Tattoo trends come and go! One of those tattoo styles that is becoming increasingly popular is flash tattoos. So, what are flash tattoos? They are pre-made designs that are used as a template during the tattooing process to create a tattoo design in a flash. As you can probably tell from the name, they are quick and easy. These flash tattoos are definitely not a new trend and have been popular for years. They were immensely popular in the early 80s and classic designs such as anchors, swallows and skulls were very common.
These flash designs are typically etched onto paper and taped to the walls of tattoo parlors. Some artists even have them printed out as flash tattoo books, with each design printed on 11×14-inch prints. Keep scrolling to learn more about flash tattoos, from what they are to how much they cost.
What is a Flash Tattoo?
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Flash tattoos are common designs that are usually drawn on paper and pinned to the wall or displayed in binders in traditional tattoo parlors. They give tattoo enthusiasts the complete look of a design that has been drawn and colored in, so they know exactly how it will look on their skin.
These flash tattoos come in hundreds of options, varying in design and size, and can be reused multiple times. They are a quick and easy alternative to custom tattoo designs. Initially, designs were hand-drawn in tattoo studios, depending on the client’s preferences, but now many amateur and professional tattoo artists sell flash designs to shops or at tattoo conventions. These types of tattoos help to reduce the time it takes to tattoo, from choosing the tattoo design to the consultation and the coloring process. Customization is also possible, although minimal.
You’re probably wondering how big are flash tattoos? Luckily, these tattoo stencils come in all sizes! However, the size of the flash tattoo can be customized to the client’s preference and the artist’s inking style.
Kaya Terry, a blogger, shares her experience of joining the flash tattoo trend. She writes, “Overall, they looked great and caught the light beautifully… I would recommend these temporary tattoos because they are easy to remove and are perfect for festivals, holidays, and basically anywhere you want to add a little “flawlessness” (i).”
These flash tattoo designs are sure to look cool and are really useful. The best part is that there are so many designs to choose from that you are sure to find one that speaks to your soul. Read on to learn more about the different types of flash tattoo designs that are available in the market.
Different types of flash tattoos
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These are some of the most popular types of flash tattoo designs that you can get at any street store. They include elements such as hearts, roses, infinity symbols, and pop culture references. These tattoos can be used repeatedly and over and over again.
Unlike market flash tattoos, which are generic, these tattoos are considered relatively unique. These custom designs are created by tattoo artists to suit an individual’s preference and may not be reused on other people.
Traditional Flash Tattoos
These types of flash tattoos are inspired by traditional American tattoos with elements like daggers, skulls, anchors, eagles, pin-up girls, etc. These types of flash tattoos are usually made with bold lines and limited color palettes.
Did you know?
Flash tattoos are often done in the American style. Tattoo artists must therefore adhere to strict rules, such as never using needles larger than size 9 and only using specific colors, lines and shading techniques.
After learning about different types of flash tattoos, you need to understand how they differ from custom tattoos in the first place. Scroll down to read more.
Differences between flash tattoos and custom tattoos
If you’re wondering how a custom tattoo differs from a flash tattoo design, here’s what you need to know:
Points of DifferenceFlash TattoosCustom TattoosDesignThese tattoos are pre-designed and then tattooed after the client selects a design from the various options available. These tattoo designs are custom made for the individual.CostsThese tattoos use ink that is relatively cheaper than the ink used for custom tattoos. These tattoos use custom ink, which is generally more expensive.IdeaThese tattoos are ideal for those who don’t have a specific design in mind. They are ideal for clients who have a vibrant and precise design in mind.Artistic skillThese tattoo designs are easy to execute as they are pre-designed by the artist. These tattoos require more effort, artistic skills and creativity.AmendmentThese tattoos require little customization because they are pre-designed, but they are fully customizable.AftercareAftercare for these tattoos is simple, as they are usually smaller and the design less complex. Healing of these tattoos can take a long time: from a few weeks to months.
While flash tattoos help save time and money, custom tattoos allow for more meaningful and unique designs. But if they are both so different, how exactly are flash tattoos etched onto the skin? Read more below.
