Top Tattoo Shops In Denver

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Getting a tattoo makes a permanent personal statement. Sure, tattoo removal is available but it's painful and expensive. For this reason, you want to be sure that the tattoo you're getting looks good and turns out the way you intended. You want to find an artist whose work jives with your personal aesthetic and who can do what you want. Before heading down to get inked, brush up on these tattoo shops and check out a portfolio or two. Doing the right research will give you a better shot at getting a piece you love.

Lifetime Tattoo
1510 E. Colfax Ave.
Denver, CO 80218
(303) 839-8088
www.lifetimetattoodenver.com

This tattoo shop in Capitol Hill employs a diverse selection of artists who can tackle whatever you throw at them. The shop is also home to artists who do brilliant things with color. At this shop, you will receive a piece that is intricate and detailed, popping right off of your skin. Open seven days a week, Lifetime Tattoo offers hours that are accommodating to many schedules. Appointments can be booked but the shop also takes walk ins. All of its artists are talented and capable, so you will end up with a good tattoo.

Ananda Art and Tattoo
7180 W. 38th Ave.
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
(720) 335-6940
www.anandatattoo.com

Owned and operated by artist Willie Stewart and his wife, Ananda Art and Tattoo has inked people all over the metro area since 2009. Its artists do intricate and delicate work. They are also educated in tattoo safety so you can be assured that your tattoo will be clean and sanitary. Ananda Art and Tattoo is passionate about art, showcasing work from local artists at which you can look while you're getting your piece. The shop has a strict "no flash" policy, so if you want to get inked by one of its artists, you'll have to bring your creativity.

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Kitchen's Ink
757 Santa Fe Drive
Denver, CO 80204
(303) 573-3791
www.kitchens-ink.com

Kitchen's Ink is a great shop for newbies and sleeved individuals alike. The artists are patient and make you feel relaxed. They listen to your ideas and help make them look the best that they can. Located in the Santa Fe Arts District, the shop looks more like an art gallery than a traditional tattoo shop and the interior puts you at ease through the whole process. The artists are skilled in a wide range of styles in black and white and color, including portraits. When you set up your consultation, the artists will guide you through the design and make sure it is placed to look its best.

Brave New World Custom Tattooing
258 Broadway
Denver, CO 80203
(720) 946-0801
www.facebook.com/braveneworldcustomtattoo

Not only does Brave New World employ versatile artists who can tackle a plethora of subject matter, it also offers a laid-back atmosphere. The artists can work magic with anything from a simple character design to an intricate piece with tons of shading and detail. They are very professional, yet friendly, and know how to make you feel at ease while being poked repeatedly with a sharp needle. Each artist at the shop has a portfolio of exquisite work, and they are respectful of each customer. If you've chosen an awkward place on your body for your tattoo, you can expect nothing but professionalism from this shop.

Sol Tribe Tattoo and Body Piercing
56 Broadway
Denver, CO 80203
(303) 832-1311
www.soltribetattoo.com

Along with custom tattoos from eight resident artists, Sol Tribe also offers a full range of piercing and other modification services, such as branding. Each artist is highly skilled, and their portfolios range from whimsical, fun tattoos to realistic and lifelike tattoos. Whether you're in the market for a detailed portrait, a piece inspired by a style of art or a more simple tattoo, there is an artist at Sol Tribe who can give it to you. The shop takes appointments (by phone) and is open seven days a week. The artists are passionate about their work, so you'll have a lot to discuss while you're having your tattoo done.

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Alaina Brandenburger is a freelance writer living in Denver. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.