I went into Black Line to have a very personal and large colour portrait of my dog done on my rib cage. I have a few other tattoos, and to be honest, Black Line was one of the best experiences I have had. Now the story of my appointment: My initial contact with them was via email, and they were very good about getting back to me quickly and answering all of my questions. They even looked at the picture I wanted done and gave me a price quote via email. After communicating via email for a little while, I went into the shop to put down my deposit and had my consultation done. The shop was bright clean. When it comes to customer service, these guys were great to me. Scoot and Moses/Saviour (I think) were great and answered all of my questions right off the hop. (To be fair, Ion and the other shop staff have continued to be excellent to me as well.) I put down my deposit and walked out with an appointment with Scoot for the next day. We had discussed integrating another one of my tattoos (my dogs name) into the portrait, and Scoot was more than happy to talk to me about what I wanted. (this part of my piece has not been done yet, but I'm excited to see what he has in mind) My boyfriend came with me (he has a lot of tattoos, I think 7 total now, and can be kind of finicky about artists, pricing etc.) After looking through the portfolios, he also had a tat done that day. He was able to walk in, sit down with a great artist and have some work done, for a reasonable price. He had a very detailed "All seeing eye" tattooed on his calf inside an existing tattoo. His artist was Zon, and my boyfriend is still glowing about his experience there. As for me, I knew the appointment was going to take a while, and Scoot was great about letting me take breaks, and tried to manage my pain and noticeable discomfort as best he could. To be honest, he was the first tattoo artist I've had that didn't act exasperated when I asked him for breaks. After about 3 hours of stop and go tattooing (on my part) Scoot could see that I was in serious discomfort, and quite out of it and suggested he finish it up enough to be presentable and then break for the day. As soon as I saw the work done, I felt like crying, it's the most beautiful piece, and it looks EXACTLY like the picture. Some how, he was even able to capture my dog's personality in it as well. I LOVE IT. Furthermore, this is the only tattoo shop to ever follow-up with me AFTER an appointment. I got an email from one of the shop managers, asking me if everything was OK, and healing nicely. This was a welcome change from the other artists I've been to. These guy genuinely care about their business, and they've got a great shop. I honestly don't know what's with all the haters here. This is beautiful shop, with great staff. They're all artists and extremely proud of their work (as they should be, they are all extremely talented). I am looking forward to going back and having my portrait finished. Thanks for a great experience guys. I look forward to seeing you again. read more

I (at the time of posting) have 5 tattoos, procured from a few different shops around the city. I'm slowly patching together a sleeve whilst planning another and I must say that my experience with Joseph and Mikey at Black Line Studio was by far the best. I called in advance to check Mikey's availability and the shops hours and was greeted on the phone rather enthusiastically by Joseph, the owner of the studio. He told me to come down at any time and they'd do a quick consultation and set everything up. A quick consult it was, I was only in there for 20 or so minutes (I was getting a smaller tattoo) but Joseph was very thorough, went through pictures on google to get exactly what I wanted whilst offering suggestions as to improve the look of the tattoo. He created a profile of what I wanted so Mikey would have no issue crafting a custom stencil for me. Incredibly friendly and helpful, Joseph had me feeling confident and excited upon my departure. The atmosphere of the shop is also awesome. They sell jewelry and art, clothing and accessories, workspaces line the side walls and leave the centre of the shop open for browsing. Full of interesting things you'd never get bored walking around. The day-of, I was ready to go. I entered the shop and was greeted by more enthusiastic and happy staff (seriously, this goes a LONG way to making people feel comfortable) who seemed as pumped as I was to be there, which was refreshing and welcomed. Mikey had a stencil ready to go, with his own little twist that was an incredible addition to my tattoo idea. He was professional and calm and offered information on his tattoo machines that previous artists had never explained. We had a great laugh about Archer and talked about music. Many people may say "so what?" but I've had a few experiences where I'm being tattooed and its just awkward silence permeating throughout the shop. Having an artist that wants to get to know their client's better is not only refreshing, but also great to encourage a future working relationship. I will be back for more body art from "TheRealMrTattoo" (Mikey's handle on Instagram). This is a shop that not only truly cares about the quality of work it produces but also about its clients and the industry they represent. The price was a little more than I expected, but it was honestly worth it. The quality of this tattoo exceeds all my others and I know this is a shop I will return to for more work. The amount of effort they put into making sure people understand the proper aftercare methods is awesome, many shops just say "soap and water" and send you on your merry way. Not Black Line. They provide medical grade aftercare products and give you a through explanation of how to handle it so your tattoo gets the best possible results once its healed. I highly recommend Black Line to the city of Toronto. The people working there are great, the tattoo artists passionate and dedicated and finished product shows that. Thank you Joseph and Mikey for an amazing experience and I will be in touch! read more

