An Inspired Chat with Elyssa Bennawit of Castle Shannon, Pa

Elyssa Bennawit shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Elyssa, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is a normal day like for you right now?
A normal day for me looks like waking up at a reasonable time to feed my cats breakfast & to get myself ready for my work day!

I usually get to my studio at about 11a to prep for my day & clients ahead. Getting the ambient vibes rolling & the space ready for the crafting of a new fine line tattoo.

I tend to see 1-3 clients per day. This allows me to take my time with each guest. To curate the piece that have been creating for some times years!

These days my focus points in art style tends to be single needle realism, soft/dainty scripts, body flow & free handed pieces, & also tiny tattoo bundles.

To end my day, I sanitize the space & I usually complete my services by about 8p the latest. Some nights I stop to visit my amazing girlfriend to share dinner & talk about our day. Some evenings require additional work-from-home but I try my best to keep the work/home life balance to setting a day from my weekend aside to do the added tasks.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! I’m Elyssa, Lyss for short, the artist behind EffortLyss Ink — a tiny private fine line studio tucked in Castle Shannon, PA founded in 2023.

I specialize in script, abstract line-work, and single needle micro-realism, and I’m always aiming for that soft, intentional look in every piece. I think what really sets me apart is my approach. I keep the studio calm, cozy, and one-on-one, and I take my time to make sure each tattoo feels personal, delicate, and thoughtfully designed. I’m still growing into my own style, but that’s what I love most. Connecting with clients who trust me to create something meaningful in my little dark-academia–vibed space. If you’re looking for a relaxed experience with close attention to detail, that’s where I thrive!

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
Those who saw me before I could see myself would be my closest friends & family. In the industry I have found myself in it requires an immense amount of trust from both ends of the spectrum of client to tattoo artist.

My best friends & family members were the first people to offer themselves as my willing canvases, without hesitation at that! I feel without them I would not have been able to reach where I am today & have been in my past adventures.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
In life there have definitely been times where I have almost given up. This can be in any sonario. I find it feels common in the work environment, when the goals feel further away than we expected or when things aren’t going to plan.

I have found leaning on my loved-ones & spending quality time with those who’s remind you of your worth will do wonders. They tend to help me remember what I am working for.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
I would say the public tends to see a different side of me than I portray to my closest people in the best way!

My public eye-self is more outgoing & can be energetic & puts off the energy that she does not have social anxieties.

I will say the introverted side of me really does enjoy a good cozy day in with my cats & partner as the main form of social contact of the day — haha!

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
If I were retire tomorrow I genuinely feel my clients would miss coming to spend time in the studio just getting to decompress & chat about any & everything. I have found in my time of work that I really connect so well with everyone I have worked with. I am very lucky in that aspect & I am thankful for each experience.

When I had a transition in career path I feel that my previous clients, & myself included, have said that this is something they have felt! I still see some of those lovely ladies today & it’s as if we haven’t missed an appointment.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Janet Vennare Photography

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