10 Best Tattoo Shops in Kansas City, MO: Where Art Meets Expression
Introduction
Tattoos are an art form that has become very popular in recent years. People use tattoos to express themselves, tell stories or show support for a cause. Kansas City has a thriving tattoo industry, with many talented artists and unique shops offering custom designs.
Criteria for Selection
To create this list, we looked at several factors. We considered the artists' skill and experience levels, the range of styles offered, shop cleanliness, customer service, and price point. Our goal is to provide you with a comprehensive list of the 10 best tattoo shops in Kansas City.
1. Illusion Ink
Overview
Illusion Ink is located in the Crossroads Art District of Kansas City. This shop has been in business for over 15 years and prides itself on creating custom designs for each client. They offer a wide range of styles, from traditional to watercolor, and specialize in cover-up tattoos.
The Artists
The artists at Illusion Ink have over 75 years of combined experience. They are skilled in various styles, ensuring clients can get the tattoo they want. They work one-on-one with clients to ensure they are happy with the design before the appointment.
Cleanliness and Customer Service
Illusion Ink has excellent customer service, and clients appreciate how clean and sterile the shop is. They use disposable equipment and keep everything organized. The artists explain aftercare instructions thoroughly to the client.
Price Range
Illusion Ink's pricing ranges from $100-150 an hour. The price includes all drawing, setup, and equipment, and requires an hour or two for designs up to 8 x 11 inches.
2. Mercy Seat Tattoo
Overview
Mercy Seat is one of the most renowned tattoo shops in Kansas City, located in the Westport area. They specialize in intricate designs and cover-ups.
The Artists
The artists at Mercy Seat are known for their ability to create fine lines and delicate details. They have diverse portfolios that show their expertise in many styles, including Japanese traditional and blackwork.
Cleanliness and Customer Service
The shop's cleanliness is top-notch, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. The artists take the time to discuss designs and provide guidance if needed. They also make sure the client is comfortable during the process.
Price Range
The hourly rate at Mercy Seat ranges from $120-160 with a non-refundable deposit to secure the appointment. They have a minimum charge of $100, and every piece's cost varies based on its size, complexity, and the location on the body.
3. Mind's Eye Tattoo
Overview
Mind's Eye Tattoo is located in North Kansas City and has been providing customized tattoos since 2014. They offer a friendly and comfortable environment for clients to get inked.
The Artists
The artists at Mind's Eye Tattoo possess diverse skillsets, working in many different styles, including realism, new school, and illustration. They have excellent customer service and take the time to ensure clients are happy with their designs.
Cleanliness and Customer Service
The shop is immaculate and features stunning artwork on the walls. The staff is warm and offers great advice on design and placement. They clean and sanitize the machines and working areas between every session, ensuring an excellent experience for the next client.
Price Range
Mind's Eye Tattoo offers a competitive price point with an hourly rate of $120-150 or $100 for smaller pieces. They take a $50 deposit per hour to secure the appointment.
4. Gut Check Ink
Overview
Gut Check Ink is located in the heart of the West Bottoms and provides traditional tattoos as well as custom designs.
The Artists
The artists at Gut Check Ink specialize in traditional tattoos, creating bold designs that stand out. They also offer custom designs to their clients, providing a range of styles to choose from.
Cleanliness and Customer Service
The shop is clean and laid-back, with friendly staff who provide excellent customer service. The artists are approachable and take the time to understand what their clients want, ensuring a personalized experience.
Price Range
Gut Check Ink's pricing varies based on the size and complexity of the design. They charge $150 an hour and a $50 non-refundable deposit fee. The prices start at $50 for small tattoos.
5. Valhalla Tattoo
Overview
Valhalla Tattoo is located in Waldo and provides clients with unique tattoo experiences. They specialize in darker subject matter and illustrative style tattoos.
The Artists
The artists at Valhalla are known for their unique designs, including pop culture references and original artwork. They offer custom work for clients who want something different and specialize in black and grey tattoos.
