How to Visit the Memphis Tattoo Parlors

Memphis, Tennessee, is more than just the birthplace of blues and barbecue—it’s a thriving hub for tattoo artistry, where tradition meets innovation in skin ink. The city’s vibrant cultural landscape, rooted in soul, grit, and creativity, has cultivated a tattoo scene that attracts enthusiasts from across the country. Whether you’re a first-timer seeking a meaningful piece or a seasoned collector searching for a legendary artist, visiting Memphis tattoo parlors offers an experience unlike any other. But navigating this world requires more than just showing up—it demands preparation, respect, and knowledge.

This guide is your comprehensive roadmap to visiting Memphis tattoo parlors with confidence. From researching reputable studios to understanding local customs and etiquette, you’ll learn how to make the most of your visit—safely, respectfully, and successfully. This isn’t just about getting inked; it’s about becoming part of a community that values craftsmanship, consent, and personal expression.

Step-by-Step Guide

Research and Identify Reputable Tattoo Parlors

Before stepping foot into any studio, thorough research is non-negotiable. Memphis is home to dozens of tattoo shops, each with its own style, reputation, and specialties. Start by identifying studios that align with your aesthetic goals. Are you drawn to traditional American tattoos, neo-traditional designs, watercolor pieces, or hyper-realistic portraits? Different studios in Memphis excel in different genres.

Use platforms like Instagram, Google Maps, and specialized tattoo directories such as Tattoo.com or Inked Magazine’s studio listings. Look for studios with consistent, high-quality imagery, updated portfolios, and active social media presence. Pay attention to reviews—not just the star ratings, but the details. Are clients mentioning cleanliness, professionalism, or artist communication? Avoid studios with vague or inconsistent online presence.

Some well-regarded Memphis studios include:

• Black & White Tattoo Co. – Known for fine line and minimalist work
• Memphis Ink Collective – Specializes in neo-traditional and illustrative styles
• Redwood Tattoo – Favored for custom realism and portrait work
• Elmwood Tattoo – A long-standing favorite with a strong focus on community and client education

Visit each studio’s official website to review their booking policies, artist bios, and pricing structure. Many artists in Memphis require appointments and do not accept walk-ins, especially for larger or more complex pieces.

Review Artist Portfolios Thoroughly

Never choose a tattoo artist based solely on a studio’s reputation. The individual artist matters far more. Each artist has a unique style, technique, and comfort level with different skin tones, placements, and subject matter.

Scroll through at least 20–30 pieces by each artist you’re considering. Look for:

• Consistency in line work and shading
• Color saturation and vibrancy over time (check for older tattoos)
• How well they adapt to body contours (e.g., arms, ribs, calves)
• Whether their style matches your vision

Be wary of artists whose portfolios look overly filtered or use stock images. Authentic portfolios show real clients, real skin, and real healing progress. Many Memphis artists post before-and-after photos, which are invaluable for assessing healing outcomes and long-term results.

Check Licensing and Sanitation Standards

In Tennessee, tattoo artists must be licensed by the Tennessee Department of Health, and studios must comply with strict sanitation regulations. Before your visit, confirm that the studio displays its current license visibly—usually near the reception area or in a public space.

Observe the studio’s cleanliness during your consultation. Look for:

• Single-use, sealed needles and ink caps
• Autoclaved equipment stored in sterile containers
• Disinfectant spray and wipes readily available
• Disposable gloves worn by staff at all times
• Separate areas for tattooing and aftercare supply storage

Ask directly: “Do you use an autoclave for sterilization? Can I see the logbook?” Reputable studios will welcome this question and gladly show you their records. If they hesitate or refuse, walk away.

Book a Consultation Appointment

Most serious Memphis tattoo artists require a consultation before booking a session. This is not optional—it’s essential. During the consultation, you’ll discuss your design idea, placement, size, color preferences, and timeline.

Prepare for your consultation by:

• Bringing reference images (screenshots or printed photos)
• Knowing your budget range (not a fixed number, but a realistic range)
• Being open to artist suggestions—they’ve seen what works on skin
• Asking about their process: How many sessions will this take? What’s the healing timeline?

Consultations are often free, but some studios charge a non-refundable deposit to secure your appointment slot—this is normal and helps prevent no-shows. Always get the deposit policy in writing.

Prepare Physically and Mentally for Your Session

Tattooing is a physical experience. Depending on the size and location of your piece, sessions can last anywhere from one to six hours. Preparation matters.

• Hydrate well – Drink plenty of water in the 24 hours leading up to your appointment. Hydrated skin takes ink better and reduces bleeding.
• Eat a balanced meal – Do not go in on an empty stomach. Low blood sugar can cause dizziness or fainting.
• Avoid alcohol and blood thinners – No alcohol 24 hours before. Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, or fish oil unless medically necessary.
• Wear comfortable clothing – Choose something that allows easy access to the tattoo area without needing to remove bulky items.
• Get a good night’s sleep – Being rested improves pain tolerance and recovery.

Also mentally prepare. Tattoos are permanent. Take time to reflect on why you want this piece. Is it for self-expression? Memorial? Cultural connection? Understanding your “why” helps you stay grounded during the process.

Arrive on Time and Communicate Clearly

Punctuality shows respect. Arriving late can delay the artist’s schedule and may result in your appointment being shortened or rescheduled. Plan your route ahead of time—Memphis traffic, especially around the downtown and Midtown areas, can be unpredictable.

When you arrive, be polite and patient. The artist may be in the middle of a session. Wait quietly, and when called, introduce yourself clearly. Reiterate your design idea, ask any remaining questions, and confirm placement and size.

During the tattoo:

• Stay still—movement affects precision
• Breathe deeply if discomfort arises
• Communicate if you need a break
• Do not touch or adjust the tattoo during the process

Artists appreciate clients who are calm, respectful, and communicative. Your demeanor affects the entire experience.

Understand Payment and Aftercare Protocols

Payment methods vary by studio. Most accept cash, credit cards, and sometimes digital payments like Venmo or Cash App. Always confirm accepted methods ahead of time. Some artists require full payment upfront for large pieces; others use a deposit-and-balance system.

Aftercare is just as important as the tattoo itself. Every reputable Memphis studio will provide written aftercare instructions. These typically include:

• Washing the tattoo with fragrance-free soap 2–3 times daily
• Applying thin layers of unscented lotion or ointment
• Avoiding direct sunlight, swimming, and saunas for at least two weeks
• Not picking at scabs or peeling skin

Follow these instructions precisely. Poor aftercare is the leading cause of tattoo fading, infection, or scarring. Ask the artist if they offer aftercare kits—many do, and they’re worth purchasing.

Follow Up and Leave Feedback

After your tattoo heals (usually 2–4 weeks), take a photo. Compare it to the original design. If you notice any issues—blowouts, uneven lines, fading—contact the studio promptly. Most reputable artists in Memphis offer free touch-ups within a reasonable timeframe (typically 6–12 months) if the issue stems from their work.

Leave honest feedback on Google, Yelp, or Instagram. Positive reviews help others find great artists. Constructive criticism helps studios improve. Never post angry or vague comments—be specific, fair, and kind.

Best Practices

Respect the Art and the Artist

Tattooing is a skilled profession, not a commodity. Artists invest years mastering their craft. Avoid asking for free designs, copying another artist’s work, or requesting something “just like this” while showing a photo from Pinterest. Originality is valued. If you want a custom piece, trust the artist’s expertise to interpret your idea into a unique design.

Don’t Rush the Process

Good tattoos take time. A large, detailed piece may require multiple sessions spaced weeks apart. Rushing leads to poor results. If an artist says, “This will take three sessions,” believe them. The goal is a masterpiece, not a quick fix.

Be Honest About Your Health

Inform your artist if you have any medical conditions—diabetes, autoimmune disorders, skin sensitivities, or are pregnant. Certain conditions can affect healing or make tattooing unsafe. Artists are trained to recognize risks and may decline to tattoo you for your own safety. This is not rejection—it’s responsibility.

Understand the Cultural Significance

Memphis has deep roots in African American culture, blues heritage, and Southern identity. Some tattoo motifs—such as musical notes, church imagery, or Memphis skyline designs—carry cultural weight. If you’re drawn to these symbols, understand their meaning. Avoid appropriating sacred or historically significant imagery without context or respect.

Set Realistic Budget Expectations

Tattoo prices in Memphis vary based on artist experience, studio location, and complexity. On average:

• Small tattoos (2–4 inches): $100–$300
• Medium tattoos (5–8 inches): $300–$700
• Larger pieces (full sleeve, back piece): $800–$3,000+

Hourly rates typically range from $120–$250. The most sought-after artists often charge higher rates and book months in advance. Budget accordingly. Cheap tattoos often cost more in the long run due to touch-ups or removal.

Know Your Rights as a Client

You have the right to:

• See the artist’s license and studio permit
• Ask for a clean, new needle and ink
• Stop the session at any time
• Refuse a design or placement change mid-session
• Receive clear aftercare instructions

If any of these rights are violated, you are within your right to leave and report the studio to the Tennessee Department of Health.

Practice Post-Tattoo Skin Care

Healing is not passive. Treat your tattoo like a wound. Avoid:

• Direct sun exposure (use SPF 30+ after healing)
• Swimming pools, hot tubs, lakes
• Wearing tight clothing over the tattoo
• Using scented lotions, petroleum jelly, or alcohol-based products

Apply moisturizer 2–3 times daily for the first two weeks. After that, maintain hydration with unscented lotion. Well-cared-for tattoos retain color and clarity for decades.

Tools and Resources

Online Portfolio Platforms

Use these platforms to discover and vet artists:

• Instagram – Search hashtags like

  MemphisTattoo, #MemphisTattooArtist, #TattooMemphis

• Tattoo.com – Search by city and style to find verified studios
• Google Maps – Filter by “Tattoo Parlor,” read reviews, and view photos
• Reddit (r/tattoo) – Ask for Memphis recommendations from locals

Local Tattoo Events and Conventions

Memphis hosts annual tattoo events that bring together local and international artists:

• Memphis Tattoo Convention – Held every spring at the Memphis Cook Convention Center. Features live tattooing, artist meet-and-greets, and vendor booths.
• Mid-South Ink Fest – A smaller, community-focused event in the fall, ideal for discovering up-and-coming artists.

Attending these events allows you to see artists work live, ask questions, and even book appointments on the spot. Many artists offer discounts for convention bookings.

Health and Safety Resources

Verify compliance through:

• Tennessee Department of Health – Tattoo Regulation Page – Official source for licensing and sanitation standards
• Safe Tattoo Initiative – A national nonprofit offering free educational materials on safe tattooing

Design Inspiration Tools

Use these tools to refine your idea before your consultation:

• Pinterest – Create a private board with reference images
• Adobe Express – Sketch rough layouts and adjust sizes
• Canva – Overlay designs on body templates to visualize placement

Bring these digital boards to your consultation. They help artists understand your vision faster.

Aftercare Product Recommendations

Trusted aftercare products used by Memphis artists include:

• Aquaphor Healing Ointment (first 3–5 days)
• H2Ocean Blue Green Foam (gentle cleanser)
• After Inked Moisturizer (for long-term hydration)
• Badger Balm Tattoo Balm (organic, fragrance-free)

Avoid petroleum-based products like Vaseline—they trap bacteria and can cause ink loss.

Real Examples

Example 1: The First-Timer’s Journey

Maya, a 24-year-old college student from Nashville, wanted her first tattoo to commemorate her grandmother’s love of jazz. She spent three weeks researching Memphis studios and found Redwood Tattoo after seeing a photo of a saxophone portrait on Instagram. She booked a consultation, brought 10 reference images, and discussed placement on her forearm. The artist, Marcus, suggested a stylized saxophone intertwined with musical notes and a small quote from her grandmother’s favorite blues lyric. The session lasted 4.5 hours. Maya followed aftercare instructions meticulously. Six months later, the tattoo still looks vibrant. She returned for a matching piece on her other arm.

Example 2: The Collector’s Custom Sleeve

James, a 38-year-old musician, had been collecting tattoos for over a decade. He wanted a full left sleeve telling the story of his journey from Memphis to touring the world. He chose Memphis Ink Collective after reviewing their portfolio of narrative tattoos. He met with lead artist Lila for three separate consultations over two months. They developed a design combining Memphis landmarks, musical instruments, and symbolic animals representing different life phases. The sleeve took five sessions over six months. James documented each stage on his blog, which later became a viral post in tattoo communities. He now recommends the studio to every new tattoo seeker.

Example 3: The Cultural Tribute

DeShawn, a 42-year-old Memphis native, wanted to honor his father, a civil rights activist. He visited Elmwood Tattoo to create a piece blending African Adinkra symbols with Memphis blues motifs. The artist, Tanya, spent hours researching the meaning behind each symbol to ensure cultural accuracy. The result was a chest piece featuring the “Gye Nyame” symbol (representing the supremacy of God) alongside a stylized guitar neck and a quote in calligraphy from his father’s speeches. DeShawn said, “It wasn’t just ink. It was a legacy.”

Example 4: The Mistake and the Redemption

Before visiting Memphis, Alex got a poorly executed tattoo in a roadside shop. The lines were blurry, the colors faded within months. He spent six months researching Memphis studios before booking with Black & White Tattoo Co. to cover it with a new design. The artist, Jordan, created a detailed black-and-gray phoenix rising from the old tattoo. It took three sessions and cost more than the original—but Alex says it was the best investment he ever made. “I didn’t just fix a tattoo. I fixed my confidence.”

FAQs

Can I walk into a Memphis tattoo parlor and get inked the same day?

It’s rare. Most reputable studios require appointments, especially for custom work. Walk-ins are sometimes accepted for small, simple designs, but you’ll likely be turned away if the artist is booked. Always call ahead.

How much does a tattoo cost in Memphis?

Prices vary widely. Small tattoos start around $100. Hourly rates range from $120 to $250. Complex, large-scale pieces can cost $1,000–$5,000 depending on the artist and detail. Always ask for a quote after your consultation.

Do Memphis tattoo parlors accept credit cards?

Most do, but some smaller studios prefer cash. Always confirm payment methods when booking. Some artists may charge a small fee for credit card transactions.

Is it safe to get a tattoo in Memphis?

Yes—if you choose a licensed, clean studio. Tennessee has strict regulations. Always verify licensing, ask about sterilization, and observe hygiene practices. Avoid studios that seem disorganized or unwilling to answer questions.

How long does it take to heal a tattoo in Memphis’s climate?

Healing time is similar nationwide: 2–4 weeks for surface healing, 3–6 months for full dermal recovery. Memphis’s humidity can slightly speed up healing, but it also increases sweat. Keep the area dry and clean.

Can I get a tattoo if I’m under 18?

No. Tennessee law requires you to be 18 or older to get a tattoo, even with parental consent. No exceptions.

What if I change my mind after getting inked?

Tattoos are permanent. If you’re unsure, wait. Many artists encourage a “cooling-off” period of at least two weeks before booking. If you regret it later, laser removal is possible but expensive and painful.

Do Memphis artists do cover-ups?

Yes. Many specialize in cover-ups. Bring your old tattoo photo and explain what you want to change. The artist will assess whether it’s feasible and suggest the best approach.

Can I bring my own design?

Yes. Most artists welcome client input. But be open to their suggestions—they know what works on skin. A rough sketch or reference image is ideal. Avoid sending copyrighted images.

How far in advance should I book a tattoo in Memphis?

Popular artists book 2–6 months ahead. For smaller pieces, 2–4 weeks may suffice. If you have a deadline (e.g., wedding, anniversary), book as early as possible.

Conclusion

Visiting Memphis tattoo parlors is more than a transaction—it’s a cultural immersion. The city’s rich musical heritage, deep history, and artistic spirit infuse every stroke of ink. To navigate this world successfully, you must approach it with intention, respect, and preparation. Research your artists. Prioritize safety. Communicate clearly. Honor the process.

The tattoos you leave with won’t just be designs on your skin—they’ll be stories, symbols, and milestones. The right studio and artist will help you translate your vision into something timeless. Whether you’re seeking a delicate line drawing or an expansive sleeve, Memphis offers the talent, tradition, and tenacity to make it unforgettable.

Don’t rush. Don’t compromise. Choose wisely. And when you walk out of that studio with your new piece, remember: you’re not just wearing ink. You’re wearing art. You’re wearing history. You’re wearing Memphis.