TOUGH talking prison warden Michael Baxter doesn’t mind showing his true colours.

When this Barwon staffer isn’t keeping order on the inside, he’s getting inked on the outside.

The 52-year-old is vying for the Guinness World Record for having the most cartoon characters tattooed on his body.

He was among hundreds willing to go under the ink gun at this weekend’s Australian Tattoo and Body Art exhibition.

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Mr Baxter said his love for tattoo’s began over a decade ago when he stumbled into a Queensland studio one (very) late night and ordered a blue bird on his left arm.

media_camera Michael Baxter’s back tattoo by Jade Baxter-Smith. Picture: Alex Coppel.

But it wasn’t until he walked into a local studio in Bacchus Marsh in more recent years that his animation fixation really took off.

Twisted By Design tattoo artist Jade Baxter-Smith got to work on her human canvas, hand stencilling each and every character on Mr Baxter’s back.

media_camera Michael Baxter’s arm tattoo. Picture: Alex Coppel.

Other additions have included Stewie from the Family Guy on his thigh and various designs on his arms including tributes to his parents and the Geelong Football Club.

“It’s an addiction,” Mr Baxter said. “Once you get one you want more and more.

“And why go small when you can go big.’’

media_camera The Australian Tattoo and Body Art Expo at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Michael Baxter with his tattoos created by 'Twisted By Design Tattoo and Piercing, Jade Baxter-Smith. Picture: Alex Coppel.

But he warned anybody keen for a tatt’ to think carefully about the decision.

“Do your research and make sure it’s what you want because it’s there for life.’’

US celebrity tattoo artist Megan Massacre, from the TV series NY Ink and America’s Worst Tattoo is a guest at this weekend’s event which is expected to attract thousands of tattoo enthusiasts.

Laser removal information is also available for those punters living with tattoo regrets.

Mandy Ford of First Impressions laser clinic said the service, based in Fitzroy was in more demand that ever.

“Mostly we have women in their 30s wanting to have names removed,” she said.

“Or men who need tattoos removed from their hands or necks so they can get a job.’’

The tattoo expo continues today and tomorrow.

media_camera Moe’s Tavern features on Michael Baxter’s back. Picture: Alex Coppel.

aaron.langmaid@news.com.au