Cleanliness and Customer Service
The shop is clean and well-maintained, with great customer service. The artists go above and beyond to make sure clients feel comfortable during their sessions.
Price Range
Valhalla Tattoo's rate is $150/hour, with a $60 deposit fee required to secure an appointment. Smaller tattoos can be as low as $50-100 depending on the complexity of the design.
6. Windhorse Tattooing and Art Gallery
Overview
Windhorse is located in the Crossroads Art District and is a unique space that combines an art gallery with a tattoo shop. They offer custom and fine art tattoos.
The Artists
The artists at Windhorse specialize in fine art tattoos, creating intricately detailed designs that are one-of-a-kind. They offer experiences such as handpoke tattoos and live music events.
Cleanliness and Customer Service
The shop is clean and welcoming, with friendly staff and exceptional customer service. The space features exhibitions from artists worldwide that clients can browse while waiting for their appointment.
Price Range
Windhorse's rates start at $150/hour, with a non-refundable deposit of $50 to secure the appointment. Designs of small sizes are available for as low as $80.
7. Aries Tattoo Studio
Overview
Aries Tattoo Studio provides tattoo services in the Northeast area of Kansas City. They have been in business for over 15 years and offer various styles of tattoos.
The Artists
The artists at Aries Tattoo Studio have experience in many styles, including black and grey, traditional, and new school. They take pride in offering custom artwork that matches clients' requests accurately.
Cleanliness and Customer Service
The shop is clean and cozy, with an atmosphere that makes clients feel at home. The staff is accommodating and provides thorough aftercare instructions upon completing the tattoo.
Price Range
The hourly rate at Aries Tattoo Studio ranges from $100-150, and they require a $60 or up deposit depending on the sessions' lengthiness. The minimum charge is $50 for the smallest tattoos.
8. Brookside Tattoo Company
Overview
Brookside Tattoo Company is located in Kansas City's Brookside area, providing quality customizations for clients.
The Artists
Their skilled artists can replicate almost any design, and they also offer unique, customized tattoos. Their specialties are watercolor and realism tattoos.
Cleanliness and Customer Service
Rather than the typical sterile environment usually found in tattoo shops, Brookside Tattoo brings a relaxed vibe that keeps clients coming back. Their friendly managers explain the process and answer questions before booking an appointment.
Price Range
The hourly rate starts at $150, with a required deposit of $50. Although prices are slightly higher, they assure customers their safety, customization quality, and personalized customer service are worth the investment.
9. Strange Brew Tattoo Company
Overview
Strange Brew Tattoo is located in Lee's Summit and has been providing tattoo services since 2015.
The Artists
The artists at Strange Brew Tattoo specialize in black and grey, new-school and Neo-traditional tattoos. They offer both custom and flash designs that appropriately embody a client's chosen style.
Cleanliness and Customer Service
The shop is clean and inviting, complete with a waiting room stocked with complimentary coffee and tea. The staff and artists maintain excellent communication with clients and provide comprehensive aftercare instructions.
Price Range
Strange Brew Tattoo charges an hourly rate of $150, and they require a deposit of $50 to schedule the appointment. Minimum charges begin at $60 for the smallest designs.
10. Oceanic Tattoo
Overview
Oceanic Tattoo has two locations in Kansas City: one in the Country Club Plaza area and another in Independence. Since 2007, this tattoo studio has been providing quality tattoos on bodies throughout KC.
The Artists
Oceanic tattoo artists are experienced and efficient in the styles of traditional, tribal, and realistic tattoos. Their vast portfolio includes intricate designs of all sizes for all ages.
Cleanliness and Customer Service
Both locations maintain high standards of cleanliness, excellent customer service, and exceptional attention to detail. They use a needle-only policy, ensuring their customers' health and satisfaction.
Price Range
The hourly price range depends on the artist and their experience level; however, it usually starts at $140-$155. Deposit fees vary based on sessions and the artist's consultation. The smallest design cost begins at $40.
