Custom Tattoo Design Studios in Saint Louis, MO

3 of the 5 tattoo shops we list in Saint Louis have custom design work. Map search doesn't separate shops that only tattoo pre-made flash sheets from shops that build a one-of-a-kind piece around your idea — that distinction isn't a searchable field, it's buried in a portfolio you have to dig for. Every shop listed here has custom design work confirmed from its own website or portfolio, not guessed from star ratings.

Alchemy Tattoo Collective Walk-ins welcomeCustom design

2739 Cherokee St, Saint Louis, MO 63118

🕒 Tue-Sun 11am-6pm

(314) 899-0891 Website Directions

Allstar Tattoos Walk-ins welcomeCustom design

8601 Olive Blvd, Saint Louis, MO 63132

🕒 Mon-Sun 10am-8pm

(314) 692-7827 Website Directions

Tattoo City Walk-ins welcomeCustom designCover-ups

6316 W Florissant Ave, Saint Louis, MO 63136

🕒 Varies by artist

(314) 875-0465 Website Directions

Bring reference images, not just a description. Real custom work usually goes through at least one revision round before the appointment, and most shops charge a separate design fee or deposit that's applied to the final tattoo cost — expect that upfront, not as a surprise at checkout.

Also in Saint Louis

Walk-In Tattoo Shops3

Custom Tattoo Design Studios near Saint Louis

Good to know

How much does a custom tattoo design cost?
Many shops charge a flat design fee (often $50-150) or a deposit that's later credited toward the tattoo price, on top of the hourly or per-piece rate for the tattoo itself. Large custom pieces like sleeves or back pieces are usually billed hourly rather than as one flat price.

How long does it take to get a custom tattoo designed?
Simple custom pieces can be sketched and approved within a few days to a week, but in-demand artists who focus on original work are sometimes booked weeks out just for the design consultation. Ask about current wait times when you book, since it varies a lot from shop to shop.