Welcome to David Strods
Edinburgh-based realism
tattoo artist

I specialise in illustrative, realism, opaque tattoos as well as have extensive experience in Laser Tattoo Removal safety procedures and further cover ups

55 Timber Bush, Edinburgh, EH6 6PR

Custom tattoo studio

Working with clients is the most fulfilling aspect of my job. Being able to take someone’s idea and turn it into a beautiful work of art is an incredible feeling. I have worked with clients who want realistic tattoos, anime tattoos, floral tattoos, gaming tattoos, you name it. Each client has a story to tell, and it is my job to interpret their vision into a tattoo that will be with them forever.

As a custom tattoo studio, I pride myself on having the best colour tattoo artists. Colour knowledge is an essential element in creating a tattoo that truly stands out. It brings a tattoo to life and adds a personal touch to the design. I love creating vibrant colour tattoos as my final designs, and seeing the finished product on my client’s skin is always a rewarding experience.

One of my favourite types of tattoos to create is portrait tattoos. These tattoos require a lot of skill and precision to ensure that the likeness of the person is captured accurately. The challenge of creating a portrait tattoo is what draws me to them. It is an opportunity to create a piece of art that will forever honour someone’s memory.

Being an illustrative tattoo artist allows me to constantly push my creativity to new heights. Each design is unique, and I am constantly challenged to think outside of the box. Whether it’s a realistic tattoo or an anime tattoo, I strive to create a design that not only looks beautiful but tells a story.

In conclusion, I am passionate about my work as an illustrative tattoo artist. Working with clients and creating tattoos that reflect their personality and interests is a truly fulfilling experience.

Being a part of a custom tattoo studio that has the best colour tattoo artists and creating portrait and pet tattoos is a privilege. Tattoos are a form of art that allows people to express themselves, and I am grateful to be a part of that process.

Most popular questions are answered for you first hand below.
For detailed pricing information and to check current availability please get in touch.
If you have any questions at all check FAQ section or email me directly

Custom Tattoos in Edinburgh

If you’re interested in tattoos, I’m here to help you recognize and transform yourself through custom tattoos. Whether you’re looking to transform an existing image project or bring the idea to life for a completely new design, I always strive to ensure your outer image matches your inner person. I know how hard it is to find someone who understands what you need and wants nothing more than to help bring out the best version of yourself possible. That’s why I’m committed to providing compassionate, professional service and honest advice to each client so they feel confident about their decision before moving forward with any type of permanent tattoo work.

Laser Tattoo Removal

I also specialize in tattoo removal/cover-up projects. Laser tattoo removal helps to ensure that you are ready to get highest quality work as your new tattoo and have no need to settle for another unsatisfactory one. If you’re looking for a professional tattoo removal service in the Leith district of Edinburgh, reach out to schedule your initial appointment.

Kind Words

I had the best time working on the cover-up project with David and I couldn't be happier with the end result. I felt able to relax and let David do his thing knowing I was in capable hands. I will absolutely be coming back for more ink soon!

One of the best studios I have visited, large open space and bright lighting compared to other studios which are cramped and dark. Staff are courteous and caring. Will definitely be returning to this studio & Artist

Had some rework done for a previous tattoo by David! The most friendly and welcoming vibe, I’m super pleased with the outcome. David is nothing but accommodating and it equally just as creative with his work. Highly recommend, I’m sure I will be back for soon new projects soon 🙂

David is always extremely polite, approachable and helpful. He takes time to make sure everything is fully understood and ensures aftercare instructions are clear. I would highly recommend David for laser tattoo removal.

A wonderful tattooing experience that I would highly recommend. Such a lovely studio and you can really tell David cares about his work and now I have a beautiful tattoo, thank you!

I had the nicest cover up session with David, such a genuine person to chat with! He made sure i was involved in every part of the design process, bringing my idea to life whilst putting his own creativity and expertise into it as well! Made sure i was feeling ok throughout the session, checking to see if i had any questions regularly and making sure i was happy with everything before, during and after the session. Explained aftercare very well and made sure i knew he was happy to be contacted incase of any further questions with the healing process. Thank you so much again, it was an absolute pleasure!