Conclusion
Kansas City has a diverse tattoo scene that offers clients a variety of styles to choose from. We believe that the 10 shops mentioned above provide high-quality tattoos and excellent customer service. Before settling on a shop, it's always good to research their previous work and consult with the artist to ensure they understand what you want.
| Shop Name | Location | Styles Offered | Cleanliness & Customer Service | Hourly Rate | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illusion Ink | Crossroads Art District | traditional, watercolor, cover-up | Excellent | $100-150 | Varies |
| Mercy Seat Tattoo | Westport | Japanese traditional, blackwork, cover-up | Excellent | $120-160 | Varies |
| Mind's Eye Tattoo | North Kansas City | realism, new school, illustration | Excellent | $120-150 | Varies |
| Gut Check Ink | West Bottoms | traditional, custom | Excellent | $150 | Varies |
| Valhalla Tattoo | Waldo | black and grey, illustrative | Excellent | $150 | Varies |
| Windhorse Tattooing and Art Gallery | Crossroads Art District | custom, fine art | Excellent | $150 | Varies |
| Aries Tattoo Studio | Northeast Kansas City | black and grey, traditional, new school | Excellent | $100-150 | Varies |
| Brookside Tattoo Company | Brookside | watercolor, realism | Excellent | $150 | Varies |
| Strange Brew Tattoo Company | Lee's Summit |
Thank you for taking the time to explore our list of the 10 best tattoo shops in Kansas City, MO! We hope that this article has provided insight into the tattoo culture thriving in this city, and perhaps even inspired you to take the plunge and get some new ink. Whether you're a seasoned veteran of the tattoo community or a newcomer to the art form, Kansas City has something to offer everyone. From high-end, luxury tattoo studios to more laid-back and affordable options, there's no shortage of talented artists and unique styles to choose from. We encourage you to visit each of the tattoo shops on our list and find the one that speaks to you. Remember, getting a tattoo is a personal expression of your individuality and should be done with care and consideration. So, do your research, talk to the artists, and above all, have fun! People Also Ask About 10 Best Tattoo Shops in Kansas City, MO: Where Art Meets Expression
The best tattoo shop in Kansas City, MO is subjective, as personal preferences vary. However, some of the top-rated tattoo shops in Kansas City are Mercy Seat Tattoo, Windhorse Tattooing and Art Gallery, and Catalyst Arts Collective. The cost of a tattoo in Kansas City depends on various factors such as size, design complexity, and artist experience. On average, a small tattoo can cost around $50-100, while a larger tattoo may cost upwards of $500 or more. It's best to make an appointment for a tattoo in Kansas City to ensure that the artist can accommodate you. Some shops may accept walk-ins, but it's always best to call ahead and schedule a time. When searching for a tattoo shop in Kansas City, look for cleanliness, artist portfolios, and customer reviews. It's also important to ensure that the artist is licensed and follows proper safety protocols. Yes, most tattoo shops in Kansas City will allow you to bring your own design for a tattoo. However, it's always best to consult with the artist beforehand to ensure that the design is feasible and can be executed properly. Some popular tattoo styles in Kansas City include traditional American, black and grey, realism, and watercolor. However, many artists in Kansas City are versatile and can create custom designs based on individual preferences. The time it takes to get a tattoo in Kansas City depends on the size and complexity of the design. A small tattoo can be completed in as little as 30 minutes, while a larger tattoo may take several hours or multiple sessions. Getting a tattoo can be uncomfortable, but the level of pain varies depending on individual pain tolerance and the location of the tattoo. Some areas, such as the ribs or feet, can be more painful than others. After getting a new tattoo in Kansas City, it's important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by the artist. This typically involves keeping the tattoo clean and moisturized, avoiding direct sunlight, and refraining from swimming or soaking in water for a period of time. Yes, there are several options for tattoo removal in Kansas City, including laser removal and surgical excision. However, tattoo removal can be costly and may not always be completely effective. |