good luck
4.King Spades Tattoo
5. Queen of Spades Tattoo
6.Joker laughing spade tattoo
7. Ace of Spades Tattoo
Featured image by Pinterest – Do you love this design? Try a Washable tattoo
What does a spade tattoo mean?
A spade tattoo typically symbolizes strength, determination, and fighting spirit. It can also represent luck or gambling. In some cases, the spade is associated with good luck or protection from bad luck. The spade is sometimes seen as a sign of resilience in the face of adversity. In addition, it can be used to represent the idea of taking chances and risks and not being afraid to try something new. Ultimately, the meaning of a spade tattoo is personal to each wearer and can be interpreted differently from person to person.
What are some popular spade tattoo designs?
Popular spade tattoo designs include traditional playing cards, four leaf clovers, skulls and even rainbow colored abstract art. Some people choose to incorporate their initials into a spade tattoo design or use it as inspiration for a larger piece. Others prefer simple black and white line art that only includes the spade symbol. Colorful designs are also popular, with people often using hearts, skulls, and other symbols for a more eye-catching design. Alternatively, some prefer subtle spade tattoos that are minimalist in nature. Whatever design you choose, the meaning of your spade tattoo is ultimately up to you.
How much does a spade tattoo cost?
The cost of a spade tattoo varies depending on the size and complexity of the design, as well as the location and skill of the artist. In general, small tattoos usually start at around $50, while larger pieces can range from $200 to $1,000 or more. To get an accurate estimate for your particular spade tattoo, it is best to consult a professional tattoo artist.