I had a great experience with Danny Sanchez at Certified Tattoo. He did matching seagull tattoos for me and my friends, and his talent and knowledge truly show in his work. Initially, I was concerned that my tattoo didn't look exactly like my friends', and I asked Danny if he could take a look and possibly touch it up. Once the aftercare tape was removed, I could clearly see how great it actually looked. Danny took the time to walk me through everything, explained that he could slightly thicken the wing if I wanted, but was honest about his hesitation--he didn't want to risk affecting the healing or compromising the quality of the tattoo. He even consulted another tattoo artist, who agreed the tattoo was flawless. I truly appreciated Danny's honesty, professionalism, and willingness to put quality over simply making a change because it was requested. Although he was open to doing what I asked, I valued his expert opinion and trusted his judgment, especially since the tattoo was still so new. Danny does exceptional work and is incredibly skilled in fine-line tattooing. I'm very grateful for the time he took with me and for his integrity as an artist. If you're considering a tattoo, I highly recommend seeing Danny at Certified Tattoo on Colfax Avenue in Lakewood, Colorado. You won't be disappointed. read more

I rarely leave negative reviews, but after several sessions here,I need to share my experience since reaching out to management wasn't helpful or even apologetic about any of my experiencs. My first tattoo was quoted at 650 dollars and as a heavily tattooed person I expected it to take one to two sessions. It ended up taking four sessions and over a thousand dollars. One of the sessions was never even booked so when I arrived for the third session my artist had no idea it was even happening. I gave the shop another chance for a simple line design, but the appointment started at 11 and when the artist showed up at the same time as me, we didn't start tattooing till 1.5 hours in and I left with only one boob done. I've now spent multiple days driving 5 hours total to this shop, waiting, healing, and now my tattoo that should have been done today is going to take three sessions total. The artist is personable, and I really like him and he's the only reason I was ever going to come back after the first situation but professionalism and respect for clients' time have been major issues and staff clearly could care less about peoples time or money. I personally wouldn't go here but if you feel so inclined id get the cost in writing and make sure that if the artist is slower that they don't charge you for that. read more

I highly recommend Certified. It was an emotional experience, we went there for my friend to get a tattoo in remembrance of her husband. I decided to get one with her and the experience could not have been better. Jolene at the front desk was so kind. She paired us with Damian who could not have been sweeter but his line work was spot on. We are both so happy with our tattoos! And even happier that they made it such a beautiful and memorable experience. Thank you ! read more

Certified Tattoo Studios - Our fine line tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - Lakewood, Colorado

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I would leave no stars if I could. They're sketchy -- you're better off finding another place that will actually respect you as a client and not try to take advantage of you. My sister and I booked an appointment with a specific artist. When we get there, we learn that the artist has left and they've pushed us onto some other guy last-minute even though we never approved this. We asked for our money back since they couldn't honor our original booking and they tried to pull a "no refunds on deposits" bs on us. The guy in charge who we spoke to that day was condescending and downright mean. We eventually got it back, but witholding money for a service you can't provide is a crazy business practice. It was only after the whole ordeal that I learned this had happened to multiple people before. read more

3.5 Stars. I think Certified is okay but not amazing. My artist did an okay job but the rendering of what I wanted was pretty primitive. I also think the art that was presented on the website was way different than the capabilities of the artist (maybe it was enhanced?) Add that to the fact that I never got pro photos that I asked for and I think I will go somewhere else for my next piece. So many places in Denver, Lakewood, etc to choose from. read more

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I've been a long-time customer and supporter of Certified Tattoo, and I want to take a moment to recognize their strength, transparency, and integrity during a really difficult time. As some of you may know, recently they were the target of a cyberattack--something that could devastate any small business--but they've handled it with honesty and professionalism from the very beginning. As a small business owner myself, I think it is important to realize that they are real people--artists, staff, and owners--who pour their heart and soul into creating something meaningful for their community. And instead of hiding or passing blame, the team at Certified took immediate responsibility. They communicated openly and have done everything they can on their end to make things right. Certified Tattoo Studios have consistently gone above and beyond to support my community and myself as a client, now it's my turn to show that same support and empathy for them. Based off my experience this business basis their core values with integrity, transparency, honesty, customer focus and trust which is rare in today's day and age. I genuinely believe that they will recover and rebuild stronger than ever! read more

