Last Updated: January 10, 2026
Ottawa’s tattoo scene has evolved into one of Canada’s most vibrant, anchored by New Moon Tattoo—the nation’s oldest continually operating studio since 1982—and complemented by dozens of talented artists specializing in every style from traditional Americana to cutting-edge realism. Whether you’re planning your first piece or adding to an extensive collection, the capital city offers exceptional artists across every neighbourhood.
This guide covers the top tattoo shops in Ottawa with verified addresses, artist specialties, pricing, walk-in policies, and authentic recommendations from the local tattoo community.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: New Moon Tattoo (est. 1982) is Ottawa’s oldest shop. Pierre at Hungry x Hound is legendary for illustrative work. Glenn at Barnstormer is “the go-to guy” for timeless pieces. Typical pricing: $100-$150 minimum, $150-$250/hour for experienced artists. Walk-ins welcome at Sandbox, 3 Round, and Obscura.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Oldest Shop | New Moon Tattoo (1982) |
| Typical Minimum | $100–$150 |
| Hourly Rate | $150–$250 |
| Top-Tier Artists | $300–$1,000+/hour |
| Walk-In Friendly | Sandbox, 3 Round, Obscura |
Top Tattoo Shops by Neighbourhood
ByWard Market (Downtown)
The ByWard Market area hosts some of Ottawa’s longest-established tattoo studios.
Living Colour Tattoo Studio
Established in 1991, Living Colour is one of Ottawa’s longest-running studios under the same owner, Kathy McGuire. The shop maintains a team of three senior artists, two junior artists, and two body piercers.
Address: 412 Dalhousie Street, Ottawa, ON Phone: 613-241-4961 Instagram: @livingcolourtattoostudio Specialties: Illustrative, floral, diverse portfolio
Virtue Tattoo
This boutique studio on Sussex Drive emphasizes a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere with the philosophy “Small Studio. Big Heart. All are welcome here.” The appointment-only shop features artists Sarah Rogers, Alyssa Longchamps, and Madison Ross.
Address: 457-A Sussex Drive, Suite 202, Ottawa, ON K1N 6Z4 Booking: Appointment only (door locked; knock upon arrival) Specialties: Illustrative, botanical, ornamental work, colour work Notable: Alyssa is praised for stunning sleeve work
Centretown (Bank Street Corridor)
Bank Street is home to many of Ottawa’s most respected tattoo shops.
The Ink Spot
Operating since 2000, The Ink Spot is a staple of Ottawa’s tattoo industry with award-winning professionals on staff. The shop is regularly inspected by Ottawa Board of Health with bi-monthly sterilization tests.
Address: 429 Bank Street, Ottawa, ON K2P 1Y7 Phone: 613-237-1331 Minimum: $100 Services: Custom tattooing, piercing, laser tattoo removal
Sandbox Tattoo
Known for exceptional artists and welcoming first-time tattoo recipients, Sandbox offers walk-ins and same-day appointments. Artist Fivi receives particular praise for skill and attentiveness.
Address: 259 Bank Street, Ottawa, ON (also 455 Hazeldean Road, Kanata) Phone: 613-565-6995 Hours: 12 PM–8 PM (Tue–Sat) Specialties: Fine-line, realism, black-and-grey, cover-ups, neo-traditional Special Offer: Tapout Challenge—$1,200 for 10-hour full-day session
3 Round Tattoo
Reddit users rate this shop “10/10 for first-tattoo experiences.” Artist Chris is praised for exceptional patience and customer service, while Ashley specializes in pet portraits.
Address: 1212 Bank Street, Ottawa, ON Walk-ins: Welcome daily Best For: First-time tattoos, collaborative custom design approach
Hungry x Hound
Owner Pierre-Andre Gwod (@deerxhound) is legendary in Ottawa’s tattoo scene. His work is described as “visually arresting” with incredible detail. One Reddit user noted: “If you want your tattoo to look good in 5, 10, or 20 years, see Pierre.”
Address: 115 Bank Street, Unit 21, Ottawa, ON Instagram: @hungryxhound Specialties: Illustrative, detailed animal work, intricate designs Notable: Art show events at the studio
The Glebe & South Bank
The Glebe area features boutique tattoo studios known for quality and personalized service.
