🐉 Floating West – A Tattoo Time Capsule from Old Japan for Artists and Ink Fans

If you're a tattoo artist, apprentice, or just obsessed with Japanese-style ink, Floating West is a must-have for your collection. This book is a high-quality reproduction of a rare Japanese tattoo flash book from the 20th century, packed with traditional designs and paired with a beautifully illustrated essay that uncovers the story behind it.

Discovered and published by tattooer and collector Nick York, this book gives you a glimpse into the mysterious and often undocumented world of old-school Japanese tattoo art. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, reference material, or just love tattoo history, this one's a gem.

📘 Book Specs

• Format: Softcover, 8" x 10" (roughly 20 x 25 cm).

• Pages: 64 full of traditional Japanese flash.

• Style: Classic Japanese motifs with bold linework and old-world flair.

🎨 What’s Inside?

Floating West features detailed and clean line drawings of:

• Dragons

• Geishas

• Cranes

• Koi fish

• Samurai

• Mythological creatures

• Classic patterns, flowers, and more

These designs capture the vibe of early 20th-century Japanese tattoo art—raw, powerful, and symbolic.

🧠 Who’s Behind It?

Nick York is a Texas-based tattooer and vintage tattoo collector. While hunting for old tattoo ephemera, he came across this rare flash book. Its origin remains a bit of a mystery, but the artistry inside speaks volumes. York decided to share this hidden gem with the tattoo community through Floating West.

If you’re into historical references, folk art, or just love the aesthetic of old Japanese tattoos, you’ll appreciate what Nick has preserved here.

💡 Why You Need This Book on Your Shelf

• A legit inspiration bomb: Flip through the pages when you hit creative block or want a fresh angle on traditional Japanese themes.

• Tattoo history in your hands: It’s not just a flash book—it’s a rare window into a style that helped shape modern tattooing.

• Perfect for pros and fans alike: Whether you're tattooing full-time or just geeking out on design, this book delivers.

• Great linework: Easy to trace, rework, or study. The detail level makes it ideal for stencils or painting practice.