Graffiti that's intended to be simple and easy to put up, but is more than just a tag. Typical throw-ups are just an outline of letters, possibly filled in with another color. Learning to do throw-ups is a sign that a graffiti writer is progressing from a toy and gaining skills.

the throw-up is the quintessential bombing tool. consisting of a handful of letters, a quick fill and a quick, connecting outline, the throw-up represents a means of getting one's tag up quickly and effectively. to clarify Sylvar's definition: a throw-up is not a stepping stone to something else (that demands more skills); a throw-up is an end and an art in itself. there are many graffiti writers who can only piece that do throw-ups not even worthy of doggy-poo. in NYC, for example, from about the late 80's to the present day the throw-up remains the most prevalent form of graffiti in the city. also, one of the most famous SF writers who got his fame by doing throwups all over the city now has his work displayed in the SF MoMA.