My daughter and I had an amazing experience at Black Palette Tattoo during our trip! We wanted to get hibiscus tattoos to remember our first family vacation to Hawaii, and this studio was the perfect choice. the space was so nice, clean, and welcoming from the moment we walked in. Kevin did my tattoo, and he was fantastic--incredibly fast but without compromising on quality, and the final piece is absolutely beautiful. Brandon worked with my daughter for her very first tattoo, and he was wonderful. He was so friendly and welcoming, which made her feel completely at ease and made her first-time experience so special and positive. her tattoo turned out beautiful as well The artwork is stunning, the service was excellent, and we will definitely be coming back here the next time we visit! Thank you, Kevin and Brandon! read more

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Got my tattoos done by Veronica, who is only tattooing temporary in Black Palette as she resides in LA, but sometimes comes to Honolulu. Loved her style, she is a truly artist, designed at the moment what I had in mind combining a few pictures I brought, adapting it to what I was looking for. She is a master of fine lining and micro realism. Place is clean and location is convenient in Waikiki. They have many artists for all kind of different tattoo styles. Highly recommended if you are in the island! Thank you Veronica! read more

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Reached out to Sebastian in regard to the reference photo to get almost the exact same piece. I wanted almost everything the same from the amount of detail to size and shading and explained how I liked that exact tree and the figure coming out of the tree. The day before the appointment I DMed him to understandably ask for a sketch since this is a massive piece in which he responded that he's been busy. This already set off a red flag but I wanted to give him the benefit of the doubt. Upon showing up to the appointment I had to wait 30 minutes to finally speak to him. I was shown a sketch for a completely different tattoo. It looked like he just reused a sketch from a previous tattoo. It was a cherry blossom tree with a woman and boobs. He seemed to get frustrated that I didn't want to do his design even though there was no prior collaboration on it (keep this in mind). He ended up free handing the sketch where I gave a lot of feedback and questions. After the first session I left very disappointed with the face of the tree and asked for more detail. He then just added shading and called it a day on that. The second session was worse. I ended up waiting 45 minutes this time around. I brought up the issue I had with the face and decided to just ask if he can cover it up instead of "fixing" it more. (In session 1 he said he was done "fixing it") He said "sure it will be really easy to cover it up." After him covering it up the first time I expressed you can still see all the details of the face. Upon the second attempt of covering the face it's better but still present. He free handed the rest of the leaves which I had a lot of questions about. I don't tattoo so I was trying to trust the process of the sketch. However I did repeatedly ask BEFORE he started tattooing the leaves if it will have more detail like the reference photo (fine line work kind of outlining the shape of the leaves). He said yes he just needed something to "build off of". All throughout this he didn't look confident in what he was doing. After we were half way through the leaves I brought up how this looks nothing like the reference photo. He goes on to say he was unable to collaborate with me to make this piece because we haven't "clicked" (I reached out for a sketch beforehand to avoid this). I continue to try to trust the process as he "finishes" this piece. (I was put in a tough spot of leaving with an unfinished piece that a lot of artists probably wouldn't have touched). Upon him "finishing" this piece I express that the leaves looked nothing like the reference photo. He said he's confused with what's even going on in the reference photo and tried to tell me that it's pretty much the same. ( he could've just denied the appointment if he was incapable of recreating the reference) After expressing my dislike for this tattoo he got upset and started tossing things and said he's done. He told me "I've never had a session this difficult. I collaborate with people all the time to do big pieces that they LOVE. This has never happened to me". After going home and looking at this piece some more. I left without a bird ( just the stencil; one last fuck you from Sebastian), roots that don't match the rest of the trunk, and a cluster fuck of what you can only assume are leaves. If anyone knows of a tattoo artist that does reworks that would be very much appreciated! read more

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My husband and I did a quick trip to Oahu over the weekend for our anniversary and we love getting tattoos when we visit new places. I found Black Palette and was immediately drawn. We inquired and requested an appointment and was paired with Kevin as an artist. He went out of his way to accommodate us and did an amazing job on both my husband's tattoo and mine. He does extremely detailed work and really takes the time to make sure his work is thorough. The atmosphere is welcoming and very clean. I was very impressed and if we are ever in the area again , we will definitely go back. read more

