How to Draw American Traditional Tattoos

The tattoo industry comes with all sorts of tattoo styles, but one of the most iconic and timeless styles in the world of tattooing is the American Traditional, also known as “Old School.”

Recognizable by its bold lines, vibrant colors, and classic symbols, the American Traditional style has roots tracing back to the early 20th century. During this period, sailors would often get inked with symbols that held specific meanings, telling the story of their journeys.

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Through the years, American Traditional has remained a beloved classic, standing as a testament to its enduring appeal. In this article, we’ll venture into the world of Old School, teaching you how to draw some of the most iconic American Traditional tattoo motifs.

Whether you’re trying to become a tattoo artist, you are a seasoned illustrator looking to expand your repertoire, or you’re just keen on diving into this vintage style, there’s something here for everyone.

Swallow

The swallow is a symbol of freedom, journey, and love. Sailors used to get swallows tattooed after traversing a significant distance, marking their experiences and accomplishments. (Sometimes, these will also be called “sparrow” tattoos.)

Tattoo design tutorials courtesy Tattooing 101

Rose

In the American Traditional tattoo style, the rose is the most-used design element. It often signifies love, beauty, and balance. While its petals represent the delicate nature of life and love, the thorns stand as a reminder of the pain and struggles that often come with it.

Dagger

The dagger – often paired with a heart or a snake – can stand for danger, betrayal, and sacrifice, or on the other hand, protection and bravery. The sharp lines and dynamic design of the dagger make it an exciting element to explore in your drawings.

Snake

Slithering its way into many traditional tattoos, the snake is a versatile symbol. Representing both temptation and wisdom, life and death, the snake’s winding form offers a lot of artistic opportunities.

Skull

A stark reminder of our mortality, the skull is a popular element within American Traditional tattoo imagery. It speaks to the transient nature of life, but also to the memories and legacies that we leave behind.

Drawings by Tattooing 101 Instructor Brandon Over

Advice for All American Traditional Tattoo Designs

While these are five of the most asked-for designs out there, of course, there are some traditional elements we didn’t cover here. However, when you’re looking to learn these additional designs, the best way to study them is to repeat the process we went through in this article.

Break down the design into simple circles and shapes, and then add detail in layers. This will help you learn how to get the proportions right and build up your muscle memory for popular designs.