Matthew TremblayEver since I saw Angelina Jolie’s tattoos, I’ve been totally hooked on getting inked myself. Tattoos are a cool way to show off your passions and beliefs, and picking the right studio and artist is key to expressing yourself correctly through ink.
Different artists have their own unique styles, so even something as common as a skull tattoo can look very different depending on who does it.
After doing some research and asking around, I’ve put together a list of the best tattoo studios in Halifax, each with its own aesthetics. Who knows, maybe we’ll run into each other while getting inked!
| How much do tattoo studios charge in Halifax? Tattoo studios in Halifax charge between $100 and $250 per hour. The final cost depends on factors like the size of the tattoo, how detailed it is, and how long it takes to complete. |
How We Chose the Best Tattoo Studios in Halifax
1. Sin on Skin Tattoo Studio
Website: http://www.sinonskin.ca/
Address: 5239 Blowers St
Phone: +1 902-446-6600
Operating Hours:
- Closed on Sunday
- Monday to Saturday: 12–6 PM
Located in the heart of Halifax, Nova Scotia, on the Iconic Pizza Corner, Sin on Skin Tattoo Studio has established itself as a premier destination for tattoo enthusiasts. Known for its artistic flair, commitment to quality and community; the studio offers a welcoming environment where clients can explore their unique visions and turn them into stunning pieces of art. The talented artists at Sin on Skin bring a diverse range of styles and expertise, from intricate line work, vibrant watercolor designs, full realism to beautiful micro art. Each tattoo is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every piece is a true reflection of the client’s personality and story.
The studio prioritizes hygiene and safety, adhering to the highest standards in the industry, which give clients peace of mind during their tattoo experience. Beyond just a place to get Inked, Sin on Skin fosters a community of creativity and self expression. The team encourages open communication, helping clients to collaborate closely on their designs and concepts. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned collector, the artists take the time to understand your vision and work with you to create something truly unique.
Sin on Skin Tattoo Studio is not just about tattoos it’s about celebrating individuality and art. The studio is filled with plants, inspiration, oddities and many skilled artists. Drawing in both locals and visitors alike. If you’re looking to transform your ideas into beautiful, lasting artwork, then Sin on Skin Tattoo Studio is the perfect place to start your journey!
Skilled and professional artist exceeded expectations
“Sin on Skin Tattoo Studio exceeded my expectations! Sara, the artist, is incredibly professional and skilled. She listened attentively to my ideas and brought them to life with precision and artistry. The studio itself is clean and inviting, making for a comfortable experience. I highly recommend Sin on Skin to anyone looking for top-notch tattoo work. Thank you, Sara, for your exceptional talent and professionalism!”
Zahra Absalar, Google Reviews
Knowledgeable artist, clean studio, and informative aftercare
“Kirk did a fine line clover tattoo for me! I am in love with my new tattoo. Very clean and bright place and knowledgeable experience for my first tattoo. The aftercare sends you home with all questions answered and ensures your tattoo is clean and well taken care of! Nicole was amazing to contact and so so friendly much appreciated her!! Only good things to say, 10/10.”
caroline steeves, Google Reviews
2. Utility Tattoo
Website: https://www.utilitytattoo.com/
Address: 3178 Isleville St,
Phone: +1 902-420-1348
Operating Hours:
- Closed from Sunday to Monday
- Tuesday to Saturday: 12–6 PM
Utility Tattoo has been inking people for over 20 years, so they definitely know their art.
Whether you want a traditional tattoo or something in Japanese style, they’ve got you covered.
From tiny designs to full sleeves, they handle both bold colors and classic black ink with ease.
Booking your tattoo appointment is as easy as calling them. Usually, they work by appointment, but if you’re feeling spontaneous, they do accept walk-ins.
Once you arrive at their studio, you’ll find it clean, tidy, and decorated with a cool, dark vibe. With only three workstations, there’s plenty of room and privacy.
One special thing they offer is a free touch-up after your first session. Just remember, you have to get it done within a certain timeframe set by the artist, or you might need to pay extra.
