Wilmington, NC Tattoo & Design Studio

Welcome to Good Graces Tattoo, a tattoo & design studio founded on quality craftsmanship and solid design sensibility. We strive to deliver solid tattoos and good design solutions in a calm and engaging atmosphere. Located upstairs in the old white brick building on 118 S.17th Street just outside of downtown Wilmington, NC. We are open Tuesday through Saturday from 12pm-7pm. We offer custom tattoo design, in all styles as well as illustration and digital design work. Good Graces Tattoo is predominantly by appointment only but can accommodate walk-ins when available.
Thanks for stopping by!

Book an Appointment

      
   Good Graces Tattoo
   128 Google reviews 
  Write a review 
  
 
 
   
 
 
        
   Ru Ma 
 2024-10-13
 
 
  Someone recently commented they are the best in town. Now I know why. Nate was my artist and cannot wait to go back. His attention to detail on the work i had done was pretty damn excellent.  I HIGHLY recommend his talent. Nate, fantastic job, sir ! See ya soon, amigo !
  
 
       
   Sierra Finch 
 2024-08-18
 
 
  Highly recommend! Nate is amazing! We had a bachelorette trip this weekend and walked in at 4 on Saturday and he was the only artist there still made it possible for everyone to get tattoos!!
  
 
       
   Sam Costantino 
 2024-06-20
 
 
  I love Good Graces Tattoo in Wilmington. Very clean and inviting. Nate is my artist and he does amazing work and is great to work with. All the artists are personable and the shop has a great all around atmosphere.  Would definitely recommend it if you live in the area.
  
 
       
   Sven Sahkul 
 2024-06-11
 
 
  I’ve been coming to Good Graces for several months and completed a Japanese traditional sleeve with Nate. The work he does is truly exceptional. Because of his knowledge of tattooing and professionalism, I have the highest regard for him and the work he does. I will continue to come back to this shop because of the outstanding work, welcoming atmosphere, and cleanliness that Good Graces offers.
  
 
       
   Geoff Gohs 
 2024-06-05
 
 
  Absolutely phenomenal shop and Anthony Neave is a masterclass in tattoo artistry. The entire vibe of this place is different from most shops I've been in.  Not only is it a super cool location that is impeccably clean, but the music was great all day and the vibe was relaxing and highly professional.  I sat in the chair for over 7 hours to complete the first phase of my half sleeve and I couldnt be happier with the results.  I'd highly recommend this shop, and Anthony in particular.
  
 
       
   Hilary Snow 
 2024-05-17
 
 
  Such a great shop and experience! After getting four small forearm tattoos from Nate (all of which I love), I decided to go bigger and do a cover up on my back. Nate killed it! He gave great advice on the best approach and came up with an amazing design. After several sessions, I now have a big, bold and beautiful floral piece on my back that I am proud to show off! It covers my old tattoos seamlessly and looks incredible. Definitely recommend this shop and Nate in particular!
  
 
       
   Gage Marshall 
 2024-05-15
 
 
  I had Jarred Weinstein (hopefully didn't butcher the name) he did a fantastic job on my tattoo last minute walk in and hooked me up all the staff was really friendly.....highly recommend and I will be back
  
 
       
   Cody Soots 
 2024-04-12
 
 
  Jarred (my fellow pirate) did an amazing job at customizing my tattoo. I was looking for a traditional style on a meaningful idea that i had. He took it and knocked it out the park! He was very thorough and meticulous. Love the shop vibe and their set up. Would highly recommend
  
 
       
   Dave M 
 2024-03-30
 
 
  Anthony full volume sang Katie Perry's Fire Work to me during my tattoo.  Pretty  sure at one point he was standing on my back singing into the light fixture.
I'm not sure he realized I was on his table, but half way through the song he locked eyes with me and wouldn't break contact.   I knew my experience was coming to a conclusion  when he said "who's my brave little guy? "gave me a lollipop, and patted me on the head.
All in all it was a strange experience but did wonders for my self esteem.
I'll be going back next week
  
 
       
   Dave M 
 2024-03-30
 
 
  The only thing better than getting shaved by Anthony is getting  tattooed by Anthony

