Embroidery Tattoos: The Art of Ink ‘Sewn’ into Skin by CJ Ugarte at Electric Street Tattoo

Patch work Tattoo Lisa Simpson

In the vibrant heart of sunny South Florida there’s a unique art form blossoming on the skin of tattoo enthusiasts, and it’s all thanks to the brilliant work of CJ Ugarte at Electric Street Tattoo. Specializing in Patch Work, or the intricate ‘Embroidery Tattoos’, CJ has been turning heads and adorning bodies with designs that defy expectations.

Embroidery and patch tattoos are CJ Ugarte’s specialty. Request a tattoo with CJ, or walk in daily from 1pm and ask at the counter.

Mans Best Friend Patch Work Tattoo

Embroidery Tattoos: A Modern Twist on an Ancient Craft

Embroidery tattoos are a relatively new phenomenon in the tattoo world, but they’ve quickly gained popularity for their unique aesthetic that mimics the look of actual embroidered patches on the skin. This style is a testament to the versatility and creativity of modern tattoo artists, who continue to push the boundaries of their craft.

Magic Kingdom Disney Tattoo (Mickey and Minnie Mouse)

CJ Ugarte: A Maestro of the Embroidered Illusion

CJ Ugarte has been perfecting his craft since 2008, becoming well-rounded and versatile in many styles. However, it’s his focus on composition and designs made to last that sets him apart. His dedication to perfection is evident in every piece he creates, ensuring that each tattoo is not just a work of art but a lasting tribute to the individuality of his clients.

Florida Marlins Tattoo

GO MARLINS!

The Electric Street Tattoo Experience

Located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Electric Street Tattoo is a hub of creativity and excellence. The shop boasts a team of award-winning artists and has established itself as a premier destination for those seeking high-quality tattoos2. It’s a place where free consultations meet a safe, creative space, welcoming tattoo collectors and first-timers alike.

Embroidered Military Patch Tattoo

Why Choose Embroidery Tattoos?

Embroidery tattoos stand out for their textured, three-dimensional appearance that looks as if threads have been sewn directly onto the skin. It’s a style that combines the ancient art of embroidery with the modern art of tattooing, creating a fusion that’s both classic and contemporary3.

Scout trooper Patch Tattoo

The Process: Crafting an Embroidery Tattoo

The key to a successful embroidery tattoo lies in the artist’s understanding of light and shadow, as well as their ability to layer colors to create the desired three-dimensional effect. CJ Ugarte excels in this, using small strokes in various colors to achieve the look of embroidered patches, while keeping the design itself elegantly simple3.

Miami Hurricanes Embroidered Patch Tattoo

Conclusion: A Tapestry of Talent

CJ Ugarte’s embroidery tattoos are more than just a trend; they’re a celebration of artistry and tradition, woven together on the canvas of the skin. At Electric Street Tattoo, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere, a commitment to excellence, and the chance to wear a masterpiece crafted by a true specialist in the field.

Whether you’re a seasoned tattoo collector or considering your first piece, CJ Ugarte and Electric Street Tattoo invite you to experience the beauty of embroidery tattoos, where every stitch tells a story.

Want a patch that looks sewn on? That’s CJ Ugarte’s work. Request a tattoo with him, or walk in daily from 1pm and ask at the counter. Gift cards work for his tattoos too.

Electric Street Tattoo, 320 E Oakland Park Blvd, Oakland Park. Serving Fort Lauderdale and Broward County. 1,100+ Google reviews. (954) 666-1138.

Pizza patch tattoo

Betty Boop patch tattoo

Boba Fett patch tattoo

Friday the 13th Tattoos: Where the Tradition Comes From

Friday the 13th has long been regarded as a day veiled in superstition and uncertainty. For centuries, it has been the subject of myths, legends, and folklore, often associated with bad luck and misfortune. However, in recent years, this fateful day has become synonymous with a unique and cherished tradition in the tattoo world—Friday the 13th tattoos. Let's embark on a journey to uncover the intriguing origins of this inked phenomenon.

Why is Friday the 13th unlucky?

