Honoring Our Heroes: Tattoos and Veterans Day

On this Veterans Day, we pay tribute to the brave men and women who have selflessly served our nation. Their sacrifices and dedication to preserving our freedom deserve our utmost respect and gratitude.

God Bless America

Why tattoos matter to veterans

At Electric Street Tattoo, we've had the privilege of tattooing many veterans over the years. Tattoos often hold special significance for our military heroes. They can be a powerful form of self-expression, a way to commemorate fallen comrades, or a reminder of the strength and resilience forged in the crucible of service.

Classic choices include the eagle, the flag, unit insignia and Sailor Jerry–style military flash. See also Memorial Day tattoos.

Ink can tell the stories of valor, brotherhood, and the unwavering commitment of those who have worn the uniform. It's a way for veterans to carry their experiences with them and share them with the world.

Military tattoos at our shop

We tattoo eagles, flags, unit insignia, memorial pieces and traditional military flash all year round, so veterans can proudly wear their stories.

Hand-painted by Frankie Williams

So, this Veterans Day, as we remember and honor our veterans, let's also recognize the role of tattoos in preserving their legacy. It's a unique art form that brings to life the indomitable spirit of those who've served.

Thank you for your service

To all our veterans, thank you for your service and for allowing us to be a part of your journeys through ink.

Questions? Call or text (954) 666-1138.

Want a military or memorial piece? Walk in daily from 1pm, first come, first served, or request a tattoo with one of our artists. Military, veteran, police, fire and EMS discounts available, just ask at the counter.

Christmas Tattoos: Traditional Holiday Flash and Gift Cards

Christmas shopping starts earlier every year, and a tattoo shop is a better stop than the mall. At Electric Street Tattoo we keep traditional Christmas flash on the wall, take walk-ins daily, and have gift cards ready to send the second someone needs one.

Walk in daily from 1pm, first come, first served, request a tattoo, or buy a gift card and send it today.

Traditional Christmas flash

Classic holiday pieces look right at home in American traditional: bold lines, solid color, designs that still read from across the room. On our walls and in the books you'll find:

• Holly and berries

• Candy canes and ornaments

• Reindeer and classic Christmas trees

• Krampus and other old-world holiday twists

• Traditional takes on stockings, bells, and banners with a name or a date that means something

Want a Christmas pin-up, a dagger through a candy cane, or a swallow holding holly? That's the kind of twist traditional shops have always done. Holiday flash specials are given in person only — walk in or call (954) 666-1138.

Getting tattooed over the holidays

The weeks leading up to Christmas are a good time to add a piece, finish a sleeve, or finally get that small flash you've been eyeing. Walk-ins are welcome every day from 1pm, first come, first served. Prefer a set time with a specific artist? Request a Tattoo and we'll get you on the books.

Bring a friend and make an afternoon of it. We're at 320 E Oakland Park Blvd in Oakland Park, a short hop from Fort Lauderdale and easy for anyone in Broward County.

Give a tattoo this Christmas

Not sure what flash they'll love? Put the choice in their hands. An Electric Street Tattoo gift card is good for any tattoo in the shop, walk-in or by appointment.

Buy a Gift Card

• Delivered by email instantly, and it works in Apple Wallet

• Holiday card designs, plus our own original flash designs (Panther, Rose, Swallow, Dagger & Heart, Eagle, Skull & Snake)

• No shipping, no mall lines — send it Christmas Eve and it still lands on time

More detail on amounts, designs, and how they work: Tattoo Gift Cards.

Black Friday weekend

Special holiday deals on gift cards Black Friday weekend (Nov 27 to 30), including a free shop shirt with qualifying cards. Call (954) 666-1138 or stop in for details — we keep the fine print in person.

Whether you’re getting inked or sending a card, we’re ready. Walk in daily from 1pm, first come, first served, request a tattoo, or buy a gift card and send it by email.

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

Halloween Tattoo Ideas: Traditional Halloween Flash

Halloween tattoo flash, every October

Just in time for the spookiest of holidays we have new Halloween tattoo designs ready to go!

Halloween flash and special holiday deals come back every October. Pricing is in person only, so walk in or call (954) 666-1138.

We tattoo this kind of flash all year, not just in October. Walk in daily from 1pm, first come, first served, or request a tattoo.

Since childhood, we have celebrated this holiday with spooky and elaborate costumes and into adulthood with creepy and often macabre Halloween-themed tattoos too!

