Contests

Below is a description of the categories for the weekend’s tattoo contests. Please refer to our event schedule for the day and timing of each category.

Tattoo contests are for anyone with a tattoo that fits the category, whether you received it at the expo or not. The contests are judged by a panel of industry experts, this year’s panel includes international artist Luke Washington.

The only categories that require your tattoo to be completed at the expo before entering are Tattoo of the Day and Best of Show.

Tattoo of the Day
Color
Black and Gray (Can include ONE color)
(These tattoos must be completed from start to finish at the expo, no exceptions!)

Sleeve, Male & Female, two Awards for each gender. Must be at least a 3/4 arm coverage sleeve as determined at registration. Can include chest.

Black and Gray Portrait, Three Awards. Must have picture to go along with your tattoo so judges can determine how accurate the portrait is! NO color in this category! The only exception is white highlights.

Black and Gray Large Size, Three Awards. Will be approved at registration. Must be black and gray with no color.

Black and Gray Small Size, Three Awards. Will be approved at registration. Must be all black and gray with no color.

Color Large, Three awards. Size will be determined at registration.

Color Small, Three awards. Size will be determined at registration.

Back Piece, Male & Female, Two Awards. Must be at least 75% coverage of back as determined at registration.

Color Portrait, Three Awards. Must have picture to go along with your tattoo so judges can determine accuracy. (Portraits accepted are people and animals)

Traditional (American or Asian), Two awards. Must be determined at registration.

Neo-Traditional, Two Awards. Must be determined at registration.

Miss DC Pin Up Contest
Dress up in your best old school pin-up fashions for a chance to win Miss DC Pin Up and walk away with the grand prize of $300.00 in cash and on-site photos taken.

Prizes:

• 1st Place $300.00, trophy and prizes
• Runner Up $200.00 & trophy
• Third Place $100.00 & trophy
• Most Patriotic $100.00 & trophy

Best of Show, 1 Award. Given to the best tattoo started & finished at the show!

Street Shop Style Flash (Black & Gray or Color)
Two awards will be given. Must be in street style format, no bigger than 11x17.

Fine Art
Two awards will be given for best fine art pieces submitted.

Skate Deck
One award for best custom skate deck.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS 30 MINUTES BEFORE CONTEST TIME
Sign up at the registration desk
DC Pin Up is a $30.00 entry fee