Friday the 13th has become somewhat of an unofficial holiday in the tattoo community. On the "unluckiest" day of the year, people flock to tattoo parlors for limited-edition flash designs or a quick session at a discounted rate.
Getting a Friday the 13th tattoo can be the perfect opportunity to add a new, tiny piece of artwork to your collection. While some studios require you to get one of their premade designs, others allow you to bring your own ideas as long as it's small and isn't too time-consuming. Before you book your appointment, call your tattoo parlor of choice to determine its policy.
Plus, common Friday the 13th tattoos aren't just limited to Halloween-esque decals or ink that incorporates the number 13 in them — although those are typically an option, too. Delicate skulls, witchy tattoos, and adorable black cats also make for great choices. Where it goes on your body is completely up to you, of course, meaning you can make your unlucky ink — with placement on your butt, back of the neck, or even behind your ear — or more noticeable, like on your forearm, wrist, or shoulder. Not only will you walk away with a new piece of body art, but it'll also have a pretty cool story behind it, as all of the best tattoos do.
With Friday the 13th falling on Oct. 13, it's time to think about the design you want to get this year. Start looking now with the cool Friday the 13th tattoo ideas we rounded up ahead.
Both small in size and hidden in location, this snake design makes for a perfect Friday the 13th tattoo.
Skull tattoos can look like any number of things, but this design of three feels extra fitting.
Fair or not, spiders are often considered spooky, making them the perfect Friday the 13th tattoo.
Simple, outline designs are always classic, but this one feels extra witchy.
While hand tattoos tend to require more frequent touch-ups, you can make it a point to do so on a knife design like this every Friday the 13th.
Just one of these bat tats is cool enough on its own, but five makes it a party.
Give the number 13 an inconspicuous makeover with this tattoo.
Why not get an intergalactic design on Friday the 13th?
Nothing screams "boo" like a ghost tattoo, which makes it perfect for Halloween fans and Friday the 13th ideas.
If you're a fan of bigger tattoos, try this sultry play on smoke and fire.
Chattering teeth toy or the most epic Friday the 13th tattoo?
This Harry Potter flash tattoo is a nod to the Deathly Hallows design.
It doesn't get more unlucky than a melted candle at night.
Anyone would want to do a double take of this skull tattoo encased around various plants and fungi.
This tiny moon tattoo would make a great addition to any collection.
If you're looking for an out-of-box snake tattoo, this design is both simple and complex.
Split-face tattoos are always conceptual and cool, but this skull design gives it a spooky, Friday the 13th twist.
We love this match tattoo that gives "smoke show" all new meaning.
Give a nod to the all seeing eye with this magic-inspired tattoo.
It doesn't get more straightforward than etching the unlucky number 13 on your body.
You often see crescent moon designs on Friday the 13th flash sheets, but this full moon with full facial details is an unexpected surprise.
A snake tattoo, but make it rosy.