Unmasking the Origins of Friday the 13th Tattoos: A Tradition Born in Ink

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.

The Fear of Friday the 13th:

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.

Tattooing the Superstition:

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 Deal:

At the heart of Friday the 13th tattoo specials is the iconic $13 price tag (sometimes including an additional $7 for good luck). 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 Sense of 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.

Modern Interpretations:

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.

Booking in Advance:

With the growing popularity of Friday the 13th tattoo events, it's common for appointments to fill up rapidly. Many parlors now offer the option to book in advance, allowing clients to secure their spot and select their preferred design well ahead of the big day.

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. 🖤💀🌙 #FridayThe13thTattoos #InkTradition #SuperstitionInInk

Cat Tattoos

Cats get lots of love here at Electric Street Tattoo to say the least.
Panthers, tigers, cheetahs, lions and leopards…
WE LOVE THEM ALL
We believe that inside every cat is a fierce hunter.
Even your more domesticated house cat is a warrior and hunter at its core.

The big cats have a long standing relationship with tattoos. Since ancient times they have been seen as protectors from evil and even thought to be guides into the afterlife! Pretty cool right?
And so it only makes sense that the world of tattooing adopted them long ago and never looked back.

Sure enough dogs are mans best friend and we do get requests for dog tattoos as well, mostly portrait style tattoos from dog owners who want to immortalize their four legged companions. Nothing like feline tattoos though.

Tigers, in particular, are sexy.
Ferocious, sensual and breathtaking.
Or take the lion for example. We aspire to mimic its stoic nature. It’s no wonder the popularity of our furry friends continues to surge year after year.

These god like creatures have mesmerized humans since way back when we lived in caves. A deep growl in the night was cause for panic.
In modern day the closest we get to a big cat would be at the city zoo, from behind plenty of thick glass or a cushy moat. Or, if you’re like us, at the tattoo shop where you can see your favorite tattoo artist breath life into one of these beautiful felines with needle and ink.

The Egyptians thought of felines as royalty. To the extreme that mummified cats have been found alongside their human counterparts.

Cats, both big and small, are wild and sensual, They are uninhibited and sexually powerful.

They exhibit leadership qualities which make them very attractive to tattoo collectors who are self defined as leaders who are not prone to ‘following the leader’.

If any of the above resonates with you then a big cat tattoo might be what you’re looking for.
Regardless of race, religion and cultural background, the feline transcends and captures the essence and feeling of raw power and energy.
Ultimately, they make for badass tattoos.

•tattoos in this post made with love by Miss Alex Joelle @alexjoelletattooer.
Alex can be found at Electric Street Tattoo on most days.

Ink Traditions: Classic Tattoo Shops vs. Modern Private Studios

Tattoos have come a long way from being associated solely with subcultures to becoming a mainstream form of self-expression. As the tattoo industry continues to evolve, two distinct styles of tattoo parlors have emerged, each with its own unique charm: the classic traditional tattoo shop and the modern private studio. Let's dive into the differences between these two tattoo experiences.

Classic Traditional Tattoo Shops: A Time-Honored Tradition

Classic traditional tattoo shops are the foundation of the industry, and they carry a rich history with them. Here's what sets them apart:

1. Atmosphere and Community: Classic tattoo shops often exude a sense of community. The buzzing of tattoo machines, the wafting scent of antiseptic, and the colorful flash art adorning the walls create an unmistakable ambiance that tattoo enthusiasts cherish. It's a place where people share stories, swap advice, and bond over their love for ink.

2. Walk-Ins and Flash Art: Walk-ins are welcomed with open arms in classic tattoo shops. You can peruse pre-drawn flash art or collaborate with an artist on a custom design. This on-the-spot creativity is a hallmark of traditional tattoo shops, where spontaneity is celebrated.

3. Variety of Artists: These shops often host a diverse group of artists, each with their own specialties and unique styles. Clients can choose an artist who aligns with their vision or the type of tattoo they want.

4. No-Frills Experience: The classic tattoo shop experience is straightforward. You walk in, get tattooed, and leave with a lasting piece of art. It's an unpretentious and down-to-earth environment that many people find appealing.

Modern Private Studios: A Personalized Approach

In recent years, modern private studios have gained popularity, offering a different approach to the tattoo experience:

1. Personalization: Private studios prioritize a more intimate and personalized experience. These spaces are often designed to be cozy and inviting, allowing clients to feel at ease during their sessions.

2. Appointments Only: Most private studios operate by appointment only, ensuring that artists can dedicate their full attention to each client. This approach reduces the wait times and allows for more detailed consultations.

3. Specialization: Many artists in private studios are known for their specific styles and expertise. Clients often seek them out for their unique skills, whether it's photorealism, fine line work, or intricate designs.

4. Privacy and Comfort: Private studios provide a level of privacy and comfort that is not always possible in a traditional shop. Clients can relax in a more controlled environment, away from the hustle and bustle of a larger space.

