London Ink opens its doors with a staff of Louis Malloy, Dan Gold, Nikole Lowe and Phil Kyle. Louis recalls his ideas behind the design of David Beckham's "Guardian Angel" tattoo. Dan, a graffiti guru, discusses his troubled youth and how he has problems taking orders. Louis believes that Dan's talent is worth the gamble. Nikole creates a rift by refusing to take Louis' advice of adding more styles to her repertoire. He decides the team needs a pep talk which ends up more like a comedy, reinforcing his notion that it will be hard to make this group into a well oiled machine.

Dan is accused by Louis of chatting to much with his clients. Meanwhile, the shop holds a challenge to find a new apprentice.

Tempers flare when Dan forces Louis to do a tattoo design that he hates. Also, Phil is angered by a client and Nikole is extremely happy with her latest work.

Guest Sylvia Z, a portrait expert, works at the shop along with apprentice Rachael, who's work is scrutinized by the guys.

The guys set off for the dog races while Nicole is away, where Dan does well against the bookies. Sylvia Z takes the guest spot in Nicole's absence and apprentice Rachael is scrutinized over whether she can handle the work. Louis and Dan are still at it when Louis pushes him away from his tattoo and taking over.