Black Palette Tattoo - Tribal floral piece - Tattoo Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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It's been over a month since my bf and I decided to get souvenir tattoos at Black Palette and we are beyond in love. Walked in on our last night in Waikiki looking to get some fine line work done and they were very accommodating. The girl at the front desk was lovely and helpful answering all our questions. Because we were walkins, we got artists that were available. I wanted a fine line palm tree and my bf a butterfly. Kevin did my bf's butterfly and he said the whole experience was great. He was professional and light handed and didn't hurt. He nailed the vision my bf had. My fine line palm tree was done by Napualei which I was thrilled about! Shes such a cool person and made me feel at ease. She worked fast, but nailed the detail and the pain was minimal. The shop is very clean, large and open. You know how some tattoo shops aren't welcoming and some artists are intimidating? Not Black Palette! Pricing was reasonable, in line with what we expected for a tourist location. Note they are cash only. If you don't have cash on you they do have an atm on site, or many of the artists take Venmo or zelle. They're located on the 3rd floor of the Waikīkī shopping plaza to the right of Tanaka of Tokyo. read more

Black Palette Tattoo - Butterfly done by Kevin - Tattoo Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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I did a walk in and even though they were busy, they were very accommodating. Kevin did my tattoo and I am very happy with the results. Great atmosphere as well. read more

Black Palette Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

I had an absolutely fantastic experience at Black Pallet Tattoo! I got a tattoo with my sister while visiting in town, and I can easily say this is one of the cleanest tattoo parlors I have ever been to. We were fortunate enough to work with Kirby, and I can't say enough good things about him. His talent, especially with line work, is truly amazing. Kirby went above and beyond to make sure both my sister and I were 100% comfortable and happy with our final design. He listened carefully to our guidance but was also able to offer brilliant artistic suggestions that elevated the design far beyond what we initially imagined. The level of patience and clear communication he demonstrated is something you really don't come across often. His work with color and shading was amazing, and he even took the time to thoroughly explain the aftercare instructions so we know how to best preserve our new art. I was so impressed that I am already working with Kirby on planning my next tattoo! Highly, highly recommend. read more

Black Palette Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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From the moment my daughter and I decided to get tattoos while visiting Hawaii, we were so satisfied that we found Black Palette Tattoo, located in Waikiki. Easy to find, Black Palette is an absolute spotless parlor that screams "We keep an organized, spotless and efficient operation here and you are in great hands." Manuel was my artist, and was able to accommodate my exact design without any issues. Not thinking about the size, he matched it to my other leg tattoo perfectly and the line work was absolutely incredible. Manuel is a serious artist that knows his business very well and has a proven track record with an amazing portfolio of tattoos - you can feel confident that you will leave Black Palette with art that will turn heads. Healing was uneventful and instructions were provided for aftercare along with additional protective film. My experience was PERFECT from the moment I called to the moment I left the shop. read more

The service was great. I walked in the service was impeccable. They greeted me with a smile, super friendly that the two artist was super nice and exceed my expectations. The vibe was incredible. The music was nice. It was just amazing and my tattoo came out incredible. read more

Black Palette Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Been trying to schedule an appointment all day while on the island and got no call back. Walked in for estimate on a 3-4-inch tattoo the next day and pricing was through the roof. They quoted us $400-500 depending on which artist we get. Too much for my working-class self and my friend. Explains why they never called us back. Wasn't worth their time or effort. The shop itself is really nice and posh, so go figure it's high-end. It is located on the 3rd floor of the Royal Hawaiian Shops next to Tanaka of Tokyo. If I hit the lottery I would consider getting a tat from them, maybe... read more

Black Palette Tattoo - wanted this on our ankle 3-4 inches long. - Tattoo Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

My tattoo artist was Daniel. He listened, helped me with an idea, was very personable, and did a great job!! Black Palette is clean, they are organized and got me in for a longer session with no issues. Great vibe in the shop. read more

