That’s not what American traditional dragon tattoos are about. Western-style dragon tattoos tend to be darker, meaner, with fangs, flames, and death around them. They can symbolize luck too, especially when combined with a lucky emblem tattoo (see below). Interestingly, dragons are considered good beings in Eastern culture. Long, thin, and snake-like with four clawed hands – not necessarily with wings! This is the style that Sailor Jerry loved, stemming from his admiration of Japanese tattoo artists.Ī dragon tattoo can just be for aesthetical purposes. Dragon Tattoo Credit: Instagram Credit: Instagramĭragon tattoos are immensely popular, but if you want the traditional American style you should pick the Asian design for dragons. Wording can be embedded as if it’s part of the metal, or over the top of the anchor image on a scroll, or even above/below the design entirely. It also usually has red tips and a rope that loops through a hole at the top of the anchor, rather than a metal chain. The typical American traditional anchor tattoo style has plenty of black shading to give the impression of dark metal. You can have these words tattooed on or across the anchor for extra meaning. Maybe it’s a person, a place, or a motto that brings you back down to Earth. That’s why anchor tattoos are so popular – they are reminders of what keeps you grounded. It ties you down to Earth and stops you from floating off course. No matter what language you speak or the country you are from, it’s obvious that an anchor is for grounding. Incorporate that distinctive style with whatever symbol, emblem, or design you want! Anchor Tattoo Credit: Instagram Credit: Instagram Credit: InstagramĪnchor tattoos are drowning in meaning. While these 15 are classics, you can take these ideas and run with them. This is just a foundation course on what American traditional tattoos can be. It’s important! 15 Inspiring American Traditional Tattoo Designs Read our 101 Guide to Getting a Tattoo to find out what you should look for in a tattoo artist and parlor before you get inked. We think you should honor this wish of Sailor Jerry when you’re choosing a tattoo artist for your American traditional tattoo.

He actually refused to tattoo large pieces on people with tattoos by artists he didn’t respect. Normal Collins was also passionate about high-quality tattoos, using the best practices and used the latest techniques. The meanings of his tattoos were obvious and undeniable, which is part of why they are so darn compelling.įor example, the knife through a heart accompanied by the words “Death Before Dishonor” clearly shows the passion, devotion, and pain of service during World War Two. Norman Collins used his tattoos to cut straight to the truth of the matter. The simple yet bold style of American traditional tattoos is very appropriate. By combining the Japanese technique for shading and tracing with his artistic style, the result was a bold and bright tattoo design. From there, with a passion for the Navy, he went on to develop one of the most well-known tattoo styles in the world. It all started in Chicago, where Collins first learned to use a tattoo gun. When you get a traditional, old-school tatt on your arm, we hope you spare a minute to learn about Sailor Jerry! Norman Collins, better known as Sailor Jerry, was a remarkable American that created this distinctive style. American Traditional Tattoo History – Summarized Credit: InstagramĪmerican traditional tattoos didn’t just evolve into existence they were created by one remarkable man. We’ve included the hidden meanings of these tattoos and provided some help with placement in this guide too.Īll you need to do now is pick your favorite design and head to the tattoo shop. Get ready for a healthy dose of patriotism! These are the American traditional tattoos you need to know about. In this guide, you’ll find out what American traditional tattoos are all about, including their history, as well as our favorite 15 most inspiring American tatts. Bold lines, select colors, and unique designs create some wonderful artwork. An American traditional tattoo is a beautiful piece of art to grace your body.

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