Top 10 Tattoo Shops in Ottawa
Tattoos are forever. If you’re getting one, don’t do it on a bet, out of peer pressure, or because you got blind-drunk and suddenly found yourself on a padded reclining chair.
Tattoos are uniquely permanent ways to tell people who you are without saying a word (more so if you tattoo that word on your forehead!). Every aspect of a good tattoo, from the colour to the design, can be yours and yours alone.
So think long and hard before getting one because you’re going to live with it for the rest of your life. While you’re at it, think about exactly where you’ll get your first tattoo in Ottawa.
How Much Does a Tattoo Cost in Ottawa?
Many tattoo artists will claim that a good tattoo isn’t cheap and that a cheap tattoo isn’t good. There’s some grain of truth to this even if it comes across as justifying a high price tag.
Cost is one of the biggest considerations during canvassing. Tattoo prices in Ottawa range from affordable to expensive, but hopefully, you can find a sweet spot between quality and affordability.
Just like spas, dental clinics, and beauty salons, tattoo shops could accept walk-ins. Given the current pandemic situation, however, it’s best to make an appointment first.
Doing this adds an extra layer of safety for you and your tattoo artist. It gives them ample time to sanitize and prepare all the equipment and tools for your inking session.
It also gives you the chance to ask the shop about tattoo prices. Existing tattoo flash designs are typically more affordable, while a custom tattoo has an expectedly higher price tag.
On average, the price of a small tattoo with a simple flash design can be as low as $50. It could go up to around $250 the more customized, intricate, and colourful it becomes.
You’ll also need to consider the size of your chosen tattoo and if the artist has to render it based on your original vision. Creating one from scratch makes it pricier than a generic design.
And yes, tattoo artists are artists, so they will need to be paid for their labour, skills, and output, as well. They could charge by the hour, or by how many sittings it would take to finish your tattoo.
To give you an idea of tattoo service fees, here’s a table breaking them down. The prices indicated are current estimates, but they could change without prior notice because of the pandemic.
| TATTOO SERVICE | PRICE |
| Tattoo design (from flash) | Tiny (below 2 inches) $30 – $90 Small (around 2 square inches of skin) $50 – $250 Medium (from 4-6 inches of skin) $250 – $450 Large (6 inches and up) $500 – $4000 |
| Tattoo artist fee (by skill level) | Experience: (1-3 years) $80 – $100 (5-10 years) $100 – $200 (10 years and up) $180 – $250 Popularity (awarded or featured) $200 – $600 |
| Tattoo design (customized) | Small $60 – $300 Medium $300 – $500 Large $500 – $5000 |
| Tattoo studio fixed rates | Hourly $50 minimum Per sitting $120 – $150 Flat rate per design $250 – $500 for medium tattoos |
| Tattoo location on the body (excluding cosmetic tattoo work for lips, eyeline, and eyebrows) | Finger $50 – $100 Wrist (including wraparound) $50 – $150 Ankle (including wraparound) $70 – $200 Foot $180 – $350 Collarbone $500 – $1000 Hip $500 – $1500 Calf $300 – $450 Thigh $350 – $4000 Shoulder $650 – $1000 Side $500 – $700 Back (full) $900 – $4500 Arm (forearm) $250 – $850 (half-sleeve) $1000 – $2000 (full-sleeve) $2000 – $4000 |
Please note that the average prices reflected above are taken from popular and reputable tattoo shops in Ottawa. These prices could change depending on the shop, location, and services you’ll end up choosing.
Top Tattoo Shops in Ottawa
By now, you should have a general idea of your tattoo budget along with the design and execution you have in mind. It’s time to shop for the best tattoo shops in Ottawa to make it come to life.
1. The Ink Spot
| SERVICES | Professional body piercing, custom tattooing, custom design consultation, body jewelry, featured guest tattoo artists, tattoo reworking and cover-ups |
| WEBSITE | https://theinkspot.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | 429 Bank St. Ottawa, ON, Canada K2P-1Y7 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | (phone or email appointments highly encouraged) +1 613-237-1331 [email protected] |
| OPERATING HOURS | By appointment only |
The Ink Spot is arguably one of the most popular tattoo shops in Ottawa and is known to strictly comply with age restrictions and sanitation laws. It’s been around since 2000 and received the 2021 Top Choice Awards from VoteForUs.
The shop boasts a talented roster of experienced tattoo and body modification artists. Together, the team can execute a wide range of styles from conventional to customized.
If you’re interested in getting a tattoo from The Ink Spot, they have a $100 minimum fee. A deposit is required upon agreement of an appointment date. The Ink Spot also charges clients an hourly rate if the designs are highly customized or larger than the usual.
Pros
- Practices COVID-compliant safety measures
- Minimum tattoo prices are affordable
- Ottawa Board of Health regulated and inspected
- Offers laser lightening services
Cons
- No walk-ins during covid
Customer Reviews
Check out what past clients have to say about getting their tattoos from The Ink Spot:
“Every time I go in I am greeted by the awesome and patient staff. The artists there are incredibly talented, friendly and so easy to talk to. I got my very first tattoo there and my artist (Kate) was so kind and accommodating. Feeling safe with your tattoo artist is a must and the whole environment there is a safe space!” – Evelyn Rae
“Had the pleasure of getting Adrian to clean up a piece from another shop that I was not happy with. Not only did he do an amazing job, but he was friendly and easy to get along with. I’ll be seeing him again for custom work next.” – Andy Morris
2. Gypsy Art House
| SERVICES | Mandala tattoos, Tattoos, Consultation, Flash Tattoo, Half & Full Sleeve, Mandala Tattoo, Tatouage Délicat, Tatouage Minimaliste |
| WEBSITE | https://gypsyarthouse.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 137 Avenue Gatineau Gatineau, QC, J8T4J7, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | [email protected] |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Saturday to Sunday: Closed |
We recently stumbled upon a hidden gem in the heart of Ottawa that’s got us buzzing with excitement: Gypsy Art House.
Gypsy Art House has got everything covered like a well-placed sleeve. Nestled in a prime location, this place is easily accessible, whether you’re strolling down the streets or cruising on your trusty two-wheeler.
These guys are like wizards wielding tattoo machines. The artists at Gypsy Art House are true maestros, transforming blank canvases into breathtaking works of art.
From traditional designs to mind-bending abstract masterpieces, they’ve got us covered. It’s like stepping into an art exhibition, except we left with a permanent piece of artwork on our skin.
Quality is paramount for us when it comes to getting inked, and Gypsy Art House excels in this department. The attention to detail is mind-boggling.
The lines are crisp, the shading is impeccable, and the colors are vibrant enough to make a peacock blush. These folks take their craft seriously, and it shows in the final product.
Tattoos are an investment, both in terms of money and personal expression. Fortunately, Gypsy Art House offers competitive prices without compromising on quality.
So, we splurged a little without breaking the bank. Our wallet thanked us, and so did your mirror!
Unfortunately, Gypsy doesn’t accept walk-ins. So if you want to get inked at this shop, give them a call and book an appointment first.
Pros
- LGBTQ-friendly
- Women-owned business
- Free consultations
Cons
- No walk-ins
Customer Reviews
“I highly recommend this tattoo shop! Marie tattooed my sister and I for the second time and we could not be more happy with the results! She pays attention to detail and is super professional. The shop is super clean, full of beautiful art pieces, and made me feel super zen. Although we were returning customers, Marie still took the time to explain the process and made sure we were comfortable with our choices. She takes the time to give us ideas for placement and to answer any questions we may have. We will definitely be coming back for more tattoos! Merci encore Marie!” — Melanie Couture
“A very professional and clean tattoo shop that is warm and welcoming to new and experienced tattoo enthusiasts. The ladies at the shop are amazing. I will definitely become a long term customer.” — Philip Richer
3. Silverline Tattoo and Body Piercing Studio
| SERVICES | Customized tattoos, body piercings, body jewelry, tattoo cover-ups, tattoo and piercings after-care |
| WEBSITE | http://www.silverlinetattoo.net |
| ADDRESS | 152 Rideau Street Ottawa ON K1N 5X6 CA |
| CONTACT DETAILS | (phone or email appointments highly encouraged) +1-613-231-5110 [email protected] |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Saturdays 1 PM – 6:30 PM Sundays 1 PM – 5 PM |
Silverline Tattoo does custom tattoos, body piercings and jewelry, cover-ups, after-care, and corrective work for clients. It currently employs three highly skilled tattoo artists and two experienced body piercers.
There’s a diverse range of both flash-based and customized styles and designs offered by the tattoo artists. Their combined specializations feature coloured, black and white, grey-scale, cartoons, American traditional, realistic, stippled or whip shading, and watercolour techniques.
Silverline Tattoo’s usual operating and appointment hours are indicated in the table above. However, it’s best to phone in or email ahead to verify if changing pandemic restrictions will affect the availability of your choice of artist or appointment date.
Appointments and custom work will require a deposit beforehand. Walk-ins are still welcome as long as COVID safety compliance is strictly observed by clients.
