Characterized by bold lines, vibrant colors, and classic symbols, these tattoos carry a legacy of style and meaning. This article will explore what traditional tattoos are, their history, interesting facts, techniques, care, and reasons to choose them.
What Do We Mean by Traditional Tattoos?
Traditional tattoos are distinguished by their unique style, generally composed of:
- Bold and thick lines: These create a clear and readable outline that defines the design.
- Solid color fill: They use a limited range of bright, saturated colors like red, green, blue, and yellow.
- Iconic images and symbols: Hearts, anchors, roses, eagles, and ships are just a few of the recurring motifs.
Old School and Sailor Tattoos: A Centuries-Old History
The origin of traditional tattoos dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many attribute the popularity of this style to sailors who traveled the world and got tattoos as mementos of their adventures or as lucky charms.
One of the most influential names in the development of this style—often considered its founder—is Norman Collins, aka Sailor Jerry, whose techniques and designs remain a cornerstone of the genre.
The relationship between sailors, pirates, and tattoos is deeply rooted in maritime history, reflecting both superstitious beliefs and a form of personal expression and group identity. During the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries, tattoos became particularly popular among those who sailed distant waters, serving as protective amulets, symbols of lived experiences, and distinctive signs of belonging to certain maritime cultures. Here are a few examples:
- Anchor: One of the most common symbols among sailors, the anchor represents stability and a solid foundation. It symbolizes the hope for a safe return home and, for sailors who had crossed the Atlantic, could represent a significant milestone in their career.
- Seagull or Swallow: These birds were often tattooed on sailors to symbolize the return and hope of nearby land, as seagulls are associated with land proximity, while swallows migrate to warmer countries.
- Sailing Ship: A coveted tattoo, often indicating that the sailor had circumnavigated Cape Horn, one of the most dangerous sea routes in the world.
- Mermaids and other sea creatures: These tattoos symbolize the danger and beauty of the oceans and sometimes the allure that led sailors to ruin.
Tattoos were also closely tied to sailors’ superstitions. For example, it was believed that having a tattoo of a mermaid could calm these mythical creatures, often considered dangerous for sailors. Another popular tattoo, that of the pig and rooster, was based on the belief that these animals could survive shipwrecks, as crates containing pigs and roosters often floated and made it to shore. Tattooing these images, usually on the feet, was thought to bring good luck and protect against drowning.
Tattoos also served as a form of identification. In an era without reliable identification documents, a tattoo could tell a lot about a sailor, such as their travel experiences, battles they had fought in, and even their cultural or religious origins. This aspect was particularly important in case of accidents or death; a tattoo could serve as a final identifying symbol for bodies recovered at sea.
How Are They Made?
The technique for creating traditional tattoos is meticulous and requires a specific approach:
- Stencil and Preparation: Before starting, the artist prepares a stencil to ensure precision in the design.
- Filling Techniques: The areas of the tattoo are filled with vibrant colors to ensure the tattoo is long-lasting and visually impactful.
Care and Healing of Old School Tattoos
Taking care of a traditional tattoo follows general tattoo care principles, but it’s always good practice to follow the specific advice of your tattoo artist:
- Regular Cleaning: Gently wash the tattoo with water and antibacterial soap.
- Moisturizing: Apply a moisturizing or specific tattoo cream to keep the skin soft and help the healing process.
- Sun Protection: Protect the tattoo from the sun to preserve the vibrant colors.
Why Choose This Style?
Choosing a traditional tattoo can be motivated by several reasons:
- Appreciation for retro and vintage: This style celebrates the history and tradition of tattooing.
- Desire for a long-lasting tattoo: The techniques and inks used make these tattoos particularly durable.
- Personal symbolism: Many people find a personal connection with the classic symbols used in this style.
Where to Get Traditional Style Tattoos?
Come visit us: at TattooLab, you can get the old school tattoo you desire!
