Today we’d like to introduce you to Carrie Traylor.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’ve always been someone who makes things. As far back as I can remember, I’ve had my hands in some kind of creative project — sewing clothes, building furniture, painting walls (and canvases), remodeling homes. If it could be shaped or stitched or painted, I was probably doing it.
For more than a decade I have been working as a registered nurse. I love helping people, but I have always felt this pull toward something more creative — something that let me use my hands and my heart in a different way. That’s when tattooing found me. Or maybe I found it.
Tattooing was the perfect blend of everything I care about: people, stories, and making something with meaning. It’s not just putting ink on skin — it’s listening, understanding, and helping someone turn a memory or a dream into something they’ll carry with them forever. And I love that.
Now, I run Ink 865, where I get to create custom tattoos that reflect my clients’ stories, sentiments, and personal journeys. Every tattoo has a story, and being part of that process is one of the most fulfilling things I’ve ever done. From nurses’ stations to tattoo stations — it’s been quite the journey.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I still work full-time as a nurse and full-time as a tattoo artist running my own business. So there isn’t enough time in my days lately but it will all be worth it in the end to fully transition into something that I am so passionate about.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am very proud of where I am right now in life. I am a woman and veteran owned company. I have put the time and work in to do something that I am very proud of and something I never imagined being able to accomplish.
I do tattoos and I also do permanent makeup. My favorite thing to do on the permanent makeup side of things is lip blushing. I feel like it brightens up the whole face. It so nice getting text messages and pictures from people that are so happy when it finally blooms and they realize they just woke up with nice color on their lips.
Creating regular tattoos for people is unmatched though. That creativity is what I live for.
The Ink 865 Vibe
I didn’t want Ink 865 to feel like your typical tattoo shop. I wanted it to be eclectic, with a touch of fancy — a little wild, but still polished and welcoming. Clean, trustworthy, and professional were just as important to me as creative and relaxed. It’s a space where you can feel at ease, be yourself, and know you’re getting something meaningful in a place that values both artistry and care.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I began in a permanent makeup class with Elissa Phan, owner and artist of Harmony permanent make up studio in Knoxville.
I then was so inspired that I embarked on a year long apprenticeship, working along beside her to obtain my tattooing permit. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her encouragement and guidance. From there, my love of tattooing only grew..
My husband has been my biggest supporter. He kept encouraging me through it all and still does. I had a lot of doubts in myself and plenty of tears were shed in the beginning. You don’t realize how stressful it is to put something permanent on someone’s face/body until you go to do it. There is not much room for error.
Big shout out to my mom, sister, and best friends who bravely stood in as my live models!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Ink865.glossgenius.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beautyink865/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16FzMn1ZJc/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Other: https://g.co/kgs/Zqyx5QT
