Today we’d like to introduce you to Kevin Edwards.
Hi Kevin, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was apprenticed by Jason Setchel in Roanoke, VA and started tattooing full-time in 2016 in Raleigh, NC. From there I moved to New York City, spent time as a traveling tattooer, and even moved back to to North Carolina. Near the beginning of 2019 I moved to Staunton, Virginia to work for Tim Forbus at Acme Tattoo. I purchased the business at the beginning of 2025, and have been plugging along since then.
I’ve always been into creative pursuits. As a teenager and into adulthood, I was always drawing, writing, or playing in bands. When I first saw tattoos, I was blown away. Furthermore, when I saw good tattooing, I became utterly obsessed. Throughout my 20s I was working different jobs, but getting tattooed was the common theme. From there I was lucky enough to have my mentor, Jason, and a few other people who encouraged me into becoming a tattooer. Now I have Acme Tattoo, and a wonderful crew working for me.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I think it’s a fairly common trope in any field that you will face struggles, adversity, whatever it may be. When it comes to your passions, it can certainly feel even more so tumultuous due to the fact that putting creative energy into the world, sometimes it doesn’t come back in folds, mostly ripples.
I’ve only been tattooing full-time for 10 years. So I haven’t seen all the ups and downs that come with this business. Creative block, financial strain, relationship strain, you name it, I’ve had it all. But tattooing has always been the rock I lean onto. It’s given me some of my greatest friendships and it’s also shown me how to present myself as the person I am becoming.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I make tattoos that are rooted in American Traditional and Japanese styles. However, I tend to do most things that come in the door. Clean line work, smooth shading, solid colors.
I don’t particularly know what sets me apart from others. There are so many good tattooers out there now. All I know is that I have a way of approaching my work, where I want to create something readable and well-crafted. I also want you to have a good time. This should be fun for everyone.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.acmestaunton.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/km_edwards_acme/
