Traditional Tattoo Flash: I Keep Coming Back to the Classics
What trad Flash degigns Mean to Me
There’s something enduring about traditional tattoo flash—it’s not just art; it’s a conversation between past and present. As a tattoo artist, I find myself constantly returning to those bold lines, classic imagery, and saturated colors. They carry a legacy I want to respect while still finding room to explore and experiment.
Whether it’s a swallow, an anchor, or a wild new concept involving a pelican and a Victorian house (yes, that happened), traditional designs offer the perfect canvas for storytelling—mine and yours.
My Journey Into this classic stlye
How I Got Hooked on Flash Sheets
I didn’t set out to be a flash sheet fanatic. But the more I tattooed, the more I realized I was drawn to the simplicity and directness of flash. The history behind each motif—the way it speaks through time—pulled me in. Studying the old masters, like Sailor Jerry, helped me understand the roots of my craft and why these designs matter.
The Nautical Pull of Old School Design
A lot of my work draws from the sea. Growing up near the coast, I’ve always been fascinated by maritime stories. Flash sheets full of ships, swallows, and sea monsters? That’s my jam. The military connection also adds a layer of grit and honor that’s hard to resist.
Tools of My Trade: Merging Tradition and creativity
My Favorite Tools (Yes, That Nib Is From a Skateboard)
I like to keep things tactile and rooted in tradition. I use a B-5 nib mounted in a pen holder hand-carved by Sam Phillips—crafted from recycled skateboards. https://samphillipstattooer.bigcartel.com Feels good to use something made with intention. I pair that with a No. 6 liner brush for the pigment and a No. 6 filbert for spitshading.
Ink and Watercolor: Mixing Old and New
For color, I rotate between FW inks and Hydrus watercolors. They give me that vintage vibe while still allowing for nuanced gradients and texture. I’m not afraid to push the palette a little—tradition gives me a frame, but I still color outside the lines sometimes.
Why I Still Make traditional tattoo flash sheets Old Way
Bold Lines Never Go Out of Style
There’s a reason flash sticks around. Those thick lines and solid fills hold up over time, both on paper and skin. They’re made to last, just like the stories they tell.
It’s About Respect—and Rebellion
Flash is my way of paying homage to the artists who came before me. But it’s also my rebellion. I bend the rules, flip the script, and throw in strange new characters when the moment calls for it. Tradition is my base.
When My art Leaves the Studio in san diego
Turning Sheets into Collectible Art
These days, my flash sheets end up on walls as often as they do on skin. People frame them, collect them, flip through them in books. It’s surreal—but also super gratifying—to see something that started with ink and paper live on beyond the tattoo.
Archiving for the Future
I’ve started documenting more of my process and compiling my sheets into print-ready formats. There’s value in preserving this work—not just for me, but for whoever picks up a brush or a nib after me.
What’s Next for Me—and painting
Keeping It Fresh While Staying Grounded
New tools, new topics, new ways to tell stories—but the foundation stays the same. I want my flash to reflect the world I live in, even when I’m borrowing motifs from a century ago.
FAQs – Straight From My Inbox
1. Why do you still use traditional flash designs?
Because they work—and they carry meaning. They are a great way to showcase desing i would like to do and they’re a timeless language I can speak through my art.
2. How do you balance old school and new school?
I stick to traditional techniques and formats, but I let the concepts evolve. It’s a conversation between past and present.
3. Do you sell your flash sheets?
Yes—some as prints, others as part of books or zines. Hit me up if you're curious.
5. What inspires your concepts?
A mix of personal memories, social commentary, and visual puns. I like to keep people guessing.
6. Can I get one of your flash pieces tattooed?
Absolutely. That’s what they’re for—just let me know which one speaks to you.
Want to See the Flash Sheet in Action?
I’m constantly creating, tweaking, and adding to my collection of flash. If you’re into bold lines, weird mashups (like pelicans and Victorian houses), or just love the feel of handmade tattoo art—follow me on Instagram [@chriscockadoodledo] to see the latest pieces.
Thinking about getting one inked or want a custom flash sheet?
📩 Reach out—let’s make something rad together.