I went here a couple months back to take my niece to get a piercing, and she went back on her own a few weeks ago to get her nose pierced. I got my nose pierced a few years ago but have had trouble with it because I had the helix ring which as come out for one reason or another and I haven't always been able to get it back in. Several people have suggested getting a flat back ring instead and I was happy to find out the Red Octopus offers those so I went by on 5/1 to get my nose repierced for like the third time now lol. I was greeted upon entering at the front desk and I explained that I wanted to be sure they had the ring I needed and the issues I was having, they confirmed they had it then showed me the jewelry options. I picked the size ring I wanted and filled out my paperwork and paid and I was taken back right away. I had some scar tissue as I've been repierced before so she moved the spot slightly, explained what she was doing and got to it. It was very quick and painless. The shop is clean and open. My piercer, Ray was very sweet, professional, knowledgable and quick. I don't know if I spent a full 20 minutes in there from start to finish and I wasn't rushed at all. I was really missing my nose piercing and am so happy to have it back, with a more secure ring and at a size I love. Highly recommend Red Octopus for your piercing needs and definitely suggest asking for Ray. read more

The front desk is always so nice and friendly when I come in for my appointments or even just a walk in and Jenna is absolutely amazing! I love her work and she's been doing great pieces every time I come in! Love the shop in general too :) read more

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I got my nose and helix pierced by Kira on Sunday! She did such a great job and did it super fast and helped me stay calm. She made feel comfortable and was so sweet. I would recommend Kira for any piercings. Can't wait to come back for Kira!! read more

Red Octopus Tattoos - Nose piercing and helix done by Kira. - Piercing Near Me - Crofton, Maryland

I was a walk in on a Sunday evening for an earlobe piercing. We waited about 2 hours and the piercing was quick with pretty good aftercare instructions. I did have to ask questions like "how long will this bleed? And How will I know if I need medical attention?" read more

My daughter wanted her nose pierced for her birthday, so after getting recommendations we narrowed it down to two places. This was second on the list, but we ended up coming here after the other place was closed. I'm glad we did. There wasn't much of a wait as a walk in and the price wasn't bad at all. The lobby was clean and inviting. The staff were pleasant and friendly. The whole piercing process took less than 10 minutes. The room was clean and the piercer (I forgot to get his name) was patient and made sure my kid was comfortable. Overall, a very quick and pleasant experience. read more

Jojo at the Crofton location is SO talented. I needed a cover up on a tattoo that I had a few sessions of laser on. Jojo took my reference photos and drew an amazing piece directly onto my leg. The work is impeccable, even over scar tissue, and you can't tell at all that it's a cover up. Would recommend her for any illustrative tattoo work you're looking for. read more

Red Octopus Tattoos - Cover up piