Pro Artist of the month - Sare Usher

February 05, 2025 - 1 year ago

Sare Usher is the wonderful tattoo artist behind some of our favourite anime, gaming, and all-round nerdy body art, from Baldur's Gate to Pokémon, Studio Ghibli to The Legend of Zelda, and everything in between.

Based at Twisted Chapel studio in Northampton, Sare recently celebrated 10 years of, as she puts it, "stabbing ink into people's dermis until it looks like art"—so who better to kick off our first Pro Artist of the Month feature?

We spoke to Sare about the importance of colour theory, creating a welcoming studio space, and adapting her tattooing process for different clients.

What inspired you to pursue a career in tattooing and how did you get into it?

So, funny story – I was super resistant to it at first. I used to work in retail and tech, and I did illustration in my spare time. Everyone would say, “You should be a tattoo artist,” and I used to get really irked—until I tried it!

I had a very unusual (red flag) situation where one of my customers from my day job approached me and offered me an apprenticeship in a tattoo shop they were opening because they'd seen my art online. Little did I know, he'd been on a “learn to tattoo in a week” course and had no clue what he was doing. However, it got my foot in the door, and being too stubborn to give up easily, I ended up at a second shop to do my apprenticeship where I could actually learn something.

It turns out both shops were bad in different ways, and sadly I faced the all-too-common trope of a shop owner abusing their trust and power in both of them. I swiftly said “no thanks” to that behaviour and moved on to a shop with one of my colleagues from the second studio, who taught me so much more—and with so much more respect.

Did you face any particular challenges when starting out in tattooing, and how did you manage to overcome them?

See above, I guess—it's an age-old tale. Another big hurdle was local competition. Before I’d made the amazing connections I have now, I felt pretty alone and faced online abuse just for existing in this industry. I overcame it by not responding, instead consuming all the hate and turning it into motivation to prove them wrong. I kept my head down, focused on constantly improving my work, and can safely say I don't worry about them one iota now.

Kill 'em with happiness and success, I say.

Congratulations on 10 years of tattooing! What are some of the most memorable or meaningful tattoos you've created, and why?

One that always stands out is a mastectomy tattoo for my client T. It was the first tattoo she came to me for, and her humour and strength blew me away. We did a floral piece with some watercolour, and she joked about where to place the centre of the flower. I'll never forget that tattoo, and I still see T once a year now for her annual “ouchies,” as she calls them. It meant so much that someone would trust me with such an important tattoo, and the trust and friendship that came from it is something I'll value for years.

Who or what has had the biggest influence on your style of tattooing, and how has your style evolved over the years?

That's a tough one because my “style” is just a big mixing pot of things I've picked up or studied from artists whose work I've admired. My linework is quite new school, but my colours sometimes lean more realism. I’ve consistently looked up to Artee Duran, Oash Rodriguez, Lilian Raya, Simon K Bell, and Kristina Darmaeva. My current inspirations include Green Vesper, Brooke Borden, Deanna James, Raigen Curtis, and uncledefy.

Can you tell us about the other artists in your studio?

I certainly can! I work with an amazing team of female artists:

**Kim** (@twistedchapel) – shop owner and black-and-grey extraordinaire. Kim and I have been friends for a long time. She reached out to me when I was struggling at the start of my career and taught me the most valuable lesson of “community over competition.” We created an online network and support system for other female artists that ran for a few years, even working conventions together before being in the same shop. Kim’s kindness and support taught me so much, and her compassion translates into how she runs the studio today. Also, she’s an insanely talented artist focusing on black-and-grey realism.

**Molly** (@mollymootattoo) – our flash wizard. Her creativity is infectious. Seeing her develop her style and make confident artistic choices is inspiring. Molly’s work is instantly recognisable, and her talent and personal style bring so much to the studio.

**Kendyll** (@kendylldoestattoos) – We worked together previously when Kendyll was a studio manager. Her dedication and work ethic are incredible. Watching her transition into tattooing and flourish fills me with pride. She has serious potential to make waves in the industry.

