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In the world of tattoos, there are two main styles that people commonly refer to, New School and Traditional. New School tattoos are often characterized by their bright colors and more cartoonish designs, while Traditional tattoos are more realistic and use less color.

And there is a big debate these days as to which type of tattooing style is better: New School or Traditional? While the two styles may look similar at first glance, they are quite different when you take a closer look.

This article will explain the difference between New School vs. Traditional tattoos in detail and why they make good tattoo ideas. We will also share how much New School and Traditional tattoos typically cost to help you decide which one might be right for you!

New School vs. Traditional Tattoo

The Transition from Traditional to New School

Tattoos have been a thing for a long time, with the first recorded tattoos dating back to 3300 BCE. These early tattoos were often simple designs, such as dots or lines, and they were done using rudimentary tools and techniques.

As time passed, tattooing became more refined and complex, with new technologies and tools allowing for more detailed and realistic designs. This eventually led to the development of what we now know as Traditional tattooing.

Traditional tattoos are typically characterized by their heavy black lines, simple color palettes, and use of traditional subjects such as hearts, anchors, skulls, and eagles.

And during the late 1970s, tattoo artists began experimenting with new techniques and styles. New School tattoos started to become popular in the 1980s as artists began to push the boundaries of what a tattoo could be.

New School tattoos are already widely accepted and have become mainstream. Many people see them as an expression of their personality, and they are a popular choice for people who want a fun and colorful tattoo.

What is a New School Tattoo?

As mentioned earlier, New School tattoos are characterized by bright colors and cartoonish designs. Tattoo artists who create New School designs often use bold lines and vibrant colors to create attention-grabbing and lively tattoos.

New School tattoos usually have a less serious tone than Traditional ones, often seen as an expression of the wearer's personality. They are a good choice for people who want a tattoo that is fun and expresses their individuality.

Moreover, new school tattoos became a large category of styles heavily influenced by American Traditional tattooing. Some popular New School tattoo designs include:

  1. Portraits
  2. Animals
  3. Landscapes
  4. Pinups
  5. Graffiti

What is a Traditional Tattoo?

On the other hand, traditional tattoos are more realistic and only use less color. Artists who create traditional designs often use black ink to create a tattoo that has a classic look.

These types of tattoos are usually more serious than New School ones, often seen as expressing the wearer's heritage or culture. Traditional tattoos are a good choice for people who want a tattoo with a timeless or classic look.

Among the common Traditional tattoo designs are:

  1. Eagles
  2. Snakes
  3. Skulls
  4. Anchors
  5. Crosses

Difference Between New School and Traditional

Difference in Tone

New School tattoos are created to have less serious tones than Traditional ones. The new school designs are also often seen as a way for the wearer to express their character and style.

Meanwhile, traditional tattoos are usually more serious and are used to express the wearer's heritage or culture. For example, a traditional eagle tattoo might be seen as a way to express patriotism, while a New School portrait tattoo might be seen as a way to express the wearer's love of art.

Difference in Popularity

Nowadays, New School tattoos are becoming more popular than Traditional designs. They came about when people were looking for more creative and individualized designs.

New School tattoos also offer a wide range of design possibilities that can be tailored to the wearer's personality, becoming a big hit for many people. On the other hand, traditional tattoos often have a more limited range of designs but are still popular for people who want a classic look for their tattoos.

Difference in Price

New School tattoos typically cost less than Traditional tattoos. The price of a New School tattoo will depend on the size, complexity, and location of the tattoo.

Meanwhile, Traditional tattoos usually cost more than New School tattoos. The price of a Traditional tattoo will also depend on the size, complexity, and location.

Take, for example, a small New School heart tattoo on the wrist. This tattoo might cost around $50, whereas a Traditional tattoo of a heart on the wrist might cost around $100. But this will depend on which tattoo Singapore shop you will have done. 

Differences in Sizes and Location

New School tattoos can be any size, but they are often small and located on the arms, legs, or chest. On the other hand, Traditional tattoos are usually larger and located on the back or chest.

Which One is For You?

New School vs. Traditional

The choice between New School and Traditional tattoos is a personal one. Just consider your style, personality, and budget when making your decision.

A New School tattoo is a good choice if you want a fun tattoo while expressing your individuality. But if you want a tattoo with a timeless look, then a Traditional tattoo is the right choice.

When considering your budget, New School tattoos typically cost less than Traditional tattoos, depending on which Singapore tattoo shop you visit.

Remember, choosing a design you will be happy with for years is the most important thing. Further, research and talk to your tattoo artist, and decide which style is right for you.

New School and Traditional tattoos can be beautiful and meaningful expressions of who you are. So, whichever style you choose, make sure it's what you want, not just because it's trendy and stylish.

FAQs

Q: What is a New School tattoo?

A: New School tattoos are a type of tattoo that has a more creative and individualized design. They became popular when people were looking for more original designs.

Q: Which one is more popular, New School or Traditional?

A: New School tattoos are becoming more popular than Traditional tattoos. This is because New School tattoos offer a wide range of design possibilities that can tailor to the wearer's personality.

Q: Are old-school or traditional tattoos expensive?

A: Traditional tattoos often cost more than New School tattoos. The price of a Traditional tattoo will depend on the size, complexity, and location.

Q: How do I decide between New School and a Traditional one?

A: The choice between New School and Traditional tattoos is personal. Just consider your style, personality, and budget when making your decision. A New School tattoo is a good choice if you want a fun tattoo while expressing your individuality. But if you want a tattoo with a timeless look, then a Traditional tattoo is the right choice.

Conclusion

Now that you know the difference between a New School Tattoo versus a Traditional School Tattoo, the choice is up to you. Whether you want something classic, or something more lively and bold, make sure you decide on it meticulously because they are permanent and will be with you for the rest of your life.

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