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i really liked this shop at one point but a current trip has left me very disappointed with Josh Parker in which he represents Black Palette. We talked for a couple of days about a tattoo and instead of just saying no he can't or referring me to another artist he lead me on to believing he was serious about doing my work. communication strated out good then slowly seemed to have gotten ghosted. I pretty much gave up and they days we kinda talked about him doing my tattoo decided to text me almost at noon to say he can't do it. you wanna build your profile cool but that was a crap way to go about someone willing to let a apprentice do a big piece! read more

Kirby did a fabulous job designing my tattoo. The service provided by Kirby and everyone at the shop was fantastic. Everyone was super friendly and helpful. The shop is very clean, the vibe was great and relaxing. Not your usual tattoo shop. This shop and artists definitely raised the bar. read more

Black Palette Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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Scheduled an appointment 48 hours in advance. Manuel was my artist and did a great job! Looking at his work online ahead of time there wasn't a single bad/questionable piece. He made quick edits to the designs I had sent over and then we jumped right into it. He was fast without it feeling rushed. His line work is impeccable (especially important for fine line tattoos). Located inside of a shopping center, the shop was clean, bright, and even had a dog. I paid my deposit through an app and then the rest has to be paid in cash. There is an ATM which charges $4ish. Highly recommend for anyone looking to get tattooed in Waikiki! read more

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JOSH. He free-handed my FIRST tattoo. He listened to what I wanted and made it happen. He made sure to include me during every step of the way. It must be difficult to deal with a customer like me who has an idea but has not concrete copy and paste type of tattoo that can easily be done. It shows how skilled he is in his craft. I couldn't be any happier with the result. Thank you Josh, you're the real MVP! read more

If I could give zero stars I would. My friends and I had spoke with Black Palette a few weeks before coming to Hawaii about getting a tattoo. We were going to be getting matching ones and was willing to pay quite a bit for a 3-4 inch tattoo. Gave them a budget of about 500-700 and they said they would get back to us. They never did, we messaged them quite a few times and they kept saying they would give us a time. The day before we were suppose to get our tattoos they said that it was going to be much more expensive that what we had as our budget. We decided to find another place called skin deep that did an absolutely amazing job and charged us 350 on an awesome piece! Go to Skin Deep instead of this place!! read more

Lilianna was amazing! She definitely delivered an amazing piece of art. Great vibe, loved chatting, overall will definitely recommend

Josh was amazing the line work is amazing and the front desk lady was very helpful. I would do definitely recommend heading here. read more

Black Palette Tattoo - Josh was amazing and the front desk lady was very helpful everyone was so kind - Tattoo Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

My husband and I made a appt on our vacation to get some of our son's art tattoo on us. It was easy to make the appt and they were very helpful to get us in while we were visiting. Manuel took care of us and he was wonderful and made our special experience Perfect. We will def be back when we return to Waikiki !! Thanks guys! We LOVE our new tattoos so much! read more

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Kyle did an amazing job on giving me my first tattoo! I let him know what I wanted and told him I wanted something unique to my heritage and he delivered just that flawlessly. I watched as he showcased true Hawaiian talent. I couldn't have gotten better work done. The shop is very clean and laid back ambiance of the place just gives you a calm vibe. If your looking for your first tat or to add on to the ones you have I recommend this is the spot to get it done. read more

I made an appointment about two weeks before my visit to Waikiki. The shops website has a tattoo request form that you fill out and can give ideas of what type of tattoo you want and where. Along with different price ranges. I luckily got my previous tattoo with the same artist Raquel. She tattooed me a year and a half ago and has since continued developing into an even more amazing tattoo artist. The tattoo parlor is on the third floor of a very nice shopping center. Air-conditioned, water available, clean restrooms, giant flatscreen TV, for entertainment, and lively music. Raquel was quick to show me some sketches that she created for my tattoo, and I knew immediately I was in capable hands. Throughout the shop, you see artist and front desk workers constantly cleaning surfaces, making sure there is no trash around any area, putting sharps and biohazard in the correct containers. I would suggest that anyone visiting Waikiki make an appointment ahead of time. As they do get very busy during the peak season such as spring summer fall. Let's face it, all the seasons are amazing I look forward to a much larger tattoo being done by Raquel on my next visit! Check out their Instagram to see artist spotlights/portfolios and experience the most serene tattoo experience y'all! My partner's tattoo ( ) was created by Dia. read more

