Black and Grey tattoo artists
Where it comes from
Black and grey grew out of prisons and the Chicano neighborhoods of East Los Angeles in the 1970s, where tattooers worked with a single needle and diluted black ink. Shops like Good Time Charlie's Tattooland and artists such as Jack Rudy and Freddy Negrete brought it into the mainstream.
What it looks like
Only black ink diluted into soft greys, with smooth gradients and fine detail instead of color. It is used for portraits, religious images, lettering, animals and realism.
What it represents
A timeless, understated look that ages well. Because of its roots, it is also tied to Chicano pride, faith and family.
InkFinder Pro lists 1,663 Black and Grey tattoo artists across the US. The cities with the most Black and Grey artists are San Diego, CA, Tucson, AZ, Los Angeles, CA, Seattle, WA and Chicago, IL. Search by city or ZIP to find Black and Grey artists near you and see their work.
1,663 artists
Black and Grey tattoo questions
What is Black and Grey tattoo style?
Only black ink diluted into soft greys, with smooth gradients and fine detail instead of color. It is used for portraits, religious images, lettering, animals and realism. Black and grey grew out of prisons and the Chicano neighborhoods of East Los Angeles in the 1970s, where tattooers worked with a single needle and diluted black ink. Shops like Good Time Charlie's Tattooland and artists such as Jack Rudy and Freddy Negrete brought it into the mainstream.
What do Black and Grey tattoos represent?
A timeless, understated look that ages well. Because of its roots, it is also tied to Chicano pride, faith and family.
Where can I find Black and Grey tattoo artists near me?
Enter your city or ZIP on this page, or tap Near me, to list Black and Grey tattoo artists closest to you with their portfolios.
Which cities have the most Black and Grey tattoo artists?
San Diego, CA (67), Tucson, AZ (38), Los Angeles, CA (30), Seattle, WA (24) and Chicago, IL (23).
Can I see a Black and Grey tattoo design before booking?
Yes. Describe your idea in the free Design a Tattoo tool on InkFinder Pro and pick Black and Grey as the style to get four designs to bring to an artist.