Friendly artist with light touch and inked at clean studio
“Got my first tattoo (at 60 yrs old) while visiting family in Halifax in August. Jonny May did my tattoo. Great job and great experience. Jonny had a light touch and he made it a great experience, also very friendly. The place was very clean and I would highly recommend it. Would definitely make the trip back for another! Thanks Jonny!!”
Mark McGregor, Google Reviews
Helpful, communicative, and accommodating
“Loved this tattoo shop! I am from Ontario and called in advance to make sure I was able to get in while on my vacation. Nick was incredibly helpful and fun to communicate with. Whether it was through email or phone, Nicks customer service was fantastic. I was tattooed by Desmond and he was very nice and did a great job. He was very accommodating when it came to adding a couple more tattoos to my already big list and although cramped for time, he nailed it and was great to talk to! I will definitely be going back to Utility next time I am in Halifax!!!”
Karissa Hadden, Google Reviews
3. Zaycheza Studio
Website: https://web.facebook.com/ZaychezaTattoo/
Address: 5657 Spring Garden Rd
Phone: +1 902-989-4152
Operating Hours:
- Closed on Sunday
- Monday to Saturday: 11 AM–6 PM
If you’re looking for delicate botanical realism tattoos, Zaycheza Studio is the place to be. Owner Zoe brings whimsy and intricacy to life with her fine-line work, turning ink into stunningly realistic images.
Whether it’s adorable ducklings, delicate flowers, or graceful jellyfish, Zoe’s tattoos capture the beauty of nature. Her tattoos use soft, subtle colors for a gentle look rather than bright, bold hues.
To get your appointment for Zoe’s signature tattoos, Instagram is your best bet, though she’s also quick to respond on Facebook.
When you have your appointment, finding the studio is easy since it’s located downtown. Its minimalist design—white walls with sleek black furniture—creates a bright, clean atmosphere.
As for the tattooing process, Zoe takes great care to ensure it’s as smooth and comfortable as possible.
But keep in mind that since it’s a one-woman operation, her schedule tends to fill up quickly.
Professional artist made first tattooing experience comfortable
“Zoe is an amazing tattoo artist. I recently received my first tattoo; I absolutely love it. It fits my arm perfectly, very delicate and beautiful. Zoe is very professional and she made me feel very comfortable, great experience. I would highly recommend her, and can’t wait for my next tattoo. Thank you.”
Laurie Blackmore, Google Reviews
Kind, patient, and gentle
“Zoia was absolutely incredible! She was kind and patient with me during the entire process, especially with design changes day of, and provided a very clean and comfortable environment. Although it was not my first tattoo, I highly recommend her as she was very gentle throughout the tattoo process. I look forward to coming back again the next time I am in Halifax! 🙂 thank you again for my beautiful tattoo!”
Sydney Stog, Google Reviews
4. Heirloom Tattoo
Website: http://www.heirloomtattoohalifax.com/
Address: 2778 Gottingen St
Phone: +1 902-444-2250
Operating Hours:
- Closed on Monday, Thursday, and Sunday
- Tuesday to Wednesday, Friday to Saturday: 12–6 PM
Heirloom Tattoo has been offering a wide range of tattoo styles in Halifax for over 7 years. Whether you’re into traditional, gothic, cutesy, or anime designs, they’ve got something for everyone.
The artists here are known for their gentle touch, making the tattoo experience as comfortable as possible. Plus, they’re great at answering questions and offering creative suggestions to enhance your tattoo.
Booking an appointment is usually easy, but securing the exact time you want can be tricky due to high demand.
Artists’ schedules are often booked months, or even over a year, in advance.
Once you do snag an appointment, getting to the studio is easy. You can either take the bus or drive, with parking available on side streets and along Gottingen Street.
The studio itself has a cool, dark atmosphere fitting its name, yet it remains clean and spacious.