The fear of Friday the 13th, known as paraskevidekatriaphobia, has deep historical roots. While the exact origins of this fear are challenging to pinpoint, it has been perpetuated by various superstitions and cultural beliefs. Some trace it back to the Last Supper, where 13 individuals were present, with the 13th guest being Judas Iscariot, the one who would later betray Jesus.

How tattooers took over the date

The tradition of offering discounted tattoos on Friday the 13th began with tattoo parlors seeking a creative way to counteract the superstition associated with the day. Rather than avoiding the date, they embraced it, turning a perceived curse into an opportunity for ink enthusiasts to celebrate their passion.

The $13 tattoo tradition

At the heart of the tradition is the $13 tattoo: small, simple flash designs that some shops sell for a cheap flat price on the day. These tattoos are often modest in size and simplicity, selected from a flash sheet created by the artists. These flash sheets typically feature classic, timeless images such as black cats, bats, skulls, and, of course, the number 13 itself.

A day for the tattoo community

What initially started as a marketing tactic evolved into a beloved tradition. Tattoo enthusiasts eagerly anticipate Friday the 13th specials, not only for the unbeatable prices but for the sense of community and camaraderie they offer. These events bring people together to get inked, share stories, and embrace the superstition in a lighthearted way.

How it’s done today

In recent years, Friday the 13th tattoo events have expanded beyond simple flash sheets. Many tattoo parlors now offer their unique twists, like themed flash sheets, special promotions, and even costume contests. It's an opportunity for both artists and clients to showcase creativity and celebrate the art of tattooing in new and exciting ways.

Friday the 13th at Electric Street Tattoo

We don’t make a big deal out of Friday the 13th. Skulls, black cats, snakes, daggers and 13s are classic flash, and we tattoo that kind of flash all year round. It’s on our walls every day.

On Friday the 13th we run special holiday flash deals, but we’re not a $13 or $20 tattoo shop. Pricing is in person only, so walk in or call (954) 666-1138.

Find us at 320 E Oakland Park Blvd, Oakland Park, FL 33334. Walk-ins welcome: see how walk-ins work. Halloween fan? See Halloween tattoo ideas.

Friday the 13th flash

Friday the 13th flash

Friday the 13th flash by Alex Joelle

A Friday the 13th flash board

Flash sheet and flash board by Mr. FlashMachine.

Embrace the tradition

Regardless of whether you're superstitious or simply a lover of ink, Friday the 13th tattoos offer a unique and thrilling way to commemorate this legendary date. It's a chance to embrace the art of tattooing, connect with your local tattoo community, and proudly wear your superstitions on your skin, all while getting an amazing deal on a new piece of body art.

So, the next time Friday the 13th graces the calendar, don't let superstition deter you. Join the tradition, select your lucky design, and celebrate the art of tattooing in a way that has been wholeheartedly embraced by ink enthusiasts worldwide.

Embodying Authenticity: The Story of Electric Street Tattoo - South Florida's Top-Rated Traditional Tattoo Parlor

In the vibrant tapestry of South Florida’s tattoo scene, one shop stands out as a beacon of authenticity and traditional artistry: Electric Street Tattoo. At 320 E Oakland Park Blvd, serving Fort Lauderdale, Oakland Park and Broward County, this parlor has earned its reputation as the most sought-after destination for tattoo enthusiasts seeking true traditional tattoos. Join us on a journey as we unravel the essence of Electric Street Tattoo’s success, exploring the key factors that make it the top-rated, most authentic traditional tattoo parlor in the region

What sets us apart

1. Revering Tattoo Heritage: At Electric Street Tattoo, tradition and heritage are at the core of their existence. From the moment you walk through the door, you are enveloped in an ambiance that exudes reverence for tattoo history. The artists draw inspiration from ancient tattoo practices, incorporating symbolism and techniques passed down through generations. This devotion to tattoo heritage is a key factor that sets them apart and resonates with clients seeking an authentic experience.

