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Paper tattoo sketch of a dragon koi in black ink, held by a hand on a wooden table; black and grey linework, a concept for a new tattoo design.

Paper tattoo sketch of a dragon koi in black ink, held by a hand on a wooden table; black and grey linework, a concept for a new tattoo design.
Intricate dragon koi tattoo design on paper; a detailed pattern linework concept.

This professional tattoo concept is presented on a sheet of white paper, showcasing a detailed black-and-grey line drawing of a dragon-koi motif. The image captures a studio moment: a hand gently holds the edge of the sheet while a wooden table and scattered scraps of ink-stained paper provide the backdrop, underscoring the preparatory nature of tattoo design work. The composition favors a vertical, elongated silhouette, with a sinuous serpentine body, flowing fins, and a cascade of scales that create a steady rhythm across the page. The artist uses fine-line technique to render crisp lines and subtle shading, producing depth without sacrificing the clean readability essential for a stencil. The dragon-koi motif blends traditional Japanese influences with contemporary tattoo sensibilities, a pairing rich in symbolism of perseverance, transformation, and balance — themes that lend themselves to meaningful tattoos. Pattern is evident in the interlaced curves, scale textures, and ornamental flourishes, which translate well to black-and-grey ink on skin, whether in a compact sleeve vignette or a larger leg or back piece. Although this remains a concept, the study demonstrates how line weight, negative space, and measured composition guide the translation from two dimensions to a wearable artwork. The design can be adapted to various body areas and scales, and it may incorporate motifs like lotus or infinity to deepen personal meaning, while maintaining the crisp tone of a fine-line tattoo. From an editorial perspective, this image serves as a strong case study in precision linework, illustrating how controlled contours and precise shading sustain legibility when inked. As an AI-generated tattoo project concept, it showcases how digital ideas can inform traditional motifs, reinforcing black-and-grey body art aesthetics and the breadth of custom tattoo design possibilities.