Best Tattoo Artists in Kansas City
Kansas City’s best tattoo artists are known for their creativity, precision, and unique styles, offering a diverse range of body art that stands out in the Midwest.
Kansas City boasts a thriving tattoo scene with talented artists specializing in various styles. This comprehensive guide highlights the city’s most renowned tattoo artists, their specialties, and everything you need to know about getting tattooed in KC.
Kansas City’s best tattoo artists, known for their creativity and bold designs, pair perfectly with the city’s thriving Food Truck scene, where art meets flavor on every corner.
Top Rated Tattoo Studios
Supernatural Tattoo
Location: 1717 W 39th St, Kansas City, MO 64111
- Notable Artists:
- Mikey Wheeler (Traditional American)
- Jason Bradbury (Neo-traditional)
- Specialties: Traditional, Neo-traditional, Japanese
- Booking: Appointment required
- Price Range: $$$
- Years in Business: 15+
Mercy Seat Tattoo
Location: 210 E 16th St, Kansas City, MO 64108
- Notable Artists:
- Whispering Danny (Black and grey realism)
- Ben Alvarez (Color realism)
- Specialties: Realism, Portrait work
- Booking: By appointment only
- Price Range: $$$$
- Years in Business: 20+
Fountain City Tattoo
Location: 418 Armour Rd, North Kansas City, MO 64116
- Notable Artists:
- Matt Stebly (Traditional)
- Sarah Miller (Watercolor)
- Specialties: Traditional, Watercolor, Custom designs
- Booking: Walk-ins welcome, appointments preferred
- Price Range: $$$
- Years in Business: 10+
Artists by Style
Traditional American
- Mikey Wheeler (Supernatural Tattoo)
- Specialties: Bold lines, bright colors
- Experience: 15+ years
- Booking time: 2-3 months
- Instagram following: 50k+
- John Caleb (Radiant Tattoo)
- Specialties: Sailor Jerry style
- Experience: 12+ years
- Booking time: 1-2 months
- Award-winning traditional work
Realism
- Whispering Danny (Mercy Seat)
- Specialties: Portrait work, black and grey
- Experience: 20+ years
- Booking time: 3-6 months
- International recognition
- Maria Santos (Black Card Tattoo)
- Specialties: Color realism, nature scenes
- Experience: 8+ years
- Booking time: 2-3 months
- Published in tattoo magazines
Japanese Style
- Ken Tanaka (Catalyst Arts)
- Specialties: Traditional Japanese
- Experience: 18+ years
- Booking time: 4-5 months
- Trained in Japan
- David Chen (Supernatural)
- Specialties: Modern Japanese
- Experience: 10+ years
- Booking time: 2-3 months
- Custom design focus
Pricing Guide
Hourly Rates
- Apprentice: $100-150/hour
- Experienced: $150-200/hour
- Master Artists: $200-400/hour
- Guest Artists: $250-500/hour
Minimum Charges
- Small pieces: $80-150
- Cover-ups: Starting at $200
- Custom design fees: $50-150
Booking Process
Initial Consultation
- Research artists and styles
- Contact studio for consultation
- Discuss design concepts
- Review portfolio
- Get quote and timeline
Preparation
- Deposit requirements
- Design approval
- Pre-tattoo instructions
- Aftercare supplies
- Payment methods
Health and Safety
Studio Standards
- State licensing
- Regular health inspections
- Sterile equipment
- Single-use needles
- Autoclave sterilization
Client Requirements
- Valid ID
- 18+ years old
- Not under influence
- Good health condition
- No skin conditions
Aftercare Guidelines
First 48 Hours
- Keep bandage on for recommended time
- Clean with antibacterial soap
- Apply recommended ointment
- Avoid swimming/soaking
- No sun exposure
Long-term Care
- Daily cleaning
- Moisturizing
- Sun protection
- Avoid picking/scratching
- Follow artist instructions
External References
- Kansas City Health Department: kcmo.gov/health/tattoo-licensing
- Alliance of Professional Tattooists: safe-tattoos.com
- Missouri State Board of Cosmetology: pr.mo.gov/cosmetology
- Tattoo Artist Magazine: tattooartistmagazine.com
- KC Tattoo Arts Convention: villainarts.com/tattoo-conventions-villain-arts/kansas-city
Best Times to Get Tattooed
Seasonal Considerations
- Summer: Avoid swimming
- Winter: Better healing conditions
- Spring/Fall: Ideal for most placements
- Holiday seasons: Book well in advance
Recovery Planning
- Work schedule
- Physical activities
- Special events
- Weather conditions
- Healing time
Special Considerations
Custom Design Process
- Consultation fees
- Design revisions
- Copyright issues
- Size adjustments
- Placement options
Cover-Up Work
- Assessment requirements
- Design limitations
- Size considerations
- Color restrictions
- Multiple sessions
Events and Conventions
Annual Events
- KC Tattoo Arts Convention
- Midwest Tattoo Convention
- Art & Soul Tattoo Festival
- Guest artist appearances
Artist Spotlights
- Portfolio showcases
- Live demonstrations
- Q&A sessions
- Competition judging
New Client Tips
Research Checklist
- View complete portfolios
- Read recent reviews
- Check health certifications
- Understand pricing
- Review policies
Preparation Steps
- Reference images
- Budget planning
- Schedule flexibility
- Aftercare supplies
- Transportation arrangements
Remember that getting a tattoo is a significant decision. Take time to research artists, understand their styles, and choose someone who aligns with your vision. Quality tattoo work is an investment in both time and money, but the results can last a lifetime with proper care and execution.
FAQs
How do I choose the right tattoo artist in Kansas City?
Research their portfolio, read reviews, ensure their style matches your vision, and schedule a consultation to discuss your ideas.
What’s the average wait time for top artists in KC?
Popular artists often have 2-6 month waiting lists. Book consultations well in advance.
How much should I expect to pay for a quality tattoo in Kansas City?
Quality work typically ranges from $150-400 per hour, depending on the artist’s experience and reputation.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
While some shops accept walk-ins, the best artists typically require appointments and consultations.
What should I bring to my tattoo appointment?
Bring valid ID, payment method, reference images, and wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the tattoo area.
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