Ink with Impact: Studio 16 brings 30 artists to Ballymena for Charity Tattoo Flash Day

Studio 16 Tattoo & Piercing and friends are back with one of the most hotly anticipated events in Northern Ireland’s tattoo calendar — the 2025 Tattoo Charity Flash Day — and it’s bigger and bolder than ever before.

This year, the event is making a major move from the shop floor to The Braid Arts Centre, promising more space, more artists, and even more opportunity to get inked for a cause.

Set for Friday 13th June, the event will see around 30 tattoo artists — from Ballymena and beyond — gather under one roof to offer exclusive flash tattoos for just £20. All profits from the event will go directly to Women’s Aid ABCLN, a local charity supporting women and children affected by domestic abuse.

“We’re so excited to bring our Flash Day to The Braid and make it bigger and better than ever,” said Will McCooke of Studio 16 in Ballymena.

“The response last year was unreal — over 400 people came through our shop. The queue went right down Wellington Street. This year, with more space and even more artists, we’re aiming to raise even more for an incredibly important cause.”

Tattoos for a cause

The event is strictly walk-in only, running from 10am to 5pm, with tattoo flash sheets revealed on the day. Each piece on the specially designed flash sheets is £20, and cash only payments will be accepted. The event is for over 18s only.

Studio 16’s Flash Days are now a beloved tradition in Ballymena, annually taking place whenever the calendar throws up a Friday the 13th — a date long associated with flash tattoos and fun, all in the name of charity.

“Every penny goes to Women’s Aid ABCLN,” added Will McCooke.

“It’s about raising money, but also awareness. Supporting local women and children in crisis situations — that’s what drives us. The whole team’s buzzing to be part of something that genuinely makes a difference.”

A day of art, community and action

Guests can expect a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere with a strong sense of purpose. Whether you’re a tattoo veteran or getting your very first piece, the Flash Day offers an exciting opportunity to support a vital local charity while walking away with a permanent souvenir of solidarity.

Event details:

• 📍 The Braid Arts Centre, Ballymena

• 🗓️ Friday 13th June 2025

• 🕙 10:00am – 5:00pm

• 💷 £20 per tattoo – Cash Only

• 🚶 No bookings – Just walk up

• 🔞 Over 18s only

• 🎨 Flash designs released on the day

All tattoos will be chosen from curated flash sheets, designed specially for the event and revealed at the venue on the day.

So, mark the date, bring your cash, and join the community for an unforgettable day of ink and impact — where every drop of ink helps to change a life.

For more information, follow Studio 16 Tattoo & Piercing Ballymena on social media or pop into their shop on Wellington Street.