Percy Waters, born in 1888 in Anniston, Alabama, left a bloody ripper mark on the world of tattooing. From dead-set humble beginnings to becoming one of the most influential legends in tattoo history, Waters was a true blue pioneer whose contributions to tattoo artistry and equipment still shape the industry today. While heaps of people recognise the visual beauty of his traditional designs, not many understand just how crucial he was in pushing tattoo technology and culture forward. For anyone who reckons ink is an art form, Waters’ story is a bonzer journey of passion, innovation, and pure dedication.

Early Days in the Sticks

Anniston, smack bang between Atlanta and Birmingham, was where Percy Waters first got a gander at tattooing. Travelling circus shows rolling through town introduced him to tattooed performers, sparking his mad fascination with the art. While working as a molder in the local foundry, Waters scored some tattooing gear from who knows where and started inking locals as a bit of a hobby. Even back then, Waters showed a sharp eye for both the artistic and technical sides of tattooing, always keen to travel and meet established tattoo artists.

But life in Anniston went pear-shaped when Waters apparently tattooed the daughter of a big-shot local family. Facing a massive backlash, he was forced to do a runner in 1917. This moment changed everything and set him on a path that would ultimately turn tattooing on its head.

The Detroit Years: A Tattoo Career Takes Off

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Waters first made a quick pit stop in New York City, where he sharpened his skills under the wing of tattoo legend Charles Wagner in the Bowery. By 1918, he’d landed in Detroit, Michigan—a city full of opportunities. Detroit was pumping with industrial action and, importantly, had only one other tattooist at the time, Jesse Barber. Waters set up his first shop near Electric Park and quickly became known as one of the top tattoo artists of his day.

His business went gangbusters. Circus performers, sideshow acts, and locals all lined up to get inked by Waters. He tattooed some serious characters like Mrs. Ted Hamilton, Shelly Kemp, and Detroit Dutch, creating massive back pieces and bodysuits that were unheard of at the time. Waters, being a modest bloke, just called himself “Just a Good Tattooer,” but his work spoke volumes about his talent.

Innovating Tattoo Machines like a Legend

Percy Waters wasn’t just a gun at tattooing—he was a bloody brilliant inventor. Drawing on his foundry experience, he started producing tattoo machines, constantly tweaking their designs to make them better. By 1929, he’d patented a game-changing two-coil electromagnetic tattoo machine—a design that’s still the backbone of modern tattoo gear. His machine had some ripper features like an adjustable stroke, fingertip power switches, and standardised parts, making it both efficient and reliable.

But he didn’t stop there. Seeing the growing interest in tattooing, Waters launched one of the biggest tattoo supply businesses of his time. From 1920 through the 1930s, he sold pro-level “Tattoo Starter Kits” packed with machines, pigments, flash designs, needles, and instruction guides. By advertising in mags like Popular Mechanics and Police Gazette, he made tattoo gear accessible to aspiring artists right across the States.

The Art of Tattoo Flash

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While Waters’ machine innovations were groundbreaking, his artistic legacy is just as impressive. His flash sheets—pre-drawn tattoo designs—featured timeless motifs that are still bloody awesome today. Traditional sailing ships, fierce animals like panthers and eagles, good luck symbols, and portraits of exotic women filled his catalogues. Waters’ flash designs were both eye-catching and practical, giving tattoo artists top-notch templates to attract and inspire clients.

These designs continue to influence modern tattooing, with current artists often tipping their hat to Waters’ flash to honour the craft’s roots. If you’re getting a classic tattoo these days, there’s a fair chance its origins trace back to Percy Waters’ catalogues.

Back to the Hometown and a Lasting Impact

By the late 1930s, Waters had hit the big time, but his heart was still in Anniston. In 1939, he headed back home and set up an arcade and tattoo shop with his mate Tex Howard. World War II brought thousands of soldiers to the area, and business was booming. Waters even expanded into a music store and ran his tattoo supply business until he passed away in 1952. His obituary listed him as the owner of S&W Music Machine Company and Waters Manufacturing—a true blue Aussie spirit of entrepreneurship (even if he was actually American).

Waters’ influence stretched far beyond his lifetime. His tattoo tech innovations laid the groundwork for the tools artists still use, while his flash designs locked in a visual tradition that remains at the heart of American tattooing.

The Waters Legacy Continues

Percy Waters’ story reminds us of tattooing’s rich history and the pioneering artists who built the foundations we celebrate today. His journey is a testament to dedication, creativity, and innovation—values that ring true for tattoo artists and enthusiasts everywhere.

At CB Ink, we pay tribute to legends like Percy Waters by continuing their tradition of top-notch, timeless tattoo artistry. If his story gets you fired up to wear your own piece of history, our talented artists are ready to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re after classic designs, bold back pieces, or something completely unique, let us help you carry on the legacy of tattoo art—one ripper design at a time.

If you’re ready to get your next tattoo, book an appointment today!

If you still have some questions or concerns, feel free to send us a message and we’ll be glad to help!