Ok, let’s just start by saying that we’re not all up in here telling you to race out and get a tattoo, but rather that it’s kind of a lifelong commitment so in the words of George Michael back in his Wham! days: if you’re gonna do it, do it right.
Finding a reputable studio is the best place to start because you know, good tattoo artists tend to work at good tattoo studios. And so, in the spirit of community service, we’ve asked around and uncovered a few of Perth’s best tattoo studios to help get you started.
At the end of the day, it really comes down to the individual artist, not the studio, though, so it's always a great idea to stalk each artist's Insta profile to get a good feel for their style before you move ahead with a booking.
Here are some of the best tattoo studios to get inked up at around Perth.
Artful Ink
Morley, Mount Lawley and Margaret River
has been in the biz since the late '90s and now have three locations in WA (and one in Bali), so yes, you can trust them. There are plenty of resident tattoo artists (as well as some spectacular guest artists) to choose from, depending on the ink you're after and where you're located, so go scope out which artist's style you like most over on Insta. are some of our faves!
Golden Panther Tattoo
Fremantle
is home to some of Perth's most sought after tattoo artists so rest assured you're in safe hands here. You'll need to do some digging to figure out which of those talented artists is more your vibe before you do anything, as bookings are made directly with individual artists. If that seems too hard, keep an eye out for one of their flash days.
Bloodlines Ink
North Perth
With thirteen tattoo artists currently on the books, there’s a high probability of finding the one that’s right for you at . They offer complimentary consultations, so if you’re in the market for a new custom piece all you have to do is pop in and have a chat. Keep an eye out on their social media for guest artists too.
Wright Street Collective
Kewdale
packs a big punch and is home to five regular artists; each with very unique styles. Here you can get anything from a tiny Bart Simpson to a traditional old school sleeve, depending on which artist you prefer. Bookings are by appointment only, and you can find contact details for each artist via their .
Adorned Empire
Fremantle
is a private, appointment-only studio tucked away behind an unassuming white door on Market Street. Upstairs you’ll be greeted by friendly vibes, good tunes and private tattooing rooms. There are plenty of artists working away here, so again, plenty of opportunities to find your perfect match.
Holdfast Tattoo
East Victoria Park
Located in East Vic Park, right near the Balmoral Hotel, has been around since 2006 and is home to five incredible artists. They offer complimentary 15-minute consultations to discuss your ideas with your chosen artist, but if you’re not sure which artist is for you, just pop in with your ideas and the receptionist will book you in with the right person for the job.
WA Ink Tattoo
Fremantle
Established in 1993, is a definite mainstay of the Perth tattoo scene, with thirteen artists currently working from their Fremantle studio. Pre-COVID they did accept the odd walk-in appointment, but right now you'll have to book ahead and leave your support person at home. All bookings come with a complimentary consultation to help nail down your perfect design. And if you make a bad decision, they also offer laser removal services.
Fineline Studios
Nedlands
Chasing one of those dainty minimal tattoos you've seen all over Insta, then you'll likely be looking for a fine line tattoo artist, which really is a skill all its own. Here in Perth, is one of the best, so don't be surprised if you struggle to get an appointment. All bookings can be made via .
Keen to explore the world of cosmetic tattooing? Go speak to Perth's brow angel at Ellie Dunne Collective.
Image credit: (Marina K. Foley in her Artful Ink studio in Mount Lawley)