William “Taylor” Wirthlin, a Wisconsin-based tattoo artist, has created a unique niche in the local tattoo scene by specializing in the traditional Japanese art of Tebori, a hand-poked tattooing technique. At his newly opened private studio on Milwaukee’s Upper East Side, Wirthlin, a tattoo veteran, brings to life intricate designs using bamboo or metal rods, a skill few in the area possess.
Wirthlin, known for his eclectic style and distinct approach to tattooing, was found in his studio recently, seated cross-legged on a traditional Japanese floor mat. Beside him, a chilled bottle of Coca-Cola and a metal tray filled with vibrant inks in shades of orange and yellow added to the atmosphere. With his ink-covered arms, thick clear-framed glasses, and a laid-back outfit of nylon pants and loafers, Wirthlin described his style as “business casual.”
In the air, the scent of incense and freshly brewed herbal tea blended with the familiar odors of rubbing alcohol and latex typical of a tattoo parlor. On the wall, Sofia Coppola’s Lost in Translation played softly on an old Toshiba VHS player, contributing to the studio’s calm and meditative vibe.
Wirthlin was in the midst of tattooing a young woman’s upper arm, skillfully using the Tebori method. The process involved threading a curved rod of needles into her skin, drawing droplets of blood with each precise movement. For Wirthlin, the faint popping sound that accompanied each needle’s removal was a sign of quality work. He explained that this sound is critical in Tebori, a centuries-old technique originating in Japan, where tattoos are hand-carved into the skin in much the same way a printmaker would carve wood.
The tattoo Wirthlin was working on—a Japanese cherry blossom with vivid orange petals and a yellow center—was symbolic. Cherry blossoms, which bloom briefly each spring, are revered in Japan for their ephemeral beauty, representing the fleeting nature of life, a theme traditionally associated with the Samurai’s short but colorful life. The tattoo served as a poignant reminder to live life fully.
Wirthlin, who grew up in West Greenville, South Carolina, has been dedicated to the art of tattooing from a young age. Raised by his grandparents, he was introduced to tattoos early on, with his grandfather, who had tattoos of his own, drawing designs on young Wirthlin. One of his most cherished tattoos today—a dagger on his upper left arm—was created by his grandfather at the age of 90, replicating a design he once sketched on Wirthlin during his rebellious youth.
As a child, Wirthlin was drawn to counter-culture, including skateboarding, punk music, and graffiti. He recalled the thrill of tagging freight trains with spray paint at just 12 years old, believing that the graffiti he discovered was an untouched relic from the ‘80s. His passion for self-expression continued to grow, and at the age of 15, Wirthlin received his first tattoo from an ex-convict, known as Snake Eyes, who tattooed the word “Carolina” on him out of a trailer using rudimentary equipment.
By 16, Wirthlin’s obsession with tattooing led him to purchase his first tattoo kit from a local pawn shop. Despite the poor quality of the kit, which came with used needles and ink left in the box, Wirthlin was eager to start practicing. He and his cousin initially tattooed potatoes before transitioning to willing local skateboarders who trusted the young artist.
At 21, Wirthlin moved to New York City, where he landed his first professional tattooing job. It was there he honed his skills, learning to refine his technique and navigate the challenges of working in an intense and competitive environment. Wirthlin reflected that, early in his career, one of the most crucial skills he developed was how to handle mistakes—an inevitable part of learning the craft.
Today, Wirthlin’s commitment to mastering traditional techniques like Tebori sets him apart from many of his peers in Milwaukee. His new studio is a testament to his dedication to the craft, and it reflects his lifelong passion for tattooing and the artistry that has shaped his journey.
Related topics: