LETTERING TATTOO HISTORY

Lettering tattoo style, sometimes called script tattooing, has a long and deeply personal history, as words and phrases often carry immense symbolic meaning.

Lettering tattoos are centred around typography, calligraphy and handwriting, with the focus entirely on the letters and message behind the text.

Some of the earliest known tattoos were more symbolic than textual, but as written language evolved, text based markings began to appear.

In Polynesian, Thai (Sak Yant) and Filipino tattooing, sacred words, prayers and script like symbols were tattooed for protection or spiritual power.

Early western tattoos included names, dates, memorials and mottos-especially in sailor and military communities.

Prison tattoo culture, notably in Russia, Latin America and the U.S used lettering heavily to convey identity, affiliations, life philosophies and codes or defiance.

These tattoos went on to inspire modern styles like Chicano lettering. Chicano culture, especially in east L.A during the 40’s-70’s made lettering tattoos iconic.

Often featuring Old English, script and calligraphy styles, they were used to express pride in family, neighbourhood, faith, resistance and struggle. These designs were hand drawn and inspired by graffiti, low rider culture and Catholic iconography.

As tattooing evolved into the internet age, tattoo fonts became more stylized, customized and bold. Artists brought type design principles into tattooing, focusing on flow, spacing and character.

With roots in ancient spirituality, military and prison culture and street art, lettering tattoos have evolved into a dynamic and respected art form where typography meets identity.