Large Scale Japanese Style TATTOOING
made fast – by appointment
I specialize in hand drawn, large-scale, Japanese style tattooing and I work quick, building sleeves, backs, legs, and full suits that are designed as complete compositions rather than isolated images.
Projects are developed with intention and completed over 3-5 dedicated sessions for clients who value efficient technique in addition to the finished work.
Tattoo Request
I’m Dave Tedder, a professional tattooer since 2000, specializing in large-scale Japanese-style tattooing designed to be worn for a lifetime.
My work is rooted in traditional composition systems and practical, long-term planning, balancing clarity, flow, and efficiency across multi-session projects. Every piece is designed with the full body and future wear in mind, not just the individual session.
I also take single-session Japanese pieces and, when time allows, American Traditional work. I’m based in eastern North Carolina, and since July 2026 I run a monthly residency at Electro Magnetic Tattoo in Chesapeake.
Clients come from across Eastern North Carolina, including Jacksonville, New Bern, Greenville, Morehead City and the Crystal Coast, and some travel a lot farther, as far as Alaska. Before Havelock I spent ten years at a studio in Atlanta where clients regularly flew in to get tattooed, and I still take the occasional guest spot when the Chesapeake residency allows.
Clients’ reviews of the shop are on The Custom Tattoo Company’s Google Business Profile.
I’ve been working in this style for many years and have developed a process that allows large scale projects to be planned clearly and executed efficiently. Clients know the total session count and cost per session before we book the first appointment.
Japanese style tattooing is the medium I use to make people feel strong, confident, and grounded in their work. I’m drawn to large-scale tattooing for the way it rides the body, holds together over time and continues to look powerful as it ages with clarity and purpose.
Booking and Travel
Large-scale projects are booked by appointment and planned in advance. Each project begins with a consultation; in person if you’re local or by phone/zoom if you’re not. Together we develop a clear outline of scope and schedule our appointments so expectations are set before work begins.
Clients for North Carolina and Virginia can find booking information below. Convention and guest spot dates are posted separately as they become available.