Sleeve Tattoos in Victoria, BC: Japanese & Geometric Tattoos
From Small Tattoos to Full Sleeve Tattoos in Victoria, BC
I started tattooing in 2008, which means I’ve been in this craft for over 17 years (as of 2025). For the last nine of those years, I’ve been proud to call Victoria, BC home. During this time, I’ve watched tattoo trends come and go — some styles fade, while others remain timeless. One thing that has evolved most in my career is the scale of the tattoos I create.
From Small Tattoos to Full Sleeve Tattoos
In my early years, I took on any tattoo that came my way — from tiny Garfield cartoons to tribal unicorns, burritos wearing sombreros, and even X-Files tribute tattoos. Yes, these are all pieces that I’ve done and these small-scale designs shaped my foundation as a tattoo artist.
As my skills grew, so did the projects. I began working on half-sleeve tattoos, which soon gave clients the confidence to commission me for full sleeve tattoos. That was a turning point. Large-scale tattoos are what first drew me into this art form, and a well-executed sleeve remains one of the most striking styles to this day.
The Art and Impact of a Sleeve Tattoo
A sleeve tattoo commands attention from a distance while rewarding close-up viewers with intricate detail. Over time, this became my niche. I specialize in both Japanese tattoos and geometric/ornamental tattoos, two styles that lend themselves perfectly to larger, flowing designs.
Creating a full sleeve is a journey. On average, it takes about seven sessions, each lasting three to three and a half hours. Depending on the client’s size, design complexity, and level of detail, this process may vary — but the commitment always results in a piece of art that feels deeply personal and impactful.
My Process for Creating Large-Scale Tattoos
Every sleeve begins with an outline — typically completed in one or two sessions. From there, I move into background shading, which usually takes two or three more sittings. Finally, I bring the main subject matter to life — whether it’s a bold Japanese dragon, a delicate koi, or a complex geometric mandala.
For geometric tattoos, I slightly adjust the process, layering symmetry and precision until the piece feels balanced and complete. The final step is always a “polish” session, where the whole tattoo comes together.
Beyond Sleeves: Expanding to Larger Work
Once I was regularly creating arm sleeves, clients began asking for full leg pieces, back pieces, and torsos. Over time, these combined into the occasional full bodysuit. But for this post I’ll keep to the topic of sleeve tattoos — where my love for scale, flow, and detail really comes alive.
Tattooing on Vancouver Island
Tattooing on Vancouver Island has given me the opportunity to work with incredible clients from all walks of life. Every session is a collaboration — some clients love to chat the whole time, while others put on headphones and zone out. Either way, I’m grateful for the trust people place in me when they walk through the doors of my tattoo shop in Victoria, BC.
Ready to Start Your Sleeve Tattoo Journey?
If you’re considering a Japanese tattoo, a geometric tattoo, or are ready to begin your own sleeve tattoo project, I’d be honored to help bring your ideas to life.
👉 Contact me today to book a consultation at my tattoo shop Paradigm Tattoo in Victoria, BC — serving clients across Vancouver Island and beyond.