Gentle tattoo artists who are attentive to details
“I’ve been tattooed by 3/4 of the staff at Heirloom over the years, and each time has been really great. It’s worth a visit just to experience the care & gentleness of the artists, let alone their attention to detail. I felt very safe & respected as a gender-queer person (the paperwork they provide at the beginning of each visit asks for your pronouns; a small thing that really makes a difference). Halifax is very lucky to have a shop like this.”
Stevie Havsson, Google Reviews
Friendly, kind, talented, and enthusiastic
“Super cozy space filled with art and plants. Everyone at the shop is part of the friendliest and kindest bunch of weirdos I could ask for: talented artists, enthusiastic front desk staff, and the most adorable shop dog. I’ve only been tattooed by the delightful Becky so I definitely recommend her, but the other artists in the shop as well and I’ll be back for sure.”
Wren Bruce, Google Reviews
5. Wanderlust Tattoo Halifax
Website: https://www.wanderlusttattoohalifax.com/
Address: 2594 Agricola Street Studio 4 Halifax, Nova Scotia
Contact: [email protected]
Operating Hours: By appointment basis
- Monday – sometimes
- Tuesday 10-4
- Wednesday 10-4
- Thursday 10-4
- Friday 10-4
Becky Matheson of Wanderlust Tattoo in Halifax provided an unforgettable tattoo experience. From the moment we walked in, the welcoming atmosphere and Becky’s professional care made us feel comfortable and at ease.
She took the time to understand our ideas, offering valuable input and creating designs that were both meaningful and beautiful. Her creativity and attention to detail truly impressed us.
Throughout the process, Becky maintained a clean and sterile environment, prioritizing safety and hygiene. We felt confident that our health and comfort were her top priorities.
Her precision and skill ensured our tattoos were executed flawlessly, leaving us with stunning, long-lasting artwork. The entire experience was seamless and enjoyable from start to finish.
As a solo artist specializing in floral and nature-inspired tattoos, Becky’s passion for her craft and commitment to customer satisfaction make her a standout choice. We highly recommend her to anyone seeking quality tattoos in Halifax.
6. Missing Icarus Tattoo
Website: https://www.missingicarus.com/
Address: Halifax, Canada
Phone: Contact them via their website
Operating Hours: By appointment basis
We recently had the pleasure of visiting Missing Icarus, a tattoo studio known for its incredible artistry and welcoming atmosphere. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted by a clean, stylish space that instantly made us feel at home. The team was professional, friendly, and eager to collaborate on our tattoo ideas, ensuring that we felt comfortable throughout the process.
The artists at Missing Icarus truly stand out for their creativity and skill. They took the time to understand exactly what we wanted, offering expert suggestions while staying true to our vision. Whether it was intricate details or bold designs, the precision and artistry displayed in their work was impressive. We left the studio not only with a tattoo we loved but with an appreciation for the craftsmanship behind it.
What truly set this studio apart was the focus on cleanliness and safety. The staff followed all the necessary hygiene protocols, making us feel secure and confident in their care. The environment was relaxed yet professional, with music and a laid-back vibe that made the entire experience enjoyable. It’s clear that the team at Missing Icarus values their clients’ comfort and well-being.
Overall, our experience at Missing Icarus was exceptional. The talented artists, clean environment, and focus on customer satisfaction made it a memorable visit. If you’re looking for a tattoo studio that combines great artistry with a welcoming atmosphere, Missing Icarus is definitely worth checking out.
7. Dragon & Butterfly
Website: https://dragonbutterfly.ca/
Address: 143 Main Street, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
Phone: 1 (902) 434-4199
Operating Hours:
Dragon & Butterfly is an exceptional tattoo studio that stands out for its artistic skill, professionalism, and welcoming atmosphere. From the moment you step in, you’re greeted with a clean, modern space, creating a comfortable and relaxed environment. The artists here are not only highly talented but also deeply passionate about their craft, taking the time to understand your vision and ensuring the design reflects your unique style.
