Discover the World of Tattoo Styles: From Traditional to Geometric and Beyond
Welcome to Black Tapestry Tattoo’s whirlwind tour of tattoo styles! Whether you’re a tattoo enthusiast or considering your first ink, understanding different tattoo styles is crucial. In this guide, we’ll explore various tattoo styles, their unique characteristics, and their fascinating origins. Let’s dive in!
Traditional / Old School Tattoo Style
Embrace the roots of tattooing with the bold and colourful Traditional style, often synonymous with sailor and American classic tattoos.
Key Imagery: Expect classic designs like roses, anchors, and bold nautical symbols.
Styling Rules: Stick to thick, bold lines and a primary colour palette for that authentic old-school look.
Did You Know?: Sailor Jerry, a pioneer of this style, was actually a sailor!
Neo Traditional Tattoo Style
Neo Traditional is the modern twist on the classic. It retains the boldness but adds complexity.
Key Imagery: Rich with Art Nouveau influences, featuring intricate animals and floral designs.
Styling Rules: Use a muted colour palette and varied line weights to bring these intricate designs to life.
Black and Grey Tattoo Style
For those who love shades over colours, the Black and Grey style offers stunning realism and depth.
Key Imagery: This style is versatile, ranging from detailed portraits to surreal landscapes.
Styling Rules: Focus on grey gradients for depth, remembering that it heals lighter.
Did You Know?: This style was popularised in prisons, where inmates had limited access to coloured ink.
Realism Tattoo Style
Realism tattoos are like photographs on your skin, requiring incredible skill to achieve lifelike results.
Key Imagery: Anything from lifelike faces to vivid natural scenes.
Styling Rules: Avoid hard outlines and use curved needles for natural shading.
Top Tip: For portraits, choosing the right photo reference is key. The clearer, the better.
Japanese Tattoo Style
Japanese tattoos are large, vibrant pieces, rich in cultural symbolism and history.
Key Imagery: Dragons, samurai, and koi fish are staples in this style.
Styling Rules: Use bold, traditional colours and draw from mythological stories for designs.
Did You Know?: The traditional Japanese 'tebori' tattoo technique means 'hand carving’ and predates the tattoo machine!
Script / Lettering Tattoos
Transform words into art with Script or Lettering tattoos, where typography takes centre stage.
Key Imagery: Well there isn’t any…. its text
Styling Rules: Ensure clean lines, correct spacing, and accurate translations for meaningful tattoos.
WatercoloUr Tattoo Style
Mimicking the delicate and fluid nature of watercolours, these tattoos are for those who love a splash of colour.
Key Imagery: Flora and Forna, animals, and landscapes can all be found in a watercolour style.
Styling Rules: Blend colours softly and include some defining linework for longevity.
Geometric Tattoo Style
Geometric tattoos break down images into fundamental shapes and patterns, offering a modern and minimalist aesthetic.
Key Imagery: It’s all about the patterns and shapes for this style.
Styling Rules: Focus on the interaction of light and shadow within geometric shapes for a 3D effect.
Fun Fact: Geometric tattoos can be inspired by sacred geometry, which holds spiritual significance in many cultures.
AVANTE GARDE Tattoo Style
Known for breaking boundaries, Avant-Garde tattoos blend various styles to create something uniquely modern and artistic.
Key Imagery: Abstract designs, unconventional patterns, and bold colour combinations.
Styling Rules: There are no strict rules – it's all about creativity and individual expression.
Fun Fact: Avant-Garde in French means 'advance guard,' representing innovation in the arts.
BLACK OUT Tattoo Style
Blackout tattoos feature large areas of solid black ink, often used for cover-ups or bold statements.
Key Imagery: Solid black blocks, sometimes incorporating negative space for contrast.
Styling Rules: Consistent, even black ink application is key.
IGNORANT Tattoo Style
Characterised by its simple, often crude drawings and ironic themes, Ignorant style is both playful and provocative.
Key Imagery: Childlike drawings, pop culture references, and humorous or sarcastic themes.
Styling Rules: Simplicity and a sense of humour are essential.
Fun Fact: The Ignorant style often includes intentionally 'bad' or naive artwork.
Did You Know?: This style is a nod to the DIY punk aesthetic and often comments on social norms.
FINELINE Tattoo Style
Fineline tattoos are known for their delicate, precise lines and often minimalist designs.
Key Imagery: Subtle, intricate designs, often with a single needle.
Styling Rules: Precision and clean, crisp lines are crucial.
ILLUSTRATIVE Tattoo Style
Illustrative tattoos combine elements of realism and traditional styles, often resembling drawings or engravings.
Key Imagery: Varied, from realistic portraits to whimsical scenes.
Styling Rules: A strong emphasis on line work and shading.
Conclusion:
Tattoo art is an ever-evolving form of expression, rich in history and diversity. While these styles are some of the most popular, the world of tattooing is vast with endless possibilities. Whether you prefer the bold lines of Traditional tattoos or the subtle shades of Black and Grey, there’s a style out there that speaks to you. Do your research and find the style that resonates with you!