Max Beachak is an amazing artist. He took great care with me. I really appreciate all the artists there. They were all amazing with communication, friendliness. Place is CLEAN and feels comfortable. Update - session 2. Continued amazingness with Max! I really do think he might be the best tattoo artist. I take into account his artistic eye, his gentleness, his care with me as his client. He is truly the sweetest guy (I have a brain injury so its hard to communicate a lot and It makes me feel very vulnerable) he treats me and so many others like were all made of gold which is so cool to see in this world. He has such love for his fellow artists there and speaks highly of everyone. Really good guy. Because of all of this, he will be my continued artist of choice. (As long as hes cool with that) read more

I want to say thank you to everyone at certified tattoo ,felt very welcomed ,the shop had very great energy ! and a big Thanks to my friend Yeampier Barrera for the tattoo cover up , did an amazing job and has an incredible talent! Thank you again . read more

Certified Tattoo Studios - Tattoo Near Me - Lakewood, Colorado

This place was awesome, it had a clean but cool vibe and the price seemed fair. It was my first tattoo and Cody made it an awesome experience. He was super ready to make any changes I had and was patient while I figured out exactly what I wanted. He was super chill and did great artwork. read more

What can I say about. Certified is the best tattoo studio to go to. Not only are they super clean. They are also very organized. Came here for the first time in January for a Friday the 13th flash sale tattoo and have been hooked ever since. They make the booking processes super easy. Check in is also super smooth. All the artists are super nice and do great work. Getting ready to book a full session at certified. If you are looking to get some ink but want something small. I recommend doing one of their flash sales. They can range anywhere from $30-50 and they have over 1k art designs to choose from. Simply download the Cerus app and they keep you informed of all flash sales and event happening. read more

Certified Tattoo Studios - Tattoo Near Me - Lakewood, Colorado

Overall, the process of getting my first tattoo with Tanner at the Yale location was stellar. He was quick, professional, and kind and I'd highly recommend him to anyone looking to get a tattoo. My only complaint was with the studio front office staff -- despite verbally and text confirming my appointment (and paying in full ahead of time), when I arrived they told me that the system showed I cancelled. I had the text to prove I didn't, but it was very off putting and unfortunate that that experience happened... and no one really apologized for it. Mistakes happen, but apologies and the customer service go a long way. read more

Max Beachak is incredible. I got a small intricate face too and it looks like a freaking machine did it. Insanely clean. I am over the moon about it. The lightest hands that ever put ink on me. It felt GOOD, almost like a mini massage. Super professional, listened to all my wants, concerns and critiques. Max is a freaking GOAT (second skin is on it for healing so picture is a little 'blurry') read more

Certified Tattoo Studios - Oi face tatt - Tattoo Near Me - Lakewood, Colorado

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0 stars. CERTIFIED TATTOO charged my card without me knowing today a lot of $$$ because my card was used for a hold about a year ago for a piercing/tattoo. They stole my information and used it without my permission! The worst place EVER. NEVER GO HERE. So much money was stolen from me it effected my rent payment. read more

Here's my experience... Called wanted a sleeve (flowers etc) asked how much $1500 ok sounds good I paid in full. Had a session 12-6ish line work made another appointment to finish get a call they want more money. No I was told $1500 sorry you have $300 credit you can use that and add more $$$ to finish or give your credit to someone really all I want is my $300 back they lied. DONT GO THERE GO SOMEWHERE HONEST. So I got $1200 of line work that's it. read more

