I've been coming to Slave to the Needle since around 2017 early 2018 and have had a lot of work done through the shop over the years -- enough to know the difference between a good experience and an exceptional one. During that time I've never actually written a review before, but my recent sessions with Tim Bradley (aka Mean Ole Tim) at the Wallingford location deserve one. Tim has been an absolute standout. He's not just a skilled tattooer -- he's an artist and professional in the truest sense. His ability to translate an idea into something that feels both deeply personal and beautifully cohesive is unreal. He recently completed a full torso panel of my German shepherd, Stryder, in an Irezumi-inspired style, as well as two custom hand pieces -- and every step of the process was collaborative, thoughtful, and executed with precision. What I appreciate most is Tim's mix of humility, humor, and quiet confidence. He listens, gives honest feedback, and works with a level of care that shows in every line and aspect of the piece. The end result isn't just cool ink -- it's art that carries weight, intention, and soul. After nearly a decade with STTN, I can say this has been one of my best experiences yet. If you're looking for someone who genuinely gives a damn about both the craft and the client, Tim's your guy. read more

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Camy did a superb job on my water dragon. I would like to be more confident in competitive swimming and felt the desire to be like a water dragon and asked the tattoo place to come up with a tattoo on my arm. Camy volunteered and she did it vibrantly with her works of blues and fine lines. This is my first tattoo and I couldn't be more pleased with it. Thank you Camy. I love it! read more

Slave To The Needle Tattoo - Water dragon by artist Camy - Tattoo Near Me - Seattle, Washington

My first tatoo place scheduled mid-june 2025. I researched a lot of tattoo places in the area, and slave to the needle always came up as the best. First walked in here two days ago, and was overwhelmed with the awards and the setup. I talked to Danny and he is going to hook me up with my first two tatts on each arm, simple really, but that's all I need. Will follow up. read more

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I love this shop. Very clean and welcoming! Cami is amazing. She is so personable, she creates a comfortable environment and she checks on your wellbeing throughout. I came in with an idea and she not only executed, but improved it tenfold! She is truly an incredible artist with a keen eye for detail. I feel fortunate to have her as my artist. Forever grateful that she brought up an idea to tweak my design slightly, in the end I am so overwhelmingly happy with my piece. read more

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Awful customer service tattoo artist named Tim Kelly ruined my appointment by not even asking for a deposit while we had a phone consultation. Called him verify are appointment and he's like you aren't on the books because you didn't leave a deposit but he never asked for one. He didn't even care! It was for my birthday next week and now I'm stuck in a situation where I have to find someone fast! read more

Great tattoo shop. Very old school in the best way possible. They greet everyone at the front door and make people feel welcome and comfortable. They are respectful and kind to customers. They have great artists and clearly make customer service a priority. They cater to all price ranges which is cool. I had a full arm sleeve done last year and now I'm working on a full back piece. I've probably spent 20 hours in this shop getting work done observing how they treat people and nothing but good things to say. read more

I've never had a tattoo before and unfortunately my neck was the place that i would get my first tattoo, Danny Chan made my first experience the best. Appreciated his humor and vibe, his art was also outstanding and liked his choice of piece to put. very much recommend read more

Everything about my experience at Slave To The Needle was amazing. The price and the quality was right on. The artist, Mr. Duncan took his time and super talented. I won't go anywhere else. Highly recommend five stars!!!!! read more

Slave To The Needle Tattoo - This is a photo of an island hibiscus flower with a Puerto Rican tree, frog by the name of "coquí" thank you again! - Tattoo Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Best tattoo experiences. I've been back several times. There's not a better group of talented and personable artists I've met before. It's got a cool, dark, artsy atmosphere with amazing art, flash and decor. I cannot recommend Slave to the Needle enough. read more

Ugh. I wish I didn't live in Portland because I would have for SURE made this my go to piercing and ink place. Came in today to get my Daith and Tragus pierced. I haven't had any body work done in AGES like at least a decade so I felt a bit like a newbie but Adam made me feel SUPER comfortable. He took the time to explain everything and when I told him my intention for the piercing were for acupressure points for migraine relief he told me that there wasn't scientific backing for something like that. He also explained that what he does is very different from what a acupuncture doc does (which I totally get). He mentioned that he focuses on the aesthetics. He told me all this to play the devils advocate. I super appreciated his knowledge, but wanted to get the piercings anyways as I've had the itch to get a piercing. He was super detailed, sterile, friendly and safe. He did such an amazing job, I think the piercings look amazing. I also remember that when I used to get regular piercings I'd feel pain/discomfort for a few days.. but honestly after the jewelry was placed I felt nothing. Definitely not how I remembered, so a very pleasant surprise! Definitely will attempt to go back when I'm in Seattle again! read more

