So, I just recently got a bit of a promotion at work and I wanted to reward myself with a long awaited half sleeve! The only thing is, I am torn between all the different possibilities and themes that I can go with. I'd like to go with a bit of japanese stuff, possibly some sort of koi fish/dragon or something along those lines in full colour. I'm looking for quite a bit of detail and it would run from the top of my shoulder to above my elbow, would consider going above the shoulder if the image/theme required. I was hoping for some input from you guys to see if there was some cool/unique ideas out there! So SHOOT!

 

Hmm I have a half sleeve... 2 koi fishes and a peony flower with background/water... etc. from a little above my shoulder down to close to my elbow... fully covered.

 

not sure if u have a shop to do it at yet but scott duncan at the sugar shack in kincardine is excellent at japanese art! 519 396 8282. he is a well known artist around the world too. it will take 3-4 months to get your appt. they also have two other artist. dave allen just did a red and black nautical star for me on my inside right bi-sep.

good luck on deciding what you want. make sure you know what you want before the gun starts inking lol!!

 

^^^ +1 on Scott Duncan, I have heard he is one of the best around.

 

LOL, who knew Kincardine was the ink capital of Canada?

I'm thinking of getting a full back of this one:



and underneath:

GET OFF MY LAWN

 

Whatever theme you decide, make sure the artist has a background in that type if theme. (oriental, life like photos, cartoon, tribal.... you get the point) I wouldnt let someone ink me up a coi fish when they are known for harley bikers style tats.
BTW, I'm full sleeved with coi fishes w/ water, clouds, and a lotus..
like others said above, know what you want before it gets on you....

 

Thanks for the tips guys. Do you guys have some pics of the work done on you? It would be cool to have some reference and a visual

 

Here is a link to some done by Scott Duncan at Sugar Shack in Kincardine: http://www.sugarshacktattoo.com/tattoos

 

Wow, he does some pretty amazing work. I really like the Koi fish he did in red with the scorpion. I would change that around a bit but it looks great!

 

http://inkfiendart.com/gallery/main.php?g2_itemId=2089
Look through Master Mike's work. He's been getting all the awards at the tattoo convention for a LONG time. Very very nice asian art. Never seen anyone else who can do work like his.

 

Is this Mike Austin? I've heard amazing things about him and is located in London,ON which is a stone throw away from me, I'll take a look at it! Thanks.

 

Nooooooope, all the way in Cali but his art is ridiculous. Attention to detail is second to none!

 

Lol I wasn't expecting you to get your tattoo done in Cali... just wanted to show you some nice *** asian art. That's how alot of people are tatted up here. Very detailed and realistic.

 

camera pics are not the best but you get an idea.

here is my tattoo from dave allen @ the sugar shack. day after aswell:



gives you an idea!

 

do u really like fish?

be a bit more unique pls. Koi fish is so played out, if i was you, i'd really think about what you really like and get someone to design it.

Koi fish is like seeing a fat chick with a belly button pierce