Great experience. Tattoos on a walk-in basis with no problems. Very friendly and knowledgeable. All around great afternoon with some cool people. Sam and Andre were awesome!!! Daniel was helpful and informative on ideas for a cover-up. Waiting area was comfortable and young lady at reception was a pleasure to talk to. Will be back read more

Blood, Sweat & Tears - My love of fishing - Tattoo Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

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Can not recommend BST enough! The overall atmosphere was super welcoming. The receptionist was super nice and great with customers. Me and my boyfriend had an appointment with Lauren after months of me following her and she definitely didn't disappoint! Definitely going back for the rest of my tattoos and already planning my next visit. read more

Blood, Sweat & Tears - Tattoo Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

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Had a noon appointment. Got there early. While I was waiting two individuals had consultations with my artist. I decided to leave around 12:14 during my artist second consultation. Feedback: In the future the artist might want to come out and speak to their customer to ensure they are ok with waiting and give a timeframe of how much longer they will have to wait. This would have been my third tattoo by and artist here. I am not sure if I will return read more

Clean, artistic, and welcoming, everything you could ask of an ink slinging parlor. The artists there were talented and had excellent galleries. I took my niece there for her first tattoo and the artist had such a light touch that she barely winced. Overall kudos, I just wish they would accept debit/credit cards. read more

Blood, Sweat & Tears - An artist's painting - Tattoo Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

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I did a lot of researching before deciding to come to BST, and I'm glad I did. The shop is clean... Don't judge by the semi-sketchy neighborhood. I chose Alicia because her work with fine lines and detail is amazing! We had a discussion about what I wanted, I emailed her ideas, and set up an appointment. I had an idea of what I wanted, of course... But she took it to another level that I wasn't even expecting. I couldn't be happier with the design. Alicia was super cool, and very laid back. Another tattoo artist across the room seemed like he couldn't be less interested in his client, and I've been in that situation before, so I was super thankful for her demeanor. If you want someone talented, creative, and actually interested in your permanent body modification - Alicia's your girl. read more

Blood, Sweat & Tears - Thanks Alicia! - Tattoo Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

I got my first tattoo here with Eric Sparrow. He was super friendly and made the experience pleasent, I would definitly come back here for more! The establishment is clean and despite it looking small on the ourside I felt very safe here. (I'm 5 foot four and a woman so that was important to me) Eric went above and beyond to deliver a great tattoo, and did not charge me extra even though it took MUCH longer than he originally thought. He even kept the place open after hours to make sure the tattoo looked perfect. Only one star taken off because of some scheduling/rescheduling issues, but it really wasn't that big of a deal and I'd give 4.5 stars if I could. This issue was addressed and handled well too. I cant wait to come back! read more

Blood, Sweat & Tears - Eric Sparrow did this amazing TARDIS galaxy swirl tattoo! - Tattoo Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

Hands down, no other shop around compares to the wonderful atmosphere at BST. The front desk staff is friendly and very helpful when scheduling appointments. The building is very clean and full of custom artwork. I have been tattooed by both Jenn Small and AJ Lingerfeldt on multiple occasions. Both Jenn and AJ are highly skilled as well as creative. I can go in with half an idea and the artist can make it bloom into a beautiful tattoo. Every single artist at BST (Dave, Mike, AJ, Dia, and Jenn) makes getting tattooed a comfortable and enjoyable experience. BST takes sanitation seriously. I have never had an infection or any issues with healing. Every artist takes time to go over detailed aftercare instructions as well as following all NC regulations for tattooing. Chances are if you're having "infections" then you didn't pay attention or follow the aftercare guidelines that were sent home with you!!! I highly recommend BST to anyone who is looking for a clean shop that produces quality, lasting work. Please keep in mind that you are putting something on your body permanently and quality is more important than quantity. Good tattoos aren't cheap and cheap tattoos aren't good! read more

