Celtic cross tattoos are made up of the Christian cross, which has a circle symmetrically surrounding the point in which the two lines of the cross meet. There are many different meanings for the Celtic cross, ranging from the four elements (air, earth, fire and water), to cardinal directions (north, south, east and west). The circle also has more than one meaning, the most popular being the symbol of eternity as it is a closed endless form. Celtic cross tattoos are very popular in sleeve designs and can be used to represent ones faith and heritage.
Celtic triskelion tattoos are basically three-legged wheel patterns, which represent the concept of progress and motion by the use of the three legs in a circular design. The Celtic triskelion was a common, prominent Celtic symbol, and was often used on armors, clothes and jewelry. The meaning of the three legs seems to be interpreted in many different ways. Some of the prominent interpretations of this Celtic symbol are 'Father, Son and Holy Ghost,' 'Past, Present and Future,' and 'Creator, Destroyer and Sustainer.' Celtic Triskelions are certainly a nice addition to a Celtic sleeve as it is a well known Celtic symbolic design, which can be interpreted to each individual's belief, making the sleeve hold significant meaning to that person.
Celtic knots are probably the most recognized form of Celtic art. From a simple knotwork band to woven, unending threads that wrap around the entire arm, knotwork tattoos can easily be incorporated into a Celtic sleeve either to connect various symbols and types of knots, or be the main Celtic sleeve design in itself. The knotwork is made up of complex, interlocking weaves which is commonly interpreted to symbolize the interconnecting forces of life or the endless circle of life. Knotwork tattoos are not an easy design to tattoo, so much research should be given to finding a tattoo artist with experience in this field.