Emily Fletcher, Author at Things&Ink

The tattoo community is full of horror enthusiasts – the genre captures the imagination of tattoo artists and clients alike. From gruesome characters from films and books – what could be more freaky than Chuckie covered in blood? – to figures like something from your worst nightmares. Our writer Emily Fletcher tracked down some horror tattoos collectors and the tattooists bringing these designs to life – settle in for a wild ride…

Tattoo artist Aleksandr Morozov – @alexmorotattoo

“My inspiration is horror movies, so I like to do tattoos with this theme. The shots from these movies are always contrasting and with well placed light. This I consider the main thing for my realistic tattoos. I achieve depth and volume in my work. Thus, mesmerise my clients and achieve positive emotions.”

Tattoo artist George Roberts – @gtattoos666

“I’ve been a tattoo artist in London for 13 years. I grew up watching horror movies, probably too young, and also had some wild paranormal experiences – this world has been in my blood from day one. I really enjoy tattooing classic horror movie characters, such as Jason Voorhees, Michael Myers, Ghostface etc… I could tattoo these everyday for the rest of my life. I specifically love meeting clients who want to have these characters on them for life and so they are probably just as big a fan as I am. I’ll even pop one of the classic movies on while they are being tattooed for the full experience – that can be quite fun.”

“The last one is one of my custom designs. I’d love to do more of these. These ideas usually come from my research into demons and anything on the darker side. I love the beauty of 1920s models and faces that are quite vintage but of course with a demonic twist, the contrast of those two elements can be striking. The one I’ve shared is my own interpretation of the demon Lilith. I specifically work in black work and black & grey. I feel this works best for these style designs.”

Artist Žana – @varshakot.flash

“I enjoy creating horror designs because I grew up watching horror movies, they’re very comforting for me. It’s also good for me mentally, it helps me to cope with anger. Horror movie killers also often just have a really badass look, which I love to draw.”

Tattoo collector Melissa Slater – @acslater27

“I started collecting these tattoos because I enjoy these horror films. I didn’t spend a lot of time thinking about it. It was kind of a ‘just do it!’ thing! Beetlejuice, Shorty from Killer Klowns from Outer Space, Black Phillip from The Witch and Scream. All top films for me. My tattoos are all done by Alex at Muse in Palmyra NJ.”

Tattoo collector Jaimee – @jtilb

“I’ve always been a big horror movie fan, and as I got older I knew I wanted horror inspired tattoos. These pieces are a lot more detailed than a lot of my other work, and I just love how they turned out. I get loads of compliments on them, especially the Goosebumps tattoo as it’s very nostalgic for a lot of people. All tattoos done by @emmajeantattoos“

Tattoo collector Georgie – @georgie_kfilm

“From the moment I first started getting tattoos I knew I wanted mainly horror related ones – I love the genre, but I’m also a horror film writer and director. First up is one I designed myself, from IT Chapter Two. I love taking less used imagery from horror films and translating it into art for my body, it makes the piece feel super unique!”

“Then we have my favourite slasher icon Ghostface, this is probably my favourite tattoo that I have. Finally my cat baby Pennywise, I’ve always loved tattooist Barbie’s cat babies but knew I wanted a horror twist for mine, and what was better to get than Pennywise, especially since my name is Georgie. All my tattoos are done by the wonderful @barbielongfox“

@georgie_kfilm tattoos by @barbielongfox

Tattoo artist Olivia – @cowgurl_bebop

“I love doing horror-related tattoos because a lot of horror is creating the narrative potential of something scary that could happen. A lot of people who come in to get these tattoos have sort of created a vague backstory around what makes the tattoo they’re getting feel spooky to them and I’m really into hearing these stories!”

Tattoo artist Marissa Gray – @grxy.tattoo

“I do black and grey horror realism and Illustrative tattoos, normally with splashes of red. I have always wanted to do horror and spooky tattoos and am so lucky to finally do so at this point in my career. I feel that unintentionally my favourite film and musical Sweeney Todd – The Demon Barber of Fleet Street influenced my work with it’s beautiful desaturated colour palette and bold red blood. Despite most of my pieces being solely black and grey, the use of red truly compliments the subject matter so well and I am grateful to be tattooing a genre that goes hand in hand with my artistic vision.”

