You walk in, see a design and immediately think: that one. That's exactly the feeling of a flash tattoo. No weeks of agonising over a design, just choosing what you love. Flash is one of the oldest traditions in tattooing and at the same time hugely popular with a new generation. In this post you'll learn what flash is, where it comes from and how to choose the perfect flash for you.
What is a flash tattoo?
A flash tattoo is a design the artist has drawn in advance. You choose it as it is, instead of having a new design made especially for you. Flash designs are often small to medium-sized with clear lines, so they read well on the skin.
Typical flash motifs include:
- hearts, stars and swallows;
- anchors, ships and other nautical symbols;
- roses and other flowers;
- snakes, panthers and daggers;
- small, playful doodles and symbols.
Where does flash come from?
The word "flash" dates back to the classic tattoo shops of the last century. Artists hung sheets full of designs on the wall so customers could choose at a glance. Those sheets were called flash sheets. The bold, colourful designs of the old school (traditional) style became especially famous this way, with their thick black outlines and limited colour palette.
Today you'll find flash in every style, from old school to fine line and minimalist. Many artists also share their flash online, so you can browse before you even walk into the studio.
Flash or custom: which suits you?
Both are great, but different:
- Flash: you see exactly what you get. Ideal if you want to decide quickly, if you're after something small or if you want a spontaneous tattoo.
- Custom: a design made just for you, built around your story or idea. It takes more preparation, but the result is completely unique.
Still on the fence about a spontaneous tattoo? Read 10 life lessons people with tattoos can teach you.
Tips for choosing a flash design
- Choose with your heart, but check the placement. A design that looks perfect on paper also needs to suit the spot you have in mind.
- Mind the size. Flash is drawn for a certain size. Making it much smaller can cause details to blur together, so ask your artist what works. Dreaming of a mini flash on your finger? Read Finger tattoos first, because tattoos there tend to fade quickly.
- Ask if changes are possible. A different colour or a small extra detail? Some artists are happy to adapt, others prefer to keep their flash exactly as it is. It never hurts to ask.
- Respect the work. Flash is the artist's design. Want to bring a drawing by another artist? Then it's a custom request, so just discuss it with your artist.
Flash at Piercings Works
For special occasions we've created flash collections before, such as the Oranje Tattoo Collectie for the 2026 football tournament and small nautical flash during SAIL 2025. Curious what's possible right now? Just ask at the studio or talk to your artist.
You can walk in or book a tattoo appointment in advance. Flash also comes with a personal quote. Read what the price depends on in how the price of a tattoo is determined.
Aftercare for your flash tattoo
Picked in a flash doesn't mean forgotten in a flash: your flash tattoo needs proper aftercare too. You'll get aftercare advice from us, and everything is in our tattoo aftercare instructions (PDF). The key points:
- healing usually takes about 2 weeks;
- wash your tattoo twice a day with a mild, fragrance-free soap and pat it dry with a clean towel or tissue;
- don't use disinfectants such as Sterilon or Betadine, and don't put plasters or bandages over it;
- while it heals, avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, natural water, saunas and sun or tanning beds, even with sunscreen; after that, always use a high SPF.
Frequently asked questions
Is a flash tattoo less personal?
Not necessarily. You choose the design because it speaks to you, and the placement and the moment make it yours.
Can I get a flash tattoo as a walk-in?
Often, yes, especially for smaller designs. Want to be sure of a spot? Book an appointment in advance.
Can a flash design be made bigger or smaller?
Sometimes, within limits. Your artist will tell you honestly what's possible for your design.
Up for something spontaneous?
Piercings Works has been around since 1998 and at Reguliersbreestraat 46, right in the heart of Amsterdam, since 2004. We hold a GGD licence, have more than 2,000 reviews and our team speaks six languages. We tattoo from age 18. Walk in and discover which flash is yours.