01 Caversham · Reading
Tattoosmadeto last.
Custom tattooing with time, craft and character — made in the heart of Caversham.
03 The artist
Meet Steven.
Tattooing since 2002 and working from Lilly Ink in Caversham since opening the studio in 2008.
- Japanese
- Traditional & Neo-Traditional
- Black & Grey
Steven began by creating designs for other tattooists before completing a local apprenticeship and gaining his tattooing certification in 2002.
04 Find your style
Start with what
pulls you in.
These categories reflect work already shown in Lilly Ink’s archive. If yours does not fit neatly, start with Custom.
- 01Black & Grey
Depth, contrast and detail without colour.
→ - 02Japanese
Bold movement, natural forms and strong composition.
→ - 03Traditional
Clear lines and character-led imagery.
→ - 04Lettering
Letterforms designed around the body.
→ - 05Cover-Ups
Considered new work shaped around what is already there.
→ - 06Custom
A piece developed from your idea, placement and references.
→
05 Heritage
Built here.
Still here.
Lilly Ink has been part of Caversham since 2008. The studio grew from Steven’s earlier years designing for other tattooists, a local apprenticeship and certification in 2002.
Read Steven’s story
- 2002Steven gains his tattooing certification.
- 2008Lilly Ink opens in Caversham.
- TodayStill independent. Still tattooing on Prospect Street.
06 What people say
Word gets around.
01 / Yell“Steve was patient and explained everything.”
02 / Yell“Very professional, accommodating and did exactly what was wanted.”
07 The process
From idea
to ink.
A simple route through the things that usually feel uncertain.
- 01
Idea
Bring a clear idea or the start of one. References help, but they do not need to be perfect.
- 02
Enquiry
Tell us the placement, approximate size, style and any dates you need us to consider.
- 03
Design
The piece is shaped around the idea, the body and the way it needs to age.
- 04
Tattoo
Arrive prepared, ask what you need to ask, and take the day at the right pace.
- 05
Aftercare
You will leave with the studio’s approved aftercare guidance for your tattoo.
08 First tattoo
First one?
You’re in good hands.
You can talk through the design, placement, size and anything you are unsure about before you commit to the next step.
Start with a conversation →
10 Visit
Come
find us.
Opening hours
Monday–Friday10:00–17:00 / 19:00*
Saturday10:00–16:00 / 17:00*
Sunday11:00–16:00
*Later closing times are available with bookings only.11 / Let’s talk
Got an idea?
We’ll help work out the rest.Start your tattoo enquiry →