The attention to detail and precision at Dragon & Butterfly is impressive. Whether you’re looking for intricate designs or bold, large pieces, the artists tailor each tattoo to fit your body and personal taste. The studio also prioritizes hygiene and safety, giving clients peace of mind throughout the entire process.
What sets Dragon & Butterfly apart is its dedication to customer satisfaction. The artists offer thoughtful advice, work with you to refine your ideas, and are always open to questions. Whether it’s your first tattoo or you’re a seasoned enthusiast, the experience is always seamless and enjoyable.
Overall, Dragon & Butterfly provides an outstanding tattoo experience. The combination of artistic expertise, excellent customer service, and a relaxed atmosphere makes it one of the top studios for anyone looking for quality tattoos. If you’re in the area and looking to get inked, this is the place to go!
8. Ethereal Tattoos
Website: https://etherealtattooshfx.ca/
Address: 5663 Nora Bernard St, Halifax, NS B3K 1B6, Canada
Phone: Contact them via their website
Operating Hours: By appointment basis
Our experience with Ethereal Tattoos was nothing short of amazing. From the moment we walked in, the studio had a welcoming and calming atmosphere, with a clean and well-organized space that immediately put us at ease. The team was friendly and professional, taking the time to understand our design ideas and ensuring that every detail was tailored to our vision. Their commitment to creating a comfortable and safe environment was clear from the beginning.
During the tattoo process, the artist demonstrated exceptional skill and attention to detail. They carefully explained each step, making sure we felt comfortable throughout the session. The precision in their work was impressive, capturing even the smallest details with incredible accuracy. We appreciated how patient and attentive the artist was, checking in regularly to ensure the experience was as smooth and painless as possible.
What really stood out was the studio’s dedication to hygiene and safety. All equipment was meticulously sterilized, and the artist followed strict hygiene protocols, giving us complete peace of mind. After the session, we were provided with clear aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing, and the studio even followed up to check on our progress, showing genuine care for their clients.
We highly recommend Ethereal Tattoos to anyone looking for a professional and artistic tattoo experience. Their talented artists, welcoming environment, and commitment to quality make them a standout choice for anyone seeking unique and beautifully crafted body art.
9. Black Eleven
Website: http://www.blackeleventattoo.com/
Address: 2411 Agricola St
Operating Hours:
- Closed from Saturday to Sunday
- Monday to Friday: 10 AM–4 PM
Black Eleven, although new since 2022, is already a top choice for tattoos. They offer a wide range of designs, from delicate fine-line art to bold traditional styles and fun, quirky pieces.
The quality is consistently excellent, making it a popular spot.
However, booking an appointment can be tricky since you have to do it online, and the artists are often booked months in advance. Plus, they don’t accept walk-ins, so you might face a wait before you can get inked.
The studio’s location is a bit of a mixed bag too. While it’s conveniently situated, it’s on the second floor, which might be difficult for people with mobility issues.
On the bright side, once you’re there, the friendly reception team will make things easier. You’ll have a quick chat with your artist before starting, and you can count on a gentle touch during the tattooing process.
Friendly and accommodating artist made for a comfortable experience
“I’ve been thinking up this piece for over a year and as soon as I found Jill on Instagram I knew I wanted them to do it. Jill and all her staff and her co-op student were so friendly, chill and accommodating. They really made me feel super comfortable. Jill sent me the design the night before and allowed me to comment on anything I may want altered, which is a unique experience I’ve never had with another artist. It takes away having to think and explain your idea on the spot. They made the exact changes that I requested and the piece ended up coming out better than I could have imagined! Will absolutely be getting more pieces by Jill!”
Taylor Wallace, Google Reviews
Calm, inviting, and supportive artist with a gentle touch
“Great experience over all, I felt very comfortable half naked in the shop today getting a sternum tattoo. Today I had the pleasure of getting a tattoo by Keirra, she was very calm, inviting, a supportive with the tattoo process. She definitely has a soft touch doing her tattoos. Also thanks to everyone that was there that made it comfortable and enjoyable! Love the atmosphere”
Samantha Chevrier, Google Reviews
