6 Best Vegan-Friendly Tattoo Shops in Brooklyn

Brooklyn is a place where creativity and conscious living intersect on every corner. It’s a community that values authenticity and intention, so it’s no surprise that the demand for vegan tattoos is on the rise. People here want their body art to be more than just an aesthetic choice; they want it to be a statement of their values. This shift has inspired an incredible wave of artists and studios dedicated to providing a completely cruelty-free experience. If you’re searching for a vegan friendly tattoo shop in Brooklyn, you’re in the right place. We’ll explore what this commitment looks like in practice and highlight some of the best local spots where artistry and ethics go hand in hand.

Key Takeaways

A Vegan Tattoo is a Fully Cruelty-Free Process: A truly vegan-friendly shop ensures the entire experience is ethical, using animal-free products for everything from the ink and stencil paper to the soap and aftercare.
Finding Your Artist Requires Research: To find the perfect match, carefully review an artist’s portfolio for style and skill, then book a consultation to discuss your vision and confirm their commitment to vegan practices.
Vegan Tattoos Don’t Compromise on Quality: Modern vegan inks deliver vibrant, long-lasting results that are just as safe and brilliant as traditional inks, so you never have to choose between your ethics and a beautiful piece of art.

What Makes a Tattoo Shop “Vegan-Friendly”?

When you hear “vegan tattoo,” your mind probably jumps straight to the ink. While that’s a huge piece of the puzzle, a truly vegan-friendly tattoo experience goes much deeper. It’s a commitment to a completely cruelty-free process, from the products used to the aftercare you follow. It means every single item that touches your skin is free of animal products and hasn’t been tested on animals. For many of us, getting a tattoo is a deeply personal choice, and aligning it with our values makes the final piece of art even more meaningful.

It Starts with Vegan Inks

Let’s start with the main event: the ink. Traditionally, some tattoo inks contained animal-derived ingredients like bone char for black pigment or animal-fat-based glycerin as a carrier. Thankfully, the industry has come a long way. Most reputable brands now offer high-quality, vibrant vegan tattoos that are completely free from animal products. A vegan-friendly artist will be knowledgeable about their supplies and can confidently confirm their inks are cruelty-free, so you never have to sacrifice quality for your principles.

A Cruelty-Free Process from Start to Finish

A truly vegan tattoo shop looks beyond the ink to ensure the entire process is ethical. Think about the other items involved: stencil paper can contain lanolin (from sheep’s wool), and razors might have gelatin-based moisture strips. Even the soap and ointment can have animal-derived ingredients. A dedicated shop ensures every supply is plant-based and cruelty-free. This comprehensive approach is what defines a truly vegan tattooing experience, setting it apart from shops that only use vegan ink.

An Eco-Conscious Approach

For many, the commitment to veganism is part of a larger dedication to environmental responsibility. This means a vegan-friendly shop often takes extra steps toward sustainability. You might find them using biodegradable rinse cups, razor handles, and protective coverings to minimize plastic waste. They may also opt for plant-based, eco-friendly cleaning supplies to maintain a sterile environment without harsh chemicals. This eco-conscious mindset shows a deep respect for animals and the planet, ensuring your new art is beautiful both on your skin and for the world.

Brooklyn’s Best Vegan-Friendly Tattoo Shops

Brooklyn is home to an incredible community of artists, and that creativity extends to the tattoo scene. If you’re looking for a shop that aligns with your vegan lifestyle, you’re in the right place. Finding a studio that uses vegan inks and cruelty-free products is easier than ever. To help you find the perfect fit, I’ve put together a list of some of the best vegan-friendly tattoo shops across the borough. Each one offers something unique, from custom designs to a cozy atmosphere, ensuring you can find an artist and a space that feels right for you.

Wild Heart Tattoo Shop

Here at Wild Heart, we pride ourselves on creating a welcoming space for everyone. Located in the heart of Greenpoint, our shop is a go-to for high-quality, vegan-friendly tattoos. Our talented artists are experienced in a wide range of styles and are happy to work with you to ensure your entire process is cruelty-free. You can “come on down to 154 Nassau Ave in beautiful Greenpoint Brooklyn and check out thousands of hand-painted original tattoo designs as well as classic flash.” We believe in great art and even better hospitality, making sure you feel comfortable and confident from your consultation to your finished piece.

