February 25, 2015 6 CommentsGeneral, Tattoo IdeasBy Dr Greg Hall

Ambigram Tattoos

An AMBIGRAM is a calligraphic design that, based on your perspective or viewpoint, can be interpreted in at least two different ways. The approach has led to a number of new ambigram tattoo designs. As you can tell from the “shoulditattoo” ambigram above, not all words lend itself to this process. Some words or phrases work substantially better than others. If you were to get a word on your arm it could be almost always oriented in a readable position.

The reason words are not a good choice for tattoos is you never know how to place them. . . for your reading, or someone else’s? When showing the tattoo, there has to be a “check” of the position so it can be displayed properly.

Placement of words for your benefit on your stomach or chest might best be placed in a mirror image because you will generally see it in the mirror. Words for other people’s enjoyment (and I don’t know why you would want this) should be oriented for their viewing.

Here’s a site to generate an ambigram. Just click on the picture below.

The important thing to remember is the creativity and durability of the design over time. What may look good on one person at one point in time can look ridiculous on another. Ambigrams are still unique, but if everyone got one, they would be commonplace . . . so how unique is it then? Think long and hard and consider all of your options . . . and what you may be giving up.

About the author

Dr Greg Hall

Gregory Hall, MD is a physician, author, speaker, inventor, professor, and public health professional. He strives to improve the quality of medical care through fair disclosure, quality care, and an honest approach to patients and their families.

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6 Comments

October 23, 2012 at 9:13 pm

Michael

Please create ambigram design for me

donna
michael
- February 20, 2013 at 4:41 am
  
  admin
  
  go to https://www.wowtattoos.com/wow/generator.php and put your words in, and see if you like the look. Or just click on the ambrigram box above.
February 20, 2013 at 4:26 am

Jimesha

Im interested a mirrored tattoo of the words Love/Lust Pleasure/Pain down my side but I would like to see what it may look like first
- February 20, 2013 at 4:35 am
  
  admin
  
  Thanks for the question Jimesha, go to https://www.wowtattoos.com/wow/generator.php and put your words in, and see if you like the look. We’re not sure how it will work out. Then take a ‘photoshop program’ and put the words on a photo of yourself. Good Luck!!
March 4, 2013 at 11:18 am

sushantkadu

Please create ambigram design for me
kavita
sushant
- March 4, 2013 at 12:44 pm
  
  admin
  
  Thanks for your request! We don’t create ambigrams. You can find many sites on-line that do. Good luck!!

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