Old School / Traditional When talking tattoos, a "Sailor Jerry" reference may get tossed around a few times. This classic style, also called "old school" or "traditional," is a throwback to the art form’s golden age. "It’s been around for only 150 years, give or take," explains Manino. "Very Western in design, typically done in three parts; one part black, one part color and one part skin. Thick lines are always used, and the motifs are typically nautical and military in theme. Eagles, anchors, swallows, hearts and banners, etc." ,New School We've got old school down, but what about new school? "When you do old school, you are using traditionalism — where tattooing originated two-dimensional imagery or low intricacy. With new school, it’s all about freestyling," says Rizzi. "New school veers away from traditionalism; it’s all unique patterns [and] custom ideas that haven’t been used before. It almost references a hip-hop and graffiti style: jagged edges, bubble lettering." With new techniques, modern equipment, and fresh ideas, the new school style is becoming more and more prevalent.