Tattoo Artist Recommendations?

Question

I live in the Bay Area, and I would like to know where I can get a really awesome tattoo. I want one of a sunset thing, and the main "element" looks kind of like Japanese-style tattoos I have seen. I don't have any friends with tattoos, and I am underage, so I can't really go into tattoo places to check it out myself, at least not for another few months. I would really appreciate any recommendations.(And please don't tell me that I shouldn't get a tattoo....I'm not doing it for you or anyone else but myself. Thanks)

Answer 1

CHECK OUT BLACK HEART TATTOO
its in San Fransico
Artist NICK RODIN.

or Matt Shamah
Hes in Santa Cruz.
http://www.myspace.com/mr_shamah

Answer 2

You don't have to be 18 to go into a tattoo shop but you do have to be 18 to get a tattoo. I'm sorry that I'm not familiar with the tattoo artists in the Bay Area, but if and when you find that perfect artist you can still set up an appointment with them as long as you will be 18 at the time of the appointment. Few artists won't allow this but it never hurts to ask. And make sure that you have your ID on hand because we do card.

-Professional Tattoo Artist

Answer 3

Meagan .....there is nothing wrong with you getting a tattoo when you're 18. And your first tattoo should be awesome. But you need to do your research. Use google and search for tattoo shops in your area, or go to www.tattooartists.org. Look at the different on-line galleries and choose an artist that makes your eyes pop. When you turn 18 you can go and meet and work out a design. A good artist charges between $100 to $200 per hour (that may or may not include the design).....so start saving your money. You're going to wear this piece of art for the rest of your life....be very choosy about who paints it.
good luck

Answer 4

I went to DaWei tattoo to get mine...he specializes in portraits...his wait time was almost 6 months long and he charges by the piece. I got a portrait done and it's only about 3.5-4 inches long and about 1.5-2 inches thick and it was 450. Only took 30 minutes but he specializes in portraits and is known around the world for his work...so it was definately worth the increased cost. He's in sj...also, i've heard good things about Guru tattoo in sj...I'm in the South Bay so most of the places that I looked at are all down here. Best thing to do would be to go on the net and start calling around. check out their work on their websites and also do your homework re: safety and what you should look out for. When you are of age, then go to teh studios and ask to see their portfolios and you'll see some of their work on the walls. Remember...cheap tattoos are not good and good tattoos aren't cheap. Since I'm also in the Bay Area, feel free to contact me if you have any questions about places in the area. Did LOTS of homework before I got mine.

Answer 5

WHERE ABOUTS IN THE "BAY" AREA DO YOU LIVE?
JAMES BAY,HUDSON BAY,MONTEGO BAY....

WELL I'M IN ONE OF THESE THREE AND THERE'S PLENTY OF TATTOO PLACES WHERE I AM. i HAVE THREE TATTOO'S MYSELF. I'M FEMALE, 20 AND I DID IT FOR MYSELF. THEY REPRESENT ME AND WHO I AM. AND ALL THE POWER TO YOU IF YOU WANT ONE FOR THE SAME REASONS. BUT YOU NEED TO BE 18 OR OLDER TO GET ONE, UNLESS...YOU HAVE A PARENTS PERMISSION.

Answer 6

go to www.divingswallow.com and click on marie wadman. she does awsome florals and everything! but i emailed her and she says shes booked for the rest of the year already! but good luck. she is located in downtown oakland. lol i live in the tri-valley.

Answer 7

Well, I know you said not to say this, but... Don't get a tattoo at all!