I put an enormous amount of visual research into selecting Jon to do a half-sleeve on my lower right arm. After countless hours of searching and browsing local artists, i came across his Instagram account and knew immediately that i wanted this man's artwork on my skin. I sent him an email with (probably way too many) ideas about what i was looking for and stopped in to do a quick consult. After a brief discussion, he assured me that he would be able to work over an old, unfinished tattoo outline that i already had on the inner part of my arm and so we set up an appointment within a short couple weeks.
My first impression of the shop:
His is a quiet, private studio tucked away in a discreet location in Uptown and without any hassles or interruptions from surrounding environment. The space is impeccably clean, has a tastefully sophisticated rock n' roll feel, and is generally a very relaxing setting. There also just so happens to be lots of great dining places within a block or two for those much needed post-session calories.
Jon himself loves to joke around and we've enjoyed quite a bit of whimsical conversation and laughter during the time that we've been working on this current piece. He's helped me navigate a vast sea of ideas to make, really, the best choices possible for what my ambitious and ambiguous vision has been. He helped me decide which aspects to focus on and from there, i really just put my trust in him, unwaveringly, to do what he does best: create art. WOW. I trusted the right person this time! His mind for concept, his eye for placement - i could not be any happier that i chose him to do this work for me. Incredible. He has a medium/light touch and works very fast. Who doesn't want to see instant results, right? Bonus!
I was so excited after my last session, that when i awoke the next morning i immediately ran to the mirror to gaze in awe, like a little kid runs to their presents under the tree on Christmas morning. I originally thought i wanted just a half-sleeve with a minor coverup, but i am so absolutely giddy with delight after a few sessions, that i absolutely MUST continue this into a full sleeve.
I work service industry and hence, a great number of people see my ink on a daily basis. The compliments on this tattoo just don't stop coming in and most people who approach and seem to know a bit about ink, are already familiar with Jon's work. All you have to do is look - its exactly what it seems.
For reference: I am 42 years of age, have a lower leg sleeve and some other smaller tattoos and thought i was pretty much done getting ink at this point. My experience with Jon, however, has absolutely smashed that idea from my mind as i now eagerly anticipate the idea of working on the next piece, and the next, and the next....
I don't just recommend that you book with Handmade Studio, i insist on it. You're mistreating yourself if you don't, and why would you do that? You're worth it! read more