Would never get a tattoo through Certified Tattoo Studios ever again. I went to the one on Colfax, which didn't have great parking, but that's not surprising due to the location. I scheduled an appointment ahead of time, and it's weird because someone schedules the appointment for artists. Typically, I'm used to paying a base deposit and then after getting the tattoo done, the artist decides what the cost is. Instead, here, the consultation determined the deposit and total tattoo price. I thought this was strange, but based on how many locations this studio has and how many good things I heard about the artist I wanted-I had high expectations. When I got there, the front desk people were friendly and super great. The studio is huge and there are a ton of artists, it can definitely feel a little overwhelming. My artist was nice and I was excited, but I wasn't exactly happy with the end product. It took a while to finish each step (prep, printing, etc) and every time the artist went to their back room, they were there for at least 15 minutes at the time each time. At the end of the session, my tattoo was poorly and awkwardly wrapped with clear wrap. My tattoo ended up being scratchy and some lines weren't even finished. Most of this was noticeable once my tattoo healed. While the artist told me that touch ups are free, due to my poor experience, I do not want to go back here for touch ups or any future tattoos. It's unfortunate because my friend shared having a great experience with said artist. The price I paid for the quality of my tattoo did not match. read more

I came back to Certified after having some work done a few years ago that I wasn't super thrilled with - that experience left me feeling rushed - like I was annoying the artist and I felt way over chared This experience however exceeded my expectations by far and it was so much better! Everything from the booking to the day of artist work was amazing - Dris took care of me and made me feel like I was a part of the family and Lex is an amazing artist with such skill and precision. I appreciate all the time and effort that went into making this a better experience. Thank you to all and I will 100% be going back! read more

I was quoted for a rework of an inner forearm tattoo, but my tattoo artist could have set records for the slowest tattoo artist ever. He stopped on my first session not even halfway through the tattoo that should have taken 4 hours if I'm being generous. They even only scheduled me 4 hours because of what I wanted. It ended up taking him 12 hours!! And he had the balls to charge me every time! Even after I explained that I was told the entire tattoo would only cost less than half of what he made me pay. Since he would stop at odd places I didn't have the ability to even go to another artist.. I felt like he was holding my tattoo for ransom. It's Denver, Lakewood; there are tattoo shops on every corner, go to one of them instead! Oh andy tattoo is raised, and actually has texture! Full F by them, dont waste your time, money and especially body at this place. read more

DO NOT GET YOUR TATTOO AT CERTIFIED TATTOOS! THIS PLACE IS A SCAM! I had a consultation with the artist, explained my sleeve idea and she said she would discount me her regular daily rate to match the other quotes I had ($2k total). There is a 50% deposit per session which NO ONE TOLD ME WAS NON REFUNDABLE. I put down $1k to schedule 2 full day appts. I show up to my first appt to wait in the lobby for 30 minutes until the artist finally calls me back to show me her sketches. She forgot my entire concept that we went over during my consult and the sketches had nothing to do with my ideas. We rescheduled and I went back for my full day appt (agreed upon $1k) to find out that they switched it to a half day because "they forgot about the agreed upon discounted price". They refused to honor the agreed upon price. When I finally got a hold of a manager, he offered $500 refund store credit that I could sell to someone (nobody would buy that). The manager talked to me disrespectfully, condescendingly, tried to gas light me, and make it seem like I was at fault for wanting the price that was agreed upon. When I tried to speak he would yell over me. He called me at 6pm demanding that I pay the rest of the session ($500) in full right then (on card over the phone or drive to the shop) 1.5 weeks in advance before the appt. It was so suspicious that I took the $500 store credit which no one will buy from me because CERTIFIED TATTOOS ARE SCAMMERS. So Certified stole $500 from me and dramatically overcharged me for a tattoo after forcing me into going through with it. The piece I got was $1,700 after they scammed me and tip, and it's only worth about $500 read more

Despite going to the wrong location and being 30+ minutes late, Saul (Soda Pop) was so kind and genuine. He did not have the reference photos i had sent in, but this actually worked in our favor because we collaborated so well together. His knowledge and input was truly invaluable. I am so grateful at the time, effort, and work he put in to give my arm the completed look it needed. It turned out 10000x better than i could of imagined. His line work was impeccable and he made quite work of my arm. I'm not posting pictures at this time because we still have more work to do. :) But I will be using Soda for all my future ideas. 10/10 HIGHLY RECOMMEND!! Immaculate vibes on top of immaculate work!! read more

I want to start off by saying it is kind overpriced but maybe that's how tattoos are priced now? I'm no expert. BUT I got a tattoo with Juan Barreto, I got a realism gray scale of my deceased kitty, she meant the entire world to me. And he did her right, it looks just like her! It makes me so happy that someone took the time and made it so realistic. He was very gentle and just super amazing. He was really easy to talk to and was very understanding. I am so soooo happy I got my tattoo with him! Thank you Juan! read more