2. Masters of the Craft: Electric Street Tattoo is home to a team of truly exceptional artists, each a master of their craft. These talented individuals bring years of experience and expertise to every ink stroke they create. Their dedication to preserving and perfecting traditional tattoo styles, such as American Traditional, Japanese Irezumi, and Tribal, is evident in the impeccable quality of their work. Clients are consistently wowed by the artists’ ability to capture the essence of traditional designs while infusing them with a modern twist

3. Commitment to Hygiene and Safety: In the realm of tattooing, hygiene and safety are paramount. Electric Street Tattoo spares no effort in ensuring the well-being of their clients. The shop adheres to strict sterilization protocols, using disposable and single-use equipment, and maintaining a pristine workspace. This commitment to maintaining the highest health standards fosters trust among customers, who can rest assured they are receiving top-notch service without compromising their safety.

4. Customer-Centric Approach: Beyond their exceptional tattooing skills, Electric Street Tattoo is lauded for its customer-centric approach. Every client is greeted with warmth and respect, and the artists take the time to understand their vision, offering personalized recommendations and designs. This attentive, friendly attitude fosters a sense of community and trust, turning customers into lifelong patrons

5. Embracing Diverse Artistry: While traditional tattoo styles are their specialty, Electric Street Tattoo also embraces diverse artistry. From illustrative and neo-traditional tattoos to intricate blackwork and fine line designs, the shop celebrates the richness of tattoo art. This adaptability ensures that every client’s unique taste and style are accommodated, cementing their reputation as the go-to parlor for traditional and contemporary designs alike.

Visit the shop

Electric Street Tattoo has earned its well-deserved status as South Florida’s top-rated, most authentic traditional tattoo parlor. Through unwavering dedication to tattoo heritage, a team of masterful artists, a commitment to hygiene and safety, a customer-centric approach, and an embrace of diverse artistry, they have woven a tapestry of excellence and authenticity. For anyone seeking a transformative tattoo experience that honors the time-honored traditions of the craft, Electric Street Tattoo stands as a beacon, radiating artistry, and respect in South Florida.

Electric Street Tattoo is an artist-owned American Traditional shop at 320 E Oakland Park Blvd, serving Fort Lauderdale, Oakland Park and Broward County since 2015. Walk-ins welcome, or request a tattoo. (954) 666-1138.

Now Hiring: Tattoo Artists, Apprentices and Shop Help

Electric Street Tattoo is always hiring. We're an artist-owned American Traditional tattoo shop at 320 E Oakland Park Blvd in Oakland Park, open since 2015 and serving Fort Lauderdale, Oakland Park, and Broward County. If you tattoo, want to learn, or want to help run a busy shop, read on.

All inquiries are kept confidential.

About the shop

American Traditional is the core of what we do. The crew also tattoos Japanese, tribal and fine line. It's a laid-back traditional parlor with walk-ins welcome. Everything stays on the up and up: no drugs, no drama. Positive vibes are always welcome. Meet the crew.

Join the crew

We're always looking for good people in four roles: tattoo artists, guest artists, apprentices and shop help.

Tattoo artists

We want experienced tattoo artists with a solid portfolio and references, and strong traditional work. You should be dedicated and self-motivated, and run your book like a true professional. Be your own boss, without the drama.

Guest spots

Guest spots are always open. Traveling artists looking for a place to call home while in Florida can email, DM or use our request form. Send your portfolio and the dates you'll be in town. See past guests in Guest tattoo artists at Electric Street.

Apprentices

Want to learn to tattoo the traditional way? Bring a portfolio of drawings, ideally traditional flash. Apprentices learn hands-on from working artists. Read Tattoo apprenticeships: why they matter first, and if you're still asking whether you can hack it, read Is tattooing hard?.

Shop help and front desk

Shop help is the face of the shop and the first person clients meet. The job covers answering phones and messages, booking appointments, greeting walk-ins, and keeping the shop clean and set up. You need to be friendly, reliable, good with people and good with details.

What we look for

• A portfolio that shows your work (drawings are fine for apprentices).
• References, for artists.
• Dedication, self-motivation and professionalism.
• No drugs, no drama.

The shop, 320 E Oakland Park Blvd.

How to apply

Email electricstreettattoo@gmail.com or DM @electricstreettattoo on Instagram. Tell us which role you want and send your portfolio (link or photos) and references. Guest artists can also use our request form; add your dates. All inquiries are kept confidential. Pay, schedules and apprenticeship details are covered in person during the interview.