How the hell were they awarded Best Tattoo Studio - guess it depends on which day you go and who is helping you. Unfortunately you don't have anything below one. This place is a hack shop and they are thieves! They pretend to be professional however once they have your deposit - professionalism and ethics disappear. Joseph was to provide a custom sketch based on our Wednesday "consultation" by Sunday... I had to call on Monday to be told that they don't do sketches. Then they emailed a cross copied from the internet within the 48 hour cancellation (this is a trick so that you are stuck - BEWARE!) If that wasn't bad enough the artist had no creative insight, was despondent and could care less and kept asking, "Is this good enough?". This is suppose to be a custom shop? 50 minutes later they still did not capture the tattoo and then made a rough hand thing that they were prepared to stencil and permanently place on my body. Once we hit the hour mark I told them I could not stay and then they wanted me to pay for all of the tattoo that they spent no real time creating. Since when is copy and paste custom work? Joseph proceeded to tell me that this isn't how he runs his shop.. Clearly it is.. take the deposit and do no work and even when he's wrong and not refund the money. I sent an email outlining why they should not keep my deposit and they have yet to respond. I hope the $100.00 was worth the bad publicity..... I ended up going to another studio by Yonge and Wellsley - absolutely night and day. They were professional, creative, in tune and actually worked with me to create a personal and visually stimulating piece - in less time than it took to stand around at Black Line Studio when I should have been getting inked. When you ink someone you are suppose to be proud of your work. It's your badge, your business card. Here's a new tag line... Black Line Studios....Waste of time and money and ink. read more

I went to Black Line Studio recently to get a dermal piercing and I had a great experience. The shop is clean and bright and makes you feel comfortable right away. I've been pierced and tattooed before so I had a general idea of what to expect, but this could be very important to someone who might be nervous or coming in for their first piercing/tattoo. The people at Black Line Studio are awesome. I was treated very well... like a person and not just another appointment or piercing. My first experience with Ion was through email when he responded to my inquiry about piercings, cost and scheduling. His reply was very profesional and very prompt. At the time of this review, there are tattoo places I still haven't received a response from. When I came in for my appointment, Ion came over and introduced himself and asked me what kind of piercing I was getting. He was genuine, interested and very friendly. Jenny is the piercer and is amazing. She took the time to explain what she was going to do and to get the placement of the piercing just right. She has amazing patience as we tried the placement a couple of times until I was happy with it. During the actual piercing, Jenny was attentive and asked me how I was doing. I had a very positive experience and I would recommend this place to others. One final comment I would like to make... I love how Black Line Studios collects your authorization and your contact information. They have a lamenated form that you fill out and then they input the information into the computer. It is environmentally friendly and reduces the use of paper. Wonderful idea! read more

