Tattooist hopes to make her mark on awards

A young Welshpool businesswoman with a huge TikTok following is hoping to make her mark on the Best of Welsh Business Awards.

Fay Thistleton has become established as a respected tattoo artist, and has enjoyed an extraordinary journey from operating out of a caravan to a town centre premises.

She currently runs the Heart & Dagger studio at 42, Berriew Street, which is in the running for the best tattoo studio in Mid Wales.

“When I found out I’d been nominated for Best Tattoo Studio of 2025 – Mid Wales, I was completely shocked,” said Fay. “A little tattooer tucked away down an alley in Welshpool being considered for such an award felt like an achievement in itself.

“I truly believe this nomination comes from the care I put into not just my work, but the people who walk through my door — making sure every client feels safe, listened to, and genuinely looked after.”

Fay, who was born and grew up in Welshpool, has always had an artistic passion, studying Art & Design at Oswestry College, followed by two years of Interactive Media.

At just 19, she opened her very first tattoo studio - a fully licensed mobile setup based in a caravan!

“It took a lot of blood, sweat and tears to transform, but that little caravan was the start of everything,” she said, but then Covid hit and changed the world forever with the tight rules ending tattoo operations for months.

“I turned to other creative outlets,” she said. “I began making small resin keychains and sharing them on Instagram - and to my surprise, they took off!

“As demand grew, I invested in designing and making my own moulds, mainly for earrings, which I still make and sell today. I expanded my range, upgraded my equipment, and later opened a TikTok account where people loved watching me pack orders. Within two years, that account grew to over 100,000 followers.”

But tattooing has always been her first love and in 2023, aged just 24, she opened her first permanent tattoo studio alongside her handmade creations, and that’s when Cauldron Coven, the name of her first studio, was born.

“It was hidden gem down an alley in Welshpool. The support I received was overwhelming and confirmed everything I believe in: great customer care, inclusivity, and creating a space where people feel comfortable and heard.”

As business grew, so did Fay’s ambition, leading to Heart & Dagger Tattoo Studio, which has become another hit on TikTok and in the running for the award.

The voting link is here.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without the constant love and support from my friends, family, and incredible clients who’ve backed my ideas from day one,” said Fay. “Thank-you for being part of this journey - and for every single vote.”