When thinking of the most classic tattoo motifs, the humble bumble bee may not be at the top of your list, but after seeing some of the inspiration we have gathered you might feel differently.
Bee tattoos come in so many different styles, ranging from photorealistic and detailed, to illustrative and whimsical.
I’ve been loving this trend for a while now, and I wanted to round up exactly how to rock a bee tattoo in a way that’s totally you.
1. Pretty Floral Bee Tattoo Idea
Source: @langdaleart
Next up is this absolutely pretty floral design. I love that this tattoo shows a bee surrounded by colorful flowers. The bee itself in this piece is so sweet, and the wings are just gorgeous.
A tattoo like this is a perfect fit for anyone, and you can totally use it as inspiration to swap in different flowers or change up the bee to match your own style.
2. Small Bee Tattoo Idea
Source: @ilwolhongdam
Searching for a small tattoo? This design might just be for you. Here we have a super tiny bee tattoo. This one is done in black ink, but you could easily have one like this with a pop of color.
I think a tattoo like this is so versatile because it can be placed anywhere and it’s so subtle. Plus, tiny designs like this are such a great choice for a first tattoo.
3. Bee with a Leafy Heart
Source: @lisablacksails
This next tattoo is another one that feels so unique. For this look, we have a bee tattooed on the arm with a leafy heart shape wrapping around the outside.
The leafy heart is just so unusual and I think it looks incredibly pretty with the bee.
You could recreate the black ink version, or you could add a splash of color for a bolder and more vibrant piece. Either way, it’s going to look amazing.
4. Bee Design with Flowers
Source: @lisablacksails
If you happen to be looking for a larger piece of body art, then this design could be the perfect fit for you. Here we have an arm tattoo that features a whole bunch of flowers with a bee right in the middle.
This is honestly another one of my favorites because it has that cool half sleeve look. You can recreate this or add in some color for a bolder piece of body art that really makes a statement.
I also think this design would look amazing on the leg.
5. Big Bumble Bee Arm Tattoo
Source: @sabootattoos
Tattoos that incorporate geometric shapes like circles are so stylish right now. This next tattoo is such an awesome example of how you can add a shape to your bee design.
The bee has been inked in black with a dotted circle around the outside. It’s such a cool tattoo, and you can totally recreate it as is or add a pop of color to make it your own.
6. Small Rib Tattoo
Source: @maiko.only
The next tattoo is small, cute, and honestly, it will suit everyone. Here we have a tiny, vibrant bee that has been placed on the ribs.
Because it’s a small tattoo, it would be a great choice for a first tattoo since you won’t be in the chair for too long.
You can recreate this rib design, or a tiny bee like this could be placed anywhere on the body.
7. Small and Cute Bumble Bee Tattoo
Source: @lucasmilk
Next up, we have another small bee tattoo idea. This one is little, but it’s more detailed than some others. It’s a really cute design that would be perfect as a first tattoo.
You could go for a similar design to this one, or you can add your own unique style by giving it some color or by changing the shape of the bee.
Either way, you’ll end up with a stylish but totally subtle tattoo.
8. Bumble Bee Half Sleeve
Source: @gecko_tattoo_bruchsal
Looking for a sleeve or half sleeve design? If so, you have to check this out. This tattoo is a half sleeve and it features honeycomb, flowers, and a colorful bee.
I think it looks so amazing as a half sleeve and it really makes a statement.
You can recreate the half sleeve, or you could extend the honeycomb and flowers down the arm to the wrist, which would create a full sleeve.
9. Honeycomb Heart, Bee and Fruit Design
Source: @katyhowarthtattoo
Next, we have a super cute bee tattoo idea to look at. This one features a honeycomb heart with a bumble bee and some fruit. I am obsessed with this idea because it feels so creative and unique.
You could get a similar tattoo to this one, or maybe try out a different honeycomb shape. It’s also super versatile, so you can recreate it with or without the fruit.