Into horror tattoos… tag us in yours @thingsandink

We love getting the stuff we’re obsessed with tattooed on our bodies… check out our recent post on foodies tattoos.

Vegan tattoos? Yep it’s a thing. No idea where to start? Then our ultimate guide to vegan ink is for you. Given that both tattooing and veganism represent lifestyle commitments, it was just a matter of time before these two communities came together.

So, what are vegan tattoos? Vegan tattoos are essentially tattoos crafted using eco-conscious materials and methods, notably vegan ink. In contrast to conventional tattoo ink, vegan tattoo ink is entirely devoid of any animal-derived ingredients. In contrast, traditional tattoo ink is made using components extracted from animal fat, bones, or crushed beetles.

Okay, let’s dive in, here’s EYNTK about vegan tattoo ink…

Okay, so what exactly is vegan ink?

Vegan ink does not contain any ingredients derived from animals. Vegan inks use vegetable-based glycerin, witch hazel or ethanol and carbon or logwood to achieve a bold black colour. When it comes to coloured inks, what sets them apart is the liquid that companies use to mix with the powdered pigments. Vegan ink is sourced from plants or vegetables, making it a more environmentally friendly choice.

So what is traditional tattoo ink made of?

Traditional tattoo inks usually consist of tiny solid pigment particles, molecular dyes, and binders all mixed together in water. However, that’s not all. As confirmed by PETA, traditional tattoo ink includes glycerin, shellac, gelatin or bone char. These are all ingredients derived from either animal fat, animal bones, or ground-up beetles. Others may contain beeswax, cod liver oil, or lanolin. These ingredients primarily serve the purpose of stabilising the ink and increasing pigmentation.

Is vegan tattoo ink safe?

While lacking scientific evidence, vegan tattoo ink is widely regarded as exceptionally safe on the skin.

Moreover, it’s often believed to have a lower likelihood of triggering allergic responses. People sporting vegan tattoos have reported enhanced colour consistency and greater longevity.

@_emily.fletcher‘s Tattoo by @carly_snow_tattoo

I got this tattoo back in 2021 from Carly Snow, a tattoo artist in Sheffield who used vegan ink. It’s been two years now, and my tattoo hasn’t really changed much quality wise. As you can see, using vegan tattoo ink doesn’t compromise the quality at all; the only distinction is that it’s a more ethical choice. I’m a vegetarian and passionate animal rights advocate, so I always strive to opt for the most ethical options available.

Asking vegan tattoo artists why they use vegan ink

I spoke to Harriet Hope, a vegan tattoo artist based in Brighton, UK, about why she uses vegan ink. She said:

“I choose vegan inks because there is no reason not to. Many of the popular brand inks such as Solid or Eternal are vegan, so it’s just as easy to choose vegan quality ink than anything else.

Why wouldn’t you want to limit suffering to animals when there is no loss of quality or convenience choosing vegan ink brands?”

Another vegan tattoo artist based in Hamburg kept it short and sweet with:

“I use vegan ink as I’m vegan and I don’t use animal products anyways.”

Simple and to the point, love it.

Jimmy Galan, a Brighton based vegan tattoo artist also commented on his decision to use vegan ink:

“Well since I’m vegan myself I believe that animals are in this world with us and not for us.

The notion of exploiting them just because we can doesn’t sit well with me and doesn’t align with my morals.

When I went vegan 10 years ago I had to obviously bring my morals to my job as I thought it would be hypocritical otherwise.

Today the majority of mainstream ink brands label their products as vegan. So these inks aren’t something that you’ll only get from a vegan tattoo artist, as most people use the same ink without even knowing that they’re vegan.

So vegan ink is “traditional ink” in many cases. People were using inks free from animal products before the term ‘vegab’ came along.

Some brands still use animal products such as bone char, glycerine from animal fat, gelatine from hooves , insect parts and others but as the world progresses these brands that choose to not move with the times get left behind.