I had an absolutely wonderful experience with Dakota, my tattoo artist at their studio located at 571 King Street West, Toronto. I visited for a consultation to cover up a scar on my ankle, and I was instantly impressed by Dakota's creativity and understanding of my needs. During the consultation, Dakota suggested a small palm tree design to cover up the scar, and it immediately resonated with me. Their ability to come up with such a meaningful and unique idea made me feel at ease and confident in their artistic vision. Throughout the entire process, Dakota and their team provided amazing support and assistance. They were attentive to my concerns and preferences, ensuring that the final design was a perfect representation of what I had envisioned. Dakota's artistry and attention to detail were exceptional. The execution of the tattoo was flawless, and they skillfully incorporated the palm tree into a stunning piece of art that not only concealed the scar but also added a beautiful touch to my ankle. The studio's ambiance was welcoming and friendly, and everyone there contributed to making the experience memorable. From the warm reception to the aftercare advice, they went above and beyond to ensure my comfort and satisfaction. I am truly grateful to Dakota and the entire team for their outstanding work. If you're in search of a talented and compassionate tattoo artist in Toronto, I highly recommend Dakota's services. They turned my scar into a piece of art that I now cherish, and I couldn't be happier with the result. Thank you, Dakota! read more

I had been waiting for the past 10 years to get my first tattoo and settled on Black Line. It seems people are tossing out this place being pretentious, but in my mind that seems to be judging a book by its cover. Maybe it is the $150 t-shirts, but if you are looking for a good tattoo does it really matter that they sell expensive merchandise? As for my actual experience it went down like this. I noticed work done by Vincent and it seemed to fit what I was looking for. Showed him some pictures and my basic idea and told him to add his own artistic flare. Came back two days later and had a drawing to look at. Basically I was looking for a realistic lion on a savannah with 4 cubs (my two niece and 2 nephews. Worked out a couple things I wanted changed and I was able to set an appointment the next day! This was a nice surprise because I had gone to a couple other places and was told I would have to book consultation (one was even two weeks later) and then they would see where they could fit me in. As for the tattoo it is absolute art! I can honestly say it blows my mind and better than I could ever imagine. Vincent was easy to chat with and if you are going to be spending hours with someone it is a nice bonus. If you want to check out my tattoo I can email you pictures. ouderki@hotmail.com Just make sure to put something in the subject as it will go to my junk mail. Take your time and find an artist that makes you feel comfortable with. It worked for me and I am glad I chose Black Line Studio and Vincent. ~Wray read more

Got my first tattoo done here, and am beyond pleased with the entire experience I had with Blackline! From the start of contacting and inquiring about my tattoo, I received an email following up with my artwork and other details. They were extremely professional and speedy in booking me an appointment, looking at my images, and explaining details to me. I had been to the studio before, and loved how modern and clean the facility was, and was just as impressed as I returned. Thank you so much to Yannick who made my first tattoo experience amazing, and much less scary that I imagined it to be. He made sure I was comfortable, explained all the details and process to me, spent a great deal of time on my image, making sure its done to my liking, and was just so kind during my appointment! Everything was so clean, and done properly from the beginning of explaining paperwork, tattoo details, imaging, aftercare, etc. I was even more pleased to be emailed after to see how my tattoo was healing and whether I have any questions, amazing service! I'm absolutely in love with my tattoo, and would definitely recommend this studio to anyone in the city, it definitely deserves the title of being one of the best studios in Toronto!! read more

Everyone knows the shame of Blackline in the city haha. It`s The Jersey Shore of Toronto. Cheesey, rockstar, douchebag mentality as soon as you walk through the doors. Front desk "help" appropriately dressed in tacky friligree apparel and a flattened baseball cap. It's exactly what you would expect a place like this to look like! Be prepared to be hasseled into buying one of those tacky tees, mediorce quality jewelry, or over-priced aftercre products. If you're looking for the tattoo/boutique experience in Toronto, then I would reccomend Adrenaline on Queen St. or even Lucky 13 on Bloor West. Both carry more true tattoo related apparell in a not-so smothering atmosphere. The artists at Blackline are also extremely mediocre and overrated, considering the talent in this City. A very respected tattooer once told me the funniest speel about Blackline; they`re the Nickelback of tattooing. Half the population of true tattooers and enthusists wish they would just go away already, but unfortunately the other half consists of white trash and dumb kids who dont know any better. read more

