Often associated with anchors (due to their bold meaning), I refuse to sink tattoos are a hit amongst strong minded women in times of struggle, and certainly show a lot of courage. The saying metaphorically means “I will not give up”, and has been known to help people through tough times, while also looking great in tattoo form.
Ironically enough, some people have shown disagreement towards the tattoos, claiming that since anchors can actually sink ships, IRTS designs make no sense. Yet, according to those who have gotten the saying tattooed on their skin (as well as many tattoo artists) it is a symbolic reference, adopted by the Christians towards hope, faith, and safety.
Though I refuse to sink tattoos are mostly found on women looking for some symbolic assistance, men are sometimes seen with them too, and since the designs look so nice and have so much meaning to them, anyone can appreciate their underlying beauty. So, no matter what gender you are, or what you are going through at this point in time, you should certainly enjoy the list below.
1. A Small, Colorless, I Refuse To Sink Wrist Tattoo
This colorless representation of what is known in the Bible as “Hebrews 6 19”, is a very simple, yet extremely beautiful design, and (due to the infinity symbol shaped rope it that it includes) is truly great for anyone struggling with their faith.
2. A Very Basic, I Refuse To Sink Collarbone Tattoo Design
Proven by the image below, sometimes the most basic designs look the best, especially when dealing with I refuse to sink tattoos.
3. A Rather Unique I Refuse To Sink Rib Tattoo
Although this placement may be somewhat painful for those who are overly sensitive, the tattoo itself looks great, and it can also be easily hidden.
4. A Classic I Refuse To Sink Anchor, With Some Colorful Flowers
Different from the preceding designs, this tattoo is not only colorful, but it has flowers and was done in a rather traditional style.
5. Another Great I Refuse To Sink Collarbone Tattoo
To add some originality to the design and differentiate it from other IRTS collarbone tattoos, the artist wrote the saying out vertically, and even included a bird at the top.
6. A Neat I Refuse To Sink Foot/Heel Tattoo
Done solely in black ink, this design has the well-known quote running along the side of the foot, and has the anchor drawn diagonally on the heel.
7. An I Refuse To Sink Back Tattoo
Another great I refuse to sink tattoo design, and another great use of colorful flowers hanging off of a darkly shaded anchor!
8. An I Refuse To Sink Hot Air Balloon
Hot air balloons are certainly rare amongst those with I refuse to sink tattoos, making this a very unique design to say the least.
9. An I Refuse To Sink Heart Anchor Design
In my personal opinion, due to the detailed anchor and overall creativeness found within this design, it may just be the best on the list.
10. An I Refuse To Sink Foot Tattoo, With Pink Flowers And A Subtle Green Background
The green background is so subtle that it is hardly noticeable, yet the coloring and font is incredibly vibrant, making for a very distinct design, unlikely to be found on others.
11. Another I Refuse To Sink Foot Tattoo, This Time With A Different Font
Not only is the font distinctly different on this IRTS design, but the shape of the anchor is too.
12. A Three Dimensional I Refuse To Sink Forearm Design
Thanks to the three dimensional design work and uniquely written font, this design jumps right out at you.
Conclusion
Due to peoples’ customization of them over the years, there are many different I refuse to sink tattoo designs that exist today, such as IRTS family tattoos, IRTS tattoos with rope, and also solo IRTS tattoos without any additional imagery. However, as I’m sure you can tell from the list above, IRTS anchors are without a doubt the most common. This is due not only to the general meaning of anchors, but to a bible verse as well, which reads “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure”.
Ultimately, whether you are a devoted Christian, a women going through a rough patch, or just someone looking to adopt a meaningful quote in tattoo form, IRTS designs are certainly a great way of staying strong and reminding yourself to never give up.