Great from start to finish. This is my second tattoo at Certified Tattoo and my first one with Mike Lee. Mike was so nice, easy to talk to and he has such a gentle touch. I'm in love with my tattoo and definitely recommend Mike. He is such an artist and made my vision come to life. read more

Certified Tattoo Studios - James, in honor of my brother that recently passed. - Tattoo Near Me - Lakewood, Colorado

They people at the front were rude and excused it due to past fights/confrontation happenin. They do have a minimum ! They lied to me after paying deposit about when work would be done. The guy who did mine quoted me less than what the price actually was! He had a heavy hand and took longer than larger pieces i've had done. He refused to do in two sitting then rushed through the end ! He was rude and impatient! The first part of my tattoo came out ok but the second half was rushed you can tell by looking! Do not go here ! read more

Certified Tattoo Studios - Tattoo Near Me - Lakewood, Colorado

Its not horrible but its definitely weird and overpriced. Dont get me wrong the artists I have worked with are talented and extremely nice but the price for the quality isnt justified. When you call to schedule you get to talk to a representative who helps you pick an artist which is kinda nice but its weird that you dont actually get to talk to the person inking you for life. I also got matched with an artist and when I arrived he informed me he doesnt speak English! Im okay with that but thank god I already had an exact sketch of what I wanted or I can't imagine the translation nightmare that would have ensued trying to make the piece something I wanted, I felt horrible too because I couldn't even communicate to the artist how much I appreciated the piece. The shop is clean and has a 90s hiphop mixed with modern art type vibe but yeah after two tattoos and the same meh experience all around I wont be coming back. Feels like they have amazing artists trapped behind a corporate greedy paywall. read more

My first time getting a tattoo, wanted a 1in half sleeve and it came out to over a thousand dollars. These guys will scam you mercilessly.

Myself and 2 others friends went to get piercings on Saturday and everything seemed cool and we got the piercer Shy. I got my nostril, one friend got her tongue, and the other got her tragus. My friend who got her tongue went first and everything seemed fine at first. Then my friend who got her tragus went and when the piercer went to put the top of the jewelry on she dropped it and we found it and honestly thought it was just a honest mistake. But then it was my turn I let her know that I have a condition called POTS that makes me prone to fainting. She laid me back and pierced it and was fine but when she put the jewelry in it was hurting worse than anything I have ever experienced (I had my eyes closed) this pain went on for a minute and stopped so I opened my eyes and thought it was done and she was pushing. She told me she's going to have to redo it because she used the wrong size taper. So that pain that I was feeling was her trying to push the wrong size jewelry through my face. She repeirced it and that went fine and am honestly just disappointed that she was trying to force the jewelry through in the first place and putting me through that pain. But it doesn't end there. My friend who got her tongue pierced noticed shortly after noticed the bar was way too short and her tongue was swelling over the bar. She had called her regular piercer and went in to get it looked at. It was pierced at the wrong gauge and with the wrong jewelry. (I believe she had said it was pierced with a nipple ring instead of a tongue ring.) so after this we called the shop back and explained what happened. We asked to speak to a manager and wasn't able to and the guy on the phone honestly did not give a single shit. Told us he'd let the manager know and we'd get a call back but he never took down any of our info to be able to even call us back. I honestly think my friend who got her tongue pierced should at least get a refund considering it was pierced wrong and she had to get it repeirced. I did get a discount but still don't think it was enough considering what happened. Please go somewhere else. Do not get pierced here. read more

I got my first tattoo at Certified Tattoo Studios, and it was an awesome experience! Since Certified Tattoo has a couple different locations in Colorado, I called the number on Yelp and asked which location would be the best for a walk-in tattoo, and they directed me to the W Colfax location. My first tattoo experience couldn't have been better! The staff was welcoming and put me at ease. My artist was Joseph Blacksmith aka Drastik. He worked with me to figure out the perfect size and placement of my tattoo. I didn't feel rushed or pressured at all. The tattoo itself took only about 20 minutes to complete and didn't hurt at all. It's beautiful, it's exactly what I wanted, and I can't believe what a steady hand Drastik has! I can't wait to go back to Certified Tattoo to get more ink done! read more

