Top Tattoo Shops In Connecticut

When it comes to getting your first tattoo, or adding to those you already have, choosing the best tattoo artist is key. These five tattoo shops in Connecticut offer a variety of artistry and creativity. These artists offer a mix of styles and personalities. Do your research and consider some free consultations. Finding the best match for your new ink is at your fingertips.

Darkside Tattoo
190 Main St.
East Haven, CT 06512
(203) 469-9208
www.darksidetattoostudio.com

Your body is their canvas. The talent at Darkside Tattoo uses creativity to leave lasting impressions on its customers, and it keeps them coming back for more. Melinda and Sean O'Hara, along with tattoo artists Dave Racci, Izzy Morales, Mikey Har and Troy Radecki, are the best of the best. They create state-of-the-art tattoos. Samples of their work can be found the website. They also frequent conventions held around the state.

Nautilus Tattoo
2719 Berlin Turnpike
Newington, CT 06111
(860) 372-4841
www.nautilustattoo.com

If you are looking for a sterile and clean tattoo environment, Nautilus Tattoo is top notch. It prides itself on its cleanliness, taking precautions including single-use needles. Nautilus has award-winning artists that have been featured in tattoo magazines. Customers love the work that they do which is evident by their winnings in the Hartford Advocate's Best of Readers Poll.

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Transcend Tattoo
906 W. Main St.
Branford, CT 06405
(203) 481-9372
www.transcendtattoo.com

The staff at Transcend Tattoo is not only talented but has great personalities to match. The artists are polite and personable, making for an enjoyable experience. Meg Lee, Dennis Mackie and Colin Hinchliff have received excellent reviews and are known for their attention to extensive detail in their work. Transcend Tattoo also specializes in body piercings on site.

FTS Gallery
2415 Main St.
Stratford, CT 06615
(203) 908-3555
www.ftsgallery.com

FTS Gallery is more than just a tattoo shop. It defines art and creativity while its space provides exhibits and an art gallery. When it comes to choosing the best tattoo artist to match what you desire, FTS Gallery gives lots of options. The artists' techniques range from vibrant colors to traditional to a combination of technical skills with fine art. FTS provides free consultations, however to book your appointment, an $80 deposit is required.

Hope Gallery Tattoo
835 Woodward Ave.
New Haven, CT 06512
(203) 467-1622
www.hopegallerytattoo.com

The list of artists at Hope Gallery Tattoo shop has a variety of styles and specialties to offer. The owner, Joe Capobianco, is an award-winning artist who has excelled in his artistry, DVDs, books and is even a judge on "Best Ink," a televised show on Oxygen Network. Joe and his crew specialize in modern twist pin-ups known as "capo girl," 3D tattoos, colors, black and grays and amazing portraits. You are in good hands at Hope Gallery Tattoo.

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Kimberly Ord is a freelance writer and lifetime resident of Connecticut. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.