Halloween flash drawn here by Zach and Nick Lazcano

Where Halloween comes from

In Christian tradition, November 1st was known as All Saints day and the evening prior was known as All Hallows Eve, based on the Celtic festival of Samhain, later Halloween. As time has passed it has evolved into the Autumn tradition we have today that includes trick or treating, carving jack-o-lanterns, costume parties, and the like.

Classic Halloween tattoo ideas

Many Halloween tattoos fall into a few themes:

-Death and mortality

-Misfortune and evil

Needless to say, there is no shortage of skeleton and ghost tattoos.

Black cat tattoos, spooky clowns, and graveyards.

Hand-painted Halloween flash, painted here by Frankie

Horror movie tattoos

Horror movie tattoos are also very popular.

You’ll notice Michael Myers, Freddy Krueger, and Jason Voorhees's hockey mask tattoos making the rounds this time of year amongst others.

Fun beats gory

Blood and gore have their place, but the Halloween tattoos people love most years later are the fun ones: a pinup in a costume, a jack-o-lantern with attitude, a slasher villain drawn cute. Pick something that makes you smile every October, not just something that shocks.

Get a Halloween tattoo

As tattoo artists, we absolutely LOVE this time of year cause we get to do lots of fun Halloween tattoos, and that is really what the holidays are all about folks

Whether out trick or treating with your kids or hanging out at the local tattoo shop with friends let’s have an amazing time this year!

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.

More spooky reading: Friday the 13th tattoos and our All Hallows’ Eve flash event. New here? Walk in daily from 1pm, first come, first served, and we do American Traditional flash all year.

Skulls, black cats, and classic spooky flash are on the wall year-round, and the Halloween sheets come back every October. Walk in daily from 1pm, first come, first served, or request a tattoo. A gift card is an easy way to give one.

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

Spring Tattoo Ideas: Florals, Butterflies and More

Springtime—a season of renewal, blossoms, and vibrant colors. As the world awakens from its winter slumber, so does our desire for fresh ink. At Electric Street Tattoo, we’re thrilled to celebrate this rejuvenating time with you. Whether you’re a seasoned ink enthusiast or considering your very first piece, let’s explore delightful spring tattoo ideas that will make your skin bloom.

Traditional flash on the walls at Electric Street Tattoo

1. Floral Elegance

Floral tattoos are timeless, and spring provides the perfect canvas for them. Imagine delicate roses, dainty cherry blossoms, or vibrant sunflowers etched onto your skin. These blooms symbolize growth, beauty, and change—much like the season itself. From watercolors to intricate outlines to stunning realism, our artists can bring your favorite flowers to life.

Classic eagle flash above the front counter

2. Whimsical Creatures

Spring invites us outdoors, where we encounter creatures both small and enchanting. Consider ladybugs, butterflies, or even a graceful garden snake as your tattoo muse. Their exquisite anatomy and symbolism make for captivating ink. Let your skin become a garden of magical beings, each telling a unique story.

Walk-up flash and machine at the front counter

3. Abstract Waves and Curves

Spring is all about fluidity and energy. Our artists love creating squiggly tattoos that follow the natural contours of your body. Abstract waves, winding vines, and playful swirls evoke a sense of vitality. These dynamic designs harmonize with your physique, celebrating movement and life.

4. Patchwork Sleeves

Patchwork sleeves allow you to mix and match your favorite art styles. Combine florals, animals, symbols, and more into a cohesive whole. Your arms become a gallery of meaningful ink, telling your story with every stroke.

Spring break tattoos in Fort Lauderdale

Are you visiting South Florida for spring break? Our studio welcomes you! Whether you’re sipping cocktails by the beach or dancing under the palm trees, consider commemorating this sunny escape with a tattoo. Let the warm weather and beautiful blooms inspire your ink.

Remember, at Electric Street Tattoo, every stroke tells a story. Let’s make this spring unforgettable—one inked memory at a time.

Walk-ins welcome at 320 E Oakland Park Blvd, or request a tattoo.

All Hallows' Eve Halloween Tattoo Flash Event (Oct 2023)

This event took place on Saturday, Oct 28, 2023. For this year's Halloween flash, see Halloween tattoo ideas.

The most hauntingly exciting day of the year is just around the corner, and Electric Street Tattoo is conjuring up something spooktacular for you! We're thrilled to present our "All Hallows' Eve" Tattoo Flash Event this Saturday, a hair-raising celebration of ink and the supernatural. Get ready for a day of macabre magic and inked enchantment that you won't want to miss!

