An intimate form of expression, tattooing has enraptured many with its ability to turn one’s body into a piece of rare art form. From the fresh-faced and unmarked to the person ready to add on the next piece in a growing design, all should look for the same qualities in a tattoo parlor. A sterile environment is a must, and creativity should be ever-flowing in this type of environment. These places not only fit the requirements, but take the importance of their craft to the next level, and you can reap the benefits by getting yourself inked at any of the following in St. Louis.

TRX Tattoos & Piercing
3207 S. Grand Blvd.
Saint Louis, MO 63118
(314) 664-4011
www.trxtattoos.com

TRX is keen on customer service; they strive to make the shop’s environment friendly and welcoming to any and all who stop in. Visit the website to see the line-up of veteran artists, read their hilarious bios and become acquainted with their work and their specialties, which range from traditional styles to color combinations. Even though TRX is already reasonably-priced, be on the lookout for their “Blue Plate Specials.” The artists offer a worthy discount on a design they are simply excited to turn into a work of art.

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Threshold Tattoo & Body Piercing
4500 Central School Rd.
St. Charles, MO 63304
(636) 939-2639
www.thresholdtattoos.com

Cleanliness is truly next to godliness in this particular parlor. From equipment being tested weekly to special gloves for clients with an allergy to latex, they make a sterile environment a top priority at Threshold. The artists here provide a long list of credentials, and best yet, a variety of styles to fit their customers’ needs. Several of the artists at Threshold are strong in the design of Americana and Japanese traditional tattoos. Other note-worthy styles include Surrealism and black-and-grey portraiture.

All*Star Tattoo
8601 Olive
University City, MO 63130
(314) 692-STAR
www.allstartat2.com

All*Star is all about cultivating their tattoo artists’ talents, which is why this place considers their tattoos the “art of life.” These artists are big on color, but are also talented at portraiture and pin-up/cartoon tattoos. Since they are focused on enhancing their artists’ abilities, All*Star tackles custom work with ease. An added bonus (as long as you stop by on a Friday or Saturday): this tattoo parlor is one of the few that allows walk-ins.

Iron Age Studios
6309 Delmar Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63130
(314) 725-1499
www.ironagetattoo.com

Iron Age is a landmark in the tattooing industry around St. Louis.  As it has been around for nearly two decades, Iron Age led the way for other tattoo parlors in the area with its fresh, modern design and ability to adapt to clients’ needs.  The artists here are completely capable of full body work. They are also talented at select styles, such as Japanese, watercolor, and macabre designs.  Iron Age also welcomes walk-ins on the weekends.

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Self Inflicted Studios
1328 Washington Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63103
(314) 621-4660
www.selfinflictedstudio.com

Self Inflicted is a tattoo parlor that boasts of artists who take great pride in their craft. From the moment you walk in and see their fine art paintings lining the walls to the moment you sit down with one and design a personalized tattoo, you can tell the dedication these artists have to their work. Self Inflicted Studios offers specialties in black and grey realism, portraiture, Americana, Japanese, and of course, traditional designs. Custom designs are the preference here, so feel free to call or e-mail the shop and begin creating your own masterpiece.