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Tattoo Contest
Tattoo Contest for Nov 1 & 2nd
Best of Day
The Best of Day tattoo contest is a competition held at the end of each day during a tattoo convention. It recognizes the most outstanding tattoo completed that day—judged on overall execution, creativity, and technical skill. Only tattoos started and finished during the event day are eligible. There will be two categories: Best Color and Best Black and Grey
Best of Show [Sponsored by ACUS Tattoo Machines]
The Best of Show tattoo contest is the top honor of the event, awarded to the most impressive tattoo of the entire convention. It’s judged on overall artistry, technique, creativity, and impact. Only tattoos started and completed during the event are eligible.
Best Healed Tattoo [Sponsored by ACUS Tattoo Machines]
The Best Healed Tattoo contest recognizes tattoos that have fully healed and still showcase exceptional quality. Artists and clients are invited to enter tattoos that have had time to settle into the skin, showcasing how well the piece has aged.
Ugliest Tattoo [Sponsored by Removery]
Not every tattoo is a masterpiece—and that’s exactly what we’re celebrating! The Ugliest Tattoo Contest is all about having fun, laughing with (not at) each other, and showcasing those unforgettable ink decisions. It’s all in good fun, with the winner winning a free tattoo removal session.
Details
Contest Breakdown
Entry fee is $20 per entry.
Best of Show (1st place)
Best of Day
- Best Color (1st / 2nd)
- Best Black and Grey (1st / 2nd)
- Lettering
Best Healed
- Color (1st / 2nd / 3rd)
- Black and Gray (1st / 2nd / 3rd)
- Traditional (1st / 2nd / 3rd)
- Lettering (1st / 2nd / 3rd)
- Sleeve (1st / 2nd / 3rd)
Ugliest Tattoo (1st place)
Criteria and Requirements
Black and Grey Tattoo Judging Criteria
1. Smooth Shading & Gradient Control
- Transitions between tones (black to light grey) should be smooth and well-blended.
- No blotchy, patchy, or uneven areas.
- Proper use of contrast to create depth and realism.
2. Contrast & Depth
- Strong use of black to anchor the design and prevent it from looking washed out.
- Effective highlights and mid-tones that create a full range of values.
- Design should have visual impact from a distance and detail up close.
3. Line Work & Clarity
- Clean, controlled line work that holds up the structure of the tattoo.
- Crisp outlines (when used) and fine detail work that stays sharp.
- The image should be readable and clear without relying on color.
Color Tattoo Judging Criteria
1. Color Saturation & Consistency
- The colors should be bold, rich, and fully saturated. No patchy or uneven areas—solid fill throughout.
- Consistent tone and intensity across the tattoo.
2. Color Use & Blending
- Effective use of contrasting and complementary colors.
- Smooth, seamless transitions between shades.
- Creative and intentional palette that enhances the design.
3. Line Work & Definition
- Clean, crisp lines that hold the structure of the tattoo.
- Sharp outlines that define edges without overpowering color.
- No blowouts, shaky lines, or muddled detailing.
Best of Show and Best of Day
Requirements:
- Tattoo must be started and completed at the show.
- Entrants must be present to compete
- Only one entry per artist-client pair.
- The tattoo must be fully completed (no unfinished work or touch-ups pending).
Best Healed Tattoo
Judging Criteria:
- Clarity and definition of healed lines
- Color retention and saturation
- Smoothness of shading and gradients
- Overall composition and healed appearance
Requirements:
- Tattoo must be fully healed (minimum 1 month old)
- Must be presented in person.
- No touch-ups within 4 weeks prior to judging
Ugliest Tattoo
Judging Criteria:
- Creativity (or lack thereof)
- Humor and shock value
- Story behind the tattoo (optional but encouraged!)
- Crowd reaction and audience vote
Requirements:
- Tattoo must be real (no drawn-on or temporary ink)
- Entrants must be present to compete
Prize and Awards
Best of Show
The winner of the Best of Show tattoo contest will receive:
- Unique Trophy
- (1) ACUS M2 Tattoo Machine (not released yet)
Best of Day
1st place Winner of the Best of Day tattoo contest will receive:
- Unique Trophy
- (1) ACUS C2 Tattoo Machine
Best Healed Tattoo
1st place Winner of the Best Healed Tattoo contest will receive:
- Unique Trophy
- (1) ACUS C2 Tattoo Machine
Ugliest Tattoo
Winner of the Ugliest Tattoo contest will receive:
- Gift Certificate for (1) Free Tattoo Removal
- Award Certificate