I recently started coming here back in September to break my tattoo virginity. I did my research within the city before I decided on Black Line Studio. Professionalism, cleanliness and great customer service was what I was looking for and I found it at this shop. The people there are so personable and make you feel very comfortable. My tattoo artist is Rodrigo and he is amazing. I just got my third tattoo yesterday there and I will continue to go. When I paid for my second tattoo there was a miscommunication and the staff member didn't know I already had put a deposit so I was overcharged. However, this situation was rectified in the most timely manner and I got my refund back. I found this to be very professional as some places wouldn't even care. Some people would say they are a bit pricey but I look at it as you are paying for what you get. For something that is going to stay on you for the rest of your life you want it to be the best of the best and that is what you get at Black Line Studio! read more

Got a geometric tattoo done by Bill last Friday evening. I was nervous because it was my first tattoo but Bill was professional and the entire experience was very enjoyable. We had good conversation and he made me feel comfortable, and so did the rest of the lovely people at the studio. It was a difficult design with thin lines and precise angles but not only did Bill completely nail it, it's also not crazy raw or bordering on infection as some horror stories from tattooing can be. In fact, the post tattoo session period has been very manageable! (Read: no irritation + a lot of oohs and ahhs from friends) A friend even commented on how it was one of the best done tattoo she's ever seen and how you can tell how great the needlework is from how the skin isn't angry looking even a day after the session. OVERALL THIS HAS BEEN GREAT and I can't recommend this place enough. It's a cosy environment and reasonable prices for great work. Will definitely be back for more ink + telling everyone I know. read more

Worst piercing place I have ever been to... First of all I got scammed out of my money... I wanted to get my tragus and 3rd lobe Piercings done... so I called the day before to make an appointment and get a rough estimate of the cost, the lady on the phone had told me that the total would be around $120 so I thought "wow what a sick deal" anyways I go in the next day, and after my piercings were finished she told me that my total was $237.... when I asked why the price was so high and she told me that the after care cleaning solution was included and the tragus itself was $60 and then $80 per lobe piercing... which didn't add up because the after care solution itself was $35... so 80+80+60+25= more than $237... anyways I paid the price and went home. One week later the backing of my tragus piercing had fallen out and 2 weeks after I got the piercings, the diamond for my lobe earring fell out.... so what did I pay $237 for? A cheap earring and a rushed procedure?!! Would not recommend at all. read more

This is long overdue. I have 8 tattoos, from a number of different Toronto shops. And when I feel the need for some more ink, I will be calling Black Line. 1) The place is immaculate and is designed so that you can TELL it is immaculate with clean glass and metal surfaces everywhere. 2) They have some of the world's most interesting and unique artists visit to tattoo for a week or so. 3) Their in-house artists LISTEN during consutations, but also advise, so you don't wind up with permanent crap on your body. Everybody has an IDEA of what they want, but it is the consultation that turns it into a tattoo that you will be proud to show. 4) I have a piercing in a very personal place from Black Line too, and though it hurt like hell for about 5 seconds, I was completely comfortable and had no doubt I was in professional hands throughout. 5) THEY REMEMBERED ME on my subsequent visits. That is a completely unique feature when compared with other shops I have patronized. read more

Black Line Studio. I got my FIRST tattoo here on Saturday. Man was I nervous. I was getting the year 1963 in roman numerals [MCMLXIII] on my inner right wrist. Being my first tattoo I didnt know how much pain to expect. From the moment I sat down in the chair I was so scared. Peter, the artist assured me I was gonna be okay. He proceeded to set up the equipment, and before I knew it the needle had made contact with my skin. The tattoo took approx. 15 mins. The pain was not that bad, yeah it did hurt, but it was whatever lol. After he was finished, he took the time to give me the rundown on the aftercare part, I had so many questions and he seemed to have answered every single one of them. My tattoo came to a total of 140$ I had also purchased the antiseptic soap and ointment from them also, which saved me a trip to Shoppers Drug Mart :) thanks guys! Overall, Black Line Studios fcukin ROCKS dude! Im so going back there to get the rest of my tatts done ! read more

