Traditional vs. Neo-Traditional: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Both styles share bold lines and a love for classic subjects, but they diverge in technique, color palette, and creative freedom. Here's how to tell them apart.
American Traditional
American traditional (also called old school) is defined by bold black outlines, a limited color palette (red, green, yellow, blue, black), and flat color fills. The style dates back to the early 1900s and artists like Sailor Jerry and Bert Grimm.
Common subjects: anchors, eagles, roses, daggers, pin-ups, skulls, ships, and swallows.
Neo-Traditional
Neo-traditional keeps the bold outlines but expands everything else. The color palette is wider and more nuanced, shading is more dimensional, and subject matter is more diverse. Think of it as traditional with the volume turned up.
Common subjects: animals with ornate framing, portraits with decorative elements, flowers with complex shading, mythological figures.
Which Style Is Right for You?
Choose traditional if you want a timeless, classic look that ages predictably. Choose neo-traditional if you want more detail, color variety, and creative expression within a structured framework.
Portland's Traditional Scene
Portland has incredible artists in both camps. The city's tattoo heritage leans traditional, but the neo-traditional scene has grown rapidly. Browse our Artists page to explore both styles.