You can also stop by the shop at 320 E Oakland Park Blvd, Oakland Park, FL 33334, or call (954) 666-1138. Hours are Tue to Sat 1 to 9pm, Sun and Mon 12 to 6pm. More on the contact page.

FAQ

Is Electric Street Tattoo hiring right now?

Yes. Hiring and guest spots are always open.

What styles does the shop do?

American Traditional is the core. The crew also does Japanese, tribal and fine line.

Do you take guest artists?

Yes. Email, DM or use our request form with your portfolio and dates. See our guest artists.

Do you take apprentices?

Yes. Bring a portfolio of drawings, ideally traditional flash.

What does shop help do?

Phones and messages, booking, greeting walk-ins, and keeping the shop clean and set up.

How does pay work?

Pay, schedules and apprenticeship details are covered in person during the interview.

How do I apply?

Email electricstreettattoo@gmail.com or DM @electricstreettattoo on Instagram with your portfolio and references.

What Is a Walk-In Tattoo? How Walk-Ins Work at Electric Street Tattoo

The door is open. Walk-ins welcome.

Open the door and the flash wall hits you first: swallows, roses, daggers, panthers, eagles, skulls, hearts. Pick one, pick the size, pick the spot. If an artist is free, you can wear it today. That is a walk-in tattoo at Electric Street Tattoo — see it, pick it, wear it the same day.

No appointment. Show up during open hours, choose a design, and get tattooed when a chair opens. American Traditional shops have worked that way for over a hundred years, and so do we at 320 E Oakland Park Blvd. Walk-ins welcome every day we are open.

Walk-in hours and address

Electric Street Tattoo, 320 E Oakland Park Blvd, Oakland Park, FL 33334, serving Fort Lauderdale, Oakland Park and Broward County.

• Tuesday–Saturday: 1pm–9pm

• Sunday–Monday: 12pm–6pm

Walk-ins start at 1pm every day.

Phone: (954) 666-1138. Map: contact page. Also see walk-in tattoos.

How walk-ins work at our shop

1. Come in during open hours. No appointment needed.

2. Pick your design. Choose from the flash on our walls and in our books, or bring a simple idea or reference photo.

3. Get matched with an artist. Whoever is free and right for the style takes you. Walk-ins are first come, first served, in order of arrival. Ask at the counter — Josh, Nick, Lexi, CJ Ugarte, Lyandra, and Edson are on the crew.

4. Get a price and size. Your artist sets the placement and gives you a price in person before anything starts.

5. ID and paperwork. Bring a valid government photo ID. You fill out a consent form.

6. Stencil, then tattoo. You approve the stencil on your skin, then you get tattooed.

7. Aftercare. You leave with instructions. Also see our aftercare guide.

Calling ahead doesn't hold a spot

People often call and ask "do you take walk-ins?" Yes. But a phone call is not an appointment. If three people walk in between your call and when you arrive, they are ahead of you. The best way to get tattooed today is to come in. We'll always do our best to fit you in.

What flash is (and why walk-ins love it)

Flash is a sheet of ready-to-tattoo designs, drawn so you can pick one and get it that day. Our walls are covered in classic American Traditional work — bold outlines, solid color, designs that read from across the room and hold up for years. Browse, pick the size and placement, and ask if you want a small change. More on our traditional flash page and in American Traditional tattoos.

Flash on the wall is fair game for walk-ins.

What you can get as a walk-in

• Flash. Swallows, roses, daggers, panthers, eagles, skulls, hearts, anchors, and more — the designs traditional shops were built for.

• Small to medium custom. Lettering, a simple custom design, or a small idea your artist can draw on the spot.

• Friday the 13th and holiday flash. On special flash days, walk-ins are the whole point. See Friday the 13th tattoos.

For more on classic swallows, anchors, and pinups, see Sailor Jerry tattoos.

Holiday and Friday the 13th flash days are built for walk-ins.

Best times to walk in

• Come early. Walk-ins start at 1pm, and earlier in the day leaves the most chair time.

• Small and mid-size pieces fit easiest. Sleeves, back pieces, and cover-ups usually need planning — request an appointment for those.

