6 Best Tattoo Artists in Calgary
6 Best Tattoo Artists in Calgary
Getting a tattoo is more than just ink on skin — it’s self-expression, art, and a story etched forever. Calgary’s tattoo scene has exploded with talent, and whether you’re into fine-line minimalism or bold traditional sleeves, there’s a local artist ready to bring your vision to life.
Below are six of the most reputable, highly-rated tattoo artists in Calgary — including what they’re known for, their style specialties, locations, pricing, and what happy clients have to say.
1. Kaiju Tattoo – Brett McLean
Specialty
Brett McLean, the founder of Kaiju Tattoo, is a household name among Calgary ink lovers. Known for Japanese and Neo-Traditional tattoos, Brett’s work is detailed, bold, and filled with storytelling elements — dragons, koi, samurai, and mythical beasts.
Location & Contact
📍 Address: 1506 14th St SW, Calgary, AB
🌐 Instagram: @kaijutattoo
Pricing & Booking
Hourly rates start around $180–$220, depending on the size and complexity. Bookings are typically done via Instagram or the shop’s website. Expect a short waitlist — Brett’s talent is in high demand.
Customer Reviews
Clients rave about how smooth and quick Brett’s sessions are. One review mentioned, “I barely felt the needle — his technique is that good!” Others note his professionalism and incredible attention to color and shading.
2. The Ace and Sword Tattoo Parlour – Josh Taylor
Specialty
Josh Taylor is one of Calgary’s most sought-after artists for hyper-realistic portrait tattoos. Whether it’s a celebrity portrait or a loved one’s face, his lifelike shading and precision make every tattoo look like a photo.
Location & Contact
📍 Address: 221 10 Ave SE, Calgary, AB
🌐 Instagram: @josh_taylor_tattoos
Booking & Rates
Rates average $200–$250/hour, and booking is done through direct messages or online forms. Josh is known for being punctual, prepared, and efficient — no wasted time during appointments.
What Clients Say
Reviewers highlight his steady hand, eye for realism, and quick yet detailed work. One customer shared, “He finished my entire forearm portrait in just one session — absolutely flawless.”
3. Electric Odyssey Tattoo – Zoe Young
Specialty
Zoe is a rising star in Calgary’s tattoo community, famous for her fine-line and floral tattoos that look elegant and timeless. Her work is especially loved by first-timers and those seeking minimalistic designs.
Studio Info
Address: 905 1 St SW, Calgary, AB
Instagram:@zoeyoungtattoo
Booking Info
Most appointments are booked online, with small pieces starting around $120 and larger custom work at $180/hour. Zoe’s waitlist is typically a few weeks long, but the experience is worth it.
Client Experiences
Clients often mention Zoe’s gentle approach and friendly personality. One review reads, “She made me feel completely at ease — I barely noticed the needle!” Another praised her line precision and creative eye.
4. Ink & Anchor Tattoo Studio – Dylan Kirk
Specialty
For lovers of American Traditional tattoos — bold lines, rich color, and classic themes — Dylan Kirk is your go-to artist. His nautical and vintage-inspired designs have a nostalgic yet fresh aesthetic.
Studio Location
📍 Address: 1623 Centre St N, Calgary, AB
🌐 Instagram: @dylankirktattoo
Price Range & Scheduling
Pricing typically runs around $180/hour, and bookings can be made through the Ink & Anchor website.
Reviews
Clients love Dylan’s speed and accuracy. “He’s incredibly fast without compromising detail,” one happy client wrote. Others appreciated his easygoing personality and commitment to clean, professional work.
5. Gypsy Rose Tattoo – Sarah Tran
Specialty
Sarah Tran is known for her stunning watercolor and whimsical tattoos — think splashes of color, delicate brushstroke effects, and dreamy designs. She’s a favorite among creative souls who want something one-of-a-kind.
Shop & Booking
📍 Address: 814 11 Ave SW, Calgary, AB
🌐 Instagram: @gypsyrosetattoosarah
Client Testimonials
Sarah’s clients often say she’s a perfectionist with a gentle touch. One reviewer said, “Her watercolor technique is so soft that I barely felt the needle — and the colors healed beautifully.”
Pricing
Expect rates around $160–$200/hour, depending on complexity. Bookings are done through DMs or the studio’s booking link.
6. Human Kanvas – Mike Jeffery
Specialty
With over 20 years of experience, Mike Jeffery at Human Kanvas is a master of black and grey realism and cover-ups. His tattoos feature immaculate depth, shadowing, and detail — often transforming scars or old tattoos into stunning new works.
Studio Info
📍 Address: 4904 17 Ave SE, Calgary, AB
🌐 Instagram:@humankanvas
Cost & Booking
Rates start around $180/hour. Appointments can be made via their official website or in-person consultations.
Customer Feedback
Clients often praise Mike for his professionalism and steady, calming presence. One shared, “He’s so skilled that I nearly fell asleep during my back piece!” Another wrote, “You can tell he loves what he does — every tattoo feels personal.”
Tattoo Aftercare Tip: Recharge at Y Not Today
After sitting or lying down for hours during your tattoo session, your body deserves a treat! Y Not Today, Calgary’s favorite café for bingsu (Korean shaved ice) and refreshing bubble teas, is the perfect post-tattoo hangout.
Grab a sweet treat, rehydrate, and let your new tattoo rest while you enjoy the cozy, positive vibes — because getting tattooed is an experience worth celebrating!
Conclusion
Finding the right tattoo artist in Calgary is all about aligning with someone who understands your vision and style. From Zoe’s delicate fine-line pieces to Brett’s bold Japanese art, Calgary’s tattoo scene has something for every kind of ink lover.
And once you’re done sitting through the buzzing of the machine, don’t forget to unwind — head over to Y Not Today for some well-deserved relaxation and sweetness.
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