Tattoo sleeves and book sleeves will be one and the same as the Literary Ink tattoo convention returns on Friday, July 12 through Sunday, July 14, and as your trusted guides for local events, we're here to tell you what you don't want to miss.

First things first, this isn't your average tattoo convention — the folks behind Main Line Tattoo are putting ink to skin + paper with this book-centered weekend.

"At our heart, we are a tattoo convention, but I cannot tell you how happy it makes me to see the love I have for literature and tattoos come together for one magical weekend," said Owner Jennifer Edge.

Meet the magic makers who put on the convention. | Photo by Maeteu

Literary Ink will feature over 250 artists from all over the world, a vendor market, daily tattoo contests, and experiences like an escape room. While artists are accepting clients with pre-booking, there will be flash grabs for walk-ups at various stations.

Pro tip: Follow the convention on Instagram to see more details, designs + bookings, and after-parties.

The convention will also have several panelists + tattoo contests. To help you plan, we're highlighting some of the action of each day.

Friday, July 12

Literary | 3 p.m. | Enjoy learning the ins and outs of the tattoo world with the "Tattoo Confidential" podcast.

Ink | "Best of Library Sections" contest — genres like children's books, poetry, fantasy, etc.

Whether you're a tattoo enthusiast or just there for the fun, Literary Ink is more than just getting a new tattoo. | Photo by Maeteu

Saturday, July 13

Literary | 3 p.m. | Hang out with Aaron Mahnke of the "Lore" podcast, book, and TV show series about dark historical tales.

Ink | "Best of Fairy Tales" contest — princesses + princes, magic castles, food, etc.

Sunday, July 14

Literary | 11 a.m. | Hear from Editors Kristen and Haley as they discuss local journalism in a Q+A panel at 11 a.m. — send us your questions.

Ink | "Best of the Classics" contest — sleeves (arm or leg), realism, traditional, etc.

Feeling the itch for that new tattoo or just wanting to see the action? You can get 15% off weekend passes when using code NOOGATODAY now through Thursday, July 4.