Slave To The Needle Tattoo - Piercing a few hours new - Tattoo Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I got my lip pierced here by Kali. They were quick, professional, and my piercing is centered. No complaints! I've been here twice before for piercings and each time was just like this. These people are pros. Highly recommend. read more

How have I not reviewed my favorite tattoo shop? Three of my four tattoos were done here. I have two more planned for this year. One is a raven then wraps around my chest, right shoulder, and around to my back. Eight hours in the chair and it was a delightful experience. The shop is super clean and well-lit. My $.02 is that any tattoo parlour should be like where you get your haircut. Three C's comfortable, clean, and consultative. If they don't ask you a lot of questions and just try to get you in and out, you're getting the quick-serve meal versus dinner from a chef. Prices are reasonable for Seattle and to date, I wouldn't consider going anywhere else. Bonus tip: 1. Plan ahead. Please plan ahead. Did I say plan ahead? They are very good which means the artists book up months in advance. 2. Know what you want and spend the time to do a consult with your artist. They are the experts in ink, style, and drawing. Only you are the expert in what you want. Make it a partnership. I designed three of the tattoos myself then reviewed them with the artist. Lindsay was amazing with my raven. When I go shirtless, yes I am 50+ and comfortable with it or my partners see it I get tons of compliments. read more

Got my very first tattoo a few months ago and Mariana was amazing. Although the waitlist feels a bit long, it is totally worth it. I had a 15 minute consult in November and was able to schedule the first session for December. Awesome service during each of my sessions with Mariana. She really made me feel comfortable and she's hilarious. The spaces are clean and sanitized. They always use gloves and change them. Half of the layout of the shop is open so it was interesting to see the other artists working as well. It's been almost 2 months since my last session and I'm already on the waitlist for my second tattoo! read more

Slave To The Needle Tattoo - Lioness by Mariana - Tattoo Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Josh could not have been more lovely or more human, and he took more time with my piercings than I ever would have expected him to. The whole vibe of the shop is super professional but still "homey," if I can use that word. Some gorgeous jewelry on display as well. No attitude; no pressure. Make an appointment cuz they don't do walk-ins! read more

I am frankly sad and disappointed that I'm writing this review. I had done a lot of research looking for someone who did Japanese koi and scheduled a consultation with Aaron two years ago. We spoke and agreed on 15 hours for the piece and I paid my deposit and got on the incredibly long wait list. I have been excited for two years for today to arrive. I arrived at my scheduled time and before I was allowed to sign the waiver he wanted to show me the drawing we were going to do. (Foreshadowing?) Be brings me the drawing and it's lovely, almost exactly what I wanted. I had been considering different flowers and articulated such. Saying can you please change the x flower to y? He then immediately got accusatory and said that we had agreed to it in our consult and that if I wanted changes I should have told him before showing up. Refusing to rework it. After all, he had done work on this art piece. I also commented that it was a bit big and that I'd like it higher on my leg. It devolved quickly that he'd give me a refund and that I needed to find an artist that would make a smaller piece (indicating that my tattoo isn't worth his brilliance) People, I was looking for a thigh piece, it is going to be about a foot long. I felt attacked, berated and insulted. I decided that if we had such a strong difference of opinion that I would just go. I am still bewildered at what happened but am thrilled that I didn't spend 15 hours being in a chair with him. Woof. read more

I was feeling brave and found this awesome location to fit me in. The gentleman was so kind, informative and communicated to me thru the full process. I was given a helpful after-care sheet and price was super affordable. So happy I found this spot. Great staff all-around! I would definitely go back. read more

My artist was professional, friendly, highly skilled and best of all conscious of hygiene protocols. The vibe chill and friendly. I would return read more

Just got my 3rd tattoo here yesterday and was very pleased with the service and professionalism. It is on the pricey side but you get quality for what you pay for. read more

I just got a tattoo from Danny Chan today! This is my second tattoo from him, although it has been a few years. I had a great experience! My tattoo is beautiful Go see Danny, you won't be disappointed!! read more