Choosing the Right Experience

The choice between a classic traditional tattoo shop and a modern private studio ultimately depends on your preferences and the type of tattoo you want. If you're seeking a spontaneous experience, want to browse a variety of flash art, and enjoy the communal vibe of a tattoo shop, the classic option might be your cup of tea. On the other hand, if you desire a more personalized, comfortable, and specialized approach, a private studio could be the right fit.

In the world of tattoos, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Both traditional tattoo shops and private studios offer exceptional tattooing experiences, and the decision is all about finding what resonates with you. Regardless of your choice, the end result will be a beautiful piece of art etched onto your skin, telling a unique story that's all your own. 🖋💉🎨 #ElectricStreetTattoo #TattooShop #FortLauderdaleTattoos

Eyelid Tattoos 👁

The eyelids are probably one of the most under appreciated pieces of skin we have. When you think about it, life would be kind of a nightmare without them. Dry or sunburned corneas sound awful, but sleep without eyelids sounds nightmarish. No Thanks! 😳 lol
Argueably some of the thinnest skin on our bodies, they are very delicate and shouldn’t be taken for granted.
So what do we do with our eyelids as a token of appreciation? Well, we tattoo them of course! Sounds awful right? You’d be surprised. The eyelid has never made it anyone’s top 5 list of most painful body parts to get tattooed.. Unanimously, the sternum, chest and ribs still typically hold the highly coveted top spots on any tattoo collectors list of most painful spots to get tattooed.
Why risk accidentally jamming needles into your retina and possibly risk blindness?
Why get your eyelids tattooed?
The short answer, cause we can!
Skin thickness aside, it’s skin and so it can, and will be tattooed.
Is it really so dangerous tho? Are you really risking blindness? Probably not.

The Risks
In a controlled environment and when done by a trained, experienced professional there have never been any reported cases of any loss of sight. Actually, the main risks associated with this sort of tattoo would mainly be aesthetic. Due to the nature of the skin it is prone to what we call ‘blow outs’, which could leave you looking bruised like maybe you got punched in your eye lol and that’s certainly NOT the look.
I would say the risk isn’t considerably bigger than with any other tattoo. Infection is always the biggest concern especially when you consider how many oil glands each eye contains.
But again, if you handle your new tattoo with care and follow proper aftercare guidelines any inherent risks associated with to the eyes is next to none.

Allie J getting down on some eyelids 👀

The Healing
Another important consideration here would be the healing process. The eyelids are very oily which makes them susceptible to infection. For you ladies, MAKE UP IS A BIG NO NO. Like with any other healing tattoo you’ll want to use fragrance/alcohol free soap and lotion to moisturize. You’ll want to avoid touching your eyes unnecessarily but if you absolutely must you want to make sure that your hands are very very clean. Anything you can do to avoid possible infection and further complications is the general rule of thumb.

The Breakdown
I’ve only ever tattooed eyelids twice in my career.
That’s over a span of more than twenty years. The growing popularity of face, neck and throat tattoos is obvious when you look at the landscape. The growth is exponential.
Taboos of the past, now only distant memories.
There are many tattoo artists, and tattoo shops in general that won’t touch anything above the shoulders. I’m sure they have their reasons. Usually ethically fueled, high horse arguments and judgements.
My two cents,
if you want it,

GET IT!

Classic Tattoo Artist-Bert Grimm

Grimm Tiger by our own Nick Lazcano

Here at Electric Street Tattoo we like to pay respect where it’s due and is always an honor for us tattoo these designs handed down by those who came before us

Bert Grimm is one of those pioneers in the art of tattooing that we look up to.

I’m sure lots of you have heard of Sailor Jerry or Ed Hardy

An even greater portion of you can probably sound off on every ‘Inkmaster’ going all the way back to season one 😁

And while all that is fine and great, there are sooooo many other great tattoo artists that not too many bother acknowledging

Bert Grimm is certainly one of those

Like other tattooers of his time he worked as a sideshow tattoo artist traveling the carnival circuit before going on to operate several tattoo studios of his own. With his stripped down American Traditional style he tattooed the arms, chests and backs of hundreds of military men and covered the bodies of many sideshow attractions.

His contributions are great and his influence on modern day tattooing, unquestionable.

Grimm Tiger by our own Alex Joelle

Sailor Jerry Tattoos: Anchored in Tradition, Soaring in Popularity

Traditional Sailor Jerry designs

When you think of iconic American tattoos, Sailor Jerry instantly comes to mind. The name itself conjures up images of bold, traditional ink that has transcended time and trends to become a symbol of true tattoo artistry. But who was Sailor Jerry, and what makes his tattoos so enduringly popular? Let's embark on a journey into the world of Sailor Jerry tattoos.

Who Was Sailor Jerry?

Sailor Jerry, whose real name was Norman Keith Collins, was a legendary tattoo artist who left an indelible mark on the world of ink. Born on January 14, 1911, in Reno, Nevada, he later settled in Honolulu, Hawaii, where he made a name for himself as a pioneering tattoo artist.

