Tattooist Min Zumi is renowned for permanently adorning his clients’ skin with patches that aren’t real fabric badges but are so authentically crafted that they evoke a double-take. Incorporating drop shadows and intricate lines that mimic the appearance of stitching, Zumi applies his unique style to a diverse range of pop culture-inspired subjects. From beloved video games like Banjo Kazooie to cherished storybooks such as Winnie-the-Pooh, Zumi transforms these iconic figures into collectible memorabilia that will forever resonate with their fans.

“A patch is akin to an emblem that reflects a person’s identity, affiliations, or passions,” Zumi shares with My Modern Met. “I’ve also delved into sticker tattoos, which follow a similar concept, showcasing our personalities and our playful or creative side.” Given the significant role of popular culture in our lives, books, video games, and television shows naturally emerge as popular choices for tattoos. “It’s common for me to create designs around characters and animations that hold a special place in our hearts.”

Zumi provides insight into his process for crafting these three-dimensional-looking body art pieces. “Patch tattoos are achieved through the meticulous application of countless thin lines of varying colors and shades, creating the illusion of hundreds of threads embedded in the skin,” he explains. “I employ shading techniques to give the impression that the patch is seamlessly sewn into the skin. The blending of vibrant colored inks with the natural skin tone results in an astonishing tattoo!”

In addition to creating patches, he also imagines famous figures as “sticker” tattoos.