5 Melbourne Tattoo Studios For Ink Lovers

Tattoos may only be skin deep, but a carefully considered and immaculately executed design can resonate a lot deeper. If you’re thinking about getting inked up, then the first step after deciding on the piece is to research a studio in your area and artists that specialise in the style you’re seeking. Thankfully, here in Melbourne, there are plenty of parlours to choose from and a medley of artists that specialise in a variety of styles. Here are five Melbourne tattoo studios for ink lovers.

1. Third Eye Tattoo

Third Eye Tattoo

Since 2007, Third Eye Tattoo has been specialising in a variety of styles including geometric, traditional, Japanese, realism, watercolour, sacred art, portrait, and script. The studio has seven resident artists, and as of mid-October, Irishman Dan Kelly will return to ink up Melburnians with his intricate pattern work. Third Eye Tattoo can also assist you with laser removal, and the artists won’t shy away from cover-ups and reworks. Walk-ins are welcome; however, it’s best to book a consultation or appointment.

Third Eye Tattoo, 700 Nicholson St, Fitzroy North VIC, Australia, +61 3 9486 1333

http://instagram.com/p/BKvCjgFhhM8/?taken-by=third_eye_tattoo

The Black Mark

Home to a motley crew of exceptionally talented artists including Mick Squires, Ben Laukis, Kitty Dearest, Fabz, Crispy Lennox, Ben Thomas and Hoko Sciascia, The Black Mark is the place to go if you’re looking for unbelievably lifelike portraiture and images that will leap off your skin. The studio is filled with antique curiosities, haunting artwork and includes a green chesterfield lounge, antique desks, a giant X to mark the spot and a ships wheel in the ceiling void. Strictly by appointment only, The Black Mark has no phone number, and their location is a secret to all but their clients – all that’s known is that Northcote marks the spot.

http://instagram.com/p/BJY8_pWhcjN/?taken-by=theblackmarktattoo

2. Chapel Tattoo

Chapel Tattoo

In 1994, tattooists Jane Laver, Andrew McLeod and Dave McAleese opened Chapel Tattoo, and since then, their team has grown to 13 artists who specialise in traditional, Japanese, portrait, tribal and eastern styles. The parlour holds a wide selection of existing designs and can offer advice to clients wanting custom work. Those after a custom piece are encouraged to bring a hard copy of the design. Chapel Tattoo also offers laser removal. With the philosophy that ‘no job is too big or too small,’ Chapel Tattoo has gained a reputation as a welcoming and friendly parlour that combines high-quality work with a can-do attitude.

Chapel Tattoo, 155 Chapel Street, Windsor VIC, Australia, +61 3 9521 1202

http://instagram.com/p/BKsQ8YzAgIK/

3. Blue Lady Tattoo

Blue Lady Tattoo

If tattoo parlours conjure up images of back alley shops with dingy lighting, then you’re in for a pleasant surprise when you visit Blue Lady Tattoo. Located in an airy loft warehouse in Rankins Lane, the studio is exposed to ample natural light, and the brick walls are adorned with tattoo designs – there’s even a Jacuzzi in the bathroom. There are eight resident artists that specialise in traditional and retro designs, and walk-ins are welcome.

Blue Lady Tattoo, Level 1, 2 Rankins Lane, Melbourne VIC, Australia, +61 3 9972 3371

http://instagram.com/p/BCCUOPcmLq4/

4. Dynamic Tattoo

Dynamic Tattoo

Dynamic Tattoo was opened in 1991 by Trevor McStay and now accommodates five artists with more than 60 years of experience between them. The studio has also welcomed a range of international guest tattooists, and the team has even exhibited in the National Gallery of Victoria. From Japanese and classic to illustrative and traditional American designs, Dynamic Tattoo lives up to its name, and the brilliant artists can also modify, rework and cover up old tattoos. Don’t be put off by the long haired masks hanging in the studio; Dynamic Tattoo isn’t a scary place – it’s a place where ideas become reality.

Dynamic Tattoo, 71 Swan Street, Richmond VIC, Australia, +61 3 9428 0444

http://instagram.com/p/BJgn578jSNE/

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