Artists

Luke Worley

Nate McGaughy

Jarred Weinstein

New sheet from @lukeworleytattoo All designs on di

@nate_mcgaughy • • • #dragontattoo #wilmin

@nate_mcgaughy Book yours today • • • #d

Healed work from @nate_mcgaughy • • • #dra

From @lukeworleytattoo • • • #lukeworleyta

In progress spotted koi & chrysanthemum sleeve by

This Wednesday. 10am until. $100-150 tattoos from

Dragon sleeve and torso in progress by @nate_mcgau

A handful from @lukeworleytattoo over the past cou

Calling all cat tattoos! Bring us all your big cat

One-shot rib eagle by @nate_mcgaughy Nate’s go

By @nate_mcgaughy All styles served daily. Hit

A select handful from @lukeworleytattoo as of late

We offer a variety of styles from American traditi

Chest eagle by @nate_mcgaughy You, too, could lo

Finished tiger half sleeve by @nate_mcgaughy Nat

Completed backpiece from @lukeworleytattoo

•
•
•

#lukeworleytattoo #goodgracestattoo #wilmingtonnctattoo #wilmingtonnctattoos #nctattooers #tradworkers #tradworkerssubmission #traditionaltattoo #traditionaltattoos #boldwillhold #oldlines #traditional #backpiece #backtattoo

A select handful from @lukeworleytattoo lately. Ca

Completed hanya backpiece from @lukeworleytattoo

Latest sheet from @lukeworleytattoo All designs av

Load More Follow on Instagram

Blog

Pleased to Announce

We are pleased to announce Nate Mcgaughy joining us full time here at Good Graces Tattoo. Nate leans more towards Japanese style of tattooing but can handle anything you throw his way. Nate is available for walk-ins and more immediate availability. Contact him today to set something up!

FAQ

Can I bring a friend?

A: Sure. It’s always nice to have someone accompany you if you’re a little uneasy about getting tattooed, especially if it’s your first. However, please limit your crew to 1-2 people.

Can I bring my child?

A: Please make arrangements for childcare before coming to get tattooed. Often there is language and other visuals not suited for young eyes and ears. In addition, it is not recommended by the Health Department.

Do I need to leave a deposit for an appointment?

A: Yes, a deposit is the only way to secure an appointment. Your deposit covers the artists time for research, preparing the drawing and setup. It does not go towards the final cost of the tattoo. Deposits are typically $50 for smaller pieces or $100 for pieces taking more than an hour, however each artist require different deposits. Check with your artist to see what they require. If you cannot make your appointment(s) please provide at least a 48 hour notice. The deposit is non-refundable or transferable and is subject to void if you neglect to fulfill your obligation to make it to your appointment(s).

Do I need to tip?

A: Tipping as a general rule in a service industry is a common courtesy and recommended to be handled just as you would a stylist, waiter and/or waitress.

Do you do design work?

A: Yes. Our studio offers design and illustration services on a custom basis.

Do you do piercings?

A: No.

Do you have a shop minimum?

A: Yes, but it depends on who you prefer to get tattooed by. Each artist has their own minimum.

Do you offer gift certificates?

Yes. They are available in the shop or available via snail mail. They are not transferable or exchangeable. Our gift certificates expire after 6 months.

Do you take credit cards or are you cash only?

A: We take all major credit and debit cards, however, cash is always preferred.

Do you take walk-ins?

A: Absolutely. We generally book by appointment and each individual artist has varying availability. Fridays and Saturdays are typically our busiest times but we can generally accommodate most any immediate request within reason. Calling ahead with a deposit always ensures a spot for same day appointments. If you would like to get tattooed on a specific day within short range, please contact the artist you wish to work with via their individual page to inquire about their availability and set up a time for a consultation and/or tattoo.

How do I book a consultation?

A: Booking a consultation is the best way to ensure you are on the same page with the artist. Times for consultation vary depending on the artist, but your best bet is to try and book consultations when we open and close to ensure our undivided attention.

How do I book an appointment?

A: The best way is to come to the shop and talk in in person. Aside from that (especially if you are from out of town) you can give us a call and set something up that way. We are a small operation, so bear with us. We will be sure to get back to you as soon as possible.

How do I find your shop?

Our shop is at 118 S. 17th Street in the big white brick building on the left hand side of the road. We are upstairs in the building. You’ll enter on the south side of the building through a common area and come up the stair case into the shop. We have signage that hopefully points you in the right direction.

What are your hours?

We are open Tuesday through Saturday from noon-7pm.