Tattoos are definitely a thing-- and Pittsburgh is no exception to the tattoo craze.
More and more people are getting inked up each day because it’s a great way to show off your personality or to memorialize something that has a lot of meaning to you. No matter what type of tattoo you like — a good quote, an intricate designed sleeve, or a simple shape — Pittsburgh has a fantastic tattoo studio for you. While there are so many places in the ‘Burgh where you can get a tattoo, we’ve put together the top 8 studios that have the best artists around. The next time you’re thinking about getting your first tattoo — or adding to your collection — stop by any of these places for an amazing design and experience!
If someone you know is looking to get a tattoo, send them a GiftYa electronic gift card to any of the studios on this list. It is so easy to just choose a studio, pick an amount, and send it to them via a personalized text. What a great present for their birthday — or any day for that matter!
2895 W. Liberty Ave | Dormont | pittsburghtattoostudio.com
The Pittsburgh Tattoo Studio is a great place to get your first tattoo-- or continue to grow your collection! This studio is located in the busy business district of Dormont-- and has quickly become one of Pittsburgh’s favorite tattoo parlors. It’s probably due to the friendly and welcoming atmosphere-- where everyone is made to feel at home. If you’re nervous, the artists here will set you right at ease. They’ll also work with you to design the tattoo of your dreams.
The shop is bright and clean, and as soon as you walk in the door, you’ll know you’ve made the right decision to get a tattoo here!
“The studio is immaculate and we will definitely be back! If you're in Pittsburgh looking for tattoos, this is the place to go!!” -Yelp Review
2208 E Carson St. | South Side | southsidetattooshop.com
If you’re looking for experienced artists who care about making the best tattoo for you, look no further than South Side Tattoo. The owner of the shop was the first woman to open up a tattoo studio in Pittsburgh, and she has been at the top of her game ever since.
This shop is located in the South Side, and welcomes appointments as well as walk-ins — but they tend to get pretty busy — so booking in advance might be your best option.
There are a couple of artists for you to choose from and you can view their works in the shop as well as on social media before making a decision.
“Been there twice now, both times without an appointment, and everybody treated us very nice, and the work I had done was awesome, and best of all it was a very reasonable price.” - Yelp Review
1309 E Carson St. | South Side | carsonstreettattoo.wixsite.com/csts
Carson St. Tattoo is another tattoo studio in the South Side that’s been serving the people of Pittsburgh for years. The artists here pride themselves on their ability to work with you and together come up with an amazing design for your tattoo. They always want to make sure you’re satisfied with the design before any needle-work begins.
No matter whether you want a large, intricate tattoo — or something smaller and more discrete — these professionals will be able to bring your vision to life in vivid color or black and white.
“From the beginning, the owner and staff were super accommodating and professional. No matter what...I wouldn't get a tattoo anywhere else in Pittsburgh.” - Yelp Review
1410 E Carson St. | South Side | jesterscourttattoos.com
Jester’s Court Tattoo has been one of the most frequented tattoo studios in the South Side for years — their amazing designs and create artists keep the people of Pittsburgh coming back for more. Since 1991 this tattoo studio has been designing some of the best tattoos in Pittsburgh — people with tattoos from Jester’s Court seem to get compliments all the time.
The artists at this place take the time to get to know the person and the story behind their tattoo — which makes their experience even more personalized and comfortable.
“It’s been hard for me the past few years to find a permanent shop that does tattoo styles that I like and I'm so happy I finally found one. thank you guys for everything! 10/10 would recommend it.” - Yelp Review
Low Card Tattoo Studio is located in an unassuming shopping plaza in Brookline — but it has one of the best tattoo artists in Pittsburgh. The owner makes it a point to work with you and create a design that you will love — and will look amazing in ink.
Whether you’re getting your first tattoo — or this is one of many — this studio is a great option for creating a tattoo you’re going to love years down the road. It doesn’t matter if your idea is large or small — you’ll be pleased with the results at this studio!
“This is your go to shop. Had a very personal piece done here. Mike the owner was honored to be the artist. Took a personal approach you don’t see at all shops. Clean. Relaxed. Informative. Open minded. VERY professional.” - Google Review
5001 Penn Ave. | Lawrenceville | artisanpittsburgh.com
Artisan Tattoo seems to have it all-- amazing tattoo artists, great coffee, and some delicious food. Although not all located on the same floor-- these three items are available in the same building in Lawrenceville. There is also an art gallery that hosts artist events each month, as well as a boutique with handmade clothes and accessories.
It’s a great place to just come by and hang out-- and perhaps get a tattoo while you’re there! The tattoo artists are top notch and are trained in many styles, sure to suit whatever you had in mind!