Date: Saturday, October 28th, 2023
Location: Electric Street Tattoo, 320 E Oakland Park Blvd, Oakland Park, FL 33334

What was on the wall

1. Spine-Chilling Tattoo Designs: Our unearthly team of tattoo artists has curated a spellbinding collection of "All Hallows' Eve" flash designs. From creepy creatures to elegant gothic motifs, we've got it all. These designs are perfect for celebrating the season, whether you're into classic Halloween icons or something a bit more eerie and unique.

2. One-Day Flash: A wall of Halloween flash drawn just for the event.

3. Safety is Our Priority: At Electric Street Tattoo, we take your safety seriously. Our studio adheres to the strictest hygiene and sanitation standards, ensuring a safe and comfortable tattoo experience.

4. Eerie Ambiance: Our shop will be transformed into a den of dark delights with creepy decorations and a bone-chilling atmosphere that sets the stage for your Halloween tattoo adventure. You can expect haunting music, chilling refreshments, and a ghoulishly good time.

How to prep for a flash tattoo

• Ensure you're well-rested and have a hearty meal before your tattoo session.

• Dress in comfy clothing that allows easy access to the tattooed area.

• Bring a valid ID, especially if you're considering an impulsive ink adventure.

• Check out our flash designs in advance to have an idea of what you want.

Are you prepared to make this Halloween extraordinary? Whether it's your first tattoo or a spooky addition to your collection, Electric Street Tattoo's "All Hallows' Eve" Tattoo Flash Event is your opportunity to be part of a spooktacular experience. No matter what your Halloween spirit looks like, you'll find a tattoo that suits your vibe!

Thanks to everyone who came out!

(below is a taste, we will have many more fiendishly spooky designs day of)

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Halloween flash sheets from the Boo! set by Mr. FlashMachine, production flash made the old-school way.

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.

Summer Tattoo Ideas: Beach, Sun and Tropical Tattoos

Summertime tattoos are a great way to show off your personality and style during the warm weather months. There are many different designs to choose from, so you can find something that perfectly suits you.

Popular summer tattoo ideas

Some popular summertime tattoo ideas include:

Beach tattoos: These tattoos are perfect for people who love the ocean and spending time at the beach. Popular designs include palm trees, waves, and seagulls.

Sun tattoos: Sun tattoos are a great way to celebrate the summer season. Popular designs include sun rays, sunflowers and rainbows.

Ice cream tattoos: Ice cream tattoos are a fun and playful way to show your love of summer treats. Popular designs include ice cream cones, popsicles, and sundaes.

Fruit tattoos: Fruit tattoos are a refreshing and colorful way to add some summer flair to your body. Popular designs include watermelons, pineapples, and strawberries.

Flower tattoos: Flower tattoos are a classic summertime choice. Popular designs include roses, lilies, and daisies.

No matter what your style is, there is a summertime tattoo design out there that is perfect for you. So get creative and have some fun with it!

Getting tattooed in summer

Here are some tips for getting a summertime tattoo:

• Choose a reputable tattoo artist: Do your research and find an artist whose portfolio matches the style you want. Meet our artists.

• Consider the placement of your tattoo: If you plan on spending a lot of time in the sun, choose a location for your tattoo that will be protected from the sun's rays. Keep a healing tattoo out of the sun, pool and ocean until it’s fully healed, then use sunscreen. See aftercare.

• Take care of your tattoo after it is done: Follow your artist's instructions for aftercare to help your tattoo heal properly.

With a little planning, you can get a summertime tattoo that you will love for years to come.
- The Crew at EST

Memorial Day Tattoos: A Way to Honor Those Who Served

Memorial Day Tattoos: A Way to Honor Those Who Served

Memorial Day is a time to remember and honor those who have died while serving in the United States military. For many, a Memorial Day tattoo is a way to show their patriotism and pride in their country. It can also be a way to honor a loved one who has served in the military.

There are many different types of Memorial Day tattoos that people can get. Some popular designs include American flags, American eagles, military insignia, and the names or faces of loved ones who have served in the military. Some people also choose to get more abstract tattoos that represent the concept of remembrance or sacrifice.

Memorial Day tattoos can be a powerful way to honor the memory of those who have died while serving their country. They can also be a way to show patriotism and pride in one's country, while keeping special memories alive.

