The 8 Best Tattoo Shops in Winnipeg
Tattoos are lifetime decisions, which only means that you need to find the absolute best tattoo shops in Winnipeg with reputable artists, outstanding customer service, and clean, safe equipment.
In this article, we round up the top places to get inked in the metro, complete with their services, specialities, operating hours, and more.
How much do tattoo services cost in Winnipeg?
How much it costs to get tattoos depends on several factors, such as the artist’s track record, the size of your tattoo, and the intricacy of the design, among others. It’s also important to note that some tattoo studios charge an hourly rate.
Here is a range of estimated costs of tattoo services in Winnipeg:
Best Tattoo Shops in Winnipeg
We gathered the best tattoo shops in Winnipeg and assessed each of them using the following criteria:
1. Metamorphosis Custom Tattoo & Body Piercing
Variety of specialities | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Customer satisfaction | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Artist track record | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Studio environment | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Metamorphosis Custom Tattoo & Body Piercing is one of the more high-end tattoo shops in Winnipeg, offering a broad range of tattoo styles. Owned by a mother-daughter team, it has an arsenal of six tattoo artists, five of whom are female.
Because they have a relatively big team of professional tattoo artists who have been in the business for years, the shop is able to cover virtually any tattoo design and caters to customers looking for custom artworks.
Its artists have experience in old-school, traditional and neo-traditional, and dramatic realism tattoos, among others. But due to the depth of what its artists can do and with their specialities leaning more into traditional tattooing, this is probably not the place for small and simple tattoo designs.
But if you are going for a large piece with bold colours and shading, we think Metamorphosis can definitely pull it off.
Considering that the shop is a high-end studio, their tattoo prices are well above average, though, which is why you get more of your money’s worth with a big piece.
When it comes to their studio environment, we can’t deny that they’ve got a good space with separate rooms for each customer. Especially in the intimate experience of getting a tattoo, their somewhat isolated set-up fosters comfort and confidence throughout the process.
Metamorphosis is a favourite among tattoo collectors, albeit its studio and reputation can be intimidating for first-time customers. Considering everything, however, the studio has a lot to boot and deserves the top spot in our list of best tattoo shops in Winnipeg.
Pros
- Houses a good number of experienced artists
- Covers a vast range of tattoo styles
- Clean and comfortable studio
Cons
- Steep prices
- May not be suitable for first-time customers
Customer Reviews
Good communication and friendly service
From the first communication with Justine I felt we were in good hands! Myself and my bff got matching tattoos back to back from her today and the experience was fabulous. Justine is very personable and communicative and constantly checked out in through the appointment to be sure that we were comfortable through the experience. Her practices were extremely thorough and clean and I felt in extremely safe hands! Our idea was brought to life with her creative vision and we couldn’t be happier to have this art!
The shop is lovely- laid out nicely and extremely clean and has a great vibe! Every employee we spoke to was friendly! I cannot wait to book in with Justine again! – Teagan S
Quality customer service
I was tattooed by Ivy in August, and my son just got his ears pierced by Jo last week. Both experiences were wonderful. Staff were kind and helpful. Ivy’s art is stunning and I’m so grateful I get to carry such a personally meaningful piece of it with me forever. And Jo was so incredible with my 7 year old son. She explained everything to him, spoke to him directly, and acknowledged and eased his worries. Thank you all. We will be back. – Alicia Thwaites
2. South of Heaven Tattoos & Body Piercing
Variety of specialities | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Customer satisfaction | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Artist track record | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Studio environment | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
A smaller tattoo shop than the first we mentioned on this list, South of Heaven Tattoos & Body Piercing still makes for a strong contender.
Based on a review of their work, its artists are well-rounded when it comes to tattoo styles and specialities. We saw that they were able to deliver portraits, line work, and lettering tattoos, among others.
Of even more interest to us was that they also accept cover-up projects to fix old, unwanted tattoos. The samples of such cover-ups that we saw were pretty good too, so they may be just what you need if you have some ink that you no longer like.
But because it’s such a small studio, South of Heaven does not have a big team of artists. As of writing, they only have two in-house tattooists – who are fortunately able to adapt and deliver different tattoo styles.
For a small tattoo shop in Winnipeg, the studio is not as big as what other studios in the metro have, as you might expect. But from what we’ve seen, the ambience is clean and satisfactory, featuring soft and comfortable seats and good lighting.
