Flash art generally refers to the prefabricated images one may see on the walls or in the albums of tattoo parlors. They are also included in catalog collections that customers may browse to find the designs that appeal to them. As an industrial design that is typically made to be used for body art, most tattoo flash art is done in stencil or an outline. First drawn onto a sturdy cardboard or white paper, the tattoo design is then printed onto a separate sheet so that the artist will not need to draw the design in freehand. Using this method, it is easier to outline the images onto the skin.

Not only is flash art used to create permanent skin artwork, but it can be used for temporary tattoos. A more high end usage of this medium has recently become a popular and edgy way to accessorize in the fashion world. Also, tattoo artists may use flash art to make tattoo stencils. When this art is available, customers may have more choices for designs or for future tattoos. When artists have their own flash, they can also showcase their designs and sell this artwork for other types of income. For example, some people may want to buy it to frame as is or have it stenciled onto a framed art piece. The web has provided a great way to display flash art that is available for multiple uses.  

Ways to Sell Flash Art

1. Sell per piece and per sheet Typically, flash art is sold by the sheet. However, some patrons may choose to use a single piece to showcase. Therefore, offering the possibility of buying one piece provides that opportunity, which widens the range for sales. Also, other tattoo artists may find it more economical to buy one piece at a time which allows them to test it out. Selling both ways will ensure more sales.

2. Other tattoo shops Offer other shops the chance to display your original tattoo flash art. It may be easier to first approach these shops by phone, in person, or over the Internet to see if there is interest. You can also offer to swap designs and sell the designs of other artists. These partnerships can have many other benefits. For example, if a particular design would be better accomplished by another artist, you can refer them – and vice versa.  

3. Art venues Tattoo art is every bit as relevant as any other art. The only difference is that tattoo art is designed to be etched onto the skin. However, many flash art designs originally came from other inspiration, all of which could be rendered on paper or canvas. Attending art venues and tattoo conventions is another option for selling this popular artwork. Conventions allow artists and enthusiasts to display their handiwork. Attendees are usually there to shop in addition to networking, so many may be interested in what you have created. Also, some may be interested in displaying your art in their shops or use it for other purposes.  

4. Online tattoo flash art markets There are quite a few websites that are specifically interested in displaying the designs of tattoo artists, such as sites like Cherry Creek. It is recommended that art work on these sites is displayed small enough and at low resolution so that it cannot be taken and used by someone without your authorization and consent. With any art displayed on the internet, copyrighting imagery is always a smart protective practice.
Selling flash art for tattoos in these ways can provide many other revenue streams for original artwork that often takes a great deal of time and consideration to create. In this way, tattoo artists and other illustrators may earn the most income possible for their designs.

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Molly Pearce is freelance writer and artist who is always looking for new ways to share and market her art and illustrations. TattooYou.com, an e-commerce store where customers can buy high end temporary tattoos, is looking for talented tattoo artists and illustrators who wish to bring their artwork to a global market. This site is creating a forum for artists to share and market unique designs for this increasingly popular trend of wearable art.