Are you searching for a trusted tattoo shop in Charleston, South Carolina? Look no further than Broken Lantern Tattoo Studio. Since opening in 2009, we've become one of Charleston's longest-standing and most respected tattoo parlors. Voted Best Tattoo Shop multiple times by local readers (including Charleston’s Choice and City Paper awards), we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality custom tattoos in a clean, welcoming environment.
Whether you're a first-timer or adding to your collection, our experienced team turns your ideas into lasting art.
What Makes Broken Lantern Tattoo Stand Out?
Talented, Versatile Artists: Our international team masters styles like Japanese/Irezumi, realism/portraits, black & grey, floral, bio-mechanical, American traditional, illustrative/blackwork, and more. Artists include Glenn Collins (owner and award-winning tattooist), Hailey Quesenberry, Shane Watkins, Wyatt Hughes, Lexie Zinsmaster, and more.
Custom Designs: Bring your vision — we collaborate closely to create personalized pieces that exceed expectations.
Welcoming Atmosphere: Clean, professional studio that inspires creativity for both clients and artists.
Flexible Booking: Appointments and walk-ins welcome. We accommodate a wide range of projects, from small pieces to full sleeves.
Proven Track Record: High ratings across Google, Yelp, and other platforms, with clients praising our professionalism, cleanliness, and results.
Located at 1931 Belgrade Ave, Charleston, SC 29407, we're easy to reach at (843) 637-4999. Follow us on Instagram @brokenlanterntattoo for latest work and updates.
The Tattoo Experience at Broken Lantern
From consultation to aftercare, we prioritize your comfort and satisfaction. Our artists listen carefully, provide honest feedback, and ensure sterile, safe procedures. Many clients travel from out of town because of our reputation for fair pricing and outstanding results.
Ready to book? Visit our contact page or stop by. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments are recommended for larger or custom work.
FAQs About Getting a Tattoo at Broken Lantern Tattoo Studio
Q: Do you accept walk-ins? A: Yes! We welcome walk-ins, though appointments are best for complex or large pieces to ensure dedicated time with your preferred artist.
Q: How do I book an appointment? A: Call us at (843) 637-4999, visit the shop, or use our contact form. We'll discuss your idea, match you with the right artist, and schedule a consultation.
Q: What styles do your artists specialize in? A: We cover a broad range including Japanese, realism, black & grey, floral, bio-mechanical, American traditional, illustrative/blackwork, and more. Check our gallery for examples.
Q: How much does a tattoo cost? A: Pricing varies by size, detail, and placement. We offer fair, competitive rates and provide quotes during consultations. Minimum charges may apply for smaller pieces.
Q: Is the shop clean and safe? A: Absolutely. We follow strict sterilization and hygiene protocols to ensure a safe environment for every client.
Q: What should I do to prepare for my tattoo? A: Eat a good meal, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and blood thinners beforehand, and get plenty of rest. We have a helpful blog post on summer tattoo prep.
Q: Do you offer aftercare advice? A: Yes. Our artists provide detailed aftercare instructions to help your new tattoo heal beautifully.
Q: Can you cover up or fix old tattoos? A: Many of our artists excel at cover-ups and touch-ups. Bring clear photos for an assessment.
Q: Are you good for first-time tattoos? A: Definitely! We specialize in making first-timers feel comfortable with patient, friendly service and great results.
Q: What are your hours? A: Hours vary — typically open afternoons into evenings, with extended hours on weekends. Call ahead for current schedule.
Ready for Your Next (or First) Tattoo?
At Broken Lantern Tattoo Studio, we don't just ink skin — we create meaningful art that tells your story. Join the many satisfied clients who keep coming back and referring friends.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation or walk in and see why we're Charleston's go-to tattoo shop. Your perfect tattoo awaits!
We are very proud of the team of artists we have managed to put together here at Broken Lantern Tattoo, with a solid and well rounded group of tattoo artists and building off the momentum of winning Charleston’s Best Tattoo Parlor last year, we have managed to repeat this year! In the past two years we have been recognized as the best Tattoo shop twice and one of our artist’s (Glenn Collins) has been recognized as Charleston’s best tattoo artist. It is an incredible honor to receive these types of acknowledgments as these contests are run completely by you, the population of this amazing city we call home. We are humbled that our clients and Charleston have decided to support us. Our team at Broken Lantern wants to thank you for appreciating the effort we put into making this the best tattoo shop possible, passing that experience on to you to give you the best tattoo possible. We can not thank you enough for recognizing us as the best tattoo shop, in the best city, with the best clients. We are nothing without you and we look forward to continuing to grow with you. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Stay happy, Stay Healthy, Stay Safe, We love you!
We would also like to congratulate Brandy, who won our $250 dollar gift certificate! Thank you for voting for us!
