Old School Temporary Tattoos
Classic tattoo motifs in authentic old school style. Bold lines, strong colours and designs with history – from skulls and mermaids to hearts, anchors and serpents. Wear a legend on your skin, without the lifelong commitment.
Offer right now: Buy 4 sheets and pay only for 3! Use the discount code FLASH at checkout. We’ll print and ship your old school fake tattoos within 24 hours!
Old school tattooing is one of the most iconic styles in the history of tattoo art. It emerged along the harbour towns of the United States in the early twentieth century and is associated with sailors, adventurers and an era when tattoos signalled that you had truly lived. The style was built by pioneers like Sailor Jerry and Norman Collins, and it has since held its position as one of the most recognisable and timeless aesthetics in the craft.
The style is defined by thick black outlines, a limited but forceful colour palette of red, green, yellow and black – and motifs carrying deep symbolism. The anchor represents stability and homecoming. The eagle symbolises freedom and strength. The heart carries love and commitment. The skull is a reminder of life’s brevity. The mermaid holds the pull of the sea and a romantic longing. These are motifs that tell stories, and that is precisely what has made the style endure.
In LikeInk’s old school collection you will find sheets that capture that feeling – without booking a studio appointment or sitting in a tattoo chair for hours. Each sheet is printed with precision and carries the graphic depth that makes the style immediately recognisable. Choose a classic skull sheet, a set of nautical motifs with anchors and compass roses, a serpent in traditional style, or a sheet of mixed old school icons – hearts, keys, roses, bird pairs and classic americana motifs side by side.
The sheets work equally well for a single motif as for covering an arm with a full theme. Cut out individual motifs and place them deliberately, or apply an entire sheet for a strong, unified statement. Old school has an inherent authority: a single motif in the right place can say more than a dozen subtle details.
The category spans everything from pure vintage aesthetics in traditional old school colours to more contemporary interpretations with metallic and gold finishes. A skull motif in gold gives a completely different expression than the same motif in classic red and black – and both are equally valid. The Colour, Black n Gray, Gold and Silver filters help you find the right expression for the occasion.
All tattoos last 3–7 days and are safe for adults and children. Vegan and tested in accordance with EU cosmetics regulations. Shipped within 24 hours from Malmö. Made in Sweden.
Application: Cut out the motif, remove the clear film, place face-down against the skin, press with a damp sponge for 15 seconds and gently peel away the paper. Allow to dry for 60 seconds.
Removal: A few drops of cooking oil, coconut oil or baby oil – rub gently and rinse off.
Frequently asked questions about OLD SCHOOL temporary tattoos
Do old school tattoos work on all skin tones?
Yes. The bold outline style with thick black lines reads clearly on all skin tones, from very fair to deeper skin. The classic colours in red and black contrast well regardless of skin tone. Choose Black n Gray for a subtler expression, or Colour for the classic, bold old school look.
Can I mix motifs from different sheets?
Absolutely. Cut out individual motifs and combine them freely. This is actually entirely in keeping with how old school tattoos have traditionally been worn – an anchor on the arm, a heart on the chest, an eagle on the shoulder. Each motif tells its own story and they work well together through the style’s consistent visual language.
Can I use the tattoos to test a motif before booking a real tattoo?
It is one of the most common reasons people buy old school sheets. Wearing a motif for 5–7 days gives you a completely different sense of how it works on your specific body, your skin tone and your daily life than staring at a digital mood board. Many tattoo artists also welcome clients who come in having genuinely tested and visually evaluated their idea.
Are the tattoos suitable for themed events and parties?
Old school tattoos are excellent for themed events – pirate parties, rock concerts, 1950s themes, Halloween events and sailor parties. They apply quickly, last the full evening and contribute to the overall impression without requiring costume changes or makeup. Stock up with our 4-for-3 deal and make sure every guest can choose their favourite motif.
