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How to get a large tattoo without breaking the bank

Updated: Dec 10

Finding Time and Resources for Your Next Tattoo Idea: A Step-by-Step Guide, Completing a Big Project by Apz | Tattoo Artist. New York - Copenhaguen 2025


Tattoo of Kamikazes on Back in Black and White Realism by APZ in New York, US.In New York, APZ is a skilled tattoo artist trained by some of the best tattoo artists in the world. He specializes in classic realism tattoos using a modern black and white style, focusing on connected designs and full sleeve tattoos that enhance his clients’ style. His Kamikazes tattoo on back speaks volumes with lifelike realistic details.

Getting a big tattoo on your entire back or arm in classic black-and-white realism is exciting, but the investment can be high. Whether you want a masterpiece or a big artistic tattoo, it's vital to plan. In this article, we'll look at a clever way to achieve your goal.



Tattoo of Ship and octopus on full arm sleeve in Black and White Realism by APZ in New York, US.In New York, APZ is a skilled tattoo artist trained by some of the best tattoo artists in the world. He specializes in classic realism tattoos using a modern black and white style, focusing on connected designs and full sleeve tattoos that enhance his clients’ style. His Ship and octopus tattoo on full arm speaks volumes with lifelike realistic details.

Step 1: Define Your Motivation,


Before starting, pause and think about why this tattoo matters to you. What does it stand for? How will it add to your self-expression and story? Once you're sure about your reasons, your dedication to the process will grow.








Step 2: Schedule a consultation and request a price estimate.


Let´s meet in person at the tattoo shop or let's book an online consultation. Talk about your tattoo ideas. Ask for the price estimate to make sure it fits your budget. This step is like laying the groundwork for teamwork and understanding the money part of your tattoo plan.


Arm tattoo, inspired by Greek mythology: Titan Atlas, the fierce Nemean Lion from Hercules’ story, along with Zeus and Poseidon by APZ, tattoo artist based in New York City. His style combines classic realism with modern black and white techniques


Step 3: Break Down the Design.


You can schedule a design session with Apz to create your design. At this stage, your ideas should be clear, so if you need help with your references, we are here for you. The crucial step is to break down the design. This will give you an estimate per session and the total number of sessions needed. This approach also clarifies the work plan. Let's take an Arm Sleeve as an example:


Design Day: 6.5 hours

Inner Forearm: 13 hours

Outer Forearm: 13 hours

Upper Arm + Shoulder: 26 hours

Inner Arm (Bicep): 10 hours

Blending and Adding Contrast: 9.5 hours


Total time for Arm Sleeve Black and Gray Realism: 78 hours



Tattoo of statue Poseidon, Hercules and Lion on full arm sleeve in Black and White Realism by APZ in New York, US.In New York, APZ is a skilled tattoo artist trained by some of the best tattoo artists in the world. He specializes in classic realism tattoos using a modern black and white style, focusing on connected designs and full sleeve tattoos that enhance his clients’ style. His sculpture Poseidon, Hercules and Lion tattoo on full arm speaks volumes with lifelike realistic details.

Step 4: Prioritize and Save Time


Some of my collectore use days of their vacation or work during the weekends prioritizing the tattoo over rest. You could even consider asking for work-rest days or using vacation days for your tattoo journey.














Tattoo of Sagittarius on upper arm in Black and White Realism by APZ in New York, US.In New York, APZ is a skilled tattoo artist trained by some of the best tattoo artists in the world. He specializes in classic realism tattoos using a modern black and white style, focusing on connected designs and full sleeve tattoos that enhance his clients’ style. His Sagittarius tattoo on upper arm speaks volumes with lifelike realistic details.

Step 5: Be Patient and Persistent.


Getting a large scale tattoo time and effort will be required. Stay patient and keep going, if you're committed, you'll achieve your goal. Stay in touch with Apz | tattoo artist. Let him know if things change. Honest communication is key. Remember that it is possible to restructure the original plan.












Step 7: Celebrate Your Achievement


Lastly, when you've faced challenges and finished your tattoo journey, pause to celebrate. Your big black and gray tattoo isn't just art; it shows your commitment.



Conclusion: Divide the process into steps, stay dedicated, and use your creativity. Your tattoo dream can come true. Remember, the journey matters, and the final art will be something special to cherish forever.


TATTOO ARTIST: Apz | TATTOO STYLE: Classic Realism |  LOCATIONS:  • United States: Manhattan, New York City — Noble Art Tattoo • Denmark: Vesterbrogade, Copenhagen — Dropout Tattoo • Also tattooing in: Dubai, UAE | NEW TATTOO DESIGNS AND IDEAS: ApzTattoo.com/designs |  INSPIRATION: Modern black and white tattooing, Renaissance art, history, mythology, world religions, Christian and Catholic themes, Buddhism, Islam, ancient Egypt, Greek and Roman history, astrology, zodiac signs, realism tattoos, black and white tattoos, black and grey tattoos, micro-realism tattoos.



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