Check Out Silkworm Tattoo’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Silkworm Tattoo.

Hi Silkworm, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Silkworm Tattoo opened in 2010, under the ownership of Kevin Combs. Since then, it’s spent 15 year growing through classic stigmas, making it’s (permanent) mark on Hamilton, surviving a whole pandemic, and undergoing an ownership change when the founder stepped back; new co-owners Devin Spenny, Kevin Betsch and Richard Bowers stepped up to take on keeping the shop alive and thriving. Through it all, the shop has always embraced the idea of doing big, bold tattoos that catch your eye across the room, and outlast the daily wear and tear of the human experience.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The guys have been through it all. While Hamilton would be pretty progressive by today’s standards, there are still people who aren’t crazy about tattoos. At one point, the City of Hamilton wanted to displace the tenants that have rented their shops for nearly a decade during revitalization efforts. The landlord stood by the tenants and refused to let them fall victim to gentrification. The City is much more supportive of the efforts of the shop to be included in commerce activities, and it feels like home. There was also the pandemic. Like so many businesses, shops were closed in the state of Ohio, and among some of the last industries to be allowed to re-open. The tensions were palpable. Tattoo shops centralize around cleanliness as a tenet of day to day operations, so it made little sense to keep them from going back to work. Finally the doors reopened, and the guys got back to doing what they do best — tattoos!

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
To quote co-owner Kevin Betsch here; “I base my tattoos in a traditional sense. Black outlines, black shading, and bright colors. I enjoy mixing patterns and nostalgic imagery in a humorous and pseudo-psychedelic manner. I enjoy utilizing my love for fishing in the designs I create as well. Be it smallmouth bass and other fish or the creatures I encounter on my excursions. I love making big tattoos composed of elements of bold Japanese and Americana themes, sometimes with a tribal flair.” You will see a lot of influence in the guys’ work of what’s currently happening in their lives, but you will find that common theme of American traditional, Japanese traditional, and black and gray. The second you step into our lobby, you’ll get a good feel for the vibe.

What are your plans for the future?
The guys just want to keep making tattoos. They love what they do, they love the industry they’re in, and they love meeting other people in the industry that love it, too. Oh, and Kevin plans to fish.

Pricing:

• $100 cash deposit to book

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silkwormtattoo
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/silkwormtattooco