Shipwreck Tattoo & Art Gallery — Local services in Ellsworth

My daughter and I went on a girls trip to Maine and had been considering that as a perfect time to get my first tattoo.

My daughter, having much more experience than I in this arena did the research on the shop as she is working on a sleeve and knows much more than i do.

She selected Shipwreck Tattoo.

It has taken quite a long time to land on a design that I would be content with having on my body for the rest of my life (even though I'm 55). The one I selected is very meaningful for me and is written in Hebrew Letters.

When we first entered the shop, we spoke with Kaley, one of the co-owners. I showed her what I wanted and she initially advised of having the 'apprentice' work on me.

Internally when she said that, I freaked out just a tad - but I continued to listen. Kayley basically said that Sam's line work was on point and out of this world. Something about her confidence in Sam's ability to execute this work, took my initial concern away.

I also knew if my daughter wasn't comfortable with what she was hearing, she would have said something straight up.

We met with Sam the next day and talked about the options of what I wanted in my tattoo. I gave her, I think, about 4 pictures letting her know what I wanted in part from each photo. She was able to make the design exactly the way I wanted it. The only change I needed was in size.

She also asked me if I knew what the Hebrew letters meant - just to ensure I really knew what I was getting. I really appreciated that question - because I did know - but it's always a great question to confirm.

We came in on Monday for the tattoo and went through the typical paperwork that you'd expect to have to sign.

I went first as my daughter was going to get a tattoo as well. Sam was set up in the room with her Mentor who was doing another tattoo at the same time. For me, this was good and I enjoyed having other things to focus on throughout the process.

Sam was amazing. Everything was extremely clean and freshly wiped down and wrapped. She used a single use needle and was extremely sensitive to this being my first time. She chatted up a storm and the room was just a fun place to be in.

Had I not had my daughter with me, Sam would have walked through many of the step by step things she was doing. But since it was evident my daughter and I had chatted, she pretty much got straight to work. I was shocked at how little it actually hurt.

I really like her quirky and cute self. I love when people can be themselves around me. She was super sweet and kind. Most importantly though, she rocked my tattoo and gave me clear instructions for aftercare. If I'm ever in Ellsworth Maine again - she'd be someone I'd...

Had a wonderful experience getting our BFF Tattoos together with a friend. They accepted walk ins so we came in on a whim & gave a description of the design & wording we had in mind. James brought it to life within 15 minutes & we ended up with this beautiful piece! I loved the atmosphere, everyone was so nice & helpful. They were also really funny & entertaining! Great energy. I also liked that we could talk or not when I was reading & it wasn’t awkward getting my tattoo done, which will be nice for those with social anxiety or other special needs. First pic is about 6 months healed & am happy to say I love it! It turned out great. I’m also going back tomorrow for my 2nd & 3rd art piece done at Shipwreck, with my husband & son! It’ll be my boy’s first ink & all 3 of us is getting something fun & special to represent him. I’m also getting a little something else just for mama 😜 I’m excited for this next trip & I know my family couldn’t be in...

Every studio claims the best work, the best atmosphere, the best client care, etc. The crew at Shipwreck Tattoo & Art Gallery (James, Kaley & Sam) actually deliver on all of these things without trying to convince you. It just happens. The positive vibe of the studio is apparent the moment you enter. The Shipwreck crew are friendly, positive, beyond accommodating and treat you like you've been with them for years...even on your first visit. Oh yeah...and their work is outstanding!! Two pieces for me & one for my wife...both styles extremely different...and they nailed them both!! As much as I would love to keep this studio my own awesome secret...I can't. If you're even remotely considering ink on any level...visit Shipwreck Tattoo & Art Gallery....it's the studio you've been...