Slave To The Needle Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I have nothing but good things to say about Slave to the Needle!! I just got my first tattoo here yesterday and the whole experience was perfect! I'm definitely gonna get another couple tattoos and I will 1000% be going back to Elijah for those. The girl I talked to on the phone to get scheduled (Ellen) was super helpful! She got me in the same week because of a cancellation and was really helpful answering questions I had, as this was my first tattoo. Elijah was my artist and he was so cool and I fully trusted him from the moment I met him! He was really friendly and resized the stencil a little bit when I got there so it was exactly how I wanted, and helped me with all the logistics I knew absolutely nothing about. I was really worried about how bad it was gonna hurt (side note- it was no where near as bad as I thought), and he made me feel totally comfortable! I was absolutely ecstatic with how it turned out- it's absolutely perfect and I am so obsessed with it! For reference, this is on my upper rib cage. I'm definitely going to get more tattoos in the future and I'm definitely going to be coming back to Elijah for them! I cannot recommend him and this place enough. (Also just wanted to add their COVID procedures were good; everyone had a mask, there were only clean pens to use, and I felt totally safe). read more

Slave To The Needle Tattoo - Elijah - Tattoo Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I had an awesome experience at Slave To The Needle Tattoo in Wallingford. From scheduling the appointment, reviewing my custom art, through the tattoo itself and on to aftercare - this place was top notch! Elijah Cole is truly a master at his craft and I am looking forward to returning soon for my next piece. read more

Slave To The Needle Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Finally! A tattoo shop that actually conducts good business!? GASP! They answer my emails in a timely manner. The front desk assistant is competent and nice. The consultation process is very informative and professional. It's clean and tidy. The artists are extremely talented. I feel like I found a Unicorn! It's hard to find a tattoo shop that actually acts like a real business with real customer service these days. read more

Very impressed with Slave-to-the-Needle (Wallingford) Customer service people at the desk are always responsive, accomodating, and friendly. I have had one Touch-Up and Two Tattoos done there and am super-happy with the results. "FRANK" is one hell of a gifted & talented artist there. read more

I had a quick flash tattoo done here and it turned out great! My artist was quick and didn't drag the appointment out longer than it needed to be. read more

Slave To The Needle is hands down the best tattoo parlors (is that still a thing ) in the area. I've had all 4 of my tattoos done at the Ballard location and my most recent art pieces were done by Danny Chan. I can't believe how perfect they turned out . Danny was candid and professional and I would definitely recommend him to anyone looking for an amazing artist. read more

Slave To The Needle Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Seattle, Washington

My prior experiences here have always been great but calling in recently was extremely unpleasant. EXTREMELY rude receptionist and talks as if she hates her entire existence. She interrupted me 6 times (oh I sure counted) and had a piss poor attitude the entire time I had questions. If you dont want to be working then I dont think answering phone calls is the place for you to be. Took my business elsewhere and was treated 10 times better. read more

I have had the pleasure of getting a few tattoos from Danny Chan. His style is unique, bold, and exciting. Not only does he work quickly with a high level of skill but he was HILARIOUS and supportive through my first tattoo process! His rate is very reasonable and he is flexible but makes sure to be honest when discussing your design! A tattoo is on there forever so it's important to have an artist who will give an honest insight as to how the tattoo will read. I 100% intend on going back to finish up my design in a few more sessions. Thanks Danny! read more

Slave To The Needle Tattoo - Tattoos by Danny Chan - Tattoo Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I've gotten two tattoos done by Danny Chan, as has my wife, and we couldn't be happier with them! Danny is a great guy who is very skilled and works hard to accommodate the clients ideas. I'd highly recommend him! My tattoos are in the American Traditional style and he killed it. I've also seen him do great work in other styles. read more

Slave To The Needle Tattoo - The Swallow and Jesus tattoos were done by Danny - Tattoo Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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My sister and I are in town for our first trip together. We had wanted to get our matching tattoos to commemorate the occasion. We walked into Slave to the Needle and met Gabriel. He took a look at our tattoo idea and heard our story and agreed to take us! He was not only professional but gave us some feedback on our idea and made the design even better than we envisioned. Thank you for making our trip extra special. read more

Slave To The Needle Tattoo - Matching sister tattoos. Positioned so that the points extending past the heart meet in the middle. - Tattoo Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I was recommended to go to Slave To The Needle in Ballard by a friend and I'm so glad I went! My sister, niece and I all went in to get matching tattoos a few months ago. Danny Chan made me feel comfortable (as it was my first tattoo), he was funny and did an amazing job. I will definitely go back to him for my future tattoos! read more

Slave To The Needle Tattoo - Butterfly tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Danny Chan at the Ballard location did such an amazing job with my tattoo! I went to him a few months ago wanting a tattoo that incorporated my two homes and he killed it! He was super kind and great to talk to while getting my tattoo. This was my first one ever with a different artist (my original artist is back home in AZ) and he made it an amazing experience and I was super happy with the outcome! 10/10 read more

There's a reason why Slave is a Seattle staple. Tattoo shops are a dime a dozen in this city, but rarely will you find such a great group of artists and staff. I've been tattooed by both Tony and Frank and those experiences have been some of the best I've had while getting tattooed. The uniqueness of their stories is only exceeded by the quality of their work and the counter staff are always helpful and friendly. Slave is always the shop I recommend to others upon request. Just be sure to book early as they fill up fast! read more

My son and I were clients together at the Wallingford shop some years ago and Slave To The Needle consistently maintains a great staff of artists and professionals. Just make sure you get one of the talented people that help them maintain their reputation. Even with their great reputation, I came away with a bad tattoo. My son's pin-up came out great, but the guy who did mine obviously couldn't spell. Never again will I let someone "freehand" the lettering. I'd go there again because of the quality and talent of most of the staff, but would make it clear how to spell any words that would be a permanent part of me in the future. read more

Slave To The Needle Tattoo - C'mon dude. You had one job! - Tattoo Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Tony completed my sleeve today that began as piecework in 2017. His attention to detail and ability to add depth culminated in a piece that greatly exceeded my expectations. He pulled together all of my ideas to make one astonishing masterpiece that regularly receives compliments even prior to todays session. Simply outstanding, thank you again. read more

Great tattoo shop in the North Seattle location. Great vibes and professional service at this tattoo shop. Very easy to work with and a lot of talented artists here. read more

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My friend and I wanted to get piercings together to commemorate her big move to Seattle. We made a joint appointment together with Adam and had such a great time. Not only was he super clean and detail oriented but he was a blast to talk to. He gave my friend pointers for all the places she needed to visit in the area. Overall I think booking an appointment with Adam was the best choice for us. He is amazing at what he does!! read more

Damn if Elijah isn't a f-ing magician - third tat here and absolutely love this place!

I highly recommend Elijah, he freehanded my entire tattoo! I was a little skeptical about going somewhere else due to the placement of my tattoo. I read about a bunch of shops not caring if their client is in pain or not. But Elijah stopped and asked me a couple times if I was okay/how I was doing. He did such an amazing job, this place is very professional. Plus they care about their customers! read more

Slave To The Needle Tattoo - next step is shading - Tattoo Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I got my first (and probably only) tattoo here on a trip to Seattle! As you can imagine, I was full of nerves! This tattoo is something I've thought long and hard about and was definitely nervous to get. Lance took me as a walk in and was so accommodating and kind. I couldn't have asked for a better tattoo artist. He was so personable and helpful through the entire process beginning to end. read more

Slave To The Needle Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Time for an update. 2 years later and the mandala on my shoulder that Marc did for me STILL looks amazing. No need for a touch up at all. However, I was itching for some new ink and always wanted my dotwork to at least make it's way to a quarter sleeve. After a hefty tax return I made my consult appointment with Marc and set on a nearly 3 month course to get to my finished product. First off -- the Wallingford shop has expanded since my last visit here. SO MUCH MORE ROOM. Seriously, this place is huge. They did a great job with the expansion and remodel -- all the artists have their own, roomy space, they are able to show more paintings and prints, and even sell some merch without the place feeling crowded at all. Kudos on a job well done there. 2nd, and more importantly -- my tattoo. The initial consults to hammer out the artwork were a breeze -- Marc took some basic mehndi elements I wanted to incorporate and came up with a beautiful design that flowed seamlessly from the previous tattoo he did for me. Then I waited.. and waited. Yes, you have to schedule out here -- but these people are the top in the business and totally worth it. 2 inking sessions and I have a gorgeous new piece. Marc was friendly, effiecient, and equally as proud and excited for the finished piece as I was. This isn't my first time to the rodeo -- but if I were to have any after care questions or concerns the folks at STTN are there and happy to address any issues that could come to mind. Healing has been un-complicated, touch ups are free if needed (but doubtfully needed), and I won't think about coming anywhere else when it comes to future tattoo projects. read more

Slave To The Needle Tattoo - Newest addition looking lovely thanks to Marc! - Tattoo Near Me - Seattle, Washington