Pros
- Ottawa Board of Health regulated and inspected
- COVID-safety compliant walk-ins welcome
- A diverse range of tattoo styles and techniques
Cons
- Shorter hours on Sundays
- Operating hours subject to change with pandemic regulations
Customer Reviews
Want your first inking done by a Silverline Tattoo artist? First, learn about its past clients’ experience:
“Very clean, friendly and fast got a cover-up done by James and I’m in love with my tattoo… I will keep going that’s how pleased I was!” – Chrissy Whitehouse
“Daryl was an amazing tattoo artist, he made my design and it was perfect. Super professional and I really enjoyed my experience! It’s my second time to get a tattoo from Silverline in Ottawa and I am going back for my next tattoo!” – Marguerite D. Poitras
4. New Moon Tattoo
| SERVICES | Custom tattooing, body piercing, laser fading, tattoo cover-ups, design consultation, after-care |
| WEBSITE | https://www.newmoontattoo.com/ |
| ADDRESS | West End Studio 2920 Carling Ave. Ottawa, Ontario |
| CONTACT DETAILS | (phone or email appointments highly encouraged) (613)596-1790 [email protected] |
| OPERATING HOURS | Tuesday to Saturday 11 AM – 7 PM Closed on Mondays and Sundays |
What can you expect when you step inside Ottawa’s oldest tattoo shop? New Moon Tattoo has been around since 1982 and is known to churn out an old-school style flair with its body ink and modification works.
The New Moon crew is made up of veteran tattoo artists, piercers, and laser lightening technicians. This means that aside from traditional inking and body modification processes, there are after-care and cover-up services offered for clients who’ve had a change of heart.
With its nearly 40 years in the body modification business, it’s refreshing to see a tattoo shop that evolves with the times. As permanent as a tattoo initially seems, clients would be glad to know that designs they’ve regretted can be manually reworked or lightened by technology.
Note: The shop has sadly shuttered its doors for the time being due to COVID restrictions. However, there’s no doubt that New Moon Tattoo in Ottawa will return with a vengeance once it’s safe.
Pros
- Reasonable minimum and hourly rates
- A talented crew of tattoo artists, body piercers, and laser technicians
- Offers laser lightening and tattoo cover-ups
Cons
- Closed on Mondays and Sundays
- Operating hours subject to change with pandemic regulations
Customer Reviews
If you’ve shortlisted New Moon Tattoo for your inking session, you might want to read feedback from its clients:
“My piercer, Tim was amazing and he made me feel calm and at ease. He did my eyebrow piercing, walked me through everything and it is healing really well. He did it so well! Definitely going to go back and get pierced by him again!” – Kassidy Gilchrist
“Awesome place with amazing tattoo artists!! My tattoos are done by Lisa and I love them. Always happy with the result!” – Martine Lamoureux
5. Free World Tattoo
| SERVICES | Custom tattooing, body piercing, design consultation, body jewelry, |
| WEBSITE | http://freeworldtattoo.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 439 Churchill Avenue North Ottawa, ON |
| CONTACT DETAILS | (phone or email appointments highly encouraged) 613-238-2059 [email protected] |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Saturday 12 PM – 8 PM Sundays 12 PM – 6 PM |
The people behind Free World Tattoo and Piercing shop want to help you turn your body into a work of art. That’s no small feat, but with the guidance of its seasoned tattoo artists and piercers, it can be done.
There’s an amazing portfolio amassed by the crew, so far. Unique and customized tattoo designs come to life in black and white, grey-scale, full colour, realistic, micro-realistic, and a myriad of styles by its team of body modification artists.
Note: Free World Tattoo takes great care in providing a hygienic, friendly, and safe environment for its clients. That’s why the team has to shut down for a full month to help flatten the curve during the pandemic.
Email and phone inquiries are still encouraged, though. As soon as lockdowns are lifted and as long as safety measures are followed, there’s no reason not to get an awesome tattoo from Free World soon.
Pros
- Offers a diverse range of tattoo styles and designs
- Ensures high standards for safety and hygiene
- Offers free consultation
Cons
- The minimum and hourly rates are slightly pricier than others
- Shorter hours on Sundays
- Nostril, septum, lip, and tongue piercings might be temporarily unavailable for safety reasons
Customer Reviews
Can’t wait to get your tattoo at Free World soon? Check out what others have to say about it:
“Incredible artists and a really comfortable, friendly atmosphere. I have two tattoos from Kevin Gomez and I absolutely love them! I also have four piercings from Randy. She’s the sweetest lady and very professional. I highly recommend checking out this shop for your next tattoo or piercing.” – Laura Walker-McEwan
“My husband and I got a tattoo done today by Nate. Absolutely love our tattoos, great service, friendly and made us feel comfortable. Can’t wait to get our next tattoos!” – Kelly McHugh
6. Blue Blood Custom Tattoos
| SERVICES | Customized tattooing, body piercing, after-care, cover-ups |
| WEBSITE | https://www.bluebloodcustomtattoos.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 1255 Coldrey Ave, Ottawa, ON |
| CONTACT DETAILS | (phone or email appointments highly encouraged) [email protected] (613) 728-7272 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Tuesday to Saturday 12 noon – 6 PM Closed on Sundays and Mondays |
The Blue Blood Custom Tattoos team takes the time to learn about their clients’ ideas and vision for a new tattoo. The diverse roster of highly skilled artists then take the ideas and translate them into body art that will make anyone proud to show off.