If you are considering getting a Memorial Day tattoo, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, it is important to choose a design that has personal meaning to you. Second, you should make sure that you are comfortable with the location of the tattoo. Memorial Day tattoos are often placed on the arms, chest, or back. But ultimately, that's up to you. Finally, you should be prepared to care for your tattoo properly after it is done. It is summer, so this includes keeping it protected from the sun.

Here are some design ideas for Memorial Day tattoos, additional examples from the crew are also below:

Memorial Day tattoo ideas

• American Eagle: One of the most iconic American symbols represents freedom, strength, courage, and honor - All traits that are represented with the nation's spirit.

• American Flag: The American flag is a symbol of patriotism and pride. It is a popular choice for Memorial Day tattoos because it represents the country that those who have served have fought for.

• Military mascots: the Army mule, Navy goat, Air Force falcon, Coast Guard bear and the Marine Corps bulldog.

• Abstract Designs: Abstract designs can be a way to represent the concept of remembrance or sacrifice. Some popular abstract designs include doves, daggers, flowers, sailing ships and stars.

We look forward to seeing you this Memorial Day Weekend!
- The Crew at EST

Panther & Tiger Tattoos: Traditional Big Cat Tattoos

Why we love big 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.

What big cat tattoos mean

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. In American Traditional flash, the crawling panther, often clawing down the arm, and the snarling tiger head are two of the classic designs. Bert Grimm’s tiger is still tattooed today. Read about Bert Grimm.

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.

Panthers, tigers and lions

Tigers in particular are ferocious, graceful 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.

Crawling tiger, tattooed here by Frankie

Lucky cat, tattooed here by Zach

Other animal tattoos

Animals have been part of tattooing in every culture for thousands of years. In military and prison tattooing, they stand for power and authority. Not sure what to get? Try connecting with your inner animal.

Josh’s own collection is proof: an eagle on his chest, two wolves, a tiger on his ribs, several snakes, a black panther back piece, countless swallows and sparrows, and Pharaoh’s horses on his stomach. See eagle tattoos.

Gorilla, tattooed here by Allie J

Get a big cat tattoo

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. The Florida Panthers fans are covered too: Panthers Stanley Cup tattoos.

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

Bert Grimm: The Grandfather of Old School Tattooing

Grimm Tiger by our own Nick Lazcano

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

Who was Bert Grimm?

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

From the carnival to the Pike

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. Bert Grimm (1900–1985) learned from Sailor George Fosdick and Sailor Charlie Barrs, then tattooed in St. Louis from 1928. In 1954 he bought the Nu-Pike shop in Long Beach, California. He mentored tattooers like Lyle Tuttle and Bob Shaw, and is often called the grandfather of old school. 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.

The Grimm tiger

Grimm Tiger by our own Alex Joelle

Read the full history of American Traditional, or about Sailor Jerry. Another carnival-circuit tattooer from the same era: Stoney St. Clair. Want a Grimm tiger? Request a tattoo.

White on Black Tattoos: How They Work and How They Last

What is a white on black tattoo?

As the title suggests today we will be looking at a style of tattooing not commonly discussed. Actually it’s commonly unrecognized largely due to its relative obscurity. It hasn’t been around very long. Not as long as say, the cover up tattoo. Cover ups have been around about as long as tattoos themselves . Obviously the level of sophistication in today’s modern coverups trumps what may have been done in the past. But over all I would say that tattooing in general is reaching new levels of sophistication exponentially year over year.

White line work symbolic characters over a blacked out sleeve by in house tattoo artist @joel_josselyn

How it’s done: blackout first

In order to accomplish this style of tattooing the area first needs to be ‘blacked out’. Regardless of whether there are existing tattoos or not , we need to get in there and black out the canvas first.

Beautiful example by Barcelona tattoo artist @willianspindola

Do white on black tattoos last?

A common concern with this style of tattooing is whether white on black tattoos last. The tattoo pigment, regardless of color, is injected just below the melanin of your skin. So, in essence, once the tattoo is fully healed it is very much like looking through tinted glass. Your natural skin tone is one factor that will dictate how white your tattoo remains. How you care for your tattoo is another.
Here in South Florida it is wise to protect your ink with sunblock when exposed to direct sunlight for any extended period. The more sun your skin gets, the more you’ll notice the white naturally turning a sort of yellow like color.
So to answer the question, yes, white on black tattoos will last. The answer is also, no.
How white your tattoo remains will be partially up to you and how well you protect your tattoos.