Barnstormer Studio
Glenn Paradis is exceptionally praised across Ottawa’s tattoo community. One Reddit user reported getting a forearm piece from Glenn over a decade ago that “still gets compliments.” Another stated: “There is no one better in Ottawa.”
Address: 763 Bank Street, Ottawa, ON K1S 3V3 Phone: 613-695-5597 Email: g.barnstormer@gmail.com Hours: 10 AM–6 PM (7 days) Artists: Glenn Paradis (owner), Nate Macdonald, Dan Metcalfe Services: Tattooing, tattoo removal, body piercing, permanent makeup
The Raven’s Den Tattoo
Co-owned by married couple James and Brittany, this “vibrant tattoo sanctuary” in the heart of The Glebe offers a welcoming atmosphere and skilled artistry.
Address: 889 Bank Street, B2, Ottawa, ON K1S 3W4 Phone: 613-296-7336 Email: theravensdentattoo@gmail.com
Golden Wave Tattoo Co.
Barry receives high praise for “unbelievable detail and color blending.” Kat is noted for professionalism and gentle technique.
Address: 338 Preston Street, Ottawa, ON K1S 4M6 (also Kanata location) Hours: 10 AM–6 PM (Tue–Sun, closed Monday) Services: Tattooing, tattoo removal, piercing Piercing: $45 for most piercings
Westboro/Hintonburg
Railbender Studio
With 12+ years in business, Railbender is an established destination for high-quality artistry and custom designs.
Address: 57 Preston Street, Ottawa, ON K1R 7N6 Hours: 10 AM–6 PM (closed Sunday) Instagram: @rbenderstudio Specialties: Fine-line, traditional, neo-traditional, realism, watercolor
Häxan Haus (Private Studio)
Kaylie Seaver’s private studio in Hintonburg specializes in “gnarly/pretty illustrative colour tattoos” and spooky work. A heavily upvoted Reddit post showcasing her Baphomet belly tattoo demonstrates the community’s appreciation for her unique style.
Location: Hintonburg (private studio) Artist: Kaylie Seaver (@kaylieseaver) Website: kaylieseaver.com
West End (Britannia)
New Moon Tattoo operates from a historic bright yellow building dubbed “The Yellow Submarine.”
New Moon Tattoo
Ottawa’s oldest tattoo studio, established in 1982 and still operating after 43+ years. Founded by legendary artist Dan Allaston, New Moon organizes NIX Toronto Tattoo Convention—Canada’s longest-running tattoo showcase—and has participated in 200+ international conventions worldwide.
Address: 2920 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, ON K2B 7J7 Phone: (613) 596-1790 Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 11 AM–7 PM Website: newmoontattoo.com Instagram: @newmoontattoos Team: Dan Allaston, Milena Fusco, Meag, Beatrice, Hailey (artists); Tim (piercer) Specialties: All styles including Asian/Japanese, Neo-Traditional, Traditional, Black & Grey Notable: Artist Meag is specifically mentioned as “amazing” on Reddit
Kanata
Sage Tattoo and Art Gallery
Voted Ottawa’s Top Choice Tattoo Shop of 2025, Sage features artist Cam who receives consistent praise for exceptional custom work.
Location: Kanata Instagram: @sagetattoogallery Services: Custom tattoos, art gallery, piercings
Tattoo Styles Available in Ottawa
Ottawa artists specialize in every major tattoo style from traditional to contemporary.
