Old school tattooing — or American traditional — is the foundation the whole craft was built on. Bold black outlines, a classic restricted palette, and recognisable iconography: roses, swallows, anchors, daggers, panthers, eagles, hearts. The style is defined by simplicity and legibility. Every element is intentional, every shape is clean, and the result holds on skin better than almost anything else you can get tattooed.
Sina works within the traditional aesthetic but all pieces are custom-designed. If you have a subject or theme in mind — even something that wouldn't typically be associated with old school tattooing — it can be interpreted in the style. Send your references and ideas through the booking form and Sina will sketch a custom design suited to your placement and size.
Why old school tattoos stand the test of time
Exceptional longevity
Bold outlines and solid colour blocks hold their shape and saturation longer than any other style. A well-executed traditional piece looks sharp decades later.
Instant readability
Old school designs are built to be understood at a glance. The simplified shapes and strong contrast make them legible on any skin tone at any scale.
Custom within tradition
The traditional aesthetic is a framework, not a formula. Any subject — personal, symbolic or purely aesthetic — can be interpreted in the style. No two pieces need to be the same.
Common questions about old school tattoos
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Old school (American traditional) tattoos are defined by bold black outlines, a limited palette of solid primary colours, and iconic imagery — roses, anchors, swallows, eagles, daggers, pin-ups. The aesthetic comes from early 20th-century Western tattooing and is one of the most enduring styles in the craft.
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Yes — old school tattoos age exceptionally well. The bold outlines and solid colour fills hold shape better than any other style. A well-executed traditional piece from 20 years ago often looks sharper than a delicate fine-line piece from 5 years ago.
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Absolutely. All designs Sina produces are custom — you can bring your own subject matter and have it interpreted in the traditional aesthetic. Send your ideas and references via the booking form.
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Pricing is £70 per hour or £400 for a full day session. Most small traditional pieces fit in a single session. A deposit is required to confirm your booking and is deducted from the final price.
Ready to book your traditional piece?
Send your subject, size, placement and any references. Sina replies within 48 hours with a quote and available dates.
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