10. Tiny Wrist Tattoo
Source: @clairejacksonartwork
If you love the small, subtle, and cute tattoos, then you have to take a look at this. Here we have a tiny bee that’s been tattooed right on the wrist.
This is such an easy to wear tattoo that will look good on everyone. It’s absolutely timeless so it will never go out of style, and because of its placement, it can be easily covered up if you ever need to.
11. Geometric Bee Tattoo
Source: @electricelaine
Next up, we have another geometric bee tattoo idea. This one features even more shapes, since it has triangles and circles, and it also uses honeycomb hexagons.
There’s a beautiful bee in the center that has two watercolor lines in the background. This is such an artistic and creative design that you can totally recreate with any colors and shapes you like.
12. Cute Bee Design with Hearts
Source: @littlerachtattoo
A little earlier in the post, we featured a cute bee with hearts. If you liked that idea, then you should definitely take a look at this one too.
Here we have a colorful heart filled with honeycomb shapes. There’s also a bee on top with a pink heart and some sparkly wings.
This is such a fun and unique tattoo, and it will for sure make you stand out from the crowd in the best way.
13. Bold Bee Tattoo Idea
Source: @zihee_tattoo
This next bee idea is seriously bold. The design features a bee with some colorful details on its body and really pretty wings.
You can totally recreate this tattoo, or you could use it as inspiration and create a rounder bee. It’s a cool and trendy bee that will look good on anyone.
A design like this can also be placed anywhere on the body.
14. Be Kind
Source: @milburn_hgtc
We featured a tattoo with a positive message earlier, and here’s another one. This design is so fun, quirky, and unique. It features a bee with the message ‘kind’ written underneath.
So, the tattoo reads as “bee kind” or “be kind.” You can recreate this look, or you could have the word “kind” tattooed with your very own bee design.
15. Bright Bee with Flowers
Source: @tattoosbyseamus
Do you just love bright tattoos? Then you have to check this out. This tattoo features a small bee with some pretty purple flowers.
I’m obsessed with this because it looks like the bee is flying through a field of flowers. A design like this definitely makes a statement and is perfect for anyone who loves summer and the outdoors.
You can recreate this look, or you could try a different colored flower.
16. Beautiful Bumble Bee Tattoo
Source: @gabetinotattoo
Okay, this first tattoo is just beautiful. The design has been placed on the back and features a cute bee with pretty flowers and a jewelry-like element.
You could totally recreate this tattoo, or you could create your own design using your favorite flowers. So many possibilities!
17. Honeycomb Heart and a Bee
Earlier in this post, we featured a bee with a honeycomb heart. If you were a fan of that idea, then you might like this similar heart design too.
This one is a black ink design that shows off a bumble bee, a honeycomb heart, and a floral outline. It’s such a pretty design.
You could definitely add color to this, but I think the black ink keeps it looking more artistic and striking.
18. Tiny Watercolor Bee
Source: @ovenlee.tattoo
If you’re on the hunt for a super cute and small tattoo, then this one is absolutely perfect. Here we have a very small watercolor bee.
I’m obsessed with the use of the watercolor technique because it makes the bee look like a tiny and delicate little drawing.
This is such a pretty tattoo that you could place anywhere. You could try something similar, or a larger version could definitely be created too.
19. Watercolor Bee Tattoo
Source: @beautifulbodytattoo
Next up, we have another watercolor tattoo idea. This time, we have a bee in the center with a sunflower design. There are also honeycomb shapes and orange watercolor in the background.
I love this because the watercolor effect looks just like honey, and the sunflowers make the bee look so bright and pretty. A design like this can be placed anywhere on the body.
20. Save the Bees Tattoo Design
Source: @cassytattoo
Since bees are endangered, our next idea is all about helping to save them. This tattoo features a cute bee with the message “save the bees” above it.
A tattoo like this isn’t just cute; it’s also part of a really good cause. It would be absolutely perfect for someone who loves bees and wants to have a tattoo with a positive message.
