There's a world of difference between a tattoo and a custom tattoo. Anyone can point to a design on a wall and ask for it to be copied. But a truly custom tattoo — one designed specifically for you, your body shape, your story, and your vision — is something else entirely. I'm Josh Griffiths, tattooist at Beyond The Needle in Tamworth, and custom work is at the heart of everything I do.
What Is a Custom Tattoo?
A custom tattoo is a design created from scratch, specifically for you. Unlike flash tattoos (pre-drawn designs available to multiple people), a custom piece is drawn up fresh based on your ideas, references, and conversations with your artist. The result is something no one else in the world has — and that's a pretty powerful thing.
The Custom Tattoo Process at Beyond The Needle
Step 1: The Consultation
Josh starts every project with a free consultation. This can be done in person, over the phone, or via message. He'll talk through your idea — what you want it to mean, where you want it placed, what style appeals to you, and any reference images you've collected. No idea is too vague at this stage. That's what he's there for.
Step 2: The Design
Once Josh understands what you're after, he'll create a design for you. He'll present this before your appointment and make any adjustments needed. He wants you to be 100% happy before he ever picks up a machine.
Step 3: The Tattoo
On appointment day, Josh will do a final check of the design, position it on your body, and get to work. He'll keep you comfortable throughout and keep communication open — if something needs adjusting mid-session, just say.
Step 4: Aftercare and Healing
Josh will send you away with full aftercare instructions and is always available if you have questions during healing. Touch-ups on healed tattoos are part of his commitment to quality.
Why Not Just Use a Flash Design?
Flash designs aren't bad — they can be beautiful, and they work great for certain styles. But if you have a specific idea in mind, a personal story to tell, or a piece that needs to work with your existing tattoos, custom is the only way to go. Flash is for decoration. Custom is for meaning.
Custom Tattoo Pricing in Tamworth
Custom tattoos are priced based on time and complexity. We'll always give you a clear estimate before you commit. As a general guide: smaller custom pieces start from around £80–£120. Medium pieces (forearm, calf, shoulder) from £200–£400. Larger statement pieces are priced on a case-by-case basis.
Book Your Custom Tattoo Consultation at Beyond The Needle
Ready to get started? Drop Josh a message with your idea — even if it's just a rough concept at this stage — and he'll take it from there. Beyond The Needle works with clients across Tamworth, Polesworth, Measham, Atherstone, and the wider Midlands area.
📲 Instagram @joshgriffithstattooist | 📞 Call/Text 07435035368