Sponsorships aren’t just for artists - as part of our mission to foster and support incredible talent in the tattoo community, we want to feature some of the best tattoo studios in the UK and beyond!

We spoke to studio owner Nikole about the ethos of this women-owned business, the team’s essential tattoo supplies, and Hackney Central’s bustling tattoo scene - plus a mysterious invitation to check out the studio bathroom…

Name: Nikole Lowe

Role: Tattoo artist and owner of Good Times Tattoo, est. 2009

Killer Ink orders placed: Monthly

Sharps bin collected: Monthly

Can you tell us which artists work at Good Times and what styles they work in?

Nikole Lowe: Japanese, Tibetan and floral

Piotrek Taton: Surrealism and realism, biomechanics, black and grey, and neo-Japanese

Jon Peeler: Iconography, traditional, illustrative and fine line

Kamila Daisy: Bold floral, ornamental and blackwork

Andy: Traditional, script, black and grey

Jodie Mae: Sketch style

Emily: Illustrative, fine line, sketch style

Would you say Good Times Tattoo has a particular ethos or vibe?

Good Times Tattoo embodies inclusivity and positive vibes. As a female-owned establishment, it welcomes everyone with open arms, fostering a community where like-minded artists converge to create.

With a mantra of 'good vibes only', it's a sanctuary where creativity flourishes and bonds are forged, leaving patrons uplifted by the spirit of camaraderie!

Who’s the best at helping with stencil placement?

We all place our own stencils on but often ask each other for advice regarding size and or placement.

What is your favourite piece of Good Times Tattoo merch?

Our beanies.

Do you have any music or other entertainment playing in the studio?

We listen to all kinds of music. Mostly music that makes us and our customers feel good!

What kind of furniture do you have in your studio?

At our tattoo stations we have TATSoul chairs, the rest of the studio is a mix of mid century and antiques.

How is your studio decorated?

Nikole has decorated the studio with all sorts of interesting things she has collected over the years. There’s even an old school exercise bench which brings a lot of nostalgia to clients!

The walls are mainly adorned with original paintings by Nikole and other tattooers from around the world. Our best room in the studio is the bathroom - you’ll just have to come in for yourself to see what’s going on in there!

What do you look for in a new tattoo artist to join, guest spot or apprentice at your studio?

We prioritise personality fit, strong work ethics, and a passion for creativity. Music taste is also important for fostering a positive atmosphere in our studio.

What is the tattoo scene/community like where you’re based?

The tattoo scene in London is vibrant, diverse, and thriving. It's a melting pot of styles and cultures, reflecting the city's cosmopolitan nature. Artists are generally supportive of each other, fostering a sense of camaraderie within the community. Having been in the industry for over 30 years and working in London for the last 24 years, I’ve been lucky enough to get to know so many London tattooers.

Will we see the team at any conventions in 2024?

You will! We are attending Gods Of Ink, Bristol Tattoo Convention, Leeds Tattoo Convention, the Big London Tattoo Show and the Tattoo Expo.

Huge thanks to Nikole for taking the time to answer our burning questions and tell us all about her team of artists! Find Good Times Tattoo on Instagram or Facebook, and if you’ve had a tattoo from any of the Good Times gang, we want to see it!