Gristle Tattoo

If you’re looking for a shop that is veganism-focused from the ground up, Gristle Tattoo in East Williamsburg is a fantastic choice. They are a dedicated custom, vegan tattoo shop, which means you can walk in knowing that all of their supplies are completely vegan-friendly. As their website states, “Gristle Tattoo is a custom, vegan tattoo shop,” which takes any guesswork out of the process. This commitment makes them a standout spot for anyone prioritizing a fully cruelty-free experience. Their focus on custom work also means you’ll walk away with a piece of art that is truly your own.

Luna Moth Tattoo Studio

For those who value a calm and comfortable environment, Luna Moth Tattoo Studio offers a unique experience. They describe their space as one where “harmony and individuality blend seamlessly,” with a primary focus on comfort. The studio aims to create a “cozy and friendly atmosphere,” making it an ideal choice if you’re getting your first tattoo or simply prefer a more relaxed setting. As a vegan tattoo studio, they ensure that their commitment to a peaceful environment extends to their use of cruelty-free products, providing a holistic and mindful tattoo experience for their clients.

Black Iris Tattoo

Black Iris Tattoo has built a strong reputation in Brooklyn for its exceptional artistry and professional service. It’s frequently mentioned as a top choice for those seeking high-quality vegan tattoos. The artists at Black Iris are known for their skill and attention to detail, making it a reliable studio for intricate and beautifully executed designs. While you should always confirm with your specific artist, the shop is well-regarded within the community for accommodating vegan clients. Their consistent positive reviews highlight them as a trusted spot for a great tattoo experience.

Sacred Tattoo

Located in SoHo but a worthy trip for any Brooklynite, Sacred Tattoo is recognized for its diverse artistic styles and unwavering commitment to quality. The shop offers a range of vegan-friendly tattoo options, catering to a clientele that values both aesthetic excellence and ethical practices. The artists at Sacred are celebrated for their unique perspectives and ability to bring complex ideas to life on skin. Their dedication to the craft has made them a respected name in the NYC tattoo scene, and they are a solid choice for anyone looking for a high-caliber, vegan-friendly tattoo from an established studio.

NYC Tattoo Shop

As a leading vegan tattoo shop in the city, NYC Tattoo Shop places its cruelty-free mission at the forefront. They are committed to “providing a fully cruelty-free and eco-conscious tattooing experience,” making them a premier destination for anyone dedicated to a vegan lifestyle. Their website clearly outlines their use of vegan products, from inks to aftercare, ensuring complete transparency for their clients. If you’re looking for a shop that specializes in vegan tattooing and has built its entire practice around it, NYC Tattoo Shop is an excellent and trustworthy choice.

Your Vegan Tattoo Experience: What to Expect

Getting a vegan tattoo is a lot like any other tattoo appointment, but with a few key differences that ensure your new art is completely cruelty-free. From the initial chat with your artist to the final healing steps, knowing what’s involved helps make the entire process smooth and stress-free. It’s all about clear communication and choosing a shop that shares your commitment to ethical practices. At Wild Heart, we want you to feel confident and cared for every step of the way. Here’s a look at what your vegan tattoo journey will look like.

The Consultation

Your experience begins with a consultation. This is your chance to connect with an artist, share your design ideas, and talk through your vision. It’s also the perfect time to confirm their approach to vegan tattooing. Don’t be shy about asking questions! A professional artist will be happy to discuss the inks, stencil paper, and ointments they use. To get started, you can browse our team of talented artists and reach out to the one whose style speaks to you. This initial conversation ensures you and your artist are on the same page, setting the foundation for a piece of art you’ll love forever.