Certified Tattoo Studios - Beautiful script tattoo by Joseph Blacksmith aka Drastik - Tattoo Near Me - Lakewood, Colorado

My experience at this company was not a good one. I called in to schedule an appointment for a tattoo and was only allowed to speak with a middle man that basically told me I needed to draw the tattoo myself? I thought that's why I was coming to the artists! After that experience on the phone, I decided to go into the store on Colfax. When I entered, there were several employees either walking around or helping another customer. I waited patiently for almost 10 minutes and when nobody decided to say hello or will be right with you, I decided to walk out and will never be going back. read more

I got a great tattoo from "Gustavo" at the E. Colfax Ave. location! Gustavo was very friendly and super easy to work with. Heather at the front desk is very nice. I can highly recommend them! read more

Was just up & got a tattoo from Justin, super friendly guy & amazing work! Will definitely be coming back in to get another from him. Overall it was a great experience & am very happy with the quality! Thanks Justin!! read more

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My friend and I have been planning to get tattoos for awhile. We lucked out and were both able to get appointments with Katie at the last minute (just over a week). She not only did great work but she was patient with all our questions. We learned a lot about the process and it served as a distraction while we had our tattoos done. read more

Certified Tattoo Studios - Forget-me-not tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Lakewood, Colorado

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This review is just for Friday 13th experience. Loved how they did it by appointments only made it fantastic. My issue tho is my guy who did my tattoo... maybe should learn more before he tattoos anyone ever again... I get it's a flash tattoo and only $30 but he really messed up the most simple tattoo and basics of tattooing. I have multiple tattoos and go to certified but this wasn't great. Gonna find someone to fix the mess up. read more

Updating because they promised to look into this and never did. Stole my money. Belittled me and told me my tattoo was useless. Been fighting for months to get my money back. read more

If you're looking for the perfect spot to get your tattoo on; I highly recommend German Fernandez at Certified Customs. I picked German because he was the only artist I consulted with that noticed the detail in my piece. Certified Customs is a busy shop with many repeat customers and I can see why. From the front door to the back end CC is professional all the way. I was very impressed with the care German took to set everything up and the cleanliness of everything. He even wrapped the table in plastic wrap after he wiped it down with alcohol. I had to wait for a month to get an appointment with German, specifically because of the size and the amount of time it would take, but it was worth it. My tattoo took the entire day and several breaks. German did everything in his power to make sure I was comfortable through the entire process and didn't experience any problems during the aftercare. The shop is a little cramped when it get full, however, I'm told they are moving down the street to a bigger location. This is a cash only shop, so make sure you have plenty of Benjamins in your wallet. read more

Went to the E Colfax location as a walk-in on a week day afternoon. I chose to come here as there is no minimum, they claim to price based on size. I was told to come back at 7pm so I did (before closing). The artist was not finished so they called another person in to help me out. I appreciate how they got another artist to come in for me, so props to them there. However they quoted my 3 letter tattoo for $150 and it took him about 30 minutes total to set up for, and complete the tattoo. For reference- the tattoo above this one was $120- from a different shop. Unfortunately I was not in the position to go somewhere else as I had waited till closing and had a flight out the next day so I got it, and am praying it'll heal cleaner than it looks right now. read more