How important is working in a studio where artists get on so well together both in and out of work?

So, so, so important. I won’t stay anywhere I don’t feel welcome, and that’s rare. Nothing beats turning up to work knowing you’re supported, your boundaries are respected, and everyone is passionate about growing. The right environment makes your work improve tenfold.

How do you ensure that your studio is as welcoming as possible?

First thing’s first—do you want a hot drink? We have tea, fruit teas, coffee, hot chocolate. Comfort comes from respect. We offer earplugs for anyone who prefers it quieter, and we have a separate room for private tattoos. We’re patient, understanding, and offer free consultations to make clients feel at ease. The more relaxed the client, the easier the process.

Can you share your process for working with clients, from the initial consultation to the finished piece?

I take all enquiries through a form to gather details on size, placement, reference images, and personal info. From this, I usually provide a quote and time estimate. For larger projects, I might suggest a consultation.

Once booked, I prepare the design about a week ahead, sending sketches to ensure we share the same vision. On the day, I check the stencil placement with mirrors, pour inks, and start with outlines before shading and colouring. Breaks, hydration, and comfort are prioritised throughout. After the tattoo, we review aftercare, take photos, and I remain available for questions throughout the healing process.

How important is understanding colour theory to create your tattoos?

Colour theory is essential in tattooing. Knowing which colours complement each other, evoke emotions, and appear in relation to others elevates your work. I talk about colour theory whenever I can.

How do you adapt your tattooing process when working on different skin tones, textures, or body areas?

Every person's skin varies. I adjust machine settings for delicate areas, older skin, or highly melanated skin to avoid damage. Colours are adapted to undertones (warm, neutral, cool), which can be checked by vein colour on the wrist. Understanding how skin filters ink helps achieve the correct tone.

What advice would you give to someone looking to get their first tattoo or considering a career in tattooing?

Choose your artist or mentor wisely. For first tattoos, focus on style over subject matter and check healed examples. For apprenticeships, visit shops, get tattooed, and ask questions. Build a varied portfolio with your best work, and ensure the mentor genuinely supports you.

What are your go-to tattoo brands and products?

Radiant Inks for colours and Butterluxe for aftercare.

What aftercare method do you recommend, and any secret tips?

“Puppy pads” are my favourite, especially for full-colour tattoos. They soak up excess fluid throughout healing. Second skin works too, but not everyone prefers it. Remember: it’s an open wound—protect it from irritation, knocks, and contamination, especially in the first few days. It’s permanent, so be cautious.

What are your hobbies outside of tattooing?

Video games, obviously! I also play D&D (player and Dungeon Master), paint, and do aerial sports (hoop and pole) and ballroom/Latin dance. Forever the kid taking extra subjects!

What are you currently playing and your favourite video games?

Top five: The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap, Skyrim, Baldur’s Gate 3, Minecraft, Pokémon Yellow. Honourable mentions: Borderlands 2, Phasmophobia, Stardew Valley.

How do you choose or mix ink shades to match a character’s colour palette?

For example, Stitch from Lilo & Stitch is a cool-toned, desaturated blue. I analyse the hue, saturation, and tonal value, then adjust with complementary drops of other colours until the shade matches the character accurately.

What music is usually playing while you’re tattooing?

I don’t wear headphones while working, but if I did, it would be a mix of Hozier, Chappell Roan, Vivaldi, and nostalgic emo bangers.

Would you be interested in collaboration tattoos?

Absolutely! Kim and I have been planning one for ages. I’m open to collaborating with anyone who shares the same community-over-competition ethos.

What conventions are lined up for 2025?

So far, just UK Tattoo Fest in Milton Keynes in March.

What’s next for Sare Usher and Twisted Chapel?

Whatever the road ahead brings! I hope to do guest spots, maybe one or two more conventions, and possibly study at university while continuing to tattoo. Learning and hobbies remain a priority for now.

A massive thank you to Sare Usher for answering all of our questions so thoroughly! Check out her work on Instagram at @sareushtattoos. Here’s to another 10 years of geeky gaming goodness!