FLINT, Mich. — Bugpin Tattoo Studio’s mission is to provide a welcoming and private studio where every client feels empowered, respected and comfortable.
Owner and artist Kelly Martin opened Bugpin in December 2024 with a vision to create an inclusive space that feels cozy, private and intentional. The setting, she said, was designed for comfort and calm, especially for clients seeking a more personal tattoo experience.
“I always knew I wanted to do something creative, but tattooing felt too far out there,” said Martin, who was studying hair at the time. “I decided to go against my anxieties. It ended up going super well, and I fell in love. I said, ‘Forget hair school—here I am.’ It just kind of fell into place.”
Specializing in custom tattoo work, primarily American traditional and illustrative styles, Martin spent years working in traditional shop settings before deciding to open her own studio. She said the change was about providing a more intimate and safe environment where clients could be vulnerable.
Over the past decade, Martin has worked with clients seeking deeply meaningful tattoos like memorials for children, cover-ups from abusive relationships and matching designs.
“I’ve had people break down and cry in private,” she said. “And I know for a fact they wouldn’t do that in a shop with other artists or clients around. I’m not trying to make people cry, but if that’s what they need, I want them to feel safe enough to do it.”
By operating on an appointment-only basis, Martin wants to show clients that their time is valued, free from interruptions by walk-ins and the usual hustle of busy shops. She also offers flat-rate pricing starting at $80 to create an anxiety-free experience, unlike the traditional hourly pricing model.
The apartment-like setting is designed to feel warm, clean and inviting. Plants line the window ledge, and the walls showcase artwork by local Flint artist Pauly M. Everett. Refreshments are provided, and private group bookings are available for friends or loved ones who want to hang out or get tattooed together.
But more than offering an exclusive experience, Martin hopes to establish the studio as a creative hub in the community. She’s especially interested in hosting workshops and sober, family-friendly events to connect with both the art scene and the greater Flint community.
So far, she has planned flash tattoo events during local festivals like Drop Fest and Alley Fest, as well as Flint’s monthly Art Walk, held on the second Saturday of each month. The events feature tattoo designs starting at $40, along with local artists and vendors, live music and snacks.
“There’s not a lot of creative spaces that aren’t doubled as a bar or that kind of thing, so I’m trying to open up the front of the studio for workshops, meeting spaces, that kind of thing,” said Martin. “More like a creative hub. With it just being me here, I feel like I have so much extra space.”
Martin has also explored offering temporary tattoo events for children and is working with local organizations to make those plans a reality.
Bugpin Tattoo Studio is located at 432 S. Saginaw St. in downtown Flint. One-on-one consultations can be booked in person or on Zoom through Bugpin’s website. For collaborations or event inquiries, contact the studio by phone or email Martin at [email protected].