Our Traditional Work
Traditional tattoos (aka American traditional or old school) are defined by intense, bold lines and a small but rich color palette. In line with their history, traditional tattoos often reference specific motifs and guarantee you a striking piece of art that will stand the test of time. Below is a sampling of traditional pieces done by the artists of Mantle.
Traditional tattoos: what to know
American traditional (or old school) tattoos use bold black outlines, solid shading and a limited palette of strong colors such as red, green, yellow and black.
Who it suits
People who love classic imagery like roses, panthers, eagles, daggers, swallows and ships, and want a tattoo that reads clearly from across the room. Traditional pieces work as single flash designs or as a patchwork sleeve built over time.
Size and placement
Traditional is one of the most forgiving styles: bold lines and solid color hold up well, even in spots where finer work fades, like hands and fingers. Classic placements include the forearm, upper arm, chest, calf and the back of the hand.
Healing and aging
Expect two to four weeks of healing. Solid color can look patchy while the skin peels, which is normal. Traditional tattoos are known for aging well, which is why decades-old pieces still read clearly.
Ready to plan yours? Book a virtual consultation to talk through size and placement, read our guide to black and white traditional tattoos, and check the aftercare and deposit policy pages before your visit. We’re at 705 S Olive St in Downtown Los Angeles, an easy trip from Glendale and Pasadena. Our shop minimum is $150.
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