How do flash tattoos work?
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There are two types of flash tattoos, permanent flash tattoos and temporary flash tattoos. Permanent flash tattoos use a needle to deposit ink into the upper layers of the skin, while temporary flash tattoos can be applied directly to the surface of the skin and are easily removed. Temporary flash tattoos are painless, while permanent tattoos can cause immense discomfort. Moreover, permanent flash tattoos last longer and can take months and years to fade, while temporary flash tattoos only last for a few weeks.
Tattoo artists use flash sheets to show pre-designed tattoo options. A flash sheet is simply the paper on which the design is drawn. Tattooing usually involves the use of two flash sheets. The first sheet contains the image of the colored or filled tattoo design and is used to show clients what the actual tattoo will look like and as a reference sheet during the actual tattooing process. The second flash sheet contains only the outline of the artwork, without any shading or coloring. This sheet is used as a template on the skin to ink the design during the tattooing process.
The second flash sheet is often used first during tattooing to mark the basic design of the tattoo. Then the first flash sheet is used to add specific details such as shading and coloring. And the artist uses professional, waterproof or archival tattoo inks for flash tattoo designs.
Therefore, flash sheets help to make tattooing smoother and more efficient. Now let’s see how much this tattooing costs.
How much do flash tattoos cost?
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Typically, a flash tattoo costs somewhere between $100-$200. However, tattoo prices can vary depending on the location of the artist or studio, the experience of the artist, the reputation of the studio, the size of the tattoo, the complexity of the design, and the placement of the tattoo. Additionally, a larger flash tattoo costs more than smaller and medium-sized tattoos because they cover a larger surface area and require more ink as well as time and effort from the tattoo artist.
That’s why flash tattoos come in different sizes and styles to choose from. Wondering how long this flash tattoo process takes? Find out in the next section.
How long does it take to get a flash tattoo?
A flash tattoo can take anywhere from a few minutes to hours to complete. This is determined by several factors such as the size and complexity of the design. Larger tattoos with detailed design elements may take relatively longer to complete than small and medium sized flash tattoos. It also depends on the efficiency and speed of the tattoo artist and how quickly they can complete the job.
But how long do the results last? Read more in the next section.
How long do flash tattoos last?
As mentioned earlier, there are two types of flash tattoos. Temporary ones last for about 2-6 days, while permanent ones last for years but require touch-ups to keep the ink fresh and vibrant. By adhering to proper tattoo aftercare practices and taking necessary precautions, such as avoiding excessive sun exposure, they can last longer.
Flash tattoos are a popular choice. They come in different sizes and designs to choose from, look really good and allow tattoo enthusiasts to make quick decisions and eliminate the need for lengthy design consultations. They are relatively less expensive and time-consuming as compared to custom tattoos. These tattoo designs are also great for those individuals who want to get something tattooed on their skin but have no idea what to do. In addition, these tattoo designs are easily available and help make the tattooing process faster and smoother.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a flash tattoo day?
Tattoo artists and studios around the world occasionally host so-called “flash days,” where customers can walk in and choose a design from pre-selected flash tattoo designs, often at discounted prices.
Do flash tattoos fade?
Flash tattoos, like other tattoos, will eventually fade. However, how quickly a flash tattoo fades depends on the quality of the ink, the care of the tattoo, and the location of the tattoo on the body. Body parts such as the limbs are exposed to daily wear and tear and can fade faster than other areas. A tattoo in general can also fade if the skin experiences trauma.
Key Points
Flash tattoos are pre-designed and offer tattoo enthusiasts a variety of options to choose from. Flash tattoos are created by tattoo artists based on their imagination, personal style, and skill. Flash tattoos make tattooing more streamlined and faster because the artists are already familiar with the tattoo designs. Flash tattoo designs are not uniquely custom-made, but they do allow for a limited amount of customization.
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Flash tattoos are often confused with custom tattoos, but the two are completely different. While one is customized to the client’s preference, the other is used as a stencil of sorts. Watch the video to learn more.
Personal experience: Source
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