Black Palette Tattoo - 1 minute after getting out tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

My husband and I wanted to make a memory of our honeymoon plus we both had the tattoo itch. I made the appointments via email about a month ago, since we were traveling from California. Now, it was a rocky beginning when our original scheduled artist wasn't at the shop. However, Kenny and Kirby made everything right. They were absolutely amazing and honestly, it turned out for the better! They were so rad about our requests for tattoos and we know they stayed after their day, just to accommodate us. Kenny and Kirby made the experience so positive and rememberable. The shop was super clean and the music was fun to listen to. We will definitely be coming back to see them to add more souvenirs and to catch up! read more

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I can't even express how happy I am to have made the decision, quite spontaneously, to get my tattoo today. I've been thinking about a design for several months. It was something deeply personal to me. I walked into Black Pallete and was very fortunate that Kirby was willing to fit me in. My designer was relatively simple, but I'm not an artist so I had to give him a very rough sketch. He was able to capture exactly what I was thinking, and most importantly, what was in my heart. He did a beautiful job. THANK YOU! read more

Walked in without an appointment and was helped right away--this is hands down the best tattoo shop in the area. The environment was super clean and welcoming, and I felt comfortable the entire time. I got a small Hawaiian flower tattoo from Kevin and he absolutely nailed it. His attention to detail and clean line work were top-tier, and he made the process smooth and easy. Highly recommend Kevin and this shop if you're looking for quality work and a great experience! read more

Black Palette Tattoo - Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Great experience with Kirby, couldn't recommend him enough. I booked with him through Black Palettes online portal and was shortly sent a text from their booking services to confirm the appointment and pay for a deposit. I was able to send in my reference photos to that number as well. Day of the tattoo Kirby met me in the waiting room and showed me a design he drew up. He wanted me to get exactly what I wanted but also gave me his artistic opinions for design aspects. Throughout the tattoo Kirby checked in and made sure I was comfortable. Kirby sent me away with sandi-derm for several days and was clear with aftercare instructions. Price was more than reasonable, I'm very happy with the services and will definitely be back. read more

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Josh was great! I sent a picture of a turtle design which I was fine with. Josh made a stencil of the design I sent, but also drew this design which was so much better and went into detail about the meaning of it. Shading is great and it didn't hurt (I almost fell asleep for most of the session). read more

Black Palette Tattoo - Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

I don't usually leave reviews, but this experience made me uncomfortable and disrespected. I made this appointment on Monday after trying to do a walk-in since no piercers were available. So when I arrived early on Thursday for a 12 p.m. appointment with my mom that was supposed to last only 30 minutes, I quickly completed all the paperwork and waited quietly. A few people were in the shop, with a couple getting some tattoos and others getting consultations. We were the only ones waiting in the sitting area then, yet no one told us there would be a delay. While we waited, two front staff members visibly pointed at us and whispered to each other, making us feel singled out. My mom later told me she had noticed the piercer had been around when we entered the shop, but was sent to the back after we had been seated. My mother checked in with the ladies at the front desk twice to ensure everything was alright: once after 10 minutes, and then again 5 minutes later. The first time, they told us our piercer would be with us shortly. The second time, we were told the piercer was moving chairs and boxes because they were understaffed that day, but they'd call him out. They seemed irritated that we even asked in the first place. The piercer came out from the back after another 5 minutes and explained the situation, but he was rude about it and ultimately gave us two choices: wait longer or leave with our initial deposit money. My mother spoke up about the fact that we had already been waiting for so long, and the piercer remarked back with "then you've only been waiting for 15 minutes", which was untrue because, like I said earlier, we were there early for the appointment. My mother also spoke up about the lack of care for the clients because we were paying to be there, and how moving furniture was much more important than a client who had made an appointment earlier in the week. The piercer tried to say that's not what he said, but it is what the lack of any action from this shop said. After some back and forth, the piercer even admitted that the time wouldn't have even been long to do my piercings in the first place, which put his foot in his mouth about where the shop's priority was. We chose to get a refund, but even then, the parking information on the email they sent was incorrect since it was so vague, only saying a street name instead of the actual parking garage -- meaning we lost money just for trying to attend a paid appointment. What especially upset me was the subtle way we were treated -- we spoke Spanish most of the time, and one employee noticeably side-eyed us every time he walked by. I can't say for sure why we were ignored, but as Hispanic women, it's hard not to notice when you're being treated differently. I don't recommend this business, and I won't be returning. read more