But it goes further than ink. When a tattoo artist says ‘vegan tattoos’ it means (or should mean) that all their supplies are free from animal products and cruelty free (not tested on animals) This goes for cleaning solutions, tattoo ointments, stencil papers, stencil applicators, skin preparation solutions, surface flooring and all cleaning products in general.”

Do vegan tattoos cost more?

No, vegan tattoos generally don’t come with a higher price tag. But, it really depends on the tattoo artist. Tattoo costs vary from one artist to another. Some base their charges on the time spent, some on the placement of the tattoo, and others may charge extra for their experience level. It’s subjective.

While a few artists might charge a bit extra for using vegan ink, usually, there are other factors that take priority when determining the final price.

Do vegan tattoos fade faster?

No, vegan tattoos do not fade faster. The longevity of tattoo ink isn’t affected by it being vegan or not. What truly counts for fading is the quality of the ingredients used and how you care for your tattoo afterwards.

Are vegan tattoos the future?

With the surge in veganism’s popularity and a growing shift towards progressive and eco-conscious values, the tattoo industry has undergone a transformation. Today, many tattoo studios and artists are embracing vegan-friendly practices and products that are both cruelty-free and environmentally friendly. As a result, the use of vegan ink is becoming increasingly mainstream within the tattooing community.

Vegan tattoo aftercare

If you’re all about that vegan life, that’ll include tattoo aftercare too. Make sure to keep an eye out for these ingredients when you’re on the hunt for vegan tattoo aftercare products.

Aloe butter
Calendula
Coconut oil
Lavender
Vitamin E
Peppermint
Rosemary oil extract
Shea butter
Sunflower, grapeseed and rice bran oils
Various essential oils and natural fragrances.

Vegan tattoo aftercare skips harsh chemicals and synthetic ingredients, sparing your skin from irritation. Instead, it uses natural ingredients to soothe and speed up healing, reducing scabbing too.

How to find a vegan tattoo artist

To find a vegan tattoo artist, you can easily search for ‘vegan tattoo artist‘ on Instagram. Instagram is great for tattoo artists because it lets them showcase their work visually. If you can’t find a specific artist, searching for ‘vegan tattoo studio’ can introduce you to multiple vegan tattoo artists.

Usually, these artists or studios will mention their use of vegan ink in their social media bios. If not, you can send them a quick direct message (DM) to ask if they use vegan ink or have a vegan ink option available. It’s a simple way to make sure you’re getting a tattoo that aligns with your values.

Vegan tattoo ink brands

Are you a tattoo artist looking to switch to vegan ink? Check out these 5 brands that provide high-quality ethical tattoo ink.

Final thoughts

Opting for a vegan tattoo is no different from getting one with conventional ink. If you’re interested in getting a vegan tattoo, explore the mentioned artists or search for one near you. If you can’t find a vegan tattoo artist nearby, keep an eye out for upcoming tattoo conventions where you’ll likely find talented vegan artists!

About the author – Emily Fletcher

“In 2022, I received my BA (Hons) in English Literature. Currently, I work as an SEO Executive at a digital marketing agency in Sheffield, while also freelance writing in my spare time. I have always loved writing, and I thoroughly enjoy delving into people’s opinions, dissecting the significance behind topics, and discussing unconventional subjects. I find great fulfilment in challenging people’s thoughts. My aim is for readers to gain fresh insights and learn something new from my writings.

On my 18th birthday, my parents gave me money for my first tattoo. My dad sat with me for the whole three hours with a Lucozade orange on hand. Since my first tattoo, I haven’t stopped, nor intend to just yet. To me, tattoos are like a permanent piecing of clothing. How you express yourself in your dress sense, I express myself through my tattoos. They make me feel confident and happy when I look in the mirror. I love finding new artists, new styles, though I stick to American Traditional, I love treating my body like a personal diary. My favourite tattoo is my first arm piece done by Sheffield based tattoo artist Earl Reyn, a red dragon as seen below. Though I get a lot of compliments on my tattoos wherever I go, this one in particular strikes people’s attention.”

Author: Emily Fletcher

Ink and horror: a conversation with horror tattoo collectors