White on Black Star Spangled Banner tattoo by California tattoo artist @troy_harper_artistry

Is it right for you?

In summary I’ll say that with proper execution ‘White on black tattoos’ can look pretty spectacular. Not only am I a fan but it is something that I am considering for myself in the near future. Although traditional tattoos will always be my first love, I have to admit that the graphic and heavy nature of white on black is something I find appealing. I may black out my left arm and then go in with some white ink traditional roses on top! As a Florida resident I’ll have to be more mindful of after, and long term, care though which makes me slightly hesitant. lol

Thinking about a blackout or cover-up? Request a consult.

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.

Butterfly Tattoos: Meaning and Traditional Designs

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.

What butterfly tattoos mean

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?
Simple: people want to wear hope, and nothing says it like a butterfly.

Butterflies across cultures

Different cultures associate butterflies with different things. The Christian religion views the butterfly as a symbol of resurrection.

Why butterflies are trending

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.
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.
Butterflies are classic flash. See more American Traditional designs or spring tattoo ideas. Walk in and pick one off the wall.

Classic butterfly

Traditional butterfly

Floral butterfly

Matching Tattoos: The Scoop for Couples and Friends

Matching rose tattoos

Where matching tattoos come from

Matching tattoos have probably been around about as long as tattooing itself. I picture a small group of cavemen, or cavewomen, walking up to a tatt cave and getting matching arrows or bones or some other cave persony thing tattooed on them lol! Seriously though do any of you ever think about stuff like that?
Think about it.
‘Oh you’re going to the tattoo shop gonna get a cool tattie? Maybe I’ll come with you? Maybe I’ll get tattooed also? Hey what are you getting done maybe I’ll just get the same thing? They can be matching, it’ll be the coolest!!!’ And with that the matching tattoo was born .
Sometimes though it’s not just about having fun. Couples in relationships make up a big portion of the ‘matching tattoo’ demographic. They are a symbolic gesture. Tattoos do last a life time after all and what better step to take with the person you plan on spending the rest of your life with than to get a matching tattoo you can both share. It is a bonding experience. It is permanent, irreversible. Like we would all wish love itself to be.

The kiss of death?

Let’s look at the other side of the coin now. While tattoos are mostly permanent, love is not. Not trying to be Mr. Doom n Gloom here, just realistic. Just like the ‘name tattoo’, its ‘matching’ cousin is also frowned upon by many tattoo artists. There is a superstition that’s grown around it. Many tattooers refer to these kinds of ‘novelty tattoos’ more as a ‘kiss of death’ to a romantic relationship. Again, the permanence of a tattoo will almost always outlast the warm glow of a new romance.

What a psychologist says

So why do people do it???
There may be more of a psychological factor than we think.
According to clinical and behavioral psychologist Dr. Joshua Klapow, “Context is everything. Matching tattoos and the act of getting them says as much about each individual as they do about the couple together.” He adds, “If it’s not an impulsive decision, partners getting matching tattoos is a sign that they care deeply enough about one another to literally alter the way they look.” Klapow says matching tattoos are a better sign of a lasting relationship when couples get them after years together, like for an anniversary, than in the first year.

Matching hand tattoos

A tattooer’s take

Personally, I believe there may even be an evolutionary factor that hasn’t really been addressed. Like possibly from our hunter-gatherer past? Humans hunted and gathered in groups. Is it possible that this group behavior is still tucked away somewhere deep in our “Lizard Brain”? I’m no expert but I would say most definitely yes. The evidence is all around us in the ways we behave. We pick and choose our groups, our alliances. Add to that our ritualistic nature and it’s no surprise that our culture has embraced some of these behaviors.
Am I reading too much into it? To that I would also very confidently say YES lol. Sometimes it’s ok to try and break these things down in order to give our clients what they need from us. I know many tattoo artists that cringe when they get a group of matching tattoos. “They’re not ‘real’ tattoos”.
I’m of the opinion that not only are they real, but that they may be more ‘real’ than most other tattoos one might collect.
Getting a matching tattoo with the person you love, if both partners are into it and no one is being pressured to do so, can be a beautiful experience that can elevate your bond to a whole new level.

Ready to match? Bring your person and walk in, or request a tattoo for something custom.

BFF matching tattoos