Our bookmark list of top legit tattoo parlours for our next inking adventure.
27 Oct 2018
I’m a fan of tattoos – especially #floraltattoo. Judging from the most popular posts on this blog, I believe you probably are one too. If you’re based in Malaysia (or will be visiting the country soon) and you’re contemplating where to get your tattoo done, here are 16 reputable tattoo parlours in town that we love. They’re legit, modern and most importantly, hygienic.
1. Pink Tattoos
Where
20, Jalan Telawi, Bangsar Baru, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
The 1950-ish themed Pink Tattoos studio is probably the least tattoo-ish – it’s bright, filled with cutesy owl figurines and has a cute resident cat (the longest serving employee) named Rarr. If you love delicate tattoos, this is the place.
Founded by married couple Cheryl and Prinz in 2014, the young the Tattoo Parlor Malaysia is one of the more well-known tattoo parlours in KL area. The studio has 4 resident tattoo artists at the moment, and they’re quite accommodating to your budget. #RocknRollVibe
Private tattoo session only by appointment, the Black Canvas Tattoos is a real hidden (private) gem. Ming Shern is best-known for photo-realistic tattoos. Mae is known for floral tattoos. (Check out her Instagram.)
Looking for cute tattoos or cartoons? Cheer Ink Tattoo is the place. But that doesn’t mean the studio can’t deliver other tattoo types as good. With seven in-house artists (including apprentices), you’re not short of options.
Prior to opening Wayang Kulit Tatu, Joe and Julian have been tattooing privately in Malaysia and abroad. The studio occasionally invites international tattoo artists for guest tattoo sessions. This tattoo parlour is well-respected in the local tattoo community.
Founded in 2005 by Yang Lee, YangLee Tattoo is one of the OG of local tattoo scene. From a multimedia design student to an award-winning full-time tattooist, Yang Lee is a success story. Unquestionable skills aside, they probably have the coolest parlor place with Asian-inspired decor. If you’re looking for Chinese-inspired tattoo, this is the place.
If you’re in Penang, don’t miss Skin Nation Tattoo. The tattoo parlor opens everyday since 2012, and it’s been a favourite of tattoo fans living in the northern region.
The Black Cat Tattoo was founded in 2008 by brothers Joshua and Elton, and their brother-in-law Kevin from Melaka. Before opening own studio, Joshua has already been tattooing for 13 years. Although they’re highly experienced, the price range is still reasonable.
From cute cartoons, tribal to geometric, abstract tattoos, you’ll have no problem to turn your ideas into reality at Tribal Bodyworks Tattoo with their four artists. Although there are a few other tattoo parlours in Sungei Wang, Tribal remains one of the top favourites (besides Bloody Ink and Iron Bunny) based on customer reviews. The studio also offers body piercing.
This parlor has a rather unique origin. Founded by tattoo artist Hai Yuan and his wife Hishiko in 2013, Hai Yuan Tattoo Studio is one of the most popular parlours in Kuala Lumpur favoured by Chinese-speaking community. Hai Yuan is from China (so he mainly communicates in Chinese) and he’s also a tattoo teacher currently offering tattooing course at the parlour.
Kelly V of Mao Tattoo Studio, as well as permanent guest artist Yagami, has 17 years of tattooing experience – that speaks volumes about their skills and status in the tattoo community. If you’re looking for colourful and photorealistic tattoos, this parlour is a great option.
Founded in 1996 and ran by siblings Eddie David, Simon David and Lina David from Sarawak, the international award-winning Borneo Ink Tattoo is the pioneer in the local tattoo industry. The parlour has remained one of the most popular parlours since its inception. If you’re looking for traditional tribal tattoo, this is the place.
A-10-36, Scott Garden Soho, Jalan Klang Lama, 58100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Who
Jiun and more! Including guest tattooists.
What / Why
Judging from the tattoo works posted on their Instagram, it’s not hard to tell that Inkcraft Tattoo Studio is known for amazing tattoo sleeves. Body piercing is also available at the parlour.
Tribal Bodywork,Iron Bunny and Bloody Ink Tattoo Studio form the “trilogy” of the best tattoo parlours in Sungai Wang plaza. Although Bloody Ink has has gone through many iteration over the years (and changes in talents), the quality remains unchanged and the parlour remains highly recommended.
Don’t’ be fooled by Iron Bunny Tattoo‘s cutesy bunny logo and the small and cozy parlour – their tattoo artists top-notch talents are they will have no problem delivering complex and serious custom tattoos.