Dozens of loyal customers lined Humffray Street North on Saturday near the front of the tattoo studio, with some eager customers camping outside the parlour since Christmas day.

Ronnie, who has 30 years of tattoo work decorating his body, said Inkspot Tattoo Studio artist Dave Andrews was the best in Ballarat.

"Last year a guy came down from Queensland. Another came from Horsham with his own lounge suite to get an appointment," Ronnie said.

"If a customer leaves happy, then Dave's happy."

The studio is lined with trophies commending Mr Andrews' work.

"Awards mean nothing to Dave, if he gets trophies along the way then that's just part of it."

Rick, another lover of Mr Andrews' art, had waited for hours for an appointment and said the feeling of a unique tattoo was special.

"It's appreciating good art, getting what you want and being happy when you leave," Rick said.

"And there is a good, clean attitude here.

"It's a great feeling knowing you've got what no one's got."

david.jeans@fairfaxmedia.com.au