Since tattoo parlors became legal in South Carolina in 2006, they have ridden a growing wave of popularity. No longer the province of sailors or convicts, tattoos are being worn by doctors, ministers, even grandmothers. Tattoo artist Scot “Spyder” Kudo says the range of tattoo designs is as endless as the imaginations of his clients.
Jail keys, the “Christmas Story” leg lamp and a magnifying glass with disappearing fingerprint are some of the more unusual patterns he’s done. Fellow artist Bryan Spencer gives advice to prospective tattoo clients: do research to find the best artist for you, because the decision is permanent.