The American sideshow attraction Broadbent, known for being among the first to be tattooed by the electric needle, would draw crowds to circus grounds, keen to view her art.

That art is no longer such a foreign fascination with tattoos on women now considered more socially acceptable and the art having a competitive edge among its participants.

Several proudly tattooed Tasmanians have started to gear up with a portfolio of glamour shots to show off their best work in the hope of being crowned Miss Ink Tasmania next April.

Titleholder Kylie Simons said tattooed women were more mainstream in the state than ever before.

"It's taken a swing over to the ladies, I think - more and more women are getting tattooed," Mrs Simons said.

"We can be strong career women, mothers, carers, lovers.

"Thank goodness it's more socially accepted nowadays - not that it's ever been a concern for me personally."

She has two inked sleeves and a work-in-progress covering her entire back.

There are tattoos on her calves down to her feet, across her chest and over one thigh.

"(I've got) too many to count really as some have been added on to, covered over or changed," Mrs Simons said.

"I keep getting tattooed because I carry with me pieces that have significant meaning, that are dedicated to family members or are just part of what makes up my personality."

Hayley Kegan, 27, Launceston, said she didn't believe that tattoos affected her femininity.

"I think it will be unusual if people of my generation and younger don't have tattoos," she said.

"In 40 years, there are going to be a lot of tattooed grandparents around.

"My motto is you only have one body, why not decorate it?

"I will continue to get tattoos - against my mother's wishes - until I don't feel the need to get any more."•The Tasmanian round of Miss Ink Australia will be held in Hobart on April 27.