| Style | Best Artists/Shops |
|---|---|
| Traditional/Old School | New Moon, Barnstormer, Blue Blood |
| Neo-Traditional | Waxwing (Christian), Sandbox, New Moon |
| Japanese/Irezumi | Waxwing (Christian Awad), New Moon |
| Black & Grey Realism | Rareform (Rob Chambers), Sandbox |
| Fine-Line/Minimalist | Silverline (Anna), Railbender |
| Illustrative | Hungry x Hound (Pierre), Virtue, Häxan Haus (Kaylie) |
| Floral/Botanical | Virtue, Living Colour |
| Cover-Ups | Obscura, Liquid Impact, Sandbox |
| Animation/New School | Blue Blood (James Deane) |
| Spooky/Occult | Häxan Haus (Kaylie Seaver) |
Pricing Guide
Typical Ottawa Tattoo Prices
| Size/Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Small flash tattoos | $50–$250 |
| Medium tattoos (3-5 inches) | $150–$450 |
| Large tattoos (6+ inches) | $500–$4,000+ |
| Minimums | $100–$150 |
| Hourly (experienced) | $150–$250 |
| Top-tier artists | $300–$1,000+/hour |
By Placement
| Location | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Finger/Wrist | $50–$150 |
| Ankle | $70–$200 |
| Forearm | $250–$850 |
| Half-sleeve | $1,000–$2,000 |
| Full sleeve | $2,000–$4,000 |
| Full back | $900–$4,500 |
Deposits
Most shops require a non-refundable deposit of $100–$150, which applies toward your final tattoo cost. Deposits are typically forfeited for cancellations without 7+ days notice.
Walk-In Friendly Shops
| Shop | Walk-In Days |
|---|---|
| Sandbox Tattoo | Daily |
| 3 Round Tattoo | Daily |
| Obscura Tattoo | Thu–Sun |
| Liquid Impact | Daily |
| New Moon Tattoo | Call ahead |
First Tattoo Tips
Before Your Appointment
- Research artists: Check Instagram portfolios to find someone whose style matches your vision
- Book a consultation: Many shops offer free design consultations
- Stay hydrated: Drink water the day before and day of
- Eat a meal: Never tattoo on an empty stomach
- Avoid alcohol: Skip drinking 24 hours before your appointment
- Get sleep: A rested body handles pain better
What to Expect
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- Bring valid ID (18+ required, or parental consent)
- Expect the artist to finalize placement with a stencil
- Sessions vary from 30 minutes to several hours
- Most shops include basic aftercare instructions
Aftercare
- Keep the bandage on for 2-4 hours (or as directed)
- Wash gently with unscented soap
- Apply thin layer of recommended ointment
- Avoid swimming, sun exposure, and picking at scabs
- Most shops offer complimentary touch-ups (typically at 6 weeks)
What Ottawa Residents Say
“Pierre at Hungry x Hound is legendary. If you want your tattoo to look good in 5, 10, or 20 years, see Pierre.”
“Glenn at Barnstormer—there is no one better in Ottawa. Got a piece from him over a decade ago and it still gets compliments.”
“3 Round Tattoo is 10/10 for first tattoos. Chris was so patient with my design changes.”
“Kaylie at Häxan Haus does fabulous spooky work. Her style is so original.”
“Meag at New Moon is amazing. Traditional tattoo shop energy with great artists.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the minimum age for a tattoo in Ottawa?
You must be 18 years old or have parental consent. Bring valid ID to your appointment.
Q: How much should I tip my tattoo artist?
Standard tipping is 15–20% of the total cost, similar to restaurant service.
Q: How far in advance should I book?
Popular artists may have wait times of several weeks to months. Book early for specific artists.
Q: Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
Some shops accept walk-ins (Sandbox, 3 Round, Obscura on select days), but appointments are recommended for custom work.
Q: Are touch-ups included?
Most shops offer one complimentary touch-up at 6 weeks post-tattoo. Ask about the policy when booking.
Q: What if I need to cancel?
Most shops require 7+ days notice to avoid forfeiting your deposit. Rescheduling policies vary.
Final Thoughts
Ottawa’s tattoo scene offers exceptional artists for every style and budget. For timeless work that ages well, Pierre at Hungry x Hound and Glenn at Barnstormer are consistently praised. First-timers will feel comfortable at 3 Round Tattoo or Sandbox with their collaborative approach. Those seeking unique styles should explore Kaylie’s spooky work at Häxan Haus or Christian’s large-scale Japanese at Waxwing.
Take time to research artist portfolios on Instagram, book a consultation, and don’t rush the process—your tattoo should last a lifetime.
Sources: Shop websites, Instagram, Reddit r/ottawa, Google Reviews, local tattoo community