I got my first tattoo and I love it so much!! Mika made my dream tattoo a reality and it looks so much better than the inspiration picture. She was very patient in helping me decide placement and size. The shop itself is very clean and staff are very friendly. read more

Black Palette Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

If I could give less than 1 stars I would. I was visting Hawaii for 2 weeks and wanted to get just 2 tattoos before I left. I Paid $600 including tip to the worst tattoo artist I ever met. First she had a rude personality and was hard to make any conversation with her. I don't know if she was trolling or her personality is just that of an immature child but she was so unprofessional. I already had art work on my hand so I wanted to do bone fingers. Then I had some Japanese script behind my ear already so I wanted to do a Chinese script writing below the Japanese one. Simple right? They looked fine at first but they faded almost immediately within a week. They look like my oldest tattoos I have!! I text her asking why they are fading so quickly and she at first said it's because I "drowned them in aquafor." Mind you I have over 20 tattoos and know how to take care of tattoos, never once had this problem before. I text her saying that's not the case. She just gas lit me. Then she tried to tell me I was drunk?!? I never once had a drink that day because I know drinking before tattoos makes the blood thinner so I never do but she suddenly accused me of being drunk when I was completely sober. She went was completely unprofessional about the whole ordeal and then said to do a touch up like I want to go back to her after she acts like this and did such bad work. Not to mention her and the receptionist (that is a stripper btw at 934) who happen to be best friends was such a bad vibe. Very toxic environment and they completely fit each other. As a customer that loves tattoos, this was my tattoo experience. Please save yourself the trouble and go elsewhere. Don't go through and waste half a thousand dollars on a rude artist that doesn't take responsibility and will accuse you of being at fault for their work. I get finger tattoos fade but not after 5 days. I get Fingers do fade but the neck tattoo too??? That's how I know it is the artist. No way both tattoos faded in completely two different spots. So rude I don't even want the free touch up. Please save your money and go elsewhere. read more

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Tiare killed it!! The shop was so chill and calm. I almost fell asleep during my back piece. Such a great time highly recommend any of the artists here. The music was on point and the shop is super clean. read more

Black Palette Tattoo - Tiare doing the crisp line work - Tattoo Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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Josh was awesome and super accommodating! great attention to detail even on the smallest tattoo

This shop is in the heart of Waikiki, with a large parking garage and large stalls to accommodate vehicles of every type. It's easy to find and the artists always answer questions well and they are great communicators. My sister and I reached out to Mako via Instagram first, to inquire about our sister tattoos. He answered promptly and was so eager to help. We got our dates and he discussed pricing with great detail. As our session came up, we parked in the parking garage. (all day parking from 6:30AM-4:30PM is $15.) We went to the third floor and there it was. The shop itself has amazing lighting. The areas are so clean and well kept. Every artist is constantly sanitizing and helping each other. The environment and feel of the shop put me at ease when getting such a large piece done. Our artist Mako was so efficient, kind, and always made sure we were comfortable. He did my sister and I in the same session and it was such a good experience. All the artists are so kind and all of them always check on you as well. This shop is so awesome and we already booked more sessions. Thank you Mako, and the staff at Black Palette Tattoo! read more