It seems no design is impossible to execute at Blue Blood. A cursory glance at the shop’s portfolio shows every possible style and execution: New School, geometric, Neo-Traditional, illustrative, and nature motifs are done in grey-scale, full colour, and black and white.
Blue Blood is currently doing consultations via email and through the submission form on the website. Understandably, foot traffic has been reduced to accommodate only clients with appointments to comply with pandemic restrictions.
Please note that non-refundable deposits start at $100 once an appointment is made. This is to cover the time, effort, and maintenance of Blue Blood Custom Tattoos artists and the shop itself.
Pros
- Offers a wide range of customized designs and styles
- Offers after-care consultation and cover-up services
Cons
- Limited operating days and hours
- Only one re-book allowed per session
- The minimum tattoo cost is $130
Customer Reviews
If you’re thinking of getting an appointment with Blue Blood Custom Tattoos, read up on how other people rated their services:
“If you want a beautiful expertly crafted custom tattoo- this is the place to go! Cannot recommend this place enough! I will definitely be a repeat customer. Thank you!” – Marie-Claude MC Magnan
“Great environment with great people. All of the artists are incredible. Can’t wait for my next visit!” – Stephanie Boudrias
7. Black Label Ottawa
| SERVICES | Tattoo services |
| WEBSITE | https://www.blacklabelottawa.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 220 Terence Matthews Crescent, Ottawa ON K2M 0E2 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | [email protected] |
| OPERATING HOURS | By appointment basis only |
When it comes to ink, discerning patrons demand nothing but the best. At Black Label Ottawa, we’ve experienced firsthand what sets this tattoo shop apart from the competition.
Our journey with Black Label Ottawa began with a quest for unparalleled artistry.
From intricate designs to bold statements, their tattoo artists deliver masterpieces that speak volumes. With every stroke of their needles, they breathe life into your vision.
Convenience is king, and Black Label Ottawa reigns supreme. Our appointments were a breeze to schedule, and punctuality was their middle name.
In a world where time is of the essence, their commitment to our schedule did not go unnoticed.
Reputation is the cornerstone of trust. We had heard the whispers of their stellar reputation, and it’s safe to say they live up to the hype.
Walking into their studio, it’s evident why they’re the talk of the town. The sterile environment and friendly staff set the stage for a memorable experience.
Cost is a factor that often dictates decisions. Black Label Ottawa knows this and offers competitive pricing without compromising quality.
We found their rates to be fair and transparent, ensuring there are no surprises at the checkout.
But what truly separates Black Label Ottawa from the crowd is their dedication to customer satisfaction.
They go above and beyond to ensure your tattoo experience is not just memorable but exceptional. Our questions were met with knowledgeable answers, and our concerns were addressed promptly.
Sadly, they don’t offer promos yet. We suggest checking their website for other affordable deals.
Pros
- Exceptional artistry
- Convenient scheduling
- Outstanding reputation
- Competitive pricing
Cons
- No promos yet
Customer Reviews
“Black Label Ottawa exceeded my expectations! Their artists are true masters, and the whole experience was seamless.”
“I can’t recommend Black Label Ottawa enough. Their reputation is well-deserved, and I couldn’t be happier with my tattoo and the service I received.”
8. Ruby White
| SERVICES | Small Tattoos, Big Tattoos, and Tattoo Sleeves |
| WEBSITE | https://www.rubywhiteart.com/ |
| ADDRESS | Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | [email protected] |
| OPERATING HOURS | By appointment basis |
Our experience with Ruby White, the tattoo shop, was exceptionally positive. The services provided were not only diverse but also catered to our specific preferences. From custom designs to traditional artwork, Ruby White offered a wide range of tattooing options, ensuring a personalized experience.
Ruby White’s efficiency in handling the tattooing process was notable. The staff demonstrated a streamlined approach, managing appointments and walk-ins with ease. Our waiting time was minimal, and the overall process from consultation to completion was efficient and well-organized.
