Get inked in

New Haven

Step into a clean, modern, and welcoming studio where creativity and community come together. At Inked 4 Life New Haven, you'll find top-tier local and guest artists, industry-leading supplies, and a supportive space to bring your vision to life—whether it's your first tattoo or your next masterpiece.

Testimonials

"Brandon is literally the sweetest tattoo artist I have ever had. He was super nice and fun to talk to. He checked in to make sure I was ok throughout the process. He also let me bring my bicycle inside since I had an appointment after dark and was worried about it getting stolen. Went above and beyond and truly was great experience." - Ally B.

"I went to Ink different tattoos to get my very first tattoo from Brandon Mendes. He made me feel comfortable and relaxed despite my anxiety with this being my first tattoo. Brandon was attentive and cleanly, showing his use of fresh needles and explained everything as the process went on. He even asked me repeatedly throughout the tattoo if I was okay and how I was doing. He is so talented and my tattoo came out better than I imagined. I’ll be back for another tattoo soon! I highly recommend Ink different tattoos and Brandon’s work! He did an amazing job on my Zoro tattoo and I’ll definitely be going back in the near future." - Arturo L.

"I recently visited the shop to get a tattoo I’ve been wanting for some time now. My artist Brandon created an amazing design from what I gave him. The vibes are great and the artists are amazing. It’s definitely worth the experience. I’ll definitely be going back." - Mina M.

"I got the chance to book with Brandon and he was amazing! Made sure i felt fine throughout the entire tattoo and would check in consistently. He has great pieces and is a great person to talk to as well! So happy with my tattoo that he sketched for me with good availability!! Go check out his instagram page!" - Erin D.

"Got my first tattoo by Brandon. very nice & welcoming. made the whole experience easy. the design he did is better than anything i could’ve imagined & when doing the tattoo his attention to detail was amazing. 10/10 experience will come again." - Uriel M.

"I had a very meaningful tattoo done and designed by Brandon at the shop! Despite being a little nervous going in, Brandon was so encouraging, reassuring and is an amazing artist! I am so glad that I trusted him with my idea and he executed it beyond my expectations. The overall space was the most welcoming and comfy tattoo shop I have ever visited and would love to get my next one done here again!!" - Abaigheal C.

"I got my tattoo with Brandon and it was an awesome experience! He was able to customize my original idea and make it even better. Brandon is super talented and kind. Definitely recommend Ink Different for any type of tattoo. 🥸" - Liam E.

"I got a tattoo today by Shamain and she did an amazing job. The tattoo came out so much better than I originally thought. Her communication throughout the process of selecting a design to making an appointment and then completing the tattoo was flawless. I have no complaints and will definitely be back again for another tattoo." - Tony F.

Gallery

Why Get Inked in New Haven

Artistic Excellence in Welcoming Space

In the heart of New Haven, a unique tattoo experience awaits—one that blends creativity, professionalism, and community. Our warm, welcoming, and professionally managed studios are clean, modern, and ideally located, making each visit something to look forward to.

New Haven may be small, but it’s full of big talent. Our carefully vetted tattoo artists—both local and visiting—are not only masters of their craft but also good people who prioritize your comfort and vision. There are even opportunities to book appointments with celebrity tattoo artists.

More than just tattoos, New Haven offers connection. With social art events and discounts to local tattoo conventions, clients are invited into a creative community where expression thrives.

Whether it’s your first tattoo or your next masterpiece, New Haven delivers a safe, inspiring space to turn your ideas into meaningful art.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I book an appointment?

Booking is easy! Once you’ve picked the artist you’d like to work with, just stop by the shop, give us a call, or shoot us a message through our contact form or social media. Be sure to include a description of your tattoo idea, any reference images, and your preferred date/time. We’ll get back to you as soon as possible to confirm and set everything up.

What’s your age policy for tattoos?

You must be at least 18 years old to get tattooed at any of our shop. We require a valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or government-issued ID). Even with parental consent, we do not tattoo minors—no exceptions. It’s all about safety and staying in line with the law.

How much does a tattoo cost?

Prices vary depending on the size, complexity, placement, and the artist. We do have a shop minimum, and larger custom pieces are usually priced by the hour. For an accurate quote, we recommend a consultation (which is totally free!).

Can I get a quote before coming in?

Absolutely! You can send us a detailed message with your idea, placement, size, and some references. Or, better yet, book a consultation with one of our artists. We also offer virtual consults if you can’t make it in person.

Do you take walk-ins?

Yes! We welcome walk-ins daily on a first-come, first-served basis. Availability depends on the day and how booked our artists are, so your best bet is to give us a call or stop by early.

Does it hurt?

Yep—it stings a bit. But it’s a manageable kind of pain, and most people say it’s worth every second. Plus, your body releases endorphins during the process, so it’s not all bad!

How long does a tattoo take to heal?

Initial healing usually takes 2 to 3 weeks, but full skin regeneration can take a couple of months. During that time, proper aftercare is key to keeping your tattoo looking fresh and vibrant.

How do I take care of my new tattoo?

Don’t worry—we’ll walk you through everything after your session and send you home with detailed aftercare instructions. If you ever have questions, we’re just a call or DM away.

What forms of payment do you accept?

Secure Payments Only: We use Square for all deposit payments. Make sure you see our official logo on the invoice.

Stay Safe: We'll never ask for payments through any other platform. If anything seems off, get in touch with us right away.

Do I need to leave a deposit?

Yes, we may require a deposit to secure your appointment. This deposit goes toward the total cost of your tattoo and is non-refundable and non-transferable. It helps us block off your time and prep your custom design.

How should I prepare for my tattoo session?

Eat a good meal beforehand and stay hydrated. Avoid alcohol at least 24 hours before your appointment—it can thin your blood and affect the tattoo process. Wear comfy clothes and try to relax. You’re in good hands, and we’ve got you covered.

Do you offer private or off-site sessions?

In most cases, we work in-shop only, but for special projects or collaborative events, we may offer private sessions. Just reach out to discuss options.