REVIEW: The Scottish Tattoo Convention 2025 | Edinburgh Corn Exchange

Fresh ink, bold art, and more creative energy than you can shake a tattoo gun at — The Scottish Tattoo Convention was back this weekend for its 12th year, and it absolutely smashed it.

From black-and-grey realism that looked like photos to colourful designs that literally popped off the skin, the talent on display was unreal. You could feel the buzz the minute you walked in — machines humming, people comparing tattoos, artists totally in their zone — it’s the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to do something spontaneous (like, I don’t know… get tattooed?!).

What I love about this event is how it brings together every kind of person — tattoo veterans, first-timers, and the just-curious — all chatting, laughing, and celebrating the art form. The stories behind the tattoos are always my favourite bit; every design means something different, from deep and meaningful to “aye, I just fancied it.”

It’s bold, it’s creative, it’s beautifully chaotic — and that’s exactly why I love it. Would I get a spontaneous tattoo at a convention? Honestly… after this weekend, I wouldn’t rule it out.

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