The Tattooing Process

Once you’ve settled on a design, it’s time for the main event. A truly vegan-friendly shop ensures every part of the process is free from animal products. This means they use tattoo inks that are 100% vegan, with no animal-derived ingredients like glycerin, gelatin, or bone char. The commitment extends beyond the ink to the stencil paper and the soap and ointments used to clean and prep your skin during the session. At a dedicated shop, you can relax knowing that every material touching your skin aligns with a cruelty-free philosophy, allowing you to focus on the excitement of getting your new tattoo.

Vegan-Friendly Aftercare

Proper aftercare is essential for helping your tattoo heal beautifully and keeping the ink vibrant. Your artist will give you specific instructions, but the core principles are simple. For the first few weeks, you’ll want to gently cleanse the area a few times a day with a natural, fragrance-free soap to prevent infection. It’s also important to keep your new tattoo out of direct sunlight, as UV rays can cause the ink to fade or blur. There are many fantastic vegan aftercare products available, from balms to lotions, that will keep your skin moisturized and support the healing process without any animal ingredients.

Find Your Style: Popular Specialties in Vegan Tattooing

Once you’ve found a vegan-friendly shop, the fun part begins: choosing your design. Vegan tattooing isn’t a single aesthetic; it’s a commitment to cruelty-free practices that can be applied to any style you can imagine. From delicate fine lines to bold, colorful pieces, your options are wide open. Many artists in the vegan tattoo community have developed incredible skills in specific styles that resonate with a conscious clientele. Here are a few popular specialties you’ll find in Brooklyn’s top vegan-friendly shops.

Custom Designs

There’s something special about getting a tattoo that was made just for you. Custom designs are the heart of modern tattooing, and many vegan shops specialize in creating art that is completely unique to the person wearing it. Instead of picking a design off the wall, you’ll work directly with an artist to bring your idea to life. Great artists will listen to your story and vision, ensuring the final piece is both beautiful and meaningful. This collaborative process results in a tattoo that is tailored to the client’s vision, making it a truly personal statement you can be proud of for years to come.

Neotraditional and Neo Romantic

If you love classic tattoo imagery but want a modern twist, you might fall in love with these styles. Neo Traditional and Neo Romantic tattoos take inspiration from American traditional tattooing—think bold lines and iconic subjects—but add more depth, detail, and a richer color palette. These styles often feature lush florals, elegant figures, and ornate details. Artists who specialize in this work are masters of color theory and can create custom, vegan-friendly color schemes that make your tattoo pop. The result is a vibrant, illustrative piece that feels both timeless and fresh.

Animal-Inspired Tattoos

It’s no surprise that many people who seek out vegan tattoos are also passionate animal lovers. Getting an animal-themed tattoo can be a powerful way to honor a beloved pet or show your commitment to animal rights. These tattoos go beyond just a portrait; they can symbolize strength, freedom, loyalty, or a deep connection to the natural world. Whether it’s a majestic wolf, a delicate songbird, or a whimsical fox, artists can create meaningful animal designs that reflect your personal values. It’s a beautiful way to carry a symbol of what you care about with you always.

How to Choose the Right Vegan Tattoo Artist

Finding the right tattoo artist is a personal process, especially when you’re looking for someone who aligns with your vegan lifestyle. It’s about more than just finding great art; it’s about finding a creative partner you trust. You’re not just buying a product—you’re collaborating on a piece of art that will be with you forever. The connection you have with your artist and the atmosphere of the shop are just as important as the final design.

When you find an artist whose work you love and whose values you share, the entire experience becomes more meaningful. A great artist will listen to your ideas, offer their professional expertise, and make you feel comfortable and respected from the moment you walk in. To make sure you find the perfect match, focus on three key areas: their portfolio, their professional values, and their ability to create your dream design. Taking the time to consider these points will help you walk away with a tattoo you absolutely love and a great memory to go with it.

Review Their Portfolio and Expertise

Your first stop should always be the artist’s portfolio. It’s the most direct look you’ll get into their style, skill, and experience. Spend time scrolling through their work on their website or social media. Do you see the style you’re looking for? Whether it’s fine-line, neotraditional, or photorealism, look for clean lines, smooth shading, and vibrant, well-saturated color. A strong portfolio shows consistency and a clear command of their craft. Many shops make it easy to find the right fit; you can often check out the work of their resident tattooers and reach out to an artist directly to book an appointment once you’ve found a style that resonates with you.

