Popular tattoo styles: Traditional or Old School tattoos

A western classic American tattoo style

Old School or Traditional tattoos are known for their bold thick outlines and solid colors. They are typically done in three parts: one part black, one part color and one part skin. If done correctly and with proper aftercare, this type of tattoo will last a long time without having to re-touch it.

One of the most popular artists that specialized in creating this tattoo style is Norman Keith Collins, AKA Sailor Jerry. When he was 19 he enlisted in the Navy; and remained a sailor for his entire life thereafter –hence his nickname! Even during his career as a tattoo artist, he worked as a licensed skipper of a large three-masted schooner, on which he conducted tours of the Hawaiian Islands.

Some of the most common Old School or Traditional themes are:

  • Native American
  • Nautical
  • Pin ups
  • Cherries
  • Roses
  • Daggers
  • Navy and other armed forces theme
  • Hearts
  • Eagles
  • Swallows and sparrows
  • Ships and anchors

Mantra Tattoo is Colorado’s best premiere full service tattoo shop providing professional clean custom tattoos, piercings, and a large variety of jewelry and clothing. And all of our artists have at least 7 years of tattooing experience, or more. So whether you’re looking to get your Traditional Old School tattoo as a giant back-piece or something small and special behind your ear, we are thrilled to help you get the tattoo you really want.

custom tattoos
Mantra Tattoo & Body Piercing shop

Mantra Tattoo & Body Piercing: the best custom tattoos and piercings in Denver since 2006

Best custom tattoos in Colorado

Come visit us to get your custom Traditional tattoo designed by one of our experienced tattoo artists, all of them do custom work and will create the design from the ideas you give them until your perfect tattoo design is ready to be inked. Or come by to pick up a nice piece of body jewelry and get pierced by one of our professional body piercers.

We use only medical grade sterilization and always new needles on every tattoo and piercing. Our shop is fully inspected and regulated by the Jefferson County Health Department.
Age requirements: 18 and up on your own with state issued photo ID or equivalent; 16 or 17 years of age with a legal guardian and both individuals are required to have a state issued photo ID orequivalent with matching last names.

1695 Wadsworth Blvd, Lakewood, Colorado
(303) 239-8282 / (303) 238-3736
Open: Mon – Sat 11:00 am – 9:00 pm, Sun 12:00 noon – 9:00pm.

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