21. Arm Tattoo Idea
Source: @lisablacksails
If you’re a fan of the type of bee we featured just above, then you should definitely check this one out too.
Here we have a similar bee, but this one is larger, placed on the arm, and doesn’t have any honeycomb shapes.
It shows the bee from a different angle and really proves that you can be inspired by an idea to create something totally new. This is an easy to wear and gorgeous tattoo that will look great on everyone.
22. Cute Back Tattoo
Our next idea is a totally cute back tattoo. This one features a bee that looks almost like an illustration. A tattoo like this will suit pretty much everyone and can be placed anywhere on the body.
You could always add some color, but since it looks like a drawing, you might want to keep the ink black. We absolutely love this one!
23. Bumble Bee Sternum Tattoo
Source: @llindseyk
This next idea is so fun and unique. Here we have a sternum bumble bee tattoo with some beautiful flowers.
A tattoo like this is such a great choice for bold women. You could have a black ink tattoo or add in some color to make it pop.
24. Bee with Blue Flowers
Source: @nixoleta_urielatattoo
This next tattoo is so pretty and it’s absolutely perfect for those who want a floral design. The tattoo features a small bee that looks like it’s flying over some blue flowers.
I love the blue flowers; they look so beautiful and the light blue really complements the yellow in the bee. You can recreate this spring vibe design or you can try it with any flower color and type.
25. Bright Bumblebee with Flowers
Source: @tattoosbyseamus
The next tattoo features a bright bumblebee that is surrounded by beautiful flowers. This bee is tattooed on the thigh with flowers in different colors all around the outside.
Some cute little red berries have been added too. This is such a fun piece that really makes a statement.
You could try the thigh tattoo or have a similar design placed somewhere else on the body, like the back.
26. Cute Bumble Bee With Heart
Source: @13inktattoo
If you’re on the lookout for a cute tattoo, you really won’t find anything cuter than this! This tattoo features a bumble bee with a little heart in the center.
While the tattoo is in black ink, you could totally recreate it with vibrant colors. You could also make the heart any color you want. We are so in love with this bee idea!
27. Cute Small Bee Tattoo
Source: @sophiabaughan
This bee design is a little different from the vibrant, round bees we often see. The bee in this tattoo looks more like a real insect since it doesn’t have very bright colors.
Even though it isn’t like the fluffy yellow bees, it still looks super cute. It’s a great tattoo choice for someone who is looking for a more unique design.
Of course, you can make the tattoo more vibrant if that’s what you prefer.
28. Flowers and Bee Hip Tattoo Idea
Source: @sophiabaughan
Next up, we have a gorgeous flowers and bee tattoo idea. This is a thigh tattoo that features stunning, bold flowers with a bumble bee right above them.
It is such a statement making piece. For your own tattoo, you could change up the design so that it has your favorite flowers. A hip tattoo like this will look absolutely amazing.
29. Small Shoulder Bee Tattoo
I am obsessed with this next tattoo! Here we have a small bee that’s tattooed on the shoulder. It almost looks like an illusion because the bee actually looks like it’s resting on the shoulder.
This is such a unique and pretty tattoo. It’s super versatile and can be as bold or as subtle as you like; it just depends on what kind of top you wear.
30. Vintage Style Bumble Bee Tattoo
Source: @shawnhenry
Tattoo techniques have definitely changed over the years, but if you’re someone who prefers a more vintage, old-school style, this tattoo might be for you.
This bee tattoo uses a vintage design and color palette. You can especially see this style in the flower underneath the bee.
You could get a similar tattoo to this one, or you could just have the bee without the flower.
31. Tiny Ankle Tattoo
Source: @maria.midnight
Next, we have another tiny tattoo to show you. For this one, we have a small black ink bee that’s placed on the ankle. This is a cute and easy to wear design that will definitely suit everyone.
It’s another piece of body art that will seriously never go out of style. You could try a similar tattoo or add a soft splash of color, maybe with a watercolor effect.