Find an Artist Who Shares Your Values

A tattoo is permanent, but so is the memory of getting it. You want that memory to be a positive one, which is why finding an artist and shop that feel right is so important. Look for a place that makes you feel welcome and safe. For us, “hospitality and high quality tattooing is at the heart of our mission.” An artist who is respectful, communicative, and genuinely passionate about their work creates a much better experience. This is especially true when seeking a vegan tattoo. You’re already on the same page about cruelty-free practices, so find someone who extends that consideration to their client relationships, too.

Ensure They Can Create Your Custom Design

Whether you have a fully-formed vision or just a spark of an idea, you need an artist who can help bring it to life. Some artists specialize in custom work, while others prefer to tattoo their own pre-drawn designs, known as flash. A great shop will often have both. You can come in and “check out thousands of hand painted original tattoo designs as well as classic flash,” or you can bring in your own concept. If you’re looking for a custom piece, review the artist’s portfolio for other custom tattoos. Do they have a knack for interpreting a client’s vision? The best way to find out is to book a consultation to discuss your idea and see if you click creatively.

Let’s Talk About Cost

Figuring out the budget for your new tattoo is a huge part of the planning process. The final price will always depend on the size, placement, and complexity of your design, as well as the artist’s experience level. While it’s tempting to hunt for the lowest price, remember that a tattoo is a permanent piece of art on your body. Quality and safety should always come first. Most reputable shops, including our team here at Wild Heart, are happy to give you a quote during a consultation so you know exactly what to expect before the needle ever touches your skin.

Comparing Shop Prices

When you’re researching different studios, look for transparency in how they handle pricing. A shop that is open about its rates and what goes into them is usually a good sign. A great shop will always prioritize a clear consultation to discuss your idea and budget. This conversation ensures there are no surprises and that you feel completely comfortable with the cost associated with the beautiful, custom artwork you’re about to receive. It helps you make an informed choice about your investment and builds trust with your artist from the very beginning.

Look for Special Offers

Who doesn’t love a good deal? Keep an eye out for special offers, which can make getting your dream tattoo a little more affordable. Some studios, like NYCTattooShop, occasionally run promotions that are worth watching for. A great way to stay in the loop is by following your favorite shops and artists on social media. You can also check out a shop’s website to see if they have a newsletter. Signing up can give you access to exclusive discounts, which is a fantastic way to save on your next piece while supporting an ethical, vegan-friendly studio.

Common Myths About Vegan Tattoos, Debunked

If you’re considering a vegan tattoo, you’ve probably come across some conflicting information. It’s easy for myths to spread, but we’re here to set the record straight. The truth is, choosing a vegan tattoo doesn’t mean you have to compromise on your experience or the final result. Let’s clear up a few common misconceptions so you can feel confident about getting inked in a way that aligns with your values.

Myth: The Quality and Longevity Suffer

There’s a persistent idea that vegan inks just don’t hold up—that they’re less vibrant and fade faster than traditional inks. This is simply not true anymore. While some older or lower-quality inks might have had issues, today’s professional vegan inks are formulated for exceptional quality and staying power. Many of the most respected ink manufacturers in the world now produce brilliant, lasting vegan tattoos as their standard. The longevity of your tattoo has far more to do with the artist’s skill and your commitment to proper aftercare than whether the ink contains animal products. A great artist using high-quality vegan ink will give you a piece that looks incredible for years to come.

Myth: They Aren’t as Safe

Some people worry that vegan inks are less regulated or might contain strange, untested ingredients. In reality, the opposite is often true. Traditional inks can contain animal-derived ingredients like glycerin (from animal fat), gelatin (a binding agent), and bone char (for black pigment), which can sometimes cause skin reactions. Vegan inks avoid these common irritants, making them a great choice, especially if you have sensitive skin. Ultimately, safety comes down to using sterile equipment and high-quality, reputable ink brands—something any professional shop, including ours, prioritizes. Asking if vegan tattoo inks are safer is a valid question, and for many, the answer is a resounding yes.

