Flash designs are pre-drawn designs created by tattoo artists that clients can choose to have tattooed.

Because these designs are created by artists without any input or constraints, they often feel very passionate about tattooing them and will frequently promote these pieces. You may even see some artists who tattoo flash only, meaning they do not book “custom” designs.

Flash designs will vary in size, but most artists will have a minimum size in mind to ensure the details in their design fit properly. Additionally, artists may sometimes have preferred placements for certain designs, as they may have created the piece to fit a specific area on the body.

Repeatable vs. Non-Repeatable Designs

Repeatable Designs:
These are designs that the artist is happy to tattoo multiple times on multiple people. This means you might end up with a matching tattoo with a stranger (cute!). However, if you’d prefer something unique, many artists are happy to adjust or modify a design to create a personalized version just for you.

Non-Repeatable / One-Off Designs:
These designs are tattooed only once and won’t be repeated on another person. In my experience, these tend to get booked more quickly. If you fall in love with a one-off design, it’s worth securing it (by paying a deposit and booking a time) before someone else does! If a non-repeatable design you love has already been claimed, you can always ask the artist to redraw it differently to create something similar.

Flash Days

Flash days are events held by studios where artists create flash sheets, and clients can choose from the designs available that day. Flash designs are often discounted for the event. Some artists may honor the discounted price if you book for another day (if you can’t attend the flash day), but this is entirely up to the artist or studio’s discretion.

There are two types of flash days:

Pre-Booked Flash Days:
The studio or artist will post the flash designs ahead of time and book out the day in advance. To secure your spot, you’ll likely need to pay a deposit.

Walk-Up Flash Days:
On walk-up flash days, you don’t need to book in advance. You can simply arrive on the day and, if time allows, get the tattoo.

Flash days can be a fun outing with friends! I’ve had clients come in groups where each person gets a tattoo from a different artist. However, be prepared for some waiting around. Depending on demand, you might have to wait several hours, so bringing snacks or something to do is highly recommended.

For popular flash days, arriving early (even before the event starts) can help secure a spot. In some cases, entire days have filled up within the first 10 minutes, with people arriving hours beforehand to wait in line.

If flash days feel inaccessible to you, you can always contact the artist or studio to ask about booking the tattoo for another day.