Fern & Fae near Holywell crowned Leader Best Tattoo Studio 2026 in its first year

Less than a year after opening its doors, Fern & Fae has been voted the best tattoo studio in Wrexham and Flintshire. Readers of The Leader crowned the studio, near Holywell, Leader Best Tattoo Studio 2026.

Fern & Fae is based at Abakhan Fabrics Hobby and Home at Llanerch-y-Mor, Mostyn, and opened in March. Owner and tattoo artist Erin Sapphire first set up her own private studio, Tattoos by Erin Sapphire, at the Mostyn site in September 2024. As the business grew, the chance came to take on larger premises and create something bigger, and Fern & Fae was born.

Erin is now joined by tattooist Seren Kaci and apprentice Jenni Ratcliffe.

"I'm stunned. This is a nice award to win, especially as we've been open less than 12 months," Erin said. "A big thanks to the clients who voted for us and helped spread the word. It's been good to get the business out there, and show what kind of studio we are."

Visiting a tattoo studio for the first time can be intimidating, so Erin has created a welcoming, natural and whimsical space. Being a finalist has already brought new clients through the door, some of whom had not realised the studio was there. "You don't always have to pay to support a tattoo studio," Erin added, thanking everyone who has booked, supported or shared the studio's posts on social media.

The studio's home is a destination in its own right. Abakhan was started by the Abakhan family in the late 1940s as a rug weaving business, and its first retail outlet opened at Mostyn more than 30 years ago. Still headed by family members, it now has nine stores across North Wales and the North West, selling fabrics and craft supplies.

For anyone thinking about their first tattoo, a studio that puts comfort first is a good place to start.

Fern & Fae is at Abakhan Fabrics Hobby and Home, Coast Road, Llanerch-y-Mor. Contact the studio through its social media pages to book.