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I've known about BST and Dave Searce for 5+years. Two of my friends have had amazing work done by him. I finally had an idea / concept and called up to schedule appointment with Dave. Because it is such a large piece (full sleeve) he required two face / face consultations to make sure we were on the same page, hear my idea and give me input and things to think about before we commit. A $100 deposit was required after the first consultation. After the second consultation we were set. He requested that a week before the email I send him images of the "soon to be tattooed" area and all the details. On Tattoo day Dave and I finalized design and he got to work. Dave was laser focused the whole time, he's thorough and efficient and responsive to critique. His rates are amazing for the quality of work he does. 3 sessions down...2-3ish to go. Will update as more sessions are completed. read more

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Talk about accommodation! I was in town visiting friends but was bound determined to get a tatt while in town but they were going to be closed. They made an exception and voila I was able to get prior to leaving! Nick was absolutely AWESOME!!!!! Very down to earth as well. I WILL BE back and to see Nick! thank you so much for making my day and accommodating my request! God Bless! read more

Dia did a excellent job! Fit me in pretty quickly! Was exactly what I wanted and was really affordable! read more

Blood, Sweat & Tears - Tattoo Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

Not only the best artists (I will follow Scott anywhere!), but a genuinely great experience. Clean, colorful, organized, welcoming, and all out awesome. I took my son here for his first tattoo. Only the best for him. Thank you Scott, you are the greatest! read more

Dave scearce is incredible. He has done both of my arms and I am so incredibly pleased with the work done. Everywhere I go I get asked who did my artwork and I have his business cards on hand at all times. He is also a really nice person and in the past I've gone to some artists that are rude or condescending, and he is neither. He doesn't need to have a ridiculous ego because his work says it all. I will continue to go here for all my tattoo needs. Thanks Dave! read more

Blood, Sweat & Tears - Both of my arm tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

Alicia was great! Super nice and such a talented artist. She took the photos I sent her and made something beautiful. I would only go back to her! Great staff and a nice experience. read more

Blood, Sweat & Tears - Tattoo Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

I did a walk-in yesterday and got a tattoo from Scott. Nothing too crazy - just a little quote. It was a fun experience. Would definitely come again! (THANKS SCOTT!!) read more

One of the best tattoo shops in Charlotte. As soon as you walk in, you feel welcomed - clean space, walls full of original artwork, small selection of flash by the front desk. All the employees are knowledgeable and easy to talk to, not to mention extremely talented! Word of advice: feel free to take some inspiration from the flash but this shop specializes in custom tattoos. Talk to any of the artists (Dave, Jenn, Mike, AJ, Dia) and they will be able to turn your ideas into a tattoo that will not only look good but will stand the test of time (remember...this is on your skin forever!) This shop is definitely like a family to me and one of the few places in Charlotte that I would ever want to get tattooed. read more

I just got my first tattoo! Jamie was AWESOME and very patient with me. I love my tattoo. I can't stop looking at it! read more

Blood, Sweat & Tears - My first tattoo. - Tattoo Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

Dave Scearce, the owner, is hands down the best there is. I've been getting tattooed with Dave for about 6 years, and his work never ceases to amaze me. I can walk in with a rough idea of what I want , and Dave will take the time to listen and draw up something better than I imagined. The shop is very clean and everyone is friendly and professional. I wouldn't recommend going anywhere else. You get what you pay for, and here you get quality art work by experienced artists. read more

I went today and got my very first tattoo! Yikes lol from the moment I made my appointment (yesterday) until today when I left Thomas was top notch! He went over everything with me and talked to me during and made sure I was comfortable. Afterwards he went over post care and told me to email or call with any questions. My first tattoo was done like an hour ago and I'm already thinking about my next one! If your looking for a clean, professional place go see Thomas or any of the staff at BST. read more

It's been about 5 years since my last tattoo and I heard a lot of great things about BST through word of mouth so decided to check it out. The staff is very friendly and I enjoyed the lobby area which doesn't have the stereotypical showcase of 1000+ tattoo designs but rather coffee table style books from each artist available. I decided to go with Jeremy and he is extremely talented. The prices are very fair for the high quality work you get. I definitely recommend! read more

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I just got a tattoo from there . Totally professional . Amazing artistic creation !!! I can't be happier with the tattoo . Would recommend checking it out . I'm def going back for another .I absolutely love my tatt read more

Blood, Sweat & Tears - Awesome job blood sweat tears I love my new tattoo !! Chris worked 9 hours straight . I couldn't be happier - Tattoo Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

Alicia VanCuren is the absolute most amazing tattoo artist I've had the honor to work with!! She's so sweet, she cares, she's friendly and listens then creates such a stunning tattoo I couldn't recommend her enough!! Getting my tattoo even tickled at the beginning of the session! She's seriously the best I can't say enough great stuff about her, my experience was just absolutely amazing! Oh and her work?! Oh my goodness the shedding is impeccable the lines are so smooth and the whole piece looks perfectly out together and just fantastic read more

Justin was awesome!! My mom was in town for her birthday and wanted to touch up a tattoo. I also was interested in getting my first tattoo. Justin was very professional and friendly during the consultation and made me feel very at ease and excited about my first tattoo. He's talented and very quick, we spent no more than 3 hours there! I am now a loyal customer of Justin, thanks again! read more

So I stopped by a couple of weeks ago to start the conversation about a new tattoo and was immediately please with the atmosphere and the people that work there. I made an appointment for Scott today, and could not be more excited about the finished product. The atmosphere of course, is laid-back. Scott is a pretty funny guy and you put him next to Alecia in the next room, and a good time is had by all. Add that to amazing artwork,It's a win-win situation. I will definitely be back for my next one! read more

Great people!! Answered all my questions and made me feel very comfortable and confident!! Scott handled my first tattoo with such care and concern, he continued to make sure I was okay through the whole process! read more

Blood, Sweat & Tears - Tattoo Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

Weeks before my appointment, I brought in a CD with a description of what I wanted done and an image for an example. Dave, the artist, was busy at the moment so the girl at the desk told me she would give it to him for review. When I came in it was obvious he had not taken the time to look at it and had no idea what I wanted done. It was frustrating working with him on short notice to get the plan down. We managed to get a good tattoo, however. read more

Let me preface this by saying I'm a shy person and tattoo shops intimidate me greatly, this being said, my experience with BST almost left me in tears. I had heard good things about them and did my research and decided to go with one of their artists that specializes in text. I have a rough idea of what I want, but I am the least creative person ever and I need an artist's touch to be able to make my ideas come to life. I called ahead to make sure the artist I wanted was available and was assured that they were. When I got there, they were already busy with someone else (walk-ins happen, I know). I had to do my 'consultation' while they were tattooing someone else with 3 other people in the room. By this time I'm completely rattled and I'm sure I came off like a total idiot, but I felt like I was judged and completely dismissed. I was told to just email the quote I wanted in the text I wanted and that was the end of the story. I could've gone to any artist and done that! I have an existing tattoo and really wanted an artist to sit down with me and figure out an elegant way to work this quote into what I already have and give me input and help visualize the thing that will be on my body FOREVER. I understand that time is money and they can't sit down and chat with you for an hour about a 'silly quote' you want on your body forever, but at least try to act like you're not just trying to take my money. Extremely disappointed in BST and now I have no idea where to go from here. read more

Talented artists, professional and clean shop! One of the best in Charlotte by far!

BST is a very clean and very organized shop. I've been visiting Mike since before BST was born, my first time with him being at their sister shop, Immortal Images. All of the artists are great, but I highly reccomend Mike. I currently live in the Seattle, WA area, and have travelled all the way across the country to get a tattoo from him before going somewhere local. I've done it once, and I'll do it again! Great work guys! read more

I have been going to BST for over five years now and and have always used Dave. The reason for Dave was a close friend always told me if I wanted an awesome tattoo then save my money and go to the best and I finally did it. This in no way meant to take away anything from his other artists because Dave would rather be in that shop alone if he can't find talent that meets or exceeds his expectations. You can go in BST blindfolded and when you were done you would be so damn stoked that you wouldn't be able to tell which did it because all their work speaks for itself. Dave sets a high standard because that's what BST customers have grown accustom to and Dave along with the whole crew never let the customer down. I have both arms sleeved and I go in tomorrow to do some chest work, BST is the cleanest and most well kept shops you will ever have the pleasure of being in. If you want some comparisons just ride to Gastonia and walk through 3 shops and then go back to BST and do a walk through. Its like going from dirty garage to a sterilized surgical room it's that clean. I would never go anywhere else and always keep his cards in my wallet so when somebody asks about my work I give them a BST card and urge them to save your money and get it the first time, their can only be a second time if your lucky and most aint. read more

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I'm new to Charlotte and found this tattoo shop via Yelp. The parlor is very clean and they use nothing but single use, sterile needles and syringes on each person. I had Eric and he did an amazing job. Everyone was very friendly and answered any questions I had. They work with you to get exactly what you want. read more

I had a tattoo done here as a walk-in in 2013 and it is still one of the best looking tattoos I have! Unfortunately, my artist Dia is no longer with BST but I would still go back there with no hesitation! read more

First I noticed how clean everything is, from the outside of the building to inside. All the pictures on the wall were free of dust, the windows were clean. Could tell they take pride in the cleanliness of their work place. I got my tattoo with Dave, he made it such a fun environment and his creativity showed through my tattoo. I came in with a picture and an idea, but Dave definitely made it a thousand times better than what I could have thought. From the outline to the shading, Dave formed the tattoo to the movement of my arm to make it flow better. My tattoo is stunning and I could not be more happy with the design, I would recommend this shop to anyone that doesn't want just a tattoo but a mother ****ing tattoo!!! read more

I was extremely disappointed with my experience here. I had done so much research to find the right tattoo artist and stopped in a few weeks ago to review the work of everyone at this shop. I was pretty sold out to meeting with Alicia and I booked a consultation a week in advance. I know I'm a novice at all this but I assumed that the consultation would involve the artist hearing about my ideas, looking at pictures I pulled to give them the vision and then them talking me through ideas or adding their creative spin on things. I wasn't sure if they would sketch something right in front of me if it was simple enough or what would take place but considering I had to book an appointment I at least expected to "consult." Alicia came out into the lobby where 5 other people were and basically asked what I was thinking about getting. I looked at her like oh, we are doing this here? And she said she would take me back but she has a client. Why did i make an appointment? Bottom line? She was rude, condescending and unfriendly. She also told me anyone in the shop could do what I wanted. Well, thanks. I had been following HER, booked time with HER and to be dismissed the way I was was atrocious. Maybe she didn't want to do my idea, maybe she was having a bad day, maybe whatever but I will NOT be getting a tattoo by her. No way. I talked to others in the shop and they were so welcoming and truly willing to bshare their ideas and made me feel comfortable. She's talented but no way. read more

Amazing shop and staff! Several friends at work have used them, and they didn't steer me wrong. The place is absolutely the cleanest shop you will ever find and the staff was wonderful to this first-timer. Thomas took my idea, and created a beautiful tat that I love. I will definitely be a repeat customer! read more

Alicia was incredible. From the moment I walked in, she patiently revised the stencil until it was exactly what I wanted and her hand was as precise as any I've known. I would proudly have her give me my first or my last tattoo. Long story short, she knows how to make the you comfortable, confident in your choice before and proud afterwards. The only reason I didn't give her 6 stars is because that isn't possible. read more

My husband and I have had work done by several tattoo artists here. Work is great. I was recommended by a coworker who had fantastic work done by Dave. If you follow their page Dave often lists last minute openings. Each artist has a really different style which makes it great for those who like variety. My husband and I have sessions to complete our work with Mike and we are complimented on his work often. Shop is super clean and everyone that works there is great. read more

One of the best shops in Charlotte!! All artists are exceptional and I would be honored to have a tattoo done by any one of them!

Highly recommend this shop. I've gotten tattooed at a few other shops and this is by far the best I've been to. All the staff are friendly and professional and the location is very clean and well kept. I researched a lot of tattoo shops in North Carolina in anticipation of getting my new tattoo and I came across Dave's portfolio. He really has some or the best work I've seen, so I gladly make the drive out here to get work done. He's currently working on a half-sleeve cover up and I'm absolutely blown away by how it's turning out. The underlying tattoo was fairly large and bold, and he was able to make it disappear with good design and planning. The shop manager is extremely friendly and makes clients feel welcome and comfortable. I feel like my business is appreciated there. read more

I went here for my first tattoo and had a great experience. My tattoo didn't take much more than 20 minutes but everything was clean, organized and comfortable. The staff was accommodating and friendly and most importantly my tattoo came out great. My tattoo was simple but it was clear just observing the artwork and sample books in the lobby that they have some awesome artists. I will be back!! read more

TL;DR Go here. Dave Scearce is an amazing artist and a genuinely nice guy. I've spent a lot of time in the shop this year and have seen the other artists' work as well. Lots of fantastic people there. Prologue When I was looking for a tattoo studio to custom craft a full color sleeve for me, I took my time searching. At the time I started the sleeve, I lived almost 2 hours away from BST Tattoo, but decided to go there anyways because I simply could not find a studio anywhere close to me that I trusted to tattoo a large and prominent part of my body. The Search. I started looking for tattoo studios in April of 2012. I had been thinking about a concept for about 3-4 years and was finally at the point in my life where I could spend the tine and money to get the full sleeve done that had been a goal for so long. I started looking up artists and shops in my local area and couldn't find an artist whose style I liked AND that I would trust with such a large piece. There were plenty of "tattoo mills" (pick a piece of flash off the wall and we'll do it wherever you want it) around and I was looking for custom work based on my images and concept. So I broadened the search. I started searching on http://reddit.com/r/tattoos/ and came upon a tattoo of a Corgie (http://i.imgur.com/JsEuM.jpg) that Dave Scearce had done. I saw he was in Charlotte and that pretty much sealed the deal in my mind that i was at least going in for a consultation. The Consultation I gathered a few reference photos of sleeves similar to the style and content I was looking for and brought it in for a quick consultation with Dave. At this point, he didn't know me from "Adam" or how serious I was about getting the tattoo. He still took a few minutes to talk with me about my idea and to look at the photos I brought in. I showed him some of the ideas I found and some of my reference photos on my iPad. He looked at me and said (in the most serious tone you could imagine), "I can do a better sleeve for you than those." Done. Deal sealed. I loved his confidence in his craft and the fact that he was also excited about the concept (underwater scene). I talked to my significant other and a few days later put a deposit down to start this multi-session tattoo. The Shop The shop is VERY clean. I was amazed when I saw Dave wiping down the floor with alcohol in preparation to start my tattoo. They're NUTS about cleanliness and making sure you're safe. It definitely put me at ease for my first tattoo of significant size. The staff is friendly and the other artists are interested in each others' work. There's all sorts of neat artwork on the walls to look at when you're taking breaks from tattooing. The Process On my first visit I brought Dave a lot of images--way too many. Dave works well collaboratively with others and so we just started talking about what i wanted where and how it would fit together into a cohesive piece. After he got a broad idea of the things I wanted, we started printing out the photos (general rule of thumb - do your artist a favor and bring in the images already printed... don't rely on them to print them for you). Then we got started. Dave completely FREEHANDED everything onto my skin--no stencil or transfer. I was amazed at the process where he would refine the image from general shapes to fine lines. That process took a little bit for the size of a tattoo I was getting and we finally started tattooing. I was there for a total of over 30 hours in the chair. Dave and I talked... a LOT during that time, and I can say that I think we became friends. He genuinely took an interest in things that were going on in my life at the time. When we came upon a part where I didn't necessarily know what I wanted to fill the area of my arm, Dave would offer up suggestions of what he thought would work well. I wound up with quite a few things integrated into my sleeve that I would have never thought about and that weren't in the original plan, but it all works together wonderfully. The Final Result I'm completely ecstatic with my full color sleeve. I've had people tell me that it looks "painted on" and that it's the "best executed sleeve" they've ever seen. I'm completely in awe at the raw artistic vision and talent that Dave has. I know I'm going to love this custom piece of artwork I have for the rest of my life. I've accomplished a life goal thanks to Blood, Sweat & Tears Tattoo. If you'd like to see my sleeve, click here: http://i.imgur.com/QPyjy.jpg Do yourself a favor and get your next tattoo from one of the fantastic artists at BST Tattoo. And while you're there, grab a t-shirt and a hoodie :) I'll definitely be back in the future for more work. read more