Traditional tattoo artist · Antwerp
Modern & aesthetic traditional tattoo artist based in Antwerp, working from a private studio by appointment. Rooted in traditional western tattooing, adding a bit of new imagery and creativity. Classic and bold, to withstand time, fading and trendyness. Working from flash and happy to create custom pieces.
The work
Clean lines, solid colour and strong contrasts. Careful placement, and work that stays readable for many years.
Who I am
A tattoo artist with more than 10 years of experience, and a creative background that started long before I entered the tattoo world.
I have been drawing my entire life, from art classes as a child to painting courses and a long graffiti history. It all shaped my sense of line, rhythm and contrast.
As an adult, I founded the graphic design studio afreux.be with two friends. We worked in music, the cultural sector, NGOs and personal artistic projects. My years in design taught me to think in composition, balance, typography and visual clarity. These elements now flow naturally into my tattoo work.
I started tattooing under the wings of Tomas Redrey and Younes at Brabo's Hand, came as a guest to Nuit Noire Tattoo, Purple Sun and Papanatos, and as a regular at True Blue Tattoo. Also events like Us By Night, Brussels Tattoo Convention, True Blue Convention, True Love Convention, etc.
My style
I work within classic Western and American Traditional tattooing and combine this with a modern, graphic approach. A traditional base, on which a layer of personal influence and style is added. More modern imagery, objects and influences are mixed into the subtle outcome. I consciously remain very loyal stylewise through time — away from trends and fashion.
I always design with the healing process in mind. Lines and shapes are chosen because they hold up well on the skin, both today and many years from now. The pigments and my colour palette are chosen through years of experience to stay saturated and bright.
I do not follow fast-fading trends. I focus on craftsmanship that lasts. Placement — for both now and future plans — is always carefully taken into account, as well as making my work blend with that of other artists.
How I work
In my private studio, I work with one client at a time. This gives us time to talk through your idea and space to refine it. I share the space and approach with Warren Moris, who's always open for input.
You can expect a calm and professional atmosphere, honest advice and clear communication without sales talk.
I see a tattoo as a collaboration. It is your idea combined with my experience, and we work together in a direct and open way. If it doesn't feel right, both me and the client can agree not to go further — luckily that rarely happens.
Why clients choose Tattoo Tobias
Aftercare
Keep in mind: good aftercare is part of a good end result.
Keep the foil for at least three hours or overnight. Wash your hands with soap before handling your new tattoo.
Remove the foil and wash the tattoo carefully with your hands to remove all surface blood, sweat and ink. To avoid irritation from the tape, remove the foil after a few minutes of showering.
Clean with just water — pH-neutral soap can be used, but no normal soap. Rinse, then let it dry in open air or pat dry with a clean towel.
We advise Cicaplast B5 or Easy Tattoo. Always apply a thin layer of ointment, 3 to 6 times a day for at least 14 days to maintain hydration.
It helps the tattoo settle nicely if you keep going for an extra 2 weeks.
You may refilm for two nights to avoid stains in your bed — also if you have a dirty job. Keep your tattoo open for the rest of the time.
The tattoo may start to peel and scab. Don't pick or peel the skin away — let it fall off naturally during washing or applying cream. Fresh skin will soon replace the dead skin.
The ink may fade during the process, but will return when healing is completed. Too dry skin will crust and push ink out. With a real crust, increase cream frequency — but always apply slightly: too much prevents the skin from breathing.
After a few months you may sunbathe in moderation.
Use sun cream, factor 50, to prevent early fading. Exposure to the sun is the major cause of tattoo fading.
Happy healing!
Prints and goods by Tobias De Bruyn, available in the online shop.
Booking
Pick a free slot for your tattoo and tell me what you have in mind. Rather drop by first to talk it through? Just mention which mornings at 9 or 10 suit you. Nothing that suits — evenings, or my days off? Send the request anyway, or email me, and we'll find a moment together. Every request is confirmed by me personally, by email.
Tip: stick to the email conversation. Using different channels for a single project creates confusion and errors.
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