Jerry's career spanned several decades, and he's best known for his contribution to American traditional tattooing. His work was heavily influenced by nautical themes, pin-up girls, military insignia, and classic Americana imagery. He was a master of clean lines, bold colors, and strong contrasts, which are defining characteristics of the Sailor Jerry style.

The Sailor Jerry Style

The Sailor Jerry style is synonymous with bold and timeless designs that continue to captivate tattoo enthusiasts worldwide. Some key features of Sailor Jerry tattoos include:

1. Iconic Flash Art: Sailor Jerry created a vast portfolio of flash art, which consists of pre-drawn tattoo designs that clients could choose from. These designs often included anchors, swallows, eagles, roses, and the classic "Sailor Jerry" mermaid, among many others.

2. Bold Outlines and Vibrant Colors: The hallmark of Sailor Jerry's work is its bold, black outlines and striking color palette. The use of primary colors like red, yellow, and green creates a visually arresting impact that withstands the test of time.

3. Nautical Themes: Sailor Jerry's deep connection with the sea is reflected in his tattoos. You'll find anchors, ships, and nautical symbols in many of his designs, reflecting his time spent in the Navy.

4. Pin-Up Girls: His pin-up girl tattoos, often referred to as "Sailor Jerry's ladies," are an integral part of his legacy. These buxom, confident women exude a timeless allure.

5. Traditional Values: Sailor Jerry's tattoos often carried deeper meanings, from symbols of protection to commemorations of military service. Each piece tells a story, adding an extra layer of significance to the ink.

Enduring Popularity

Sailor Jerry's tattoos remain highly popular for several reasons:

1. Timeless Appeal: Sailor Jerry's designs are a testament to enduring style. They capture the essence of Americana and classic tattoo art, making them relevant across generations.

2. Resurgence of Interest: In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in traditional tattoo styles, and Sailor Jerry's work has played a significant role in this revival.

3. Quality and Craftsmanship: The precision and craftsmanship in Sailor Jerry's work are undeniable. His commitment to excellence in every piece continues to inspire both tattoo artists and enthusiasts.

4. Personal Significance: Many people opt for Sailor Jerry tattoos to pay homage to a loved one, commemorate a significant life event, or express their connection to the sea and maritime heritage.

In conclusion, Sailor Jerry's tattoos are more than just ink; they are a rich tapestry of tradition, artistry, and meaning. These timeless designs continue to be a source of inspiration for tattoo enthusiasts around the world, and they serve as a bridge to the past, connecting us to an era when tattooing was a symbol of defiance, camaraderie, and individuality. Whether you're drawn to Sailor Jerry for its aesthetic appeal or its historical significance, getting inked with one of these iconic designs is a timeless and meaningful choice. 🌊⚓🌹#sailorjerrytattoos #traditionaltattooshop #floridatattoos

Traditional Sailor Jerry Sparrow Tattoo

Norman Collins aka Sailor Jerry outside his shop in Honolulu’s Hotel Street

Electric Street pays respect to Sailor Jerry all around our shop

Sailor Jerry mallard duck design

Sailor Jerry flash I painted several years ago

From our reception room

Fall trend-Butterfly Tattoos

Does it seem like everyone is getting butterfly tattoos this year? If your social media feed is swamped with beautiful butterflies tattoos and you’re asking yourself ‘What gives?’
There are a few reasons that may explain the recent trend and resurgence in the ever popular Butterfly Tattoo.

Classic Butterfly Tattoo

Butterflies have been a popular tattoo motif for many many years. Butterfly tattoos are symbolic of spiritual rebirth, transformation, hope and change. And that is only scratching the surface.
They are beautiful and versatile. They can also be very feminine making them a classic choice with females in particular. Why the sudden boost though?

Due to the pandemic, and for the reasons listed above, I feel that the perfect storm was created for the butterfly tattoo to take flight!
This is just my opinion, but we’ve all been through a whole lot of crazy. The lockdowns, mask mandates and the like.
We’ve all suffered through a real trauma. COVID-19 rocked our world. It’s been mentally and emotionally exhaustive, making lots of folks looking for a way to express what they’d like to be feeling. Hope in particular.

Traditional Butterfly Tattoo

Different cultures associate butterflies with different things. The Christian religion views the butterfly as a symbol of resurrection. It’s my view that the world as a whole is currently staging a resurrection, wouldn’t you agree?

And so this Fall, in particular, we saw the butterfly tattoo explode! 🦋 🦋🦋
And I’m not surprised in the least. It’s human nature, we are expressive beings. We express what we feel, think and live in a variety of ways. Tattoos have always been a vehicle for this kind of expression. It is also in our nature to document. We log and keep account of events, good and bad. Tattoos have always served well in this respect as well.

Floral Butterfly Tattoo

Needless to say that whatever the reasons for the sudden spike in butterfly tattoos we’re certainly not complaining. The butterfly is a classic in any tattoo shop and, in my opinion, will always continue to be.