The quality of the tattoos produced by Ruby White exceeded our expectations. The artists showcased a high level of skill and attention to detail, resulting in tattoos that were both visually striking and professionally executed. The studio maintained a clean and sterile environment, emphasizing their commitment to quality and safety.
In terms of cost, Ruby White provided transparent pricing and options suitable for various budgets. We found their rates to be reasonable, considering the skill and expertise of their artists. The absence of hidden fees or surprises contributed to a straightforward and fair transaction.
Navigating the tattooing experience with Ruby White was comfortable and enjoyable. The artists actively engaged with us during the design process, ensuring our vision was accurately translated onto our skin. The friendly and approachable atmosphere at Ruby White created a positive environment for expressing our creativity through body art.
Pros
- Exceptional artistry
- Convenient scheduling
- Outstanding reputation
- Competitive pricing
Cons
- No promos yet
9. Inksession Inc.
| SERVICES | Different tattoo styles |
| WEBSITE | https://inksession.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | Ottawa, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | 613-745-3000 [email protected] |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday – Saturday: 11am – 8pm Sundays: 12pm – 6pm |
Our experience with Inksession Inc., the tattoo shop, was genuinely satisfying. The diversity of their services impressed us, offering a range of styles and artistic expressions. From intricate designs to simple symbols, Inksession Inc. showcased a versatility that catered to our individual preferences.
Inksession Inc. demonstrated impressive efficiency throughout our tattooing process. The scheduling was smooth, and our appointments were promptly honored. The organized and time-conscious approach by the staff minimized any unnecessary waiting, making our overall experience stress-free and enjoyable.
The quality of the tattoos provided by Inksession Inc. surpassed our expectations. The artists exhibited a remarkable level of skill, ensuring precision and attention to detail in every piece. The studio maintained a clean and sterile environment, emphasizing their commitment to top-notch quality and hygiene standards.
In terms of cost, Inksession Inc. presented transparent pricing, accommodating various budget ranges. We appreciated their upfront communication about costs, eliminating any surprises. The fair pricing structure, coupled with the skill of the artists, made the overall value proposition of Inksession Inc. commendable.
Navigating the tattooing journey with Inksession Inc. was a collaborative and enjoyable experience. The artists were approachable, actively listening to our ideas and preferences. The friendly atmosphere in the studio created a positive space for creative expression, fostering a sense of comfort during the tattooing process.
Pros
- Exceptional artistry
- Convenient scheduling
- Outstanding reputation
- Competitive pricing
Cons
- No promos yet
10. Futureskin Tattoo Studio
| SERVICES | Tattoo Services Body Piercing Microblading Henna Tattoo Laser Removal Hair Removal |
| WEBSITE | https://futureskin.com |
| ADDRESS | 198 Rideau Street, Ottawa, Ontario |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone: 1.613.562.8282 Email: [email protected] |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Saturday, 9AM – 11PM Sunday, 9AM 0 6PM |
Futureskin Tattoo Studio endeavours to bring clients’ visions to life through their tattoo services. The parlour is home to several talented tattoo artists, all of whom have unique specialisation and styles, which makes it possible for clients to get their desired tattoo regardless if it’s simple, elaborate, coloured, or not.
Moreover, the diverse range of artists allows Futureskin to accommodate several clients at a time.
It’s worth noting that Futureskin Tattoo Studio offers more than sessions for permanent tattoos. The parlour also offers henna tattoos for those who can’t commit quite yet, as well as microblading for those interested in long-lasting makeup.
Aside from these, Futureskin Tattoo Studio also provides body piercing services, laser removal, and hair removal. Every service is done by trained and experienced professionals, which should give future clients some peace of mind when coming in.
Do note that some of their services can get a bit expensive, so make sure you’ve brought sufficient budget with you.
While walk-ins are welcomed, booking an appointment is encouraged to ensure that clients and their desired artists have the same exact schedule.
Pros
- Artists can do a wide range of styles
- Offers microblading and henna tattoos
- Piercing services available
Cons
- Some services are pricey
Customer Reviews
“I recently had a tattoo done by Justin. Justin took my vague description of what I wanted and quickly created exactly what I didn’t know I wanted. Justin was patient and accommodating when I requested any changes. Justin was thoughtful, asking often if I needed a break. This being only my second tattoo, I appreciated him explaining everything he was going to do before actually doing it. I am beyond happy with my tattoo and would highly recommend Future Skin. 🤗”
“Thanks so very much Juan for the amazing angel wings of my husband who passed away 6 years ago with cancer .. I will feel his wings on me forever .. it’s comforting and also a first tattoo 💞.. wonderful experience so I’ll see you again Monday 😊”