Certified Tattoo Studios - Tattoo Near Me - Lakewood, Colorado

Wow, so disappointed! I'm an old broad who was excited about getting my first tattoo. Went to the Lakewood studio with a simple idea for a tattoo and was assigned an artist. Was told I needed to pay half upfront without having seen any sketches to schedule, so decided to have faith in the shop that the process would work out one way or another. Went to my appointment the following week, paid second half, but wasn't thrilled with the artist's idea. Nothing against the artist, who tried a couple of revamped ideas ,but it was clear he wasn't the artist for me. I spoke to the receptionist who said, "No problem, you can schedule with another artist." So I left a message for the manager to call me to get rescheduled with someone else. Never heard from anyone, so after a couple of weeks I called back and left another message. Again, never heard from anyone. Called a third time, and the woman from the first appointment said, "Oh I remember you. Let me text the manager to call you." Crickets. After all these weeks I'm over them, and called the credit card company to dispute the charges. It took another minute, but now I get a call from someone who is basically saying he's calling to schedule me, without any questions about what happened or any sort of apology. I made it clear I don't feel comfortable using their shop anymore, and he said I HAVE to give them an opportunity to schedule with another of their artists, and basically said they have my money and don't have to give it back. I told him I gave them multiple opportunities to make it right and no longer feel like they are a good fit for me, and his response was they are working to change their process and to browbeat me. Frankly, if he'd called me sincerely saying something like, "We're so sorry this happened, and here's what we're going to do to make this right," I'd still probably have felt better and rescheduled, but after all this I can't imagine wanting to work with them. I'm sure they have some fabulous artists, but overall I feel like they're really more interested in making money and keeping mine, than in trying to make sure I had a good experience. Check other reviews. Wish I had seen some of these before I chose them. read more

I had such a great experience from beginning to end here. I finally found an artist I trusted to do my dog's portrait for me- Hannah Espinoza, who is FANTASTIC. The booking process was so easy and straightforward. I went to the Headquarters shop on South Broadway and was super impressed with it. Even the guy at the front desk was awesome and helpful. I really do need to give a shout out to Hannah here- she is young and newer to tattooing but is a DOPE artist who did such an amazing job. I really hope people give her a chance because her style and color work are amazing. Will definitely be coming back to this shop for my next tat! Thank you all! read more

Certified Tattoo Studios - Tattoo Near Me - Lakewood, Colorado

Started off going over my tattoo idea over the phone with someone as I was on a roadtrip and wanted to ensure if I drove out of my way that I'd get in. I was told I would get a call back on a good time....which never happened (until 3 months after getting my tattoo). So I took my chances and just stopped by along with a couple friends. You put your name in and go to the holding pen for the next free artist. In total i waited about 3 hours. The guy I saw, I don't know his name but he wasn't on their website) was pretty non talkative. I told him my idea and showed pictures and he drew a sketch. At quick first glance I thought the sketch looked good. So we talked about placement and he argued with me that it looked better a different way than I wanted. Honestly if he drew the sketch according to my foot shape it could have worked (it's a feather) but instead made the template and slapped it on even though it looked awkward. I trusted him and let him put it on how he thought it looked best. I did not have much time to really look at my tattoo before he wrapped it, so it was not until I unwrapped it later than I started feeling unhappy about it. The linework is horrid, there are really ugly weird shapes in the pieces of the feather and you can tell he just threw in some out of place shapes to fill in mistakes he made. I walked out spending $240 for something that i now need to get redone. I consulted other artists since who agreed this was a very janky, poorly done tattoo. Live and learn and will not return if ever in the area again. read more

Certified Tattoo Studios - Look closely at the weird shapes and harsh lines that just look awful for what was supposed to be a soft feather - Tattoo Near Me - Lakewood, Colorado

The BEST place to get ANY piercing! Gretchen was super sweet, attentive, and genuinely cares about your after care and well being! Her energy is amazing and the other Piercers I've interacted have been awesome as well! I definitely will be coming back and recommend this place to anyone! read more

I follow a specific artist on Insta. I reached out to book him on August 15th for a simple but very special tattoo. The next available appointment was 9/25 so I booked it. The day of, I got up and had a message that the shop changed my artist because the guy I wanted was busy. I was really really irritated and felt disrespected. I got some random guy who didn't sanitize my finger before he started the tattoo and he was not wearing a face mask at all the entire time. Then they charged my $300 for a 25 minute tattoo. F*@/ this place. I could have gone to any random tattoo shop and had my expectations meet more this this over priced bullshit operation. I had big plans for 3 more tattoos, one of which a full sleeve and now I'm back on the hunt for an artist that can be my tattoo guy. I'm so so so disappointed and I feel completely ripped off. read more

Certified Tattoo Studios - I do love this tattoo, but I would since I designed it. - Tattoo Near Me - Lakewood, Colorado

Casper is so dope! Super friendly and welcoming. Certified tattoos has one of the best overall vibe. Will be returning. :) Highly recommend! read more

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