32. Sunflower Tattoo with a Bee
Source: @ftstattoo.nz
Maybe you’re searching for something a little more unique? If that’s you, then you have to check out this next design. This arm tattoo features a light bulb with a sunflower and a bee inside.
I love this because it reminds me of those light bulb vases you can buy. But in this design, the sunflower has broken free so the bee can enjoy it.
It’s a quirky design overall, and it really makes a statement.
33. Statement Bumble Bee Tattoo
Source: @bianka_nedbal
When it comes to creating a bumble bee tattoo, there are just so many different ways you can add patterns and colors. This next tattoo is a truly beautiful example.
The tattoo features a bumble bee that is surrounded by patterns, flowers, shapes, and more. A tattoo like this would look absolutely stunning.
You can recreate this look or add in your own plants and patterns to make it completely unique.
34. Trendy Bee with a Flower and Honeycomb
Source: @k_ink_tattoo
Next, we have another trendy and amazing tattoo to show you. This time, we have a black ink bee with a flower in the center.
There are also geometric honeycomb shapes in the background with a splash of watercolor above. Again, the color is a honey shade, which is so perfect.
This is a really striking tattoo, and it can be placed anywhere and will suit anyone.
35. Vibrant Sunflower and Bee Design
Source: @sophiabaughan
Summer flowers, especially sunflowers, will usually have bumble bees buzzing all around them, and this next tattoo is inspired by that exact scene.
It features a vibrant sunflower with a bee flying just above it. This tattoo is so beautiful and is absolutely perfect for anyone who loves summer, flowers, and bees.
36. Mandala and Bee Tattoo Design
Source: @alexdaytattoo
Next on our list is this incredible mandala bee design. We love this tattoo because it combines two super popular designs: the bee and the mandala.
The intricate floral design surrounding the bumble bee in the center is just stunning. A tattoo like this will look amazing on anyone.
You could recreate something similar or create your own unique pattern.
37. Furry Bee with Honeycomb Shapes
Source: @lisablacksails
The next tattoo features a super cute bee. There are so many different bee designs out there, but this one is small, round, and it looks so furry too.
Behind the bee, there are also some honeycomb shapes. I absolutely love this bee, and it will look great with or without the honeycomb.
I also think it would look so pretty with some added yellow color.
38. Small and Cute Bee
Source: @marcelabadolatto
If you are a fan of tiny tattoos, then you have to take a look at this one! Here we have a very small bee that is tattooed on the arm. It is so adorable, and the placement is super modern.
This is such an easy to wear tattoo and it will look great on everyone.
You can try the arm tattoo, or you could have a similar bee placed anywhere else. Something like this is perfect for those who want subtler body art.
39. Lavender Wreath and a Bee
Source: @luckymewmew
If you like floral tattoos, this next design is definitely for you. Here we have a bumble bee that has been tattooed with a floral wreath.
The wreath is so vibrant, and the purple beautifully complements the colors in the bee. You can take inspiration from this and add your favorite flowers to the wreath to make the design unique to you.
A lavender tattoo can symbolize things like serenity, purity, or caution.
40. Beautiful Bee Tattoo
Source: @stephblack
This tattoo is just simply beautiful. Here we have a large arm tattoo that features a plant with small flowers. There is also a bee climbing up the plant.
I love this because it has really captured the bee’s natural behavior. This is perfect for anyone who loves bees and nature.
You can recreate the black ink version for more of an illustration look, or you could try adding some color.
41. Bold Bee Art with Flowers and Honeycomb
Source: @paintedturtletattoos
Next, we have a bolder tattoo to show you. This design is placed on the ankle and features a large and bright bee with honeycomb shapes in the background.
This tattoo is finished off with colorful flowers around the outside too. The colors are absolutely stunning, and this is a great design for those who love bees, honey, and the outdoors.
You can also use any type of flower in the design to make it your own.
We hope you have found the perfect design for your next tattoo!