Myth: They’re Hard to Find and More Expensive

A decade ago, finding a vegan-friendly tattoo artist might have been a challenge. Today, it’s a different story. As more people seek out conscious and cruelty-free options, the tattoo industry has adapted. Most professional artists and shops now have easy access to top-tier vegan inks, and many use them exclusively. Here at Wild Heart, our artists are well-versed in using vegan-friendly materials. You won’t have to go on a special quest to find us. As for the cost, the price of a tattoo is based on its size, detail, and the time it takes to complete—not the type of ink used. You won’t pay a “vegan tax” to get a tattoo that aligns with your principles. You can find more details on our process on our info page.

What Real Clients Are Saying

Choosing a tattoo artist is a big deal. You’re not just buying a product; you’re collaborating on a piece of art that will be with you forever. That’s why hearing from real clients is so important. It gives you a glimpse into the entire experience, from the first email to the final healing process. A shop can have beautiful flash and a cool aesthetic, but the stories from people who have actually sat in the chair will tell you everything you need to know about the artists, the atmosphere, and the quality of the work. It’s about finding a place where you feel comfortable, respected, and confident that you’re in great hands. When you read reviews, you get an unfiltered look at how a shop operates and treats its clients, which is just as crucial as the final tattoo itself. These personal accounts help you understand if a studio’s values align with your own, especially when you’re looking for a vegan-friendly experience. They can confirm if a shop truly follows through on its promises of using cruelty-free materials and maintaining a clean, welcoming environment for everyone.

Testimonials from Vegan Tattoo Lovers

When you find a great vegan-friendly shop, you’ll notice the reviews often highlight more than just the ink. Clients frequently talk about the energy of the studio and the connection they felt with their artist. You’ll see people mention how a great artist made the experience one of their best, even after getting multiple tattoos. The process should feel easy and seamless, with artists who are prompt, responsive, and genuinely helpful from the moment you first reach out. It’s this combination of professionalism and personality that makes all the difference. You can see this passion reflected in the collections of work artists share, celebrating the trust their clients place in them.

See the Before-and-After Results

Seeing is believing, and the proof is in the portfolio. The best way to gauge an artist’s skill and style is to look at their finished work. Spend time scrolling through the portfolios of the artists at the shops you’re considering. Look for crisp lines, smooth shading, and vibrant, well-saturated color. Pay attention to how the tattoos fit the body and flow with the client’s anatomy. Beyond the photos, look for studios that prioritize creating a comfortable and welcoming space. The top-rated shops are often described as having a cozy and friendly atmosphere where harmony and individuality are valued, ensuring you feel at ease throughout your entire appointment.

Why Vegan Tattoos Are on the Rise in Brooklyn

It’s no secret that Brooklyn is a hub for creative expression and conscious living. It only makes sense that these two worlds would eventually merge in the form of vegan tattoos. More and more people are asking for tattoos that align with their ethical values, and the tattoo industry is stepping up to meet that demand. This isn’t just a fleeting trend; it’s a movement driven by a deeper awareness of what we put in and on our bodies. From Williamsburg to Bushwick, you’ll find a growing number of artists and clients who prioritize cruelty-free practices.

The rise in popularity comes down to two key factors. First, there’s a growing community of people who want every aspect of their lives, including their body art, to be cruelty-free. They’re asking questions and expecting transparency from their artists. Second, the materials themselves have gotten so much better. Vegan-friendly inks and aftercare products are now widely available and deliver incredible, lasting results, meaning you don’t have to sacrifice quality for your ethics. This combination of consumer demand and product innovation has made vegan tattooing more accessible and appealing than ever before. It’s about getting a beautiful piece of art without compromising your principles.

A Growing Demand for Conscious Choices

People are paying more attention to the products they use, from the food they eat to the clothes they wear. This mindful approach now extends to tattooing. For many, a tattoo is a deeply personal statement, and they want the process to reflect their commitment to a cruelty-free lifestyle. It’s about ensuring the entire experience, from the ink to the stencil paper, is free of animal products. Shops across Brooklyn have recognized this shift, with some, like Gristle Tattoo, building their entire identity around being a custom, vegan-friendly studio. This dedication shows a real response to what clients are looking for: art that feels good, inside and out.

