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Neo traditional blog


What are Neo traditional tattoos then? 


Neo-traditional tattoos are a refreshing classic tattoo style with a stylish twist of the present day; through this style you see the evolution of beloved techniques like bold outlines and a colourful palette. 


In the early 1900s, traditional or 'old school' tattoos were extremely popular: bold, simple, and to the point. But as the decades rolled on, artists and tattoo enthusiasts soon developed a thirst something more. They wanted the boldness of traditional tattoos... with a vibrant, more unconventional palette. And so, neo-traditional was born. 


The dense aesthetic often pictures flowers, animals and women. More recently this style is often enthused with gems or crystals, lace and metalwork.


Neo-traditional tattoo refreshing classic tattoo styles with a stylish twist of the present day, the evolution of beloved techniques like bold outlines and a colourful palette.


This new style held on to the bold lines and solid colors that defined traditional tattooing, but went all out daring to push the boundaries. Artists began experimenting with more complex designs, detailed shading, and a wider color palette.


Neo traditional tattoos use a muted colour palette, you'll want to draw from American trad like red, gold, green and black then expand outward with more earthy tones, for example why not opt for a mustard rather than using a bright yellow or opt for a olive green rather than a lime green. 


Types of neo traditional tattoos examples 



Geometric - Geometric neo traditional tattoos might include sharp striking shapes, somewhat creating a mathematical tattoo.

Abstract - abstract neo traditional tattoo keep the bold line and the bight colours but with additional brush stroke techniques and water colour finishes.



THE IDEA


A theme is the key, Neo-traditional is known for its creativity and imaginative and fantastical themes if the design tells a story or features mythology, fantasy or personal symbolism it has neo traditional at its core.


Think outside the box maybe a fantasy world, mythical themes or creatures, unicorns deep in fantasy forests, shrooms, pixies or elf cretins, maybe even a dragon plunge into your own never-ending story. 


Sci-fi and fantasy these could hold forts, castles or crypts or delve into the universe featuring planets or ufos and aliens. 


Portraits neo traditional styles draws between realistic and cartoonish concepts.


Floral designs definitely a popular style with neo traditional, roses, chrysanthemums, lillies and many more, birds and nature are another popular choice and with the extensive vibrant colour ranges available to artists produces some spectacular results.


Neo traditional is definitely pushing the boundaries bringing exciting and imaginative creations to the skin honoring the past and embracing the future.


I've attached some images of some of our Neo Traditional tattoos all done by Lauren :



Blue Chrysanthemums 




Bearded Dragon Portrait 


Moth



Hamster Portrait.

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