I got my first tattoo at Black Line and from the moment I walked into the shop, I knew it was a different type of tattoo experience (although I don't have anything to compare it to, i'm going off of friends' experiences with other shops). I was able to make a same day appointment and even though I was late (got lost) they were able to bend their schedules to fit me and a friend in for custom tattoos about two hours before closing. I really appreciated that. When I first walked in the place was spotless and gave off a great vibe from the music to the clothing that they sell. I got my tattoo done by Scoot and he made it a really comfortable experience because I was a bit of a nervous wreck. I was extremely satisfied with my outcome and It will not be the last tattoo that I get from Black Line and I have since referred a few friends and family members and they have also had great experiences there! Can't wait to go back there! read more

This place is wonderful. From the time you get to the top of the stairs to the time you leave the ladies you find there (Jayda, Kaiya, Meghan and Anna) will welcome and take very good care of you, the fact that they are all sweet and funny is an added bonus. I got a bunch of micro fine line tattoos done by Xavier, calling him talented and extremely patient is an understatement, I wanted a bunch of different tats in a bunch of different places and he was knowledgeable and informative about the best sizes and placements of these tiny treasures (it is not lost on me that when I wanted one in a certain place that was not the best, he made me think I had decided how big and where it would go, thanks X). Now 1 month later, my tattoos are healed and beautiful, I think I love them more than when I got them. There are a couple that we didn't get to last time, so I am booking another appointment when I'm done with this review. read more

Black Line Studio is a sheek, very clean and, sophisticated Tattoo business. The attraction for me was it's style and ambiance. Having a profession in the design and Real Estate industry I appreciate attention to detail. I initially gravitated towards this studio for the above mentioned reasons. However I was extremely impressed by Tattoo Artist Will Bridgeforth. He is totally down to earth, funny and professional. His work and willingness to listen to my vision was very impressive! While tattooing a tiny lovely orchid onto my upper inner ear I lay comfortably and we chatted and laughed! I have already recommended Will and team of tattoo artists to my family, friends and co- workers. I cant wait to see Will again for a very special portrait of my beautiful daughter. Thank you again to the BLS team for their friendliness and professionalism and a very special thank you to Will. See you all again soon! read more

It's my first time in Canada and I wanted to get a tattoo to remind myself of my year here. It was my first tattoo and I googled a few studios in Toronto and Black Line Studio really caught my eyes and I'm really glad that I chose this place to get my first tattoo. The place is very clean which for me it's one of the most important things when choosing a good studio. I have nothing to complain about it. I got my tattoo with Alex and she gave me all the information I needed for the after care, answered all my questions about it, made sure I was comfortable all the time (especially because I was getting my tattoo on my ribs). And she did I great job, I love my tattoo! The counter staff also treated me very nicely. It was such a good experience that my friends that went with me are also thinking about getting their tattoos there. It's an awesome studio, I recomend to everyone. read more

I came to this studio multiple times & saw three different artists. I can only say good things about this place & the people I dealt with. Sometimes I've been a little apprehensive in the past about going into tattoo shops because they can be a bit pushy or intimidating, but not here. I met with Joseph at the front all three times to get ideas going & then did consults with the artists to figure out what I wanted. The end results were awesome. I've recommended a few friends here since to see Sarah or India (who did amazing work!). The studio itself is really well kept, clean & bright. You don't feel stuffy in any of the rooms. The price was about what I would expect. It's based on an hourly rate. When it comes to tattoos I don't think 'cheap' is a good thing when we're talking about anything to do with them. I am definitely a fan & will return for any future ink here! read more

By far, the best experience I have ever had at a tattoo shop--and I have MANY tattoos. The staff at the desk were welcoming, warm and friendly; and, when I came back a few days later to have the artist correct a tattoo I had done at another shop, remembered me and talked to me like I was an old friend. Which brings me to the artist herself: Sophia. Wow.....such* a professional. Quick to offer her suggestions but equally accepting of yours (a tattoo-artist rarity, in my opinion); super friendly and kind; and an incredible artist with a discerning eye and focused hand. I will DEFINITELY go to Sophia for all of my tattoos from now on, and will be sure to recommend her to anyone I know looking to get some art done :) I could not be happier with my experience with Sophia and at Black Line. Thank you again!!! read more