FAQs
Old school tattoo designs typically were symbols of masculinity featuring boat anchors, American flags, roses, hearts, and more. New school tattoo designs feature elements of hip-hop, cinema, TV, and video games.
What is the meaning of the New School tattoo? ›
The style is often characterized by the use of heavy outlines, vivid colors, and exaggerated depictions of the subject. New school also represents a transition towards openness in the sharing of techniques in tattooing.
What are the rules for New School tattoos? ›
New school tattoos honor the rules established by old-school tattooing with bold black lines, and large, easily recognizable designs. New school tattoos are similar to old school in that they both require the artist to have a strong understanding of color theory, shading, and light and dark contrasts.
What does it mean to get inked? ›
(slang) Having a tattoo or tattoos.
What does old school 13 tattoo mean? ›
While the number 13 is associated with bad luck, it is the opposite for tattoo lovers. 13 is associated with sailors, gangs , and old school ink concepts. Sonni Sears.
What do tattoos do when you get older? ›
The main signs of tattoo aging include the ink's pigment breaking down, causing your tattoo to appear blurry, stretched, wrinkled or less vibrant than it once was. Good news is, you have the power to slow down your tattoos' aging process!
What tattoo symbolizes guidance? ›
Compass tattoos are popular motifs that symbolize direction, guidance, and following one's convictions.
What tattoo symbol is new beginnings? ›
A tattoo can represent a new beginning. The phoenix, the butterfly, the never-ending worm ouroboros, and the robin symbolize change and growth.
What does the 13 tattoo mean on your face? ›
He could also be a member of La Eme affiliated gangs such as MS-13, Sur 13, and many others. This facial tattoo displays the use of the number 13, which represents the letter "M," showing that this gang member is aligned with the Mexican Mafia.
What are the rules for a new tattoo? ›
Take care of your tattoo
- Keep tattooed skin clean. Wash the tattooed area twice a day with soap and water and a gentle touch. ...
- Use moisturizer. Apply a mild moisturizer to the tattooed skin several times a day.
- Avoid sun exposure. ...
- Don't go swimming. ...
- Choose clothing carefully.
Bright colors are a trademark of the New School tattoo style. While many traditional tattoos use colors like red, yellow, and royal blue, New School tattoos often feature colors like electric blue, hot pink, and neon green. This color palette helps to give the designs an eye-catching, modern look.
What is a patchwork tattoo? ›
Patchwork tattoos are a collection of tattoos collaged together to create an overall design. Each individual 'patch' of the tattoo can be a different design, symbol or element with a little space in between. Patchwork tattoos are a collection of tattoos collaged together to create an overall design.
Why do people get inked? ›
Many people decide to wear tattoos in order to express their artistic nature, their beliefs, or their feelings -- in other words, to show their individuality. A musician in a rock band may get a tattoo of a guitar on the arm. Some environmentalists may tattoo pictures of endangered animals on their shoulders.
What does getting new ink mean? ›
Slang. a tattoo or tattoos: Oh, nice, you got new ink!
What's the difference between ink and tattoo ink? ›
The science - how is a tattoo made? Fountain pen ink is generally a dye-based ink, where the colourant is fully dissolved in the liquid. Tattoo ink however is a pigment-based ink where solid particles of colour are suspended in a liquid carrier.
What makes an old school tattoo? ›
Old school tattoos don't fuss with realistic hair strokes, thin lines, or random splashes of color. Its characteristics are specific. These tattoos often feature bold, simple designs with a limited color palette. They're known for their iconic symbols such as anchors, roses, and eagles.
Do New School tattoos age well? ›
One of the few things people don't notice about New School tattooing is how its foundations are cemented within American Traditional. Many of the rules set forth by Trad artists long ago help with the clarity and healthy aging of tattoos.
What makes a good New School tattoo? ›
New school tattoos, on the other hand, break from tradition by incorporating a broader range of bright colors, drop shadows, large shapes, and heavy outlines, often drawing inspiration from street art, folk art, and Japanese culture. The result is a more animated and overtly fun aesthetic.
What's considered an old tattoo? ›
If your tattoo is more than 10 years old, it may have already started fading and will require fewer laser tattoo removal treatments.