Micah Ulrich engraving style tattoo

Booking / Info

I create custom illustrative tattoos in an engraving and woodcut-inspired style — detailed blackwork with fine lines, cross-hatching, and a hand-drawn quality. If you're looking for something that looks like it was pulled from an old book, a medieval manuscript, or a vintage botanical print, you're in the right place.

I also take on other styles that fit my approach — organic, sketchy, slightly imperfect work that feels handmade rather than mechanical.

Some words to describe this style would be: engraving style, sketchy, sketchbook, woodcut, linocut, blackwork, pen and ink, line shading, dot shading, etc.
Some of my favorite themes are: botanical/floral, occult, medieval, animals, cosmic, metaphysical, and just plain weird subject matter.

Check out my gallery and instagram to see the range.

Micah Ulrich engraving style tattoo
Micah Ulrich engraving style tattoo

THE PROCESS:

1. Reach out.
Email me at sketchesfromspace@gmail.com with:
- Your idea -
- approximate size (in inches), where on your body you want it -
- any reference images you might have that capture the vibe -
- Photos of the body area are helpful too, just please make sure they're straight-on photos, not taken from an angle -

2. Quote & booking.
I'll get back to you with a project quote. For straightforward pieces, I may have you book directly through the shop by calling and leaving a deposit.
For larger or more complex projects, we might do a quick in-person consult first (free, 15-20 minutes) so we can chat about the artwork, look at the area, and make sure the design will work.

3. Design.
I'll work up the design before your appointment — sometimes adapting a reference or historical artwork, sometimes drawing from scratch, depending on the project. Either way, I make sure it fits your body and works as a tattoo. You'll see it before we start and we'll refine it until it's right.

4. Tattoo.
Most pieces take one session of 2-4 hours. Larger projects like sleeves are done across multiple sessions.
I never rush — I'd rather spend extra time getting it perfect.

INVESTMENT

I price by the project. Your quote covers the design work and tattooing. Pricing depends on size, detail, placement, and complexity. Rough ranges:

Shop minimum (very small symbols- under 30 min): $100

Smaller pieces (palm-sized, simple design): $200–500

Medium pieces (large hand sized): $500–900

Large pieces (half sleeve, half thigh): $1,000–2,000

Full sleeve, back, or major project: $3,500+

Contact me for a quote on your specific idea. Multi-session projects can be spaced out over time.

I take the process seriously and have over 25 years of experience that I’ll use to make your tattoo and experience the best that I can. I’m very patient and gentle. I never mind spending extra time modifying designs or moving the stencil around multiple times to get it just right.

DNA tree engraving style tattoo
DNA tree engraving style tattoo

A Few Notes

I focus on projects that fit my style and technique. I'll be honest with you if I think something would be better suited to another artist — and I'm happy to recommend someone at the shop.

I generally don't tattoo hands, fingers, feet, necks, ears, or faces (they don't usually age well), and I stay away from lettering, coverups, tribal, and a few other things that aren't my strength.

Michigan law prohibits the use of numbing agents for tattooing. I have to decline service if numbing has been applied.

Edward hooper street engraving style tattoo
Edward hooper street engraving style tattoo
dot shaded storybook tattoo
dot shaded storybook tattoo

Aging:

Tattoos change over time — lines soften, details spread, and tight spacing can merge together. Understanding this is a big part of how I design. I always make sure your piece is sized and spaced to look great for the long haul. I've included info here: Learn more about how tattoos age →

Gibson girl illustration sketchy engraving style tattoo michigan
Gibson girl illustration sketchy engraving style tattoo michigan

TIPPING:

I’ve included this section, because I often get nervous questions regarding tipping, “Do you accept tips?” and “How much do people usually tip?”.
People usually tip on average 20%.
I currently take home around 37% of what I charge the customer. Shop fees, insurance, supplies, and taxes take most of the money.
Tips make a real difference in what I take home and are always deeply appreciated.
I strive to be focused on professionalism, making your tattoo exceed your expectations, and to make you super comfortable!
Cash is best. Also accept Venmo, Zelle, PayPal, and credit cards.

DO I TATTOO COLOR?

Not very often.

I like color tattoos, but find I don't always enjoy applying them. So I’ve been mainly focusing on black and grey ink.

Here’s some color pieces I’ve done:

Iconic Tattoo & Piercing
3401 Cass Ave.
Detroit MI 48201
313-818-0078