In sum, despite being small in size and team, South of Heaven has garnered a strong reputation as one of the best of its kind in Winnipeg. They may be hard to book at times because of limited capacity, but they do seem to deliver.
Pros
- Able to deliver various tattoo styles and designs
- Accepts tattoo cover-up projects
- Comfortable and clean studio
Cons
- Small studio
- Limited selection of tattooists
- Steep pricing
Customer Reviews
Fast and responsive service
Fast and detailed work, my piece turned out exactly as I wanted.
South of Heaven is a clean and professional shop, they offer online booking and are responsive to questions.
I’m really happy with my piece, and I’ll be back again for another! – Julio Dusablon
Helpful and friendly tattooists
I’ve had piercings and tattoo work done at this place now and I’m very happy with everything about South of Heaven. It’s a clean and welcoming atmosphere that I would recommend to anyone. As an added bonus, they are very trans-friendly too.
My most recent tattoo was an especially profound and memorable experience. The artist, Karen, helped me find the perfect way to illustrate what I wanted. She knew how important my idea was to me, and I was brought to tears by the gorgeous, vibrant design she researched and created. She even made last minute changes for the text and positioning like it was nothing, and the whole process was so positive that it went by very quickly. She was also very thorough on explaining the aftercare.
I simply can’t express enough how much I love this tattoo and how good it makes me feel to see it on my arm. It truly feels like my artist went above and beyond to give me the best possible version of my idea, and I would go back to South of Heaven anytime. – Kay Wojnarski
3. Kapala Tattoo
Variety of specialities | ★★★☆☆ (3/5) |
Customer satisfaction | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Artist track record | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Studio environment | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Kapala Tattoo is a tattooist-owned studio that has a knack for producing big, bold, and colourful tattoos.
The studio has a big team of artists, each with his own specialisation. Their styles lean towards Japanese, illustrative, American traditional, neo-traditional, nature, geometric, and portrait pieces.
From its range of tattooists, it’s clear that Kapala’s speciality is in bold and heavy tattoo work, making it a favourite studio among customers looking for this specific tattoo style.
But that also means that Kapala may not be the place for those who want small and simple linework or text tattoos.
In the same manner, the nature of the work that Kapala’s tattooists do makes it more targeted towards serving tattoo veterans and art collectors. First-time customers, although entertained, may not find what they’re looking for in this studio.
Kapala also reserves hand, neck, or knuckle tattoos for those who are already heavily tattooed, by the way, so keep that in mind.
The tattoo shop creates an even balance between what the customer wants and the artist’s creative freedom, requiring a consultation prior to booking an appointment.
Although customers can send in their reference photos for what they want to be inked, the studio does not show their clients the final design until the tattoo appointment.
Finally, it’s worth noting that Kapala is one of the tattoo shops in Winnipeg that charge by the hour at a fixed rate of $200/hr. Tattoo sessions that last less than an hour are rounded up and customers are charged the base minimum rate.
Pros
- Big team of experienced and skilled tattooists
- Clean and well-designed studio
- Comprehensive input from artist
Cons
- Not for first-time customers
- Steep hourly rate
- Limited decision-making freedom for the customer
Customer Reviews
Reputable and experienced artists
Very clean and reputable tattoo shop; the artists here are some of the best in the city. Dan is a great artist with many years of experience, highly recommend. – Maegan Hughes
Friendly staff and clean studio
The shop is spotless. Incredibly clean. Beautiful art all over the place. Tremendously friendly staff. Dan Fletcher did the Thai Buddha on my arm a few years back and I couldn’t be happier. He’ll definitely be finishing my full sleeve once I get the money together. – Matthew Nordick
4. Living Canvas Tattoo
Variety of specialities | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Customer satisfaction | ★★★☆☆ (3/5) |
Artist track record | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Studio environment | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
In order to provide good customer service and great results, tattoo studios and their respective artists need to understand that getting a tattoo is a commitment. And we think that’s one of Living Canvas Tattoo’s strengths.
With a passion for both art and introducing people to tattoos, the studio offers services supplementary to tattooing that elevate the customer experience, you see. Our trip to their studio was enlightening.
Living Canvas Tattoo offers opportunities for its clients to sit down with its artists and discuss tattoo ideas, for example. In effect, it’s big on helping customers make the best decisions.
The tattooists in Living Canvas all boast a track record in the industry too, participating in tattoo shows, conventions, and competitions in Winnipeg and beyond.
