bold Traditional Back Tattoos in Vancouver

Back tattoos have a long legacy in American traditional tattooing—bold, black linework, powerful imagery, and full compositions that tell a story across the largest canvas on the body. I love creating custom back pieces that feel both timeless and personal. Whether it’s a full scene, a patchwork of flash, or a classic centerpiece like an eagle or ship, each back tattoo is made to suit your body and your style. Below, you’ll find more about the history of back pieces, how I approach them, and how to book one with me at my shop in Vancouver.

  • Back Tattoo at Sierras Tattoo Shop in Vancouver

  • Bold Traditional Back Tattoo

  • Large Traditional Eagle Back

Large Pieces - Half, full, patchwork, colour

  • A traditional American back piece is a bold, full-back tattoo that can be done in colour or black and grey. These designs are rooted in old-school tattoo history—think eagles, ships, skulls, or pin-ups—done big and built to last. Whether it’s one large custom design or a bunch of flash-style pieces put together over time, a back piece is all about strong lines, classic imagery, and making a serious statement. AND it just makes you look way more cool and badass!

  • If you ask me, there’s nothing cooler than a traditional back piece. Bold lines, solid fill, and designs that actually read from across the room—what more could you want? “Bold will hold” isn’t just a saying, it’s the truth. These tattoos age well, stand out, and carry that timeless, badass energy that never goes out of style. I’m definitely biased, but if you’re going big, traditional is the way to do it.

  • Can’t decide between colour or black and grey? Both have their place in traditional tattooing. Classic American tattoos are known for bold, saturated colour—reds, yellows, greens that really pop and hold up over time. But there’s something super clean and timeless about sticking to just black. It all depends on the vibe you’re going for. I usually suggest matching the theme you’ve already got going on, but if you’re wanting to switch it up, the back is the perfect place to do something different.

  • Traditional American back tattoos have deep roots in tattoo history—especially in the days when sailors and military men would get big, bold pieces to mark major life events or travels. These full-back designs were a sign of dedication, often featuring patriotic or mythical imagery like eagles, ships, dragons, and war-themed scenes. Artists like Sailor Jerry and his crew helped shape the look: strong lines, solid colour, and maximum impact. Back then, the back was a statement space—and it still is. I love pulling from those classic ideas and building something that feels powerful and personal for today’s collectors.

creating a Back Piece with sierra

  • Back tattoos are big projects, and pricing depends on a lot of factors—like the size of your back, your skin, and whether we’re going full colour or sticking to black and grey. Colour pieces usually take more time, so they do cost more. Because of all that, I can’t give an accurate quote until we meet in person. Consults are always free, and they give us a chance to talk through your ideas, look at your skin, and figure out what’s going to work best for you and your body.

  • The process starts with a free in-person consult where I take a tracing of your back, we chat through ideas, and decide on the direction of your piece. A $500 deposit is required to book, and it comes off your final session. After that, we schedule a design appointment (about an hour) where I show you the final artwork, size it up, and make any tweaks you’d like. Once that’s locked in, we plan out your tattoo sessions—and I get to drawing!

  • When it comes to traditional back pieces, the possibilities are endless —and I’m always stoked to bring bold, custom designs to life for my clients. Theres are some ideas I would be super duper hyped to create:

    • A big dragon across the full back

    • Large peonies—Bold and could extend onto the bum

    • A Mother Mary design—something I’ve dreamed of tattooing forever and would be an absolute honour to bring to life

    • The iconic Rock of Ages, symbolizing strength and faith

    • Poharoas horses

    • Country Western themes with intricate foliage framing

    • Koi fish

    • A fierce warrior woman embodying strength and resilience

    • Majestic eagles spreading their wings, classic and powerful

    • Intense battle royal scenes, full of drama and storytelling

    • Traditional patchwork style, mixing classic flash for a unique, layered look

    If any of these spark something in you—or if you’ve got a different vision—let’s talk and make it happen!

  • Though my studio is right here in Gastown, Vancouver, I’m lucky to work with clients from all over—whether that’s Burnaby, Richmond, North Vancouver, Whistler, Bellingham, or even further afield. It would be a dream to welcome more international clients looking to get a traditional back piece with me—I’m happy to book sessions that fit into a trip planned. I’m truly honored when folks travel to work with me, and I’m all about making sure the experience feels personal and worth every minute. My space is relaxed, safe, and focused on crafting bold, timeless tattoos that you’ll be proud to wear for life.