Question 1

What is the best tattoo shop in Boise?

Accepted Answer

Inkvision Tattoo is downtown Boise's oldest custom tattoo studio, open since 1990 and regularly voted one of the "Best of Boise" by Boise Weekly readers. Founder Erik Payne and resident artist Daniel Gerbis specialize in Japanese, American traditional, blackwork, realism, and large-scale custom tattoos at 516 S Americana Blvd.

Answers reviewed and updated July 2026

Have a question we didn't answer? Call the shop at (208) 383-0912 or ask when you book a consultation.

Question 2

Who does Japanese tattoos in Boise?

Accepted Answer

Erik Payne, founder of Inkvision Tattoo in downtown Boise, has specialized in Japanese and large-scale tattooing since 1986 — dragons, tigers, hannya masks, koi, sleeves, backpieces, and full bodysuits. Daniel Gerbis, tattooing for over 17 years, also works in Japanese alongside traditional and blackwork styles.

Question 3

How much does a tattoo cost in Boise?

Accepted Answer

Every tattoo at Inkvision is custom, so pricing depends on the size, detail, placement, and time your piece requires. Larger work like sleeves and backpieces is typically priced by the session. The best way to get an accurate quote is to book a free consultation — we'll talk through your idea and give you a clear picture of cost before any ink happens.

Question 4

How do I book a tattoo appointment?

Accepted Answer

Use the booking form on our website to tell us about your idea, or call the shop at (208) 383-0912. We'll set up a consultation with the right artist for your style, work out the design together, and schedule your session from there.

Question 5

Do you take walk-ins?

Accepted Answer

We work primarily by appointment because most of our tattoos are custom designs, and often larger pieces. That said, you're always welcome to stop by the shop at 516 S Americana Blvd, Tuesday through Saturday from 12 to 7 PM, to meet us and talk about your idea in person.

Question 6

Does getting a tattoo hurt?

Accepted Answer

Some discomfort is part of getting tattooed, but it varies a lot by placement and by person — areas over bone tend to be more sensitive than fleshier spots. Our artists have decades of experience keeping clients comfortable, and for longer sessions we build in breaks. Most people find it very manageable.

Question 7

How do I take care of a new tattoo?

Accepted Answer

Keep it clean, moisturized, and out of the sun while it heals — typically two to four weeks. Wash gently with unscented soap, apply a thin layer of the aftercare product your artist recommends, and avoid swimming, soaking, and picking at it. You'll leave your appointment with specific aftercare instructions for your tattoo.

Question 8

How old do I have to be to get tattooed?

Accepted Answer

You must be 18 or older with a valid government-issued photo ID. No exceptions on ID — bring it to every appointment.

Question 9

What tattoo styles do you specialize in?

Accepted Answer

Our artists specialize in Japanese, American traditional, blackwork, realism, illustrative, and large-scale custom work like sleeves, backpieces, and bodysuits. Erik Payne has been tattooing in Boise since 1986, and Daniel Gerbis brings over 17 years of experience across nearly every style.

Question 10

Can you cover up or rework an old tattoo?

Accepted Answer

Yes — cover-ups and reworks are some of the most rewarding projects we take on. Success depends on the size, darkness, and location of the existing tattoo, so bring it in or send a photo with your booking request and we'll tell you honestly what's possible.

Question 11

How should I prepare for my tattoo appointment?

Accepted Answer

Get a good night's sleep, eat a solid meal beforehand, and stay hydrated. Take a shower, not joking here. Wear comfortable clothing that gives easy access to the area being tattooed.

Question 12

Who are the tattoo artists at Inkvision Tattoo?

Accepted Answer

Inkvision Tattoo has two resident artists: founder Erik Payne, who apprenticed in Boise in 1986 and has owned Inkvision since 1990, specializing in Japanese and large-scale work; and Daniel Gerbis, with over 17 years of experience across Texas and Georgia, specializing in traditional, blackwork, and illustrative tattoos.

Question 13

Where is Inkvision Tattoo located?

Accepted Answer

We're at 516 S Americana Blvd in downtown Boise, Idaho, just south of the connector. The shop is open Tuesday through Saturday, 12 to 7 PM. Call us at (208) 383-0912 or email inkvisionboise@gmail.com.

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