While most of them are well-versed in specialties that range from nature and florals to American traditional tattoos, they also have the ability to deliver designs the customers ask for. So, range doesn’t seem to be an issue here either.
But while quality work and honest artists are this studio’s main strengths, a few past customers are voicing out concerns on front-desk customer service and correspondence. It’s worth taking note of those if you’d prefer more solid customer service from start to finish.
Pros
- Big team of artists with professional track record
- Adaptable to tattoo styles and designs
- Comprehensive consultations with artists
Cons
- Customer service can be improved
- Can be more responsive to customer inquiries
Customer Reviews
Values client input
This place is definitely my go to tattoo place!! Their staff is very accommodating, approachable, and over all a great place to be. My go to artist is LJ. He is very professional, creative, patient, and his pricing is very reasonable. He is willing to make changes to the design and is always asking for the client’s input. I have booked multiple appointments with them and never had a problem. This place is the place where you can get your first tattoo and yo find yourself coming back, time and time again. Can’t wait for many more tattoo sessions!! – Nicole Quino
Talented artists
Artists are very talented. The web site does not do them justice. The manager also is very accommodating and has great customer service skills. – J Figs
5. Urban Graffiti Custom Tattoos and Body Piercing
Variety of specialities | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Customer satisfaction | ★★★☆☆ (3/5) |
Artist track record | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Studio environment | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
If your standards for a top tattoo shop in Winnipeg put cleanliness first, then we’ve found the best place for you.
Urban Graffiti, a Southside tattoo studio, practices some of the highest standards of health and safety we’ve seen, with regular health inspections, monthly spore tests, and studio sterilization.
Its team of tattooists are also on the “safety-first” mindset, with certifications on body modification and formal training in tool and area sterilization and infection control and prevention.
Urban Graffiti artists are trained and experienced in a broad range of tattoos styles too, doing anything from American traditional to text and line work. Clients are free to provide their design ideas or work with the artists through consultations to come up with a tattoo concept.
Despite the studio prioritizing safety and cleanliness, however, we must comment on the vape shop that is located within the studio. Some customers complain about vape smoke overwhelming the tattoo area and this can be uncomfortable for non-vapers getting their tattoos.
Pros
- Prioritizes cleanliness and customer safety
- Versatile tattoo styles and designs
- Experienced artists with formal training
Cons
- Vape shop within the studio
- Studio environment is not quiet and serene
Customer Reviews
Gentle and painless tattooing
The wait for the tattoo or piercing is well worth it everything is done with professionalism and the best they can do to give the customers what they want, I got a tattoo by ren on my throat and it was by far the most gentle painless tattoo I’ve had. She very good at why she does. – Maria Brown-Sanderson
Fair price
Had my tattoo done with Flo and the whole experience was great! The tattoo is beautiful and it was at a very good price. The shop is clean and organized and hand sanitizer is sitting at the entrance when you first come in. Would definitely recommend to friends as well as return again in the future. Thanks Flo! – Megan Kirsten
6. Soul Survivors Body Art
Variety of specialities | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Customer satisfaction | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Artist track record | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Studio environment | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Eric Johanson founded Soul Survivors Body Art in 2001. Eric has over a decade of experience in the body modification industry, prompting him to open his own shop in Winnipeg.
We thought it was unique that they had created a space with authentic art from tattooists, artists, and pieces dating back to 1000 B.C.
This, in our opinion, provides clients with a one-of-a-kind experience while getting their tattoos and piercings done at their shop.
It’s also worth mentioning that they have over 25 years of experience, and they’ve been recognized as one of the best tattoo shops that employ industry-standard health and sterilization practices.
Soul Survivors’ professional tattooing services use single-use sterilized needles and focus on medical grade pigments and barriers, which we liked because it increases the procedure’s safety.
It’s important to note that if you’re a minor, they cannot tattoo you, even with parental consent. They can, however, pierce minors with parental/legal guardian consent and identification verification.
Unfortunately, we don’t appreciate their small studio. However, we appreciate that they’re open seven days a week. They also have a convenient online booking system where customers can book appointments.
If you’re looking for some of the best tattoo shops in Winnipeg, you should consider Soul Survivors Body Art.
Pros
- Open seven days a week
- Online booking system
- Years of experience
- Unique shop ambiance
- Employs industry standard health and sterilization practices
- Use single-use sterilized needles
Cons
- Small studio
- Website design could be improved
Customer Reviews
Great vibes and atmosphere
“This place is super rad! Great vibes, awesome staff, and a killer waiting room. I’ve had 8 piercings and 2 tattoos done at Soul Survivors and it’s definitely my favourite shop in the city.” -Jadon H.
