

Custom Japanese Tattoo Design
A considered design process for Japanese-inspired sleeves, panels, and larger tattoos.
A More Personal Way to Build Your Tattoo
I begin by learning what draws you to Japanese tattooing, from the imagery and symbolism to the way you want the piece to move across your body. We discuss placement, scale, existing tattoos, and the visual elements that will give the design a cohesive direction. This creates a clear foundation before the tattooing begins.
The final concept is developed with attention to flow, balance, and long-term readability. Supporting elements are selected to connect the main subject naturally, while the overall composition remains personal to you. The experience is collaborative, measured, and focused on creating a piece that feels intentional from every angle.
Ideal For
Clients planning a sleeve or panel
Larger custom tattoo projects
People drawn to Japanese-inspired composition
Clients building around existing work
How It Works
Share Your Ideas: Tell me about your imagery, placement, references, and overall direction.
Shape The Composition: We refine the scale, flow, and supporting elements for your body.
Plan The Sessions: We establish the tattooing approach and next steps for the finished piece.







About
My name is Derek Dufresne. I have been tattooing since 1999 and have won numerous awards across Canada and the US for my tattoos and artwork. I have had tattoos published and feature stories in dozens of tattoo magazines, newspapers etc worldwide. I have owned tattoo studios in Victoria, BC, Canada and New Orleans, LA and I am now creating custom work at Mind's Eye Tattoo Studio in Tacoma. I specialize in expressive Japanese-inspired tattoos, including dragons, phoenixes, sleeves, and larger pieces, horror themed tattoos, realism while also welcoming walk in flash and coverup ideas. I work closely with each client to turn a concept into artwork that feels personal, considered, and built to last. I also create original paintings and art for collectors.

About
My name is Derek Dufresne. I have been tattooing since 1999 and have won numerous awards across Canada and the US for my tattoos and artwork. I have had tattoos published and feature stories in dozens of tattoo magazines, newspapers etc worldwide. I have owned tattoo studios in Victoria, BC, Canada and New Orleans, LA and I am now creating custom work at Mind's Eye Tattoo Studio in Tacoma. I specialize in expressive Japanese-inspired tattoos, including dragons, phoenixes, sleeves, and larger pieces, horror themed tattoos, realism while also welcoming walk in flash and coverup ideas. I work closely with each client to turn a concept into artwork that feels personal, considered, and built to last. I also create original paintings and art for collectors.
Services
01
Custom Tattoo Design
I create custom tattoos tailored to your ideas and placement.
02
Flash Tattoos
I offer ready-to-tattoo flash designs, including seasonal specials.
03
Art Commissions
I create commissioned paintings and artwork from your ideas.
Services
01
Custom Tattoo Design
I create custom tattoos tailored to your ideas and placement.
02
Flash Tattoos
I offer ready-to-tattoo flash designs, including seasonal specials.
03
Art Commissions
I create commissioned paintings and artwork from your ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact
Send me your idea and I'll be in touch about your tattoo appointment.
Contact
Send me your idea and I'll be in touch about your tattoo appointment.
5437 S Tacoma Way, Tacoma, WA 98409, USA
5437 S Tacoma Way, Tacoma, WA 98409, USA