Today was my second meeting with Dave, for years I had wanted a kiss tattoo but was unsure of where to go as I wanted it a certain way. I looked at David’s work online and knew right away that he could pull this one off. I went to see him for the leg piece this time last year and wow, it was everything I wanted and more. I love everything about it, the detail is second to none and everyone who sees it always have good things to say about it. He is a true professional so I went in to see him today to get a potrait of my son Jack. Again another phenomenal piece it’s just amazing and I could not recommend him enough. I will certainly be back with more work for him in the near future. Again thank you so much for everything will see you again soon. Great guy, great artist 🤘

Had a tattoo done here today by David his work is incredible !! Highly recommend to anyone who is looking for a realism peice done .. love my tattoo I'm looking forward to booking in again !! Very friendly calming environment from both David and Laura .. beautiful and looked after studio bright and comfortable an enjoyable experience thank you 🙂

Currently having a full sleeve done by Dave. He’s an excellent artist who took a lot of time to go through my ideas with me and realise my vision of what I wanted. He’s always attentive and hospitable, great guy and even better artist. Also had a laser session done, in which he made me feel very comfortable and the results were amazing. Would definitely recommend to anyone, whether first tattoo/lasering or experienced.

Well what can I say!! Fantastic!!! Been getting tattooed for 4 years plus now with Dave. Not just a tattooist but an artist. Quality of work is 1st class, very professional and new studio Ec.dy.sis/ is ahead of its time. To finish up I don't just class Dave as my tattooist he has became a good friend.

Been going to David for years, amazing designs and concepts, each tattoo unique. Always helpful and chatty

Had my first laser session here, Dave was excellent, very reassuring and explained the process to allow me to understand. Results were amazing and look forward to my next visit.

David is an amazing artist and I’m so happy I chose him to go through this tattoo journey with

Started a project with Dave way back in 2019, it's now 2022 and we are still going. More than happy with how its going and get more and more excited everytime I go see him!

Having made use of 10+ tattooing services across the UK and Asia, I can honestly say that my experience with David is by far my favourite. He is patient, friendly, respectful, as well as knowledgeable and skilled in his field. I've had both tattoos and lasering done by him at fair prices. I've never felt pressured or intimidated as I have at times elsewhere, and he offers professional advice whilst remaining respectful to your own wishes. Very highly recommend. When I have two further tattoos done subsequent to my current lasering sessions, David will be my go-to.

A real professional who takes pride in his work. You will always feel welcome and have an amazing tattoo experience! Session after session

Great work, super chilled environment and a great artist that puts you at ease at all times during the process.

Super meistars. Tetovējumus taisu tikai pie Dāvida

Amazing artist and amazing service, cannot recommended enough!

David helped me out by taking on my chest tattoo which I felt looked unfinished and inconsistent in places and I wasn’t really happy with, he used free hand work and shading to transform it into something I’m really pleased with!

Absolutely fantastic! My first tattoo experience was with Dave and I can’t thank him enough for his patience and extremely talented work. This guy goes above and beyond to make you feel comfortable and I genuinely don’t think I could have found a better artist to start work on my sleeve. I cannot recommend this man enough!! The shop is also in such a lovely wee area which is a bonus. Amazing experience!

Thank you for the advice provided, for my tattoo removal.

Отличный мастер! Bсе очень понравилось, мастер отлично понял и увидел что я хочу и сделал отличное тату, спасибо ему. За новой татуировкой приду к нему )

Currently getting a neck and back piece done by Dave and I genuinely couldn’t be happier with how things are going. The vibe in the studio is immaculate and I love seeing the other work getting done as I’m there. Brilliant with my lack of pain tolerance and still producing great work. 10/10

2nd Tattoo done by Dave now, also including laser removal and a cover up, highly recommended for anything and everything tattoo related! Will feel right at home in the super welcoming studio, looking forward to the next one!

