Marcus HillI’ve always thought of tattoos as permanent makeup, since they last forever and make you feel good about yourself. With that said, you’d want to find a tattoo parlor that won’t botch the job because having a bad piece permanently engraved in your skin isn’t a good thing.
When I got to the legal age, my friend, who was an “artist”, did my piece for free, and I thought it was the coolest thing in the world. Today, there isn’t a single time when I don’t cringe at the sight of it, so I asked my team to help me find the best tattoo parlors in Charlotte to cover it up.
Fast forward to today, and what was once a hideous piece turned into something I’m proud to show other people! Keep on reading to discover our top picks for the best tattoo shops in Charlotte and why you should trust them with your first or next ink!
What is the average cost of getting a tattoo in Charlotte?
Getting tattooed in Charlotte costs anywhere from $50 to $4,000 or more, depending on the size, complexity, the shop, and the artist’s experience.
1. Canvas Tattoo & Art Gallery
Services: Cover-ups, custom designs, realism, watercolor
Location: 3012 N Davidson St.
Contact: +1 980-299-2588
Business hours:
- Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday: 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Canvas Tattoo & Art Gallery immediately caught our attention due to its wide recognition, having been named the best tattoo shop in North Carolina and one of the top ones in North America.
At first, we were a bit bummed that they didn’t offer a straightforward scheduling system, where clients can choose their timeslot and artist. However, we discovered that the front desk staff wants clients to pair with the best artist possible based on their design and preferences.
Clients we spoke to also shared how the shop’s artists are great collaborators, as they put the original design in their best interest while also suggesting improvements. It’s also admirable that each team member specializes in different styles, including realism, watercolor, and fine line.
The parlor itself stands out from most shops in the city due to its homey vibes. It resembles a small cottage, and the interior is tastefully designed with bold colors, eye-catching paintings, and most importantly, comfy leather chairs.
Best customer service I’ve ever experienced at a tattoo shop
“My first time here was recently, and I will be going back! My experience from start to finish was the best customer service I’ve ever experienced at a tattoo shop.
The reception desk was so nice and courteous. They ensured that they paired me with the right artist for my vision of what I wanted. My tattoo artist, Sebastian, was amazing. He was so kind and patient and thorough.”
Tina Ponce, Google Review
Captured my vision perfectly
“Pandora is an amazing artist! I had an inspiration picture but wanted changes, and Pandora captured my vision perfectly! Already thinking about my next tattoos. Everyone in the studio is friendly. Truly a great experience for tattoo #6 and breaking a 7-year slump.”
Georgina Keil, Google Review
2. Tattoo Me Charlotte
Services: Watercolor, black and grey realism, surrealism, ornate
Location: 1440 S Tryon St #106
Contact: +1 704-774-6629
Business hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Tattoo Me Charlotte offers one of the most impressive portfolios in the city, featuring diverse styles such as watercolor and black-and-grey realism. We also like how these artists promote individuality and uniqueness rather than just slapping on an existing design on their clients.
Our interviewees noted that the artists walk their clients through every aspect of their tattoos, from color choices to placement and design. We also appreciate how they’d discuss the designs in motion when placed in joints and limbs that are usually twisted.
We also want to highlight the shop’s overall friendly and relaxing vibe, which is extremely helpful for first-timers. Its interior is a stark contrast to its brick exterior, featuring a cozy space with fairy lights and a comfortable common waiting area.
We also appreciate the staff’s helpfulness in helping clients find the artists best suited for their designs.
Our only gripe is that they’re only open five days a week, which could be troublesome, since some artists are fully booked months in advance.
Made me feel very comfortable
“I booked my first tattoo with JP, and I will continue to go to him for all my future tattoos. JP and all the other staff at Tattoo Me Charlotte were so professional and nice. They made me feel very comfortable, and both sessions were amazing experiences.
JP is insanely talented, and I’ve gotten many compliments. His line and detail work is out of this world. I can’t even express how happy I am. His services were well worth what I paid for. I highly recommend coming here.
The only downside is parking can get annoying (not the shop’s fault); however, anyone visiting should give themselves more than enough time to find a good parking spot.”
Ariel Dugger, Google Review
I’ve always left with amazing artwork.
“I have been seeing Stacy for years, and to see her flourishing as a business owner makes me so happy! I’ve gotten several tattoos from different artists in the shop, and I’ve always left with amazing artwork that people everywhere comment on.
I have worked with Stacy, Violet, Sami, Joe, and a few artists no longer with TMC (as of early 2024). Highly recommend Stacy and Violet, and I’m very impressed with Sami’s growth as an artist. I look forward to getting another piece from her sometime.”
Tori Sloan, Google Review
3. Black Cloud Tattoo and Piercing
Services: Realism, portraits, piercing, minimalism, custom art
Location: 11025 Carolina Pl Pkwy B24
Contact: +1 980-430-3091
Business hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Black Cloud Tattoo and Piercing is one of Charlotte’s most famous parlors, with multiple locations, including this one inside Carolina Place. This mall location makes it extremely accessible, but it slightly lessens the ambience.
