Tober Carton

Tober Carton, operating as Compost.Smash, is a dedicated tattoo artist based in Edmonton, AB, within Amiskwacîwâskahikan (Treaty 6 territory). Working from their private space, Because I Can Tattoo Studio, Tober is widely recognized for their unwavering commitment to ethical and inclusive tattooing practices.

They specialize in offering vegan tattoos, ensuring all pigments and materials used are entirely free of animal products. Tober prioritizes creating a welcoming and safe environment for clients of all backgrounds, bodies, and skin types, offering accommodations like wheelchair accessibility and low stimuli sessions. Their practice is deeply rooted in principles of decolonization, which includes explicitly refusing to tattoo designs from other cultures such as Indigenous, Japanese, or Maori work, and actively supporting Indigenous communities through donations and platform amplification.

Further demonstrating their commitment to social justice, Tober offers reduced rates or free services for gang tattoo and branding cover-ups, and provides reduced rates for color tattoos on richly melanated skin, including free skin swatch tests for BIPOC clients. Tober’s comprehensive and compassionate approach reflects a truly community-minded artistry.