Traditional Tattoos in Atlanta
Traditional tattoos are bold, iconic, and made to last.
This style is defined by strong outlines, solid color, and timeless designs that age beautifully
Explore Wes’ Traditional Tattoo Portfolio
From roses and tigers to girl heads and snakes, each piece blends classic composition with clean execution.
Browse Wes Holland’s Traditional tattoos done at Lightwork Tattoo in Sandy Springs.
Understanding Traditional Tattoo Style
Origins and Aesthetic
Traditional tattoos are one of the most enduring tattoo styles, rooted in 20th-century Americana.
Characterized by bold black outlines, saturated colors, and simplified shading, this style emphasizes strength and readability.
Longevity and Technique
The structure of Traditional tattoos makes them exceptionally durable. Thick lines and high contrast ensure designs remain legible on all skin tones and through decades of wear. These tattoos are built to age gracefully — holding their identity as the skin naturally changes over time.
Popular Imagery and Symbolism
Common motifs include girl heads, roses, snakes, tigers, panthers, anchors, ships, and Afro-Americana imagery.
Each piece carries a mix of tradition and personal meaning — whether you’re honoring history, identity, or pure aesthetics.
Working with Wes Holland
Wes specializes in Traditional tattoos at Lightwork Tattoo in Sandy Springs. He approaches each piece with respect for the form — crisp linework, balanced color, and a strong composition that fits the client’s anatomy.
His portfolio includes both classic traditional and Afro-Americana, infused with cultural symbolism.
Color, Skin Tone & Scale
Traditional tattoos excel on all complexions.
Their solid blacks, heavy outlines, and strong color blocking maintain visibility and impact on dark and brown skin. The style is perfect for both small tattoos and large-scale projects like sleeves or back pieces.
Pricing & Sessions
Traditional tattoos are priced by the piece, starting at $300.
Small pieces can often be completed in one sitting, while large-scale sleeves or backpieces may take several sessions depending on design complexity and color choice.
Traditional Tattoo FAQs
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Traditional (American Traditional) tattoos feature bold black outlines, limited color palettes, and high contrast. They’re designed for strength, readability, and longevity, making them one of the most recognizable styles worldwide.
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Smaller pieces can take between 1.5 - 4 hours.
Larger designs like sleeves or backpieces require multiple sessions depending on complexity and color.
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Absolutely. The bold lines, heavy black shading, and saturated colors allow traditional tattoos to maintain their clarity and contrast over time, making this style ideal for darker complexions.
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Common imagery include roses, snakes, tigers, panthers, pin-ups, Afro-Americana girl heads, and symbolic imagery rooted in classic Americana.
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Traditional tattoos are priced by the piece, starting at $300. After submitting your tattoo booking form, you’ll receive a custom estimate based on size, color, and level of detail.
Start Your Traditional Tattoo
Ready to book your traditional tattoo? Use the form below to start your booking process.
Once submitted, you'll receive a link to schedule your appointment (or a consultation first, if more details are needed).
Sandy Springs’ Go-To Studio for Traditional Tattoos
Located in Sandy Springs and serving clients across Metro Atlanta, including Dunwoody, Brookhaven, Alpharetta, and Marietta, Lightwork Tattoo is known for craftsmanship, clarity, and color mastery.
Whether you’re continuing a sleeve or starting your first Traditional tattoo, our artists will create a design that feels timeless from day one.