“Can't recommend this place enough, good vibes, good coffee, good food, great tattoo artists, this is the place to be.” - Yelp Review
4319 Butler St. | Lawrenceville | roguetattoo412.com
Rogue Tattoo is another great option if you’re looking to get a tattoo in Lawrenceville. The shop has a couple of amazing artists — all of whom utilize clean practices with their tattoos — and are even trained in blood borne pathogens and CPR. This is good to know if you’re interested in getting your first tattoo — and might not know what to expect.
Check out some of their artists’ amazing work either in the shop or on social media — you’re definitely going to find something you like!
“The shop is full of original works and the movie collection is impressive. The shop is clean and you're guaranteed to have a solid experience.” - Yelp Review
4200 Brownsville Rd. | Brentwood | skindeeptattoogallery.com
Consider checking out the Skin Deep Tattoo Gallery if you’re interested in getting a tattoo. This studio has a couple of artists that would love to help design your perfect tattoo.
Either book an appointment to discuss the details — or walk in and the staff would be happy to assist you.
This place also offers specials throughout the week, so be sure to follow their social media and get in on some of the savings for your next tattoo!
“Great shop. Very talented and friendly artists. Enjoy working with you to make sure you get the exact tattoo that you're looking for.” -Google Review
4061 Penn Ave. | Lawrenceville | gypsytattooparlor.com
Located in Lawrenceville, Gypsy Tattoo Parlor is a popular, Romani-owned tattoo spot known for creating gorgeous custom designs for its customers.
This intimate and friendly studio operates mainly on an appointment basis, so make sure you schedule one before arriving. Many of the parlor’s artists specialize in different tattoo styles. Sometimes, Gypsy Tattoo Parlor even hosts traveling tattooers from other cities.
“Michelle is AMAZING. Seriously. If you want a beautiful tattoo and like to support wonderful local woman-owned businesses, LOOK NO FURTHER! I waited 3 months for an appointment with Michelle and I am SO happy I waited instead of settling for subpar ink. She specializes in fine line tattoos and is dedicated to making sure you get something you truly love! I got a beautiful, 8-inch tattoo of a plum blossom branch and couldn't be happier.” - Yelp Review
103 Smithfield St. | Downtown Pittsburgh | tattoo-pittsburgh.com
If you’re looking for a clean, vibrant tattoo, you’ll want to check out the Pittsburgh Tattoo Company. As you can see in the image above, the Pittsburgh Tattoo Company specializes in creating colorful and bold tattoos for customers.
Whether you want a full arm sleeve tattoo or a small tattoo on your wrist, you can work with your artist to create a design that faithfully reflects your vision. In addition to its tattoo services, Pittsburgh Tattoo Company also offers piercings!
“I went here recently to get a tattoo by Aaron and he did an amazing job. He offered a numbing cream that he could use to help ease the pain but I declined it I appreciated the offer though. He tattooed on me a death moth and a butterfly behind my ear. He was very professional and very detailed in his work.” - Yelp Review
2005 E Carson St. | South Side | inthebloodtattoo.com
In the Blood Tattoo is an award-winning tattoo studio located in the heart of South Side. On their website and Instagram page, you can find dozens of gorgeous tattoo designs. From simple ankle tattoos to elaborate back tattoos, you’ll find a wide variety of designs.
In the Blood Tattoo parlor understands that tattoos can be pretty expensive, which is why it offers multiple price plans for customers. Before going, make sure you check them out so you can get the best deal for both your vision and your budget!
“When looking around for where I wanted to get my first tattoo, I stumbled upon In the Blood and made an appointment with Justun. After getting my tattoo, I could not be more happy. The work I chose was detailed and came out beautifully, and Justun was so wonderful to work with. Everything was detail oriented and friendly. I will definitely be coming back here again for future pieces!” - Yelp Review
2130 E Carson St. | South Side | kyklops.com
Kyklops is another popular tattoo parlor located in the South Side neighborhood of Pittsburgh. Inside, you will be greeted with a relaxed and almost meditative atmosphere. Both the outside and inside cultivate a laid back, retro vibe for customers.
The parlor’s expert artists can create an array of beautiful and fascinating designs for you. You can flip through them on both their website and Instagram page. Before you go, you can even sign a digital waiver and pay a deposit for your tattoo online.
“I had a photo of the tattoo I wanted to get and the guy was very helpful with getting a mock up of It and changing the angle of where I wanted to get a tattoo. The guy who tattooed my was very friendly and talked to me but not too much that It was annoying. He also let two of my friends come with me since I was going to be there for a bit. Overall took about 45 mins to complete and the tattoo still looks beautiful and healed nicely!” - Yelp Review
When you’re ready to get that tattoo you’ve always wanted, consider checking out any of these fantastic tattoo studios. The artists here will work with you to design an amazing tattoo — and you’ll definitely be pleased with the results! What’s your favorite Pittsburgh tattoo studio? Let us know in the comments!