Black Palette Tattoo - Logo! - Tattoo Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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I'm changing my review to 1 star. because foolishly i did the review prior to getting ink done, so i could get free after care. that's how they get you. Anyway! DO NOT GO HERE!! and don't see Kevin. my tattoo i got here is probably the worst one ive ever gotten and i have like 30.. AND AND it got infected. The line work is horrible. Everything is uneven and looks unfinished. I paid $300 for something that I could have done a better job on my own and I have zero tattooing experience. so do you research? Do not go to this place if you want a good tattoo that you're not gonna have to get fixed and or treated later on. It's only been five days and I had to go to the hospital because of the infection read more

Black Palette Tattoo - Absolutely horrible....now i have to get it fixed. - Tattoo Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Would totally recommend this establishment, service was excellent from booking the tattoo and all the way throughout. Atmosphere was very inviting with the tv going while waiting and music playing to chill out to, with all this in mind each individual present was so nice inviting. I had my tattoo with Emanuel which he did an amazing job with helping me through my design and such a knowledgeable person as well. Was visiting and got this tattoo towards the end of my trip but will totally come back for another tattoo when I make my way to Hawaii again!! read more

Black Palette Tattoo - Manta ray with yellow hibiscus flowers - Tattoo Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

I really wanted to get an anime tattoo but didn't know how it would fit where I wanted it. Tiare was so helpful in making my vision of making Itachi's eyes POP. TBH I was scared to get something in my inner arm bc I'm not good with pain. Tiare was so gentle and it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be! I highly suggest working with her if you like anime stuff. read more

Black Palette Tattoo - Itachi tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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the space is fantastic, the vibe inside is mellow and chill and I couldn't get over how soft and quiet it was. I accompanied a friend getting ink and would certainly recommend Black Palette to everyone. My friend had booked with Raquel who not only did a great job but just has a wonderful calm disposition. Im still figuring what to get done, but I'll be back for sure read more

Definitely recommend Black Palette Tattoo! My daughter and I came in and worked with Manuel and Mika. We had a wonderful and comfortable experience. Scheduling online was easy and the artists portfolios are detailed on the website. Great service, and good vibes! read more

Got in same day. Tattoo shop is clean and modern, Sheva did a great job! Very happy with the work

I can't make a review about the quality or workmanship the artist at this studio . As the artist never showed up for the texted appointment and I never got to see his finished design he used email as a method of contact while we were on holiday in Hawaii. I originally went in to have an upper arm done with three images provided for what I wanted as a guide with some personal touches planned to work with the artist in the design . I returned for the consultation and Arranged a time for the tattoo to be completed before i left to return home on The Sunday 4 days later . I had to reschedule due to a commitment that came up I called 3 times to triple check as the confirmed txt was incorrect and the reception person advised they would speak to Brandon and sort . Communication between the artist and receptionist needs to be better . it was mentioned that when I turned up for my appointment the poor receptionist who was wonderful was at a loss the artist hung up on her when she called him to figure out where he was . He never showed up. They advised he had sent me an email . They also only take cash which isn't that great for a tourist . The artist consultation was poor . The artist also message . I ended up cancelling the entire appointment went to another studio . Who I did exactly the same thing sent photos came back that evening And had the final design tweaks done and ended up with an epic one of a kind design that was about 5 hours . I am sure Brandon would be a great artist but he needs to ensure that he follows up with his reception and they communicate with each other . As scheduled time for a visitor is really precious and obviously we the customer a re spending a lot of money that we have saved . Lovely guy but I felt if you can't do a piece or it's to hard or not In your scope don't make out it's all good and then email your client who is on holiday ( they do txt message appointment changes and times) Seems to be commen theme in the reviews . read more

I've done 5 tattoos with Jace starting from the old shop leading to my new one today at the new one in Waikiki and he is nothing but amazing. From being a good communicator and open to trying new ideas and applying them well he is very talented. Each time I give an idea and tell him he can play around and he adds his own creative twist and I absolutely love all of my tattoos. I'm yet to trust another artist yet but that's okay because Jace is familiar with what I like and goes based off of past work. All of his designs are one of a kind and definitely catch peoples attention :))) head to his insta @tattoosby_jace read more

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