• Not sure about today? Call (954) 666-1138 and ask how busy it is. A call still does not hold a spot.

What makes a good walk-in tattoo

• A design already on the wall, or a simple idea an artist can draw fast

• A clear size and placement

• Flexibility on which artist takes you — match the style, not only a name

• Time in your day for a possible wait

• A government photo ID

Want one specific artist, a guest date, or a multi-session piece? Book ahead. Walk-ins shine when you want bold traditional work today.

When to book an appointment instead

Walk-ins are great for most tattoos. Request an appointment if:

• It is a big piece, like a chest piece, back piece, sleeve or multi-session work. Some bigger pieces need a deposit to lock in the time.

• You want a specific artist, especially if they are often booked. For example, CJ Ugarte recommends booking ahead for embroidery patch tattoos.

• You want a guest artist. Guests like Alex Joelle and Marco Cardenas work on select dates, by appointment only.

• It is detailed custom work that needs drawing time.

• You can only come at one exact time and cannot risk a wait.

Tips for a smooth walk-in

• Eat first and drink water. Do not drink alcohol before your tattoo.

• Wear clothes that show the spot (short sleeves, shorts).

• Bring your ID and know roughly what size and where you want it.

• Be ready to wait if the shop is busy. We'll give you a wait estimate whenever we can.

• More answers: tattoo FAQ.

Nick at work. Walk-ins get matched with whoever is free and right for the piece.

Traditional parlor vs. private studio

Private studios usually work by appointment only, one client at a time, and many do every style. A traditional parlor like ours keeps flash on the walls, takes walk-ins, and focuses on bold American Traditional tattoos that hold up for years. Longer read: traditional tattoo parlors vs. private studios. Need a set time for a big custom piece? Request an appointment. Want a tattoo today? Walk in.

Why we're a walk-in shop

Electric Street Tattoo is an artist-owned American Traditional shop at 320 E Oakland Park Blvd, serving Fort Lauderdale, Oakland Park and Broward County since 2015. Owner Josh Cabrera started his apprenticeship in Miami and has more than 25 years in the chair. The shop has 1,100+ Google reviews. Flash on the wall and an open door is how traditional shops have always worked. Meet our artists, or see the short version on our tattoo shop in Oakland Park page.

320 E Oakland Park Blvd. Come in.

Walk-in tattoo FAQ

Does Electric Street Tattoo take walk-ins? Yes, every day we're open. Walk-ins start at 1pm and are first come, first served, in order of arrival.

Do I need an appointment for a tattoo? No, not for flash or most small to medium tattoos. Book ahead for big pieces, guest artists or detailed custom work.

Can I call ahead to save a spot? Calling doesn't hold a spot. Walk-ins are first come, first served, in order of arrival. If you need a set time, request an appointment.

What should I bring to a walk-in tattoo? A valid government photo ID, a design idea or reference, and clothes that show the spot.

What is tattoo flash? Ready-to-tattoo designs on the wall or in books. Pick one, pick the size, and get it the same day when an artist is free. See traditional flash.

What's the best time to walk in? Walk-ins start at 1pm, and earlier in the day leaves the most chair time. Call (954) 666-1138 to ask how the shop looks before you head over — a call still does not hold a spot.

Is there a walk-in tattoo shop near me in Fort Lauderdale? Electric Street Tattoo, 320 E Oakland Park Blvd in Oakland Park, serves Fort Lauderdale, Oakland Park and Broward County. Walk-ins are welcome. Call (954) 666-1138.

Tattoo Shop Near Me: How Clients Find Us

As the owner of a tattoo shop it’s important for me to know where our clients are coming from. I’ll admit this has been an area of weakness for me in the past. I’ve only recently started to realize that as a business owner I have an obligation to wear many different hats. What does this mean exactly? Well, for me, it means that sometimes I get to be a tattoo artist and other times I get to be whatever the shop needs me to be. And this can be damn near anything lol.
Something I read a long time ago,
”Some people work ON their business, some people work in it”. It’s a fine line but one that should not be ignored. I’d like to think that I can do both depending on circumstance.

