Out in the westside resides a collective of unique tattoo studios and an even more diverse group of artists. The Perth tattoo and body art scene has continually pushed the boundaries of design creativity. The scene has grown so much in recent years that many tatt addicts are flying across the states to acquire new work.
Although it’s the artist that makes the art come to life, it’s the studio that forms a great artist. From apprenticeship to full-blown professionals, we’ll cover the leading tattoo studios that are pushing the envelope in Perth. In no particular order, let’s dive into it.
1. Lost City Tattoo
Spearwood
Just south of Fremantle is the tattoo haven known as Lost City. Seven artists and the occasional guest ink master call this parlour home. They are all about providing a great experience for their clientele, and if you want something custom then give them a call.
The team will work with you to bring your concept to life and will guide you through to aftercare. If it’s your first piece of ink, Lost City might be the best place to get started.
2. Artful Ink
Morley, Mount Lawley and Margaret River
From humble beginnings to an international ink empire, Artful Ink has been a Perth staple since the late 90s. In an overwhelmingly male-dominated industry, founder Paulo Martino was one of the first in the city to take on and promote female artists in Western Australia. Over time the brand took off and you can now find Artful Ink studios across multiple locations, including a Bali studio with international guests on rotation.
They’re all about good vibes and a judgement-free atmosphere here. If you’re new or seasoned to tattooing, you’ll be in good hands with any of their artists.
3. Holdfast Tattoo
East Victoria Park
Across the river lies a fun group of tattoo artists willing to experiment with whatever you throw at them. The group at Holdfast Tattoo is down-to-earth, friendly, and doesn't mind a challenge.
For conceptual work, 15-minute consultations are free and their receptionist will line you up with the artist who can best bring your idea to life. Keep in mind that wait times vary across each artist in their roster.
4. Legacy Studios
Perth CBD
This studio has found the sweet spot between quality ink work, and amazing customer service. With countless 4 and 5-star reviews, Legacy Studios has cultivated a welcoming atmosphere that keeps clients coming back. Not to mention Kendrick Lamar got back to back tatts here on his last tour of Oz.
Four talented artists and one special guest currently fill the roster at this parlour. Although aftercare services are limited, they are more than happy to provide advice for you to implement at home.
Walk in or call for a consultation with their staff. They also have discounted rates for full-day sessions.
5. WA Ink Tattoo
Fremantle
Hop over to Fremantle to visit the inking experts at WA Ink Tattoo. With over 10+ artists working out of this humble parlour, you’re sure to find an artist who can turn your design into a reality. Established in the early 90s, this parlour has remained one of the top spots in the area for decades. Consults come free with every booking.
Head over to their insta stories to learn more about their artists and the techniques they specialise in.
6. Wright Street Collective
Kewdale
Always by appointment and always fun, this collective of Perth ink masters doesn’t take themselves too seriously. That’s not to say they can’t come up with some really intricate designs, which they create almost effortlessly. They also don’t fear using a bit of colour and are willing to flex their skills across a variety of styles. A true collection of ink masters, indeed.
A bit more personal than most parlours, bookings are made directly with the artist. Do a bit of research on their crew before shooting out a DM to your preferred artist. If you want a bright pop-culture piece, we recommend Darcie.
7. Fineline Studios
Nedlands
The name says it all. Fineline Studios specialises in the finer things in life. Namely, the finest, most precise lines you’ll see in Perth. Emma is a master of the minimal, using the steadiest hand to produce her complicated designs.
Although fine-line tattoos appear simple at first glance, the margin for error is significantly higher in this style. Compared to traditional tattooing that uses heavy shading, mistakes are completely obvious in this minimalist style.
If you want a tattoo in this style, your best bet is to reach out to a specialist like Emma. Beginner tip: if you’re not good with pain, fine-line tatts are relatively painless compared to traditional tattoos.
8. Bloodlines Ink
North Perth
Custom tattoo specialists are never in short supply at Bloodlines Ink. They welcome any concept or challenge. And with 10 artists on the roster, you won’t have trouble finding someone who knows your style. Consults are 100% free and absolutely required for all bookings no matter the size and scope of your piece.
If you’re in the area give these guys a buzz. Unlike most studios, they’re open every day ‘til late.
9. Primitive Tattoo
Perth CBD
Last but most certainly not least, are the masters of the craft at Primitive Tattoo. Lifelong students of the game, the artists here should be called architects for the way they incorporate design into the human form. Deeply respectful and well-versed in tattoo tradition, the artist here will guide you on every step of your tattoo journey.
Understanding the importance and permanence of tattooing, they take great care in helping you land on a design that you are comfortable with. They also do piercings.
Head to their website or walk in to get started on your next ink project. They’ll line you up with the best artist to get the job done.
These 9 studios are all great places to get started on your inking journey. Start with the one closest to you, and we’re sure you’ll link up with an artist who can help bring your vision to life.
