Have you been considering getting an American style tattoo? Read all you need to know about it before you make a decision!
American style tattoos have a rich history, and if you like getting meaningful yet artistic tattoos, then this is the right choice for you. American style tattoos are all about breaking out of mainstream society and creating your own path. The bold and creative style makes them an excellent choice for people who have rebellious personalities.
Here’s what you need to know about American style tattoos!
What is an American Style Tattoo?
An American style tattoo is distinguished because of its clean outer lines and the vivid colors incorporated into it. The American style tattoo started to get popular in the 1930s as a reflection of people rejecting the great American dream. This style of tattooing still represents the same breaking of chains from mainstream society as it did in the beginning.
The American style tattoo is also known as the traditional style because of its history and primarily includes illustrations of women, roses, skulls, daggers, ships, and even wolves. The colors are usually kept dark, and the hues that are traditionally used for inking this kind of tattoo are blue, green, and red.
Furthermore, American style tattoos do not have too much detail, but they are distinct because of the realism and how intense they are. In fact, there are specific guidelines that must be followed for this tattoo style.
What is the History Behind American Style Tattoos?
American style tattoos became popular in America because of Norman Collins, aka Sailor Jerry, In the 1930s during World War 2. The tats on Japanese soldiers inspired this tattoo style, and Sailor Jerry made the art what it is known as today.
The American style tattoo has inspired many tattoo artists to branch out and develop more versions of these traditional tattoos. However, those artists who strongly follow the stylings of Jerry Sailor believe in sticking to the old rules for creating an authentic American style tattoo.
What are the Rules of American Style Tattoos?
There are certain rules that must be followed if you have to get a traditional tattoo. These details are essential if you want to get an authentic design of an American style tattoo. In order to achieve accuracy, tattoo artists replicate the work of pioneers of this style from sheets of their designs that were produced for mass replication. Following are the rules for an authentic American style tattoo:
- These tattoos require minimal shading, and color should be done in blocks.
- It requires few details.
- American style tattoos have a bold design
- These tattoos are meant to be two-dimensional.
- Initially, the people who got this type of tattoo were from the navy and army, which is why the motifs are inspired by elements like ships, anchors, guns, and women.
- Some of the common shapes included in the art are guns, military insignia, animals, and basic shapes.
- Some inspiration comes from the Polynesian and Native American heritage, who were some of the pioneers.
Some tattoo artists well-versed in the American style of tattoos can easily recognize work that is not authentic.
What Kind of Needle is Required for an American Style Tattoo?
American Style Tattoo usually requires big-sized needles since not much detailing is required. Typically, the outlines are dark and thick, which traditionally requires a round liner.
Smaller needles are used for details which is why there is not much use for them in American Style Tattoos.
