Explore the Best Ink in Vermont
The word tattoo was borrowed from the Polynesians some time during the 18th century, but, by that time, painting or staining the skin wasn’t a wholly foreign concept to the Western world. In America, tattooing became popular among servicemen as early on as the Civil War era. Today, tattoos are widely accepted forms of self-expression, and in the Green Mountain state it’s no different. So just follow along as we count down the best tattoo parlors in Vermont.
Mountainside Tattoo & Piercing, Bellows Falls, VT
Mountainside is passionate about tattoos. They use only top-of-the-line inks and supplies, and their ink is bright and colorful. Plus they offer “countless designs to choose for,” or you can bring in your custom artwork for them to work from. With over 25 years of experience, they stand by their work, and if you are not happy, they will touch up your tat for free.
Yankee Tattoo, Burlington, VT
Known for their friendly and knowledgeable staff, Yankee Tattoo has been into ink since 1996. Welcoming walk-ins and custom work, they are also an extremely accommodating and versatile bunch. From old school tats like Celtic tribal symbols, fairies, and anchors to symbols, animals, and cover-ups, Yankee has been one of the longest-running studios in the state.
Good Ink Tattoo, South Burlington, VT
Established in 2006, Good Ink is a small team of artists who wish to provide “a professional experience and top quality with lasting works of art that inspire all clients.” Offering rich, colorful ink jobs featuring custom designs, each tattoo is a unique work of art. But for the real story, Good Ink invites you to come in and see what they can do first hand.
Body Blend Tattoo, Shaftsbury, VT
With spotless positive reviews to back up their work, Body Blend provides high-quality body art and piercings under “hospital-like, sanitary conditions.” The desire to create a comfortable and friendly tattoo parlor and community space, was rivaled only by the desire to show off how passionate they were about their art. So when Cindy and Larry Ross opened Body Blend in 1999 they both knew they needed to do things right by listening to their clients and becoming licensed in their craft.
Fortune Teller Tattoo, Burlington, VT
Established in 2009, Fortune Teller Tattoo specializes in “traditional Americana tattooing.” Owner Ivan Hess holds multiple degrees in art and also serves as an advisor to the Office of Professional Regulations, which regulates tattooing and body piercing in Vermont. Ivan has certified all his artists, who have art degrees in their own right, and they are all passionate and proud of their work.
Bury the Needle Tattoo, Barre, VT
In business for over 12 years, Bury the Needle offers “clean custom and flash tattooing.” With three talented artists to choose from, stopping at the Needle is like visiting your local barbershop. No fuss. And people are always stopping by to jibber-jabber in this friendly spot. They don’t specialize or namedrop here—they are just “solid artists doin solid work.” Stop by anytime because there is no appointment needed. Just show up with an idea, and you are well on you way to some awesome ink.
Washburn Tattoo, St. Johnsbury, VT
Washburn Tattoo is all about integrity and safety. They demand professionalism from all of their artists, and they want to assure folks that their designs take time. Tattoos are a very permanent thing and Washburn “takes the time to make sure it is perfect.” They also encourage clients to work closely with their artist to ensure custom designs turn out to be stunning expressions of self.
Tatunka Tattoo, South Royalton, VT
Artist Tom Ball has been tattooing since 1991. An artist by trade, he is a well-known in the Upper Valley for his painting, stonework, and woodworking. Tom adheres to avid health and safety measures, and, by all accounts, he is an exceptionally gifted artist who will cheerfully and helpfully work with you on your own design or help you to pick out one of his.
Faithful Few Tattoo & Body Piercing, Brattleboro, VT
Adam Vergobbe and Brett Caron decided to open a tattoo shop in 2013. Their goal was to bring a professional, family-friendly tattoo parlor to the area that featured excellent service and great art. Find custom tattoo designs and application services that welcomes both walk-ins and appointments. The atmosphere is both welcoming and professional with rocking tunes playing in the background.
Key Insights at a Glance
- Mountainside Tattoo & Piercing: Offers top-of-the-line inks and supplies with over 25 years of experience. They provide a vast array of designs or custom work with a guarantee of free touch-ups if you're not satisfied.
- Yankee Tattoo: Operating since 1996, this parlor is known for its friendly staff and versatility in styles ranging from old school to custom designs. Welcomes both walk-ins and appointments.
- Good Ink Tattoo: A small team dedicated to creating top-quality, inspiring tattoos since 2006. They specialize in colorful and custom ink jobs.
- Body Blend Tattoo: Known for their hospital-like sanitary conditions and high-quality art since 1999. They focus on creating a comfortable community space for their clients.
- Fortune Teller Tattoo: Specializes in traditional Americana tattooing with a staff of artists who hold art degrees. The owner, Ivan Hess, is an advisor to the Office of Professional Regulations.
- Bury the Needle Tattoo: Offers clean custom and flash tattooing in a friendly, barbershop-like atmosphere where no appointments are necessary.
- Washburn Tattoo: Emphasizes integrity and safety, ensuring that each tattoo is perfect and clients work closely with artists on custom designs.
- Tatunka Tattoo: Run by artist Tom Ball since 1991, known for his multifaceted art skills and adherence to health and safety measures.
- Faithful Few Tattoo & Body Piercing: Established in 2013, this shop aims to provide a professional, family-friendly environment with both custom designs and ready artwork, accommodating walk-ins and appointments.
