A bar code is a series of lines with varying thickness usually paired with a string of numbers. These lines and stock-keeping unit (SKU) numbers correlate to a particular product, but for a tattoo, these lines and numbers can correlate to anything. Consider using the bar code and SKU number from your favorite book or film to make the design more personal, or use a random series of lines and tattoo the numbers of your birth date as the SKU number. For instance, if you were born April 24, 1982, use "04241982" as the SKU number.
The top of the hand is large enough to fit a single word or initials if the tattoo is to memorialize a family member or loved one. You can choose from a multitude of font and style types, but the more detailed the font, the harder the script may be to read in such a tight spot. You can also consider a four-letter word to be displayed across the knuckles of your dominant hand, such as "love" or hope." To involve both hands for the same tattoo, think of an eight-letter word, such as "inspired" or "remember."
Fans of the Christopher Nolan film, "Memento," about a man who must tattoo reminders to his body to compensate for no short-term memory, should consider the hand tattoo that mirrors the one in the film. The main character has the words, "remember Sammy Jenkis" tattooed on his left hand in the pocket between his thumb and index finger. Other fans of the film will appreciate the tattoo design and non-fans will enjoy the explanation and movie recommendation.
Dollar sign tattoos on the palms of your hands symbolize a desire to acquire wealth and be successful. It was a design made popular by rapper and music mogul Dr. Dre in the late 1990s. Tattoos on the palms of your hands can be difficult to care for, as the skin of your palm is constantly expanding and contracting, prolonging the healing process. Generally, a tattoo on your palms will take a couple of touch-up sessions after the tattoo's initial application.