How Vegan Inks Have Improved

In the past, getting a vegan tattoo might have felt like a compromise, but that’s no longer the case. The quality of vegan inks has improved dramatically. Traditional black inks often contained bone char for pigment, and other colors used glycerin derived from animal fat as a stabilizer. Today, top-tier vegan inks use plant-based glycerin and carbon-based pigments to create vibrant, rich colors that stand the test of time. These modern formulas are just as safe and long-lasting as their traditional counterparts. While most professional shops now use high-quality, vegan-friendly inks, it’s always a good idea to talk with your artist about the specific products they use to ensure your tattoo is completely aligned with your values.

How to Prepare for Your Vegan Tattoo Appointment

Getting a new tattoo is an incredible experience, and a little bit of prep work ensures everything goes smoothly from the moment you walk in the door to the final healing stage. When you’re getting a vegan tattoo, this preparation is just as important. It’s all about finding the right person for the job and knowing exactly how to care for your new art afterward. Taking these steps will help you feel confident and relaxed, allowing you to fully enjoy the process of bringing your tattoo idea to life.

Do Your Research and Book a Consultation

Finding the right artist is the most important first step. You’re looking for someone whose style resonates with you and who you trust to create a piece you’ll love forever. Spend some time looking through portfolios to get a feel for different aesthetics. At Wild Heart, you can check out our team of artists to see whose work aligns with your vision. Once you’ve found an artist you’re excited about, the next step is to reach out to book a consultation. This is your chance to discuss your design, placement, and confirm that they will be using all-vegan materials for your session.

Get the Right Aftercare Products

Proper aftercare is essential for making sure your tattoo heals beautifully and stays vibrant for years to come. Your artist will give you specific instructions, but it’s smart to have some vegan-friendly supplies ready at home. The key is to be gentle. You’ll need to clean your new tattoo a few times a day with a natural, fragrance-free soap and water. It’s also crucial to protect your tattoo from the sun, as direct exposure can cause the ink to fade or blur. Following a solid aftercare routine is the best way to protect your new investment and ensure the final result is as stunning as you imagined.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a shop “vegan-friendly” if they just use vegan ink? Not entirely. While using vegan ink is a great start, a truly vegan-friendly tattoo experience means the entire process is cruelty-free. This includes everything from the stencil paper and razors to the soaps and ointments used during your session. A dedicated shop ensures every single product that touches your skin is free of animal-derived ingredients.

Will I have to pay extra for a vegan tattoo? No, you shouldn’t pay a premium for a vegan tattoo. The cost of any tattoo is based on the design’s size, complexity, and the artist’s time and experience. High-quality vegan inks and supplies are the industry standard now, so their cost is comparable to non-vegan alternatives. The price reflects the artistry and safety of the service, not the ingredients in the ink.

How can I be sure the entire process is cruelty-free? The best way is to have a direct conversation with your artist. During your consultation, don’t hesitate to ask about the specific products they use. A professional and transparent artist will be happy to confirm that their inks, stencil paper, and other supplies are all vegan. A shop that values ethical practices will be proud to share that information with you.

Am I limited to certain tattoo styles if I want a vegan tattoo? Absolutely not. Veganism in tattooing refers to the materials used, not the artistic style. You can get any style you want—from fine-line and realism to bold neotraditional and classic flash—done with vegan products. Your choice of style depends entirely on finding an artist whose work you love, not on the type of ink they use.

What’s the most important part of vegan tattoo aftercare? The fundamentals of aftercare are the same for any tattoo, and they are crucial for a beautiful result. The two most important things are to keep your new tattoo clean with a gentle, fragrance-free soap and to protect it from the sun. Your artist will provide specific instructions, and following them closely is the best way to ensure your art heals perfectly and stays vibrant for years.

Top 5 Vegan-Friendly Tattoo Shops in Brooklyn