10 Oldest Tattoo Shops in the World

Tattoos have been a part of human culture for thousands of years and continue to be a popular form of self-expression. But did you know some tattoo shops have existed for over a century? These shops have witnessed the evolution of tattoo artistry and have become iconic landmarks in their respective cities.

In this article, we will look at the 10 oldest tattoo shops in the world and explore their rich history and legacy. From New York to Tokyo, these shops have survived world wars, social revolutions, and changing attitudes toward tattoos.

So, whether you’re a tattoo enthusiast or simply curious about the history of this art form, join us on this journey through time and discover the fascinating stories behind these legendary tattoo shops.

10. Caio Tattoo

photo source: Pinterest

Caio Tattoo is a tattoo studio located in the neighborhood of Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It was founded in the 1970s by Caio and has provided tattoo services to clients for over 50 years. The studio is at R. Francisco Otaviano, 67 – 33 in Copacabana.

The studio’s website, caiotattoo.com.br, provides information about the studio’s services, artists, and policies. Clients can also book appointments and view the studio’s portfolio of past work on the website.

Caio Tattoo is well-known for its high-quality tattoos and experienced artists. The studio offers many tattoo styles, including traditional, tribal, Japanese, and realism. Clients can also bring their own designs or ideas for custom tattoos. The studio uses top-of-the-line equipment and sterilization techniques to ensure the safety and comfort of its clients.

9. Jimmy’s Custom Tattoo

photo source: jimmystattoo.gr

Jimmy’s Custom Tattoo is a tattoo studio located in Athens, Greece. It was founded in 1977 by Jimmy Mamatsis and has provided tattoo services for over 40 years. The studio is located at Adrianou 72 in the city center of Athens. The studio uses high-quality equipment and follows strict sterilization procedures to ensure the safety and comfort of its clients.

It is known for its team of experienced artists specializing in many tattoo styles, including traditional, blackwork, watercolor, and realism. The studio is particularly popular for its custom tattoo designs. Clients are encouraged to bring in their ideas and work with the artists to create unique and personalized tattoos that reflect their personalities and style.

8. Fun City Tattoo

photo source: EV Grieve

Fun City Tattoo is a tattoo studio in the East Village neighborhood of New York City. It was founded in 1976 and is owned by Steve Pedone and Maxx Starr. The studio is located at 94 St Marks Pl in Manhattan.

The studio quickly became a popular destination for those seeking high-quality tattoos, and Shaw’s reputation helped to establish Fun City as one of the most respected tattoo shops in the city.

Fun City Tattoo is known for its rich history in the New York City tattoo scene and for being one of the first shops to bring tattooing out of the underground and into mainstream culture. The studio has a team of experienced and talented artists specializing in many tattoo styles, including traditional, blackwork, Japanese, and realism. Clients can also bring their own designs or ideas for custom tattoos.

Did You Know?

Fun City Tattoo is also known for its commitment to the community and has been involved in several charitable initiatives over the years.

7. Aart Accent Tattoos

photo source: Tattoodo

Aart Accent Tattoos is a tattoo studio located in the historic French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana. It was founded in 1976 by Jacci Gresham, one of the first Black female tattoo artists in the United States. The studio is located at 1041 N Rampart St in the heart of the city. 

Aart Accent Tattoos has a team of talented and experienced artists specializing in various tattoo styles, including traditional, blackwork, and realism.

Jacci Gresham, the owner of Aart Accent Tattoos, is a highly respected figure in the tattoo community. She has been tattooing for over 40 years and is known for her cover-up tattoos and scar camouflage expertise. Gresham is also an advocate for the Black tattoo community and has been involved in efforts to increase representation and diversity in the industry.

6. Outer Limits Tattoo & Body Piercing

photo source: Outer Limits Tattoo

Outer Limits Tattoo & Body Piercing, also known as Bert Grimm’s World Famous Tattoo, is a tattoo studio in Costa Mesa, California. It was founded in the 1950s by tattoo artist Bert Grimm, a prominent figure in the early days of American tattooing. The studio is now owned by Kari Barba, who is a highly respected tattoo artist in her own right.

Outer Limits Tattoo & Body Piercing is known for its traditional American tattoo style, which is heavily influenced by the work of Bert Grimm and other early tattoo artists. The studio has a team of talented artists who specialize in this style and other popular styles like Japanese and blackwork. Clients can also get body piercing services at the studio.

Did You Know?

Kari Barba, the owner of Outer Limits Tattoo & Body Piercing, is one of the most respected tattoo artists in the industry. She has been tattooing for over 40 years and is known for her expertise in traditional American tattooing.