Fortunately, the vibe inside is a complete 180 thanks to the friendly, welcoming artists, comfy waiting areas, and cool music. It’s also more accessible compared to others, as walk-ins are almost always available—plus, it operates seven days a week.
Speaking of artists, we also appreciate their specialization in different styles and the way they collaborate with each client.
Clients we spoke to shared that these artists are approachable when suggesting custom designs and that they patiently explain different styles to help them finalize their vision. We were also impressed at how quickly these artists work, without sacrificing quality.
The artists also do a great job of maintaining a hygienic workstation, following all sterilization steps and even wiping down chairs before and after every session.
Very friendly and professional
“Yesser had been doing an amazing job on my tattoos! He is very friendly and professional. He has been able to answer all of my questions, and I feel very confident in his knowledge and skill. His workspace is always clean and well-organized.
He listens to my concepts and creates amazing designs with them. I can’t praise him enough, and I highly recommend him!
My daughter has gotten 5 piercings in each ear. She’s had several people do them, and each one has been incredible. They are all so friendly and patient with her. Everything is clean and sanitary. It’s been a very positive experience every time.”
Christopher Boyd, Google Review
They made sure to get everything right
“My siblings and I went in for matching tattoos. It was a great experience! They made sure to get everything right. The place was friendly and clean.
The tattoo artists had great personalities, and the tattoo was done professionally and QUICK! Edwin was my tattoo artist…HIGHLY RECOMMEND!”
Shatawni Wright, Google Review
4. Seventh Sin Tattoo Company
Services: Micros, cover-ups, fine line, Japanese, portraits, realism, black and grey
Location: 3401 The Plaza
Contact: +1 980-299-3294
Business hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Our respondents recommended Seventh Sin Tattoo Company due to its consistent high-quality work. They also noted that it’s not the cheapest option in the city, but they keep coming back to it because they know their tattoos will turn out great.
We attribute this consistency to their team of talented artists with over a hundred years of experience. They specialize in different styles, like Japanese, realism, and portraits, but what they all have in common is their approachability, which is best shown during their consultations.
Clients we spoke to shared how they initially came up with a design, and their artists would respectfully make suggestions to take them to the next level. We also appreciate how much they value customizability as opposed to just having a lookbook of designs.
The studio is also praised for its inclusivity, welcoming people of all genders and ages. Plus, they always greet customers with a smile and strike up conversations, which clients have noted as being helpful in calming their nerves.
Surpassed anything I could have imagined
“Chris personally completed my tattoo, and his skills are mind-blowing! After sharing a few inspirational photos, what he designed surpassed anything I could have imagined. His artistry is refined, precise, and undeniably world-class.
Their new location is stunning—elegant, impeccably clean, and warmly inviting. Seventh Sin Tattoo sets the standard for excellence. Highly recommended.”
Lawrence Schoonmaker, Google Review
Makes you feel welcomed and relaxed
“This Tattoo parlor is fantastic. The atmosphere, the cleanliness, the artists, the manager, just fantastic! Jason runs this place great, makes you feel welcomed and relaxed. I met some of the artist and they were great.
Jorge Quintana is awesome! He did my wife’s and my work, and every step of the journey was just an absolute pleasure. Cannot wait to go back for my next tattoo.”
Dennis Morrison, Google Review
5. Made To Last Tattoo
Services: Traditional tattoos, cosmetic tattoos, piercings
Location: 129 N Poplar St.
Contact: +1 980-474-1872
Business hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Made To Last Tattoo is one of the top-recommended parlors among our respondents, primarily for its impressive roster of artists. These artists are highlighted as adding artistic depth to each tattoo, resulting in clean, unique, and beautiful results.
We were also surprised to discover that, aside from their already stacked roster, the shop invites guest artists from all over the world. This variety translates to more varied styles—plus, clients can have more choices depending on what type of design they want
Aside from being skilful, these artists are also kind, helpful, collaborative, and do a great job of helping first-timers overcome first-time jitters. Of course, talent like this doesn’t come cheap, but clients we spoke to said that their services are worth every penny.
Lastly, we must mention the parlour itself, which oozes character thanks to its historic old-house feel rather than a traditional edgy studio.
Everyone was so amazing
“A group of us ladies were traveling to North Carolina and wanted matching tattoos. Having reached out to a few shops to book an appointment, Derski, the shop manager, reached out and answered all my questions.
The customer service he provided and the vibe I got from him just over the phone were awesome. When we showed up, it was the same friendly atmosphere. He set us up with Mike Barnhill and Devin Ray, and they tattooed 6 of us.
We wanted matching, and that’s what we received. Everyone was so amazing. If you’re looking to get tattooed, this is the place to go. Tell them the “Cali crew” sent you.”
Erica Costa, Google Review
Amazing line work
“Wow! Can’t say enough good things about this place. I have been to many tattoo shops over the last 30 years, and this one really stands out! The owners are incredibly friendly and seem to love what they do.
Brandon did some amazing line work and Black work on me, and I am so happy with what he created!”
Josh Bramble, Google Review