Steady hands and reliable service
“Love the shop!!! I had been to Soul Survivors years ago for several piercings and a few tattoos. I went back last weekend for Kaleb to do my lip piercings and I love it! He did a great job, very steady hands.” -Adele T.
7. Odin’s Eye Tattoo
SERVICES | Tattoo Body piercing |
WEBSITE | https://odinseyetattoo.com/ |
ADDRESS | 1st Location: 2005 Portage Ave, Winnipeg 2nd Location: 2645 Portage Ave, Winnipeg |
CONTACT DETAILS | (204) 505-7666 odinseyetattoo@harleen-kaur (204) 560 6666 [email protected] |
OPERATING HOURS | 2005 Portage Ave, Winnipeg Opening hours: Tue – Sat 11:00am – 6:00 pm Sun – Mon Closed 2645 Portage Ave, Winnipeg Opening hours: Tue – Sat 11:00am – 6:00 pm Sun – Mon Closed |
Variety of specialities | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Customer satisfaction | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Artist track record | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Studio environment | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
We recently visited Odin’s Eye Tattoo and were thoroughly impressed by the experience. The studio’s atmosphere was welcoming, clean, and professional from the moment we walked in.
Furthermore, the artists at Odin’s Eye Tattoo demonstrated exceptional skill and creativity. They worked closely with us to bring our vision to life, ensuring every detail was perfect.
Moreover, the attention to hygiene and safety was impeccable. The equipment was sterile, and the artists followed strict protocols, making us feel completely at ease.
Additionally, the consultation process was thorough and personalized. The artist took the time to understand our ideas and provided valuable insights to enhance the design.
Transitioning to the actual tattooing, the experience was smooth and comfortable. The artist’s steady hand and expertise made the process surprisingly pain-free.
Also, the aftercare instructions were clear and detailed. We appreciated the follow-up communication to ensure our tattoo was healing well.
To add, the pricing at Odin’s Eye Tattoo was fair and transparent. We felt that the quality of the work and the overall experience were well worth the investment.
Finally, we are beyond satisfied with the results. Odin’s Eye Tattoo delivered a piece of art that we are proud to wear for life.
Pros
- Reasonable pricing
- Online booking system
- Years of experience
- Unique shop ambiance
Cons
- No promos at the present
8. Tattoos For The Individual
Tattoos For The Individual was created with the goal of providing safe, clean, and personal tattooing experience to people all around Winnipeg. The shop was established in 1996 by two experienced and eccentric tattoo artists named Kurt Wiscombe and Alex Adams.
As years of dedicated tattooing service went by, their experiences were honed and their customers grew. Today, they still have the same spark and always seek to push the boundaries of their art and apply it to skin on a dedicated group of people who travel long distances to get tattoos done by them.
Each of their tattoo artists have their own artistic versions and styles they work in. You can see their individual works on their artists page. We noticed that all their artists can work extremely well with big and small tattoo styles and can even recreate the fine details on small tattoos.
We think that Tattoos For The Individual is a great place to experience your first tattoo service or if you’re looking for a more personal tattoo experience since they only open by appointment during Mondays to Fridays.
Pros
- Client-centered service
- Over 25 years of experience
- Quality ink work
Cons
- Only works on appointments on the weekdays
Customer Reviews
Friendly and extremely professional staff.
“Friendly staff. Extremely professional. Clean and welcoming environment. Had my tat done by Courtney who is an AMAZING artist. Was told at a previous shop I could only get a black flower as a cover up. Went and had a consult with Courtney who immediately was excited about the chance to give me something pretty. No black flower here. Instead a BEAUTIFUL full colour purple water lily!! I have found my new artist. Thank you Courtney and Tattoos for the Individual I will be back.” – Shelley Smith
Super hospitable and make you feel right at home.
“Kurt and crew are absolutely amazing. I’ve had 2 tattoos done there. One from Jack, the apprentice and from Kurt. They are super hospitable and make you feel right at home. Not to mention the work is incredible.” – Kayla Wilding
FAQs about tattoo shops in Winnipeg
Now that you have a list of the top tattoo shops in Winnipeg, it’s time to take your pick and collect new art.
If you need medical advice on getting a tattoo, you can consult with a doctor in a health clinic or talk to a dermatologist.
Reference on best tattoo shops in Winnipeg and estimated costs.