From word of mouth to Google

Twenty years ago our clients found us mostly through word of mouth. Word of mouth and referrals kept us busy and fed. This was also before ‘Smart phones’. We were all carrying flip phones back then and life was simpler. It’s safe to assume that most of our tattoo clients were local to our area and either heard about us through a friend, family member, or simply by driving past our shop on their way somewhere.
The world has changed.
So how are folks finding goods and services these days? Well, a large portion of our foot traffic, in particular, can be attributed to the one and only GOOGLE. That’s right folks, the worlds largest search engine is at least partially responsible for how people are getting tattooed these days. Dollar for dollar definitely the undisputed champ!

Yelp and reviews

A close second would be Yelp. More of an online web directory, Yelp’s platform is used by both businesses and consumers alike.
It doesn’t surprise me anymore when our clients mention they found Electric Street Tattoo on Yelp. People shop different these days and tattoos are no exception. On Yelp you can browse tattoo shop listings and compare locally. More importantly, you can browse through reviews and see what experiences other people have had with these tattoo shops.
Keep in mind folks, reviews aren’t an exact science. Like with most things there will be your fair share of bad apples who may abuse these review platforms so take it all in with a grain of salt. It’s my feeling that if a tattoo shop has been around long enough and been able to sustain a strong rating, you’ll probably be in good hands. Yelp’s terms of use and review guidelines might even be a little more strict than Google’s but they are both very clear on the do’s and don’ts. And while a lot of your Yelp reviews will be featured for the public to see many of them will be redirected towards the ‘unrecommended’ section never to be seen or heard from again, regardless of their authenticity.

Tattoo shops near me

One of the most common searches for people looking to get tattooed is simply ‘tattoo shops near me’.
Yep, that’s it lol.
Folks just want to go somewhere close. They don’t want to drive and they don’t seem to necessarily care about referrals either. They want convenience. So it seems to me that the word of mouth and tattoo referrals we used to depend on twenty years ago are now in the form of Google, Yelp, Bing, Yahoo etc. I would even say that social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and the like make up for a very small amount of gross revenue. It’s been said tongue in cheek, Facebook is for business, Instagram is for fame.
I disagree.
Google is for business, who needs fame.

Find Electric Street Tattoo

Electric Street Tattoo, 320 E Oakland Park Blvd, Oakland Park, FL 33334. (954) 666-1138. Tue–Sat 1–9pm, Sun–Mon 12–6pm. Walk-ins welcome, or request a tattoo. Serving Fort Lauderdale, Oakland Park and Broward County.

Sailor Jerry Tattoos: Who He Was and What the Classic Designs Mean

Classic Sailor Jerry flash designs

Sailor Jerry was Norman Keith Collins (1911–1973), a Navy veteran who tattooed in and around Honolulu's Hotel Street from the 1930s until his death. His bold black lines, tight color palette and clean designs (swallows, anchors, pinups, eagles, ships) helped define the American Traditional tattoo. Decades later his flash is still tattooed every day, including at our shop in Fort Lauderdale.

Want a swallow, an anchor, or another classic off the wall? Walk in daily from 1pm, first come, first served, or request a tattoo.

Who was Sailor Jerry?

Collins was born January 14, 1911, in Reno, Nevada. As a teen he rode freight trains and hand-poked tattoos, then learned the electric machine from Gib "Tatts" Thomas in Chicago. He joined the Navy at 19, and his travels in Asia started a lifelong study of Japanese tattooing.

He settled in Honolulu in the 1930s. In World War II, Hotel Street's bars and tattoo parlors were where thousands of servicemen spent their shore leave. Collins tattooed there, then at 1033 Smith Street in Chinatown, his last shop. He also skippered a tour boat, played saxophone and hosted a radio show as "Old Ironsides." He died in Honolulu on June 12, 1973.

Norman Collins, aka Sailor Jerry, outside his Honolulu shop

The Sailor Jerry style

Sailor Jerry redrew the sailor tattoos of the 1920s and '30s cleaner and bolder. As historian Matt Lodder puts it, his designs are "simple and stripped-down enough that they look great in the skin, are readable from a distance, and age superbly."

• Bold black outlines that hold for decades.

• A limited palette. Mostly black, red, yellow and green. He mixed his own pigments, including one of the first purples that held up and was safe.

