Surreal Staircase Blackwork Forearm

Questions & answers

What is this tattoo?

A black & grey traditional (old school) tattoo featuring a pattern & ornament, placed on the forearm. By Erik Gillespie at Great Lakes Tattoo.

Where was this tattoo done?

This tattoo was done at Great Lakes Tattoo, 1148 W Grand Ave. View on Google Maps →

How painful is a forearm tattoo?

Forearm: Mild on our 5-step pain scale — moderate cushioning and a flat surface. Pain is personal, and long sessions, stress and bleeding make it feel worse. Pain map →

How long does it take to heal, and will people see it?

The surface usually looks healed in 2–4 weeks; the skin keeps settling for a few months. On the forearm healing is easy, and it is often visible (short sleeves). When can I swim, work out, tan? →

How will a tattoo like this age?

Bold outlines and solid black are the styles that age best — the design stays readable even as lines soften slightly over decades. Sunscreen keeps the colour from fading. How tattoos age →

Can I get this exact design?

Use it as a reference. Most artists adapt a design to your body and their own style rather than copy another person’s tattoo line for line — and if you want this artist’s look, the best option is to book this artist. Copying, references and AI designs →

How do I book something like this?

Message the studio with this photo, your placement and size, colour or black & grey, budget and dates. The “What to include in your first message” box below has a ready-to-copy template. How to message a tattoo artist →