The team at Broken Lantern Tattoo understands the tumultuous times we are under. Our priority has always been the safety of our clients and artists. We also hold ourselves to an incredibly high cleanliness and sanitation standard. We will be continuing operation as long as we are permitted with a few subtle changes to increase the safety of everyone involved. Tattooing has always been a social experience and we enjoy the interactions we have with our clients and their loved ones, however, for the time being we ask that you come alone to your appointment. Only those getting tattooed will be allowed to stay in the studio. Upon arrival we ask that you wash your hands before we hand out paperwork. We are still accepting walk ins and doing in person consultations with the same precautions. Only the person looking to get tattooed or talk through an idea will be permitted to stay. We will continue to sanitize and disinfect all touch surfaces. It should go without saying that if you are not feeling well or have traveled from a virus compromised location that you do not come to the shop. With your cooperation, we can continue to operate through this and pump amazing pieces of art out into the world. We love and appreciate all of you!
We are very proud of the team of artists we have managed to put together here at Broken Lantern Tattoo. Building off the momentum of our very own Glenn Collins being voted the best tattoo artist in Charleston, we now have now been recognized as a shop, becoming the Charleston’s Choice Best Tattoo Parlor. It is an incredible honor to receive this type of acknowledgment as, once again, this contest was run completely by you the population of this amazing city we call home. We are humbled that our clients and Charleston has decided to support us. Our team at Broken Lantern wants to thank you for appreciating the effort put in to make this the best tattoo shop possible, passing that experience on to you to give you the best tattoo possible. We can not thank you enough for recognizing us are the best tattoo shop, in the best city, with the best clients. We look forward to continuing to grow with you. Thank you!
After a very busy summer we finally got the chance to catch up with Glenn and chat with him about winning the Charleston City Paper’s Best Of award.
What does it mean to you to be voted the best tattoo artist in Charleston?
It is a culmination of a lot of hard work. People don’t typically see what goes on behind the scenes, but I’ve been grinding at this in Charleston since 2007 and tattooing since 2002.
For those that are not familiar with you as an artist, what would you say is your style?
I pride myself in being quite diverse, though my true passion lies in Japanese, Bio-Mech, Traditional, Lettering and Gangster Sh*t, but like I said I’m quite diverse.
What inspired you to become a tattoo artist?
I have always been driven to live outside the typical 9 to 5, and not partake in the rat race. The artform of tattooing has an undeniable feel for me. It’s Magical, it’s ancient, and has sacred appeal that drew (and kept) me in. I love doing this day in and day out and hope to keep providing people with the Truth!
What are some of your favorite things about Charleston?
Port city with great food with laid back clientele that have allowed me to express myself as an artist and grow.
Where do you hope to be in the next few years?
Right where I am at. Working with incredible clients to turn out timeless pieces. Also I would like to have my Black Belt, shout out to Malachy and American Top Team.
What do you think will happen as a result of winning the competition?
Hopefully it brings more attention to the brand of Broken Lantern. We have a shop full of talented artists and any exposure for me shines light on them as well. We are a family here looking for clients to grow with us.
How would someone go about getting an appointment with you?
The best way is to stop by the shop. We like to meet and talk with the clients before setting up an appointment. Tattooing is an incredibly personal experience and we want to make sure everyone is on the same page. If you live outside the area just give us a call.
The absolute best thing you can do to take care of your healed tattoo is take care of your skin. It’s no secret that tattoos look better on healthy skin. While the summer is a great time to get outdoors, go swimming, visit the beach, it can also be detrimental to the longevity of your favorite work of art. One bad sunburn can zap and fade, colors and grey washes out of your tattoo. At Broken Lantern we want your tattoos to last; we are just as concerned as what your piece will look like 5 years from now as they do when you walk out our studio door. Below we comprised some helpful hints (some obvious, some not as much) to help you preserve your tattoo through the summer months.
If you can, keep it covered:
We want you to show off your tattoo as much as you do, but unfortunately your best defense against the sun is to keep it covered. This typically isn’t as much of an issue for tattoos on the torso and back, but arms and legs may be more tricky. Breathable leggings and loose shirts are good options when it’s hot outside (and it will be in South Carolina)
Wear Sunscreen:
Covering your tattoo with clothing may not always be an option. The next line of defense should be sunscreen. Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before you go outside, and reapply frequently. The minimum protection should be at least 15spf. Sport sunscreens tend to hold up better to sweating and water activities, however if you are thinking about going in the ocean we recommend a marine friendly sunscreen that does not contain oxybenzone and octinoxate. These products are much less toxic to reef systems and aquatic life.
Hydrate:
Drinking lots of fluids, especially water, is important for everyone during a hot summer, regardless if you have body art or not. Along with all its general health benefits, water keeps your skin clear and moisturized from the inside out. Combined with using lotion, your tattoos will look more vibrant and more importantly, you will feel healthier.
If you must tan try a sunless option:
Obviously, since protecting your skin from the sun is key to keep your tattoos looking good, tanning by the ocean or hopping in a tanning bed won’t do your skin or tattoos any good. If you want to look tan this summer, opt for a sun-free option like tinted moisturizers or spray tanning. Keep in mind these will dull the appearance of your tattoo but only temporarily.
Eat foods that help fight UV damage:
I was surprised to find out about this but it is actually a thing. Certain foods like bell peppers, tomatoes, and carrots contain vitamins and organic compounds that help rebuild damaged skin and keep it healthier overall. Also, water-heavy foods like watermelon can help keep your skin (and your body) hydrated.
It is important to note that this blog is intended for healed tattoos only. For information of how to properly heal a tattoo please refer to our aftercare blog. Take care of those tattoos and come back to see us soon!
