Quality is the hallmark of everything done at The Black Hat based on Parnell Street. Founded by couple Sergey and Lena, they pride themselves on treating each piece – big or small – with equal care and commitment. The studio boasts a richly-talented group of in-house artists that can either bring your design to reality or aid you in creating the perfect piece. Guest artists from abroad are also regularly invited to The Black Hat, so there might be an international talent on the premises when you head in to get inked.

Having been in existence since 1999, Wildcat Ink have expanded from their studio in Stephen’s Green by adding a second outlet in Jervis Street. One of the most established parlours in the city, Wildcat are all about individuality, and specialise in piercings as much as tattoos, with their Jervis studio being home to four artists and three piercers across three separate rooms.

The branding and overall atmosphere of tattoo studios has changed hugely in recent years. Like The Black Hat, this spirit is captured at Skin City on Ormond Quay, where they have style and personality in abundance. Decorated in all kinds of colours, paintings and even a couple of aquariums, they’ll make you feel as though it’s among the coolest places you’ve ever entered. They also have expert surrealist artists that relish having free reign over the design process.

Black Hat Parnell Street, Dublin. Copyright Miguel Ruiz

Also more than worthy of a mention are Heartbreak Social Club on Capel Street – which is a lovely private studio – and Spilled Ink in the middle of Great Denmark Street. The former has quickly established itself as a must-visit despite only having recently opened, while all you need to do is pay a visit to the latter’s Instagram to get an idea of the tremendous in-house talent they boast.

At the other end of Dublin 1, on Amiens Street, Funky Skunk is a magnet for people of an alternative disposition. If you have piercings, they have the body jewellery to match and they also sell funky clothing. But they do so much more making them one of the city’s leading alternative shops.