8 Unforgettable Portland Tattoo Shops for Your Next Masterpiece
Photography by Foxfire Boudoir (Image not associated with any tattoo shops mentioned in this article.)
As a boudoir photographer, I see a lot of skin, and in an artsy town like Portland, that means a LOT of tattoos!
Every time I see a truly gorgeous piece, I have to ask where my client got it done, of course, and in my years of experience, I’ve compiled a pretty comprehensive list of Portland tattoo shops that will be PERFECT for your next big idea.
Whether you’re looking for bold traditional designs or delicate fine line work, Portland has a shop for everyone. Let’s dive into some of the best places to get your next masterpiece! 🎨
Kid Sister Tattoo
Playful, colorful, and retro-inspired tattoos with a personal touch
Kid Sister Tattoo is the solo micro studio of Amanda “Pea Shooter” Luce, known for her vibrant, playful, and nouveau traditional style. Amanda’s work often features bold colors, whimsical designs, and retro-inspired themes, making her tattoos feel like fun pieces of art straight out of a vintage comic book. Whether you’re looking for a quirky, cartoonish design or something with a bit of nostalgia, Amanda’s unique style shines through in every piece. Her personalized approach ensures that each tattoo is tailored specifically to you, making the experience as special as the final product.
Amanda creates a warm, friendly, and private atmosphere, perfect for anyone looking for their first tattoo or adding to their collection.
Photography by Foxfire Boudoir (Image not associated with any tattoo shops mentioned in this article.)
Birdhouse Tattoo
A transformative tattoo experience in a safe, inclusive space
With two locations and a shocking number of diverse artists, Birdhouse Tattoo is more than just a tattoo shop—it’s a nest of comfort, growth, and self-expression. The—majority female and non-binary—artists at Birdhouse believe that getting a tattoo can be a transformative journey, whether it’s an act of self-love, a way to express your identity, or a healing experience. They honor the importance of consent and are committed to making your experience as comfortable as possible. At any point in the process, you can let them know if there’s anything they can do to enhance your comfort—whether it’s adjusting the music, providing adorable fidget slugs, or accommodating your sensory needs.
Many of the artists at Birdhouse are neurodivergent and deeply understand the importance of sensory-friendly environments. They use tattoo machines that make barely any noise, so you won’t be distracted or over-stimulated by the loud buzzing of traditional machines. Plus, they’re committed to sustainability, using biodegradable materials instead of the single-use plastics traditionally used in tattooing, ensuring that your tattoo is as environmentally friendly as possible.
Photography by Foxfire Boudoir (Image not associated with any tattoo shops mentioned in this article.)
Photography by Foxfire Boudoir (Image not associated with any tattoo shops mentioned in this article.)
Atlas Tattoo Studio
Bold, vibrant pieces that stand the test of time
Located in North Portland, Atlas Tattoo Studio is known for its long-standing reputation in the community. Established in 1998, this shop is home to some of the most skilled artists in the city. If you’re looking for traditional Americana styles or bold, vibrant pieces that pop, Atlas is your spot. They’ve got artists who specialize in everything from Japanese-inspired tattoos to neo-traditional designs.
Scapegoat Tattoo
Eco-conscious, vegan-friendly ink with stunning realism
If sustainability is as important to you as art, Scapegoat Tattoo is the place to be. Located in SE Portland, they’re a vegan-friendly shop, meaning all of their inks and aftercare products are cruelty-free. But let’s talk about the art! Scapegoat is known for its incredibly talented artists who specialize in realism, black and grey work, and intricate nature-inspired designs. It’s the perfect shop for detailed tattoos that feel alive on your skin.
Skeleton Key Tattoo
Custom tattoos with a dark, gothic flair
For those of you who love the darker side of tattoo art, Skeleton Key Tattoo in SE Portland is a must-visit. This shop has a reputation for beautifully detailed, custom pieces that often lean toward the gothic, horror, and macabre. But don’t let that fool you—they’ve got artists who can handle a wide range of styles, including illustrative and geometric designs. If you’re into bold black ink or want something truly one-of-a-kind, Skeleton Key delivers. Their intimate, art-gallery-like atmosphere makes the experience extra special.
Photography by Foxfire Boudoir (Image not associated with any tattoo shops mentioned in this article.)
Wonderland Tattoo
Delicate, whimsical designs and fine line tattoos
Wonderland Tattoo is your go-to if you’re dreaming of delicate, fine line tattoos that are full of whimsy and magic. Located in NE Portland, this studio is known for its friendly, inclusive environment and talented team of female artists who specialize in unique, illustrative designs. Many folks flock to Wonderland for their ethereal floral tattoos, dainty script work, and nature-inspired pieces. The light, soft lines make their tattoos feel like wearable art. They’re usually booked far in advance, but trust me, the wait is worth it!
Infinity Tattoo
Portland’s trusted shop for custom tattoos and large-scale projects
Infinity Tattoo has been a fixture in the Portland tattoo scene since 1993, and it’s easy to see why. Located in NW Portland, Infinity is known for its exceptional artists who specialize in custom tattoos, especially large-scale projects like full sleeves or back pieces. The shop has artists who are versatile in a variety of styles, from traditional to black and grey to modern abstract work.
Photography by Foxfire Boudoir (Image not associated with any tattoo shops mentioned in this article.)
Photography by Foxfire Boudoir (Image not associated with any tattoo shops mentioned in this article.)
New Rose Tattoo
Creative designs with a personal touch
In the heart of Portland’s historic Hawthorne district, you’ll find New Rose Tattoo. This shop has been around since 2000 and is known for its warm, friendly environment and artists who work collaboratively with clients to create personal, meaningful designs. Whether you’re looking for colorful, traditional tattoos or soft, intricate line work, New Rose Tattoo has an artist who can bring your vision to life. Plus, the shop is super clean and cozy, making it a great place for anyone new to tattoos.
Your Next Tattoo (and Boudoir Session) Awaits!
So there you have it—some of the best Portland tattoo shops that are sure to bring your next tattoo idea to life! Whether you’re a fan of traditional tattoos or looking for something more avant-garde, there’s a shop for you in Portland.
And why not celebrate your new (and old) ink with a boudoir session? Let’s highlight your favorite tattoos and capture the confidence they inspire. Ready to book? I’d love to create something unforgettable with you.
And if you haven’t already, join my Facebook group, Foxfire Vixen Society—a community of supportive, like-minded women where we share tips, stories, and encouragement. We’d love to have you!
Photography by Foxfire Boudoir (Image not associated with any tattoo shops mentioned in this article.)