Life and Ink Run Out at the Same Time T-Shirt | Vintage Tattoo Tee | Old Anchor Inn Bar • Key West
Some sayings become part of Key West legend.
According to island lore, the phrase "Life and Ink Run Out at the Same Time" was once found scrawled on the bathroom wall of the legendary Old Anchor Inn, better known to generations of locals as The Snake Pit. Signed simply "Squid," the quote eventually found its way into Jimmy Buffett lore, becoming one of the island's most enduring pieces of barroom wisdom.
Inspired by the bold sailor tattoos of the 1960s and '70s, this original design combines classic tattoo flash with the iconic Old Anchor Inn Bar logo, squid
tentacles, and a traditional anchor to create a shirt that feels like it could have been hanging behind the bar half a century ago.
Printed on the legendary Comfort Colors® 1717 garment-dyed tee, it has the soft, broken-in feel of an old favorite from the very first wear.
Whether you're a longtime Parrothead, tattoo collector, lover of Key West history, or simply appreciate authentic island folklore, this shirt celebrates one of the Conch Republic's most unforgettable legends.
Features• Premium Comfort Colors® 1717 garment-dyed heavyweight t-shirt
• Soft-washed, lived-in vintage feel
• Original vintage tattoo-inspired artwork
• Relaxed unisex fit
• Printed to order in the USA
"Life and Ink Run Out at the Same Time."
— Squid
The Old Anchor Inn—known to locals as The Snake Pit—was one of Jimmy Buffett's favorite early Key West hangouts. While countless stories have grown around the legendary bar, few are as enduring as the mysterious bathroom wall quote attributed simply to "Squid." This artwork pays tribute to that piece of island folklore in the style of the classic American sailor tattoos that defined the era.
| S | M | L | XL | 2XL | 3XL | 4XL | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Width, in | 18.25 | 20.25 | 22.00 | 24.00 | 26.00 | 27.75 | 29.75 |
| Length, in | 26.62 | 28.00 | 29.37 | 30.75 | 31.62 | 32.50 | 33.50 |
| Sleeve length from center back, in | 16.25 | 17.75 | 19.00 | 20.50 | 21.75 | 23.25 | 24.63 |
| Size tolerance, in | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 |
Garment-dyed fabric
The garment is dyed after it's been constructed, giving it a soft color and texture
100% Cotton
100% ring-spun US cotton for long-lasting comfort.
S to 4XL
Available in multiple sizes from S to 4XL (select partners) so your customers can find the perfect fit. Consult with our Comfort Colors 1717 size chart for all available sizes.
Double-needle stitching on all seams
The garment is sewn around the finished edges with double stitching, making it long-lasting
Without side seams
The Comfort Colors 1717 tee is knit in one piece using tubular knit, it reduces fabric waste and makes the garment more attractive
Country of origin
Made in Honduras
Machine wash: cold (max 30C or 90F); Do not bleach; Tumble dry: low heat; Iron, steam or dry: low heat; Do not dryclean.
Accurate shipping options will be available in checkout after entering your full address.
Any goods purchased can only be returned in accordance with the Terms and Conditions and Returns Policy.
We want to make sure that you are satisfied with your order and we are committed to making things right in case of any issues. We will provide a solution in cases of any defects if you contact us within 30 days of receiving your order.
See terms and conditionsMerchandise features original artwork created exclusively for the Just a Few Friends merchandise collection, celebrating the music, history, and culture of Key West. References to songs, locations, people, and historical events are used descriptively as part of that storytelling. Just a Few Friends is an independent celebration and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Jimmy Buffett's Estate, Margaritaville Enterprises, or any other trademark owner unless specifically identified.
© 2026 Just a Few Friends Key West, LLC