• Flash. A huge catalog of ready-to-pick designs: anchors, swallows, eagles, roses, mermaids, pinups.

• Japanese influence. He traded letters with Japanese masters, especially Kazuo Oguri (Horihide). He sent American inks and got back ideas on composition and backgrounds.

• Craft. He built his own needle setups and machines, and he was an early adopter of single-use needles and autoclave sterilization.

Sailor Jerry style mallard duck tattoo by Josh

Classic Sailor Jerry designs and what they mean

Most of these old sailor tattoos come from navy superstition. Sailor Jerry didn't invent them, but his versions became the standard.

• Swallow: safe return home. Tradition says one for every 5,000 nautical miles.

• Anchor: stability, often with "Mom" or a sweetheart's name.

• Nautical star: finding your way home.

• Ship: adventure, and making it back "Homeward Bound."

• Pinup: the girl back home.

• Hula girl: a souvenir of Hawaii and Hotel Street.

• Eagle: patriotism and freedom.

• Panther: toughness, usually mid-attack.

• Dagger: courage and sacrifice ("Death Before Dishonor").

• Pig and rooster: protection from drowning.

Traditional Sailor Jerry style swallow tattoo

Sailor Jerry's legacy

Collins wanted his shop to go to one of his protégés, Ed Hardy, Mike Malone or Zeke Owen, or else be burned. Malone took it over as China Sea Tattoo. Through Collins's contacts, Hardy went to Japan in the early 1970s to work with Horihide. In 1999 Hardy and Malone co-founded Sailor Jerry Ltd., which put his designs on clothing and launched the Sailor Jerry rum. His flash has hung in museums, and the 2008 documentary Hori Smoku Sailor Jerry tells his story.

Why his tattoos are still everywhere:

• Timeless: classic Americana that works for every generation.

• The traditional revival: his flash is at the center of it.

• Craftsmanship: bold will hold, and they still read clearly decades later.

• Personal meaning: a loved one, a milestone, military service, the sea.

They tie us to an era when tattoos stood for defiance, camaraderie and individuality.

Electric Street pays respect to Sailor Jerry all around our shop

Getting a Sailor Jerry style tattoo in Fort Lauderdale

Electric Street Tattoo is an artist-owned American Traditional shop at 320 E Oakland Park Blvd, serving Fort Lauderdale, Oakland Park and Broward County since 2015. Owner Josh Cabrera started his apprenticeship in Miami and has more than 25 years in the chair. Our walls are covered in flash, and our artists care about the tradition: Sailor Jerry, Bert Grimm, and the rest of that lineage.

Pick a classic off the wall or bring a custom idea. Walk-ins are welcome, or request a tattoo. Then follow our aftercare guide.

Next in tattoo history: Stoney St. Clair, the circus sword swallower who became a sideshow tattooer.

Sailor Jerry flash I painted several years ago (Josh)

From our reception room

Sailor Jerry tattoo FAQ

What is a Sailor Jerry tattoo?
A tattoo in the style of Norman Collins: bold outlines, a few strong colors, and classic designs like swallows, anchors, pinups and ships, often straight from his flash.

What do swallow tattoos mean?
A safe return home. Sailors traditionally got one for every 5,000 nautical miles.

Is Sailor Jerry the same as American Traditional?
Not exactly. American Traditional is the whole style, built by many tattooers. Sailor Jerry is its best-known name.

What are sailor tattoos?
Designs sailors wore as travel marks and good-luck charms: swallows, anchors, nautical stars, ships, "Hold Fast" knuckles.

Where can I get a Sailor Jerry style tattoo near Fort Lauderdale?
Electric Street Tattoo, 320 E Oakland Park Blvd, (954) 666-1138. Walk in or request a tattoo.

If a swallow, an anchor, or a pinup has been sitting in the back of your mind, we can tattoo it. Walk in daily from 1pm, first come, first served, or request a time with one of our eight artists. A gift card works too, if you’re giving one.

Electric Street Tattoo, 320 E Oakland Park Blvd, Oakland Park. Serving Fort Lauderdale and Broward County. 1,100+ Google reviews. (954) 666-1138.