This collection of tales harvested from tattoo shops across North America is wild enough to make the saltiest sea dog squirm with horror and delight. From mild-mannered kindergarten teachers to outlaw bikers and criminals headed off to prison, each customer brings something special to the shop, and no two stories are exactly alike. While some clients may feel compelled to remove unwanted tattoos on the spot, others might wish to run off without paying, and some might even brandish swords or meat cleavers when they fail to get what they want. Tattoo shops might be safer these days, but many of these stories recall a time when they were not.

Tales From the Tattoo Shop is for anyone with a twisted sense of humour—not just for lovers of tattoos and tattoo culture. More than just a collection of crazy yarns and wild anecdotes, this book also profiles the contributing artists and explores the paths they took to become successful. From the bizarre to the insane, these true stories will leave you shaken and stirred.