Get Inked: Finding a Queer-Friendly Tattoo Shop
It may come as a surprise, but Richmond is regularly recognized as one of the top top most tattooed cities per capita, boasting an impressive 14.5 tattoo shops per 100,000 people (even higher in some areas). With so many shops at your fingertips, it can be difficult to decide which one to turn to when you’re ready for your own tattoo.
If your 2025 Bingo card includes getting a little ink, consider making an appointment with one of these LGBTQ-friendly (or owned) shops below.
As a queer and trans-owned business, this studio is committed to “creating a sensory-friendly, inclusive space for queer, trans, and non-binary people.” Recognizing that the typical tattoo setting can make some feel overwhelmed, uncomfortable, and even excluded, Heartfelt’s mission is to provide accessible tattoo services for all- including the Neuro-Spicy (AuDHD/Autistic) and physically disabled.
1229 Hull Street
Richmond, VA 23224
Tattoo options from a Moving Mountains fundraiser ahead of the 2024 presidential election to help protect abortion and reproductive rights for women.
Moving Mountains Tattoo Collective
As another queer-owned and operated tattoo studio on the list, Moving Mountains aims to provide clients with “a relaxing tattoo experience in an inclusive space.” This shop sets itself apart by recognizing the discomfort and pain that the tattoo process can cause and encourages clients to bring their own comforts to enhance their experience in a safe atmosphere.
20 E Broad Street
Richmond, VA 23219
Fable Tattoo Gallery
Fable Tattoo Gallery is a fully custom shop that was founded by a collective of four tattooers, each who specialize in their own style. The offering of several styles allows clients to receive the tattoo of their dreams in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Fable promises that guests will “experience a community based on mutual love of art, amplified by fun times.”
3202 West Cary Street
Suite 201
Richmond, VA 23221
Courtesy of Xenith Richmond’s Instagram
Xenith is a trans-owned collective that is home to various artists. As the first trans-owned shop in Richmond, their intention is to create a space that is “accessible, queer, fluid, mindful of autonomy”, and one that provides a home for growth and transformation.
211 East Broad Street
Richmond, VA 23219
This list should serve as a start to your search for the right shop. With a multitude of artists, styles, and atmospheres, you will no doubt find the right spot for your first (or next) tattoo.