David has been helping me with a long overdue cover up project. Everything is has been super easy and well explained as well as best advice given in terms of style/ finish. Can highly recommend his services, super chill and easy going. Would and will use again for future projects.

i’ve had two tattoos done by David and each time i had a really good experience. i felt very safe in this environment. both tattoos are amazing and healed very well and i found that David was very easy to contact when i had any questions during the healing stage. highly recommend

Thanks bro, I did my first tattoo ever. Initially planed only 3/4 of sleeve but not it have grown on me- to full sleeve after 6 session and around 25h of tattooing only shoulder left. Davids is very caring tattoo artist. So much details in tattoo - looks like real picture I couldn’t have chosen better artist. Those two trips from Stockholm to Edinburgh have been so worth it. I gave idea and Davids did his magic and created amazing tattoo I just loving it. See you soon bro!

David is such a patient and helpful artist. I went in for my first tattoo and he managed to give me exactly what I wanted. Would definitely recommend for a very personal and customized experience!

I had a great experience with a David. He was incredibly knowledgeable and very thorough and professional in not only assuring my tattoo was exactly how I wanted, but that everything was controlled and safe. Really happy with how the tattoos turned out thanks to that advice David gave. Would recommend 10/10

One of the most talented tattoo artists I've met. If you're looking for someone to do a colour design, look no further because David is the best there is

David is an incredible artist! I have had several cover up sessions and watched as he transforms my precious/average work into incredible art pieces. The studio is gorgeous , friendly clean and welcoming. I would highly recommend him and the studio to anyone wanting a beautiful piece and great experience

Dave’s art work and attention to detail is second to none, I couldn’t be happier with the results of my sleeve. Great atmosphere and very supportive throughout. Thanks again for being so patient!

Incredible tattoo cover up by David. Made me feel comfortable and had some great design ideas. The studio was was clean and was very welcoming. Can’t recommend enough.

My experience with David Strods was beyond amazing. He listened to what I wanted and worked with me to get the design perfect. The studio was very clean and professional. He was meticulous in the set up and prep to make sure the work area was sanitary. He explained the process and made me feel so comfortable. He was easy to talk to and got me talking through the process that kept me distracted from any pain. The pain itself was minimal and the outcome is phenomenal. I would highly recommend David to anyone looking to get a tattoo in Scotland!

David is an excellent artist and very easy to work with. He is very professional and wants to make sure the client gets exactly what they envision. I highly recommend David!

What a great experience for my 1st tatoo, and in Scotland no less! David is very gifted and personable. I felt comfortable the minute I walked through the door. The space is beautiful and sparkling clean. What a wonderful way to end a 12 day vacation in beautiful Scotland. Thank you David! The avatar of Davids Strods replied Davids Strods replied 11 Oct 2023 10:54am

Very spacious, bright, clean and welcoming studio - Dave made sure I was happy and doing well throughout the full day session, Laura was also lovely and very welcoming, fantastic customer service and fantastic level of tattooing, going back for another session next night with Dave!

Was back in seeing David today to get our project finished and was an amazing session! He takes great pride in what he does and is very talented ! Really friendly and welcoming environment with great people and artists. Thanks again David

Amazingly comfortable and made welcome and at ease. A very professional Tattooist

Second tattoo from David. He always does an excellent job, super friendly and laid back. I’d definitely recommend.

I can't recommend David enough. Himself and everyone else I met at the studio were so lovely. He gave great advice and options on what he could do to cover up an old tattoo I wasn't happy with it. I am so happy with the end result. Will definitely be back here for my next tattoo 🥰

Welcome to David StrodsEdinburgh-based realism tattoo artist

Custom tattoo studio

Custom Tattoos in Edinburgh

Laser Tattoo Removal

Kind Words

Get in Touch

Welcome to David Strods
Edinburgh-based realism
tattoo artist