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Ink It Now, Pay Later With Afterpay

Ink It Now, Pay Later With Afterpay

Ink It Now, Pay Later With Afterpay

Ink It Now, Pay Later With Afterpay

Ink It Now, Pay Later With Afterpay

Ink It Now, Pay Later With Afterpay

Ink It Now, Pay Later With Afterpay

Ink It Now, Pay Later With Afterpay

Ink It Now, Pay Later With Afterpay

Ink It Now, Pay Later With Afterpay

Ink It Now, Pay Later With Afterpay

Traditional Tattoos

Also known as Classic Americana, traditional tattoos are among the most well-known Western tattoo styles.

It may be the first style your parents (or grandparents) think of when you say you’re getting a tattoo.

Traditional tattoos represent defiant counterculture and the industry’s tough-guy history.

Also known as Classic Americana, traditional tattoos are among the most well-known Western tattoo styles.

It may be the first style your parents (or grandparents) think of when you say you’re getting a tattoo.

Traditional tattoos represent defiant counterculture and the industry’s tough-guy history.

History of Traditional Tattoos

This tattoo style is attributed to Norman Collins, aka Sailor Jerry, who learned the craft from Japanese hand poke tattoo artists.

Traditional or Classic Americana tattoos are closely associated with the ocean and nautical imagery, pinup girls, fierce animals, hearts, roses and daggers.

This style of tattoo, combined with bold lines, heavy shading and bright colours, represents boldness and fearlessness.

While traditional tattoos have strong American roots, the style is gaining popularity worldwide with the emergence of the neo-traditional tattoo style.

The neo-traditional style represents a contemporary take on traditional tattoos. While it still has the fundamental features of traditional tattoos, such as bold black lines and vibrant colours, it incorporates modern elements.

Neo-traditional tattoos feature thicker, more pronounced lines and a broader colour palette. Unlike traditional tattoos, the subjects in neo-traditional tattoos are not limited and include modern symbols, realistic imagery and even cartoons.

Traditional Tattoo Characteristics

The characteristics of traditional tattoos include

  • Thick black outlines with a 2D finish
  • Bold, saturated colours
  • A simple colour palette (red, yellow, blue and green)
  • Simple shading, if any
  • Nautical themes

The characteristics of neo-traditional tattoos derive from traditional tattoos but with some slight differences, including

  • Thicker, more pronounced lines
  • Shading for a more 3D effect
  • A broader colour palette
  • Texture, as opposed to traditional flat tattoos
  • More extensive designs, including portraits, animals and flowers

Different Traditional Tattoo Meanings

Sailor Jerry made traditional designs popular with his creativity and originality. Below are some of the most popular traditional tattoo designs and meanings.

Lady head tattoos
Symbolising beauty, romance and desire, they were a popular choice for lonely sailors who would get them to remind them of loved ones they’d left at home.
Anchor tattoos
Anchors are the most secure object in a sailor’s life, which is why it’s associated with stability. Anchor tattoos are commonly adorned with the word “mum” or the name of a sailor’s sweetheart to pay homage to the people who keep them grounded.
Pinup girl tattoos
As one of the most common traditional tattoo subjects, you would’ve seen a pinup girl tattoo at least once. The pinup girls reminded sailors of the women they loved and would return home to someday.
Hawaiian tattoos
After the Second World War, Sailor Jerry stayed on the Hawaiian Islands for the remainder of his life. During that time, he created some of his most iconic designs, including the hula girl and scenic island pieces. His tattoos portrayed Hawaii as paradise on earth.
Eagle tattoos
Since traditional tattoos are also known as Classic Americana, it’s obvious that eagle tattoos would be a popular choice. Symbolising honour and courage, Jerry’s eagle tattoos are fierce and iconic. Eagle tattoos are often depicted with the American flag.
Ship tattoos
Having a prominent nautical theme, ship tattoos are a popular design for traditional tattoos. Sailor Jerry held master papers on every major type of vessel, and his iconic clipper ship tattoos represent adventure and the want to return home.
Panther tattoos
Symbolising strength, stamina and virility, panthers are a popular traditional tattoo that will always stay in style.
Heart tattoos
Whether you’re a sailor or civilian, hearts remain one of the most popular tattoos to get. Representing a loved one, whether it be a parent or a significant other, heart tattoos symbolise love or can pay tribute to a loved one who has passed.

If you’d love to get a traditional tattoo sleeve or single tattoo and have a design in mind already, book an appointment at your nearest studio to help us bring your vision to life.

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