5. Tattoo Lou’s

photo source: Inked Mag

Tattoo Lou’s is a tattoo studio located in Centereach, New York. It was founded in 1958 by Lou Rubino, who is also the current owner of the studio. Tattoo Lou’s has since expanded to include multiple locations throughout New York, including Huntington, Selden, and St. James shops.

Tattoo Lou’s is known for its high-quality tattoo work and its commitment to customer satisfaction. The studio has a team of talented artists who specialize in various tattoo styles, including traditional, black and gray, and full-color. Clients can bring in their designs or work with the artists to create custom tattoos tailored to their individual preferences.

In addition to tattooing, Tattoo Lou’s also offers body piercing services. The studio uses only high-quality, sterile equipment and follows strict safety protocols to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for clients.

4. Johnny Two Thumb Tattoo Studio

photo source: Nestia

Johnny Two Thumb Tattoo Studio is a well-established tattoo studio in Far East Plaza, Singapore, catering to tattoo enthusiasts since 1942. The studio is owned by Indra Bahadur, who has continued to uphold the legacy of its founder, Johnny Two Thumb, a celebrated and renowned tattoo artist who pioneered the Singaporean tattooing scene.

The studio is recognized for its expertise in traditional and classic tattoo styles. The team of skilled tattoo artists specializes in diverse styles, including Japanese, black and gray, and tribal tattoos. The artists at Johnny Two Thumb Tattoo Studio prioritize their clients’ satisfaction and preferences, providing them the option of bringing in their own designs or collaborating with the artists to create a unique, personalized tattoo.

Did You Know?

The studio has won several awards for its exceptional work, including the Best Tattoo Studio award at the Singapore Tattoo Show.

3. Les Skuse Tattoo Studio

photo source: Pinterest

Les Skuse Tattoo Studio is a historic tattoo studio in Bristol, United Kingdom. The studio was founded in the 1920s by Les Skuse, a renowned tattoo artist who was known for his pioneering work in traditional British tattooing.

The studio is currently owned by Jimmie Skuse, Les Skuse’s son, who has continued his father’s legacy by maintaining the studio’s traditional tattooing techniques and high standards of craftsmanship.

The studio’s reputation for producing high-quality tattoos has attracted clients worldwide, with many seeking skilled artists for their expertise in traditional British tattoo styles. The studio offers many tattoo designs, from classic and traditional styles to more modern and contemporary designs. Clients can work with the artists to create custom tattoos that reflect their individual styles and preferences.

Did You Know?

The studio’s commitment to preserving traditional tattooing techniques and delivering exceptional quality has earned it a reputation as one of the most respected tattoo studios in the United Kingdom.

2. Tattoo-Ole

photo source: The Local Denmark

Tattoo-Ole is one of the oldest tattoo studios in the world, founded in 1884 and located in the Nyhavn district of Copenhagen, Denmark.

The studio has a rich history and has been passed down through several generations of the Petersen family. The current owner is Majbritt Petersen, the great-granddaughter of Ole Hansen. Petersen has continued the tradition of quality tattooing and has expanded the studio’s offerings to include a variety of tattoo styles.

In addition to its tattooing services, Tattoo-Ole also offers a range of tattoo-related merchandise, including t-shirts, stickers, and prints. The studio’s commitment to preserving traditional tattooing techniques and its long history makes it a unique and special destination for tattoo enthusiasts.

Did You Know?

In 2015, the studio was featured in the Danish TV show “Kender Du Typen?” where the host visited the studio and learned about its history and tattooing techniques.

1. Razzouk Tattoo

photo source: Religion Unplugged

Razzouk Tattoo is the oldest tattoo studio in the world. The studio is located in Jerusalem and is owned by Wassim Razzouk, a 27th-generation tattoo artist who learned the trade from his father and grandfather.

The Razzouk family has been tattooing pilgrims visiting the Holy Land for over 700 years, with tattoos serving as a way for pilgrims to commemorate their journey. Razzouk Tattoo specializes in traditional Christian tattoos, including designs of crosses, holy figures, and biblical scenes.

The studio uses traditional hand-tapping techniques to create tattoos, using a hand-held needle to puncture the skin and deposit ink. The Razzouk family has been using this technique for centuries, which is considered a part of their family heritage.

Did You Know?

The studio has also been visited by celebrities and tattoo enthusiasts from around the world who are interested in experiencing the traditional tattooing techniques and designs of the Razzouk family.