Chinese tattoos
A tattoo inspired by Chinese culture should distinguish between writing, decorative motifs and cultural references. A character should not be selected for its appearance alone.
Photo gallery
General studio portfolio examples. These photographs show other placements and designs; they are not presented as examples of this specific category.
Writing or a figurative composition?
Chinese tattoos can refer to characters, calligraphy or designs inspired by cultural motifs. These directions require different kinds of research. For writing, the accuracy of the text and its meaning come first. For a composition involving a dragon, flowers or decorative elements, the source of the reference and the way the motifs are combined matter. An image described online as Asian does not establish that it belongs to a Chinese tradition.
Verify characters before tattooing
Do not treat an unsourced image or an automatic translation as sufficient confirmation. Have the expression checked by someone competent in Chinese, including its written form and meaning in context. Keep the confirmed version for your discussion with the artist. This page does not publish unverified characters or translations, and a visual approximation should not be presented as correct text. Resolving the wording is a separate task from choosing an artistic treatment.
Calligraphy and the space between strokes
Text can be correct in meaning yet unsuitable for the proposed tattoo size. Line weight, spacing between strokes and orientation need separate consideration. Do not alter a character simply to make it fit, or remove strokes to achieve a minimalist effect. Any stylisation should begin with a verified form and sufficient space for a clear design. A reference should show the complete character rather than a cropped fragment whose structure is uncertain.
Dragons and cultural motifs
Dragons and other motifs appear in different cultural settings. Selecting an image requires checking its reference rather than assigning an origin from a few decorative details. If your interest is in a Japanese composition, explore the separate Japanese tattoo guide. The subjects are not interchangeable. Photographs of samurai or specifically Japanese motifs do not demonstrate Chinese tattoo work, and our general portfolio examples are labelled accordingly.
Placement, scale and style
A short inscription, a vertical composition and a large dragon need different amounts of space. On the forearm, reading direction should be discussed; on the back, a design can have a broader structure. Compare forearm placement with back tattoo compositions. Dimensions should follow the structure of the design rather than the apparently small number of characters. A few complex signs may still require generous spacing between their strokes.
What to send for an estimate
Prepare the verified text or visual reference, its source, the intended body area and measurements in centimetres. Explain whether you want outlines, black and grey or colour. The estimate depends on the model, complexity, style, placement and time required. Read our tattoo pricing information and use Send your design for an assessment. Identifying what has already been checked avoids confusing a preliminary idea with a final approved inscription.
Preparation and aftercare
Meaning should be confirmed before the session, not left unresolved until a stencil is on the skin. Review the orientation and final version with the artist. Afterwards, follow the studio’s instructions and aftercare guidance. Linguistic accuracy, visual design and care are different parts of the process. Each deserves attention, but none should be used as a substitute for checking the others before committing to the project.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a translation found online?
It can be a starting point for verification, not final validation. The meaning, context and form of the characters need confirmation before the text becomes a permanent tattoo.
Are the general gallery images Chinese designs?
Not necessarily. They are clearly labelled examples of the studio’s broader portfolio. We have not assigned a Chinese cultural origin to images where that relevance cannot be confirmed.
Discuss your project.
2nd Face Tattoo & Body Piercing is a tattoo studio in Bucharest, near Piața Unirii, at the COCOR department store, 29–33 I.C. Brătianu Boulevard, on the lower ground floor. Send your reference, preferred dimensions and placement to discuss an estimate. Check the studio contact details and directions before visiting. References help explain your idea; the final drawing is considered in relation to the project and the available area.
