Friday the 13th, often associated with superstitions and maybe a touch of bad luck, ironically becomes a day of good fortune for tattoo enthusiasts. For years, tattoo shops have transformed this date into a unique celebration, offering specially priced “13 Tattoos”. This tradition, observed across numerous parlors, presents an exciting opportunity to acquire some new ink, often in the form of flash tattoos, for just $13. For many, including myself, this day has sparked a lasting passion for tattoos – my own journey began with a Friday the 13th flash, and I’ve since accumulated 19 tattoos, many of them from these special Friday events.
However, stepping into a tattoo shop on Friday the 13th doesn’t grant you carte blanche for any design you desire. The “13 tattoos” offered are typically pre-drawn flash designs, generally small, often whimsical, and frequently incorporate the number 13. While Ruby Croak, a talented tattoo artist at Los Angeles’ High Art Tattoo Gallery, notes the number’s common inclusion, some artists might be flexible and omit it upon request, acknowledging the varying degrees of superstition among clients! Shops usually showcase a selection of flash options, ranging from a modest ten to an extensive hundred designs. After choosing your “13 tattoo”, the process is simple: pay the $13 fee, plus the customary tip (often $7), and you’ll walk away with a permanent, albeit small, piece of art. Intriguingly, some shops extend this tradition to October 31st, offering “21 tattoos” for $21 with a $10 tip, playing on the date (31st) for a spooky season deal.
If you’re tempted to participate in this unique tattoo ritual, keep in mind some valuable advice. My own first Friday the 13th tattoo experience was a whirlwind, walking in unprepared at 3 AM amidst the buzzing atmosphere. The energy of the day is infectious, and the story behind your “13 tattoo” will undoubtedly be a memorable conversation starter. To ensure a smooth and positive experience, consider these tips, inspired by Ruby Croak’s expert advice for navigating the Friday the 13th tattoo frenzy:
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Choose a Reputable Walk-In Shop: Opt for established, traditional tattoo parlors that welcome walk-ins. Custom tattoo shops typically don’t participate in Friday the 13th events due to the nature of flash tattoos which are pre-designed and quickly applied.
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Look for Hard Line Tattoo Specialists: Shops known for bold, clean lines are ideal for flash tattoos, which often feature this style due to their smaller size and need for quick application.
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Respect the Unspoken Rules: Friday the 13th tattoo events often have specific guidelines and etiquette. Be observant and respectful of the shop’s procedures and the general flow of the day.
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Artist Appreciation is Key: Remember to be kind and respectful to the tattoo artists. These $13 tattoos are offered as a fun, discounted service, a way for artists to engage with the community and share their craft in an accessible way. Your patience and politeness are greatly appreciated on this busy day.
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One Tattoo Per Person, Please: Understand that due to high demand and long lines, most shops enforce a “one Friday the 13th tattoo per person” rule to accommodate as many clients as possible. Avoid asking for multiple “13 tattoos” in one visit.
Embrace the tradition, enjoy the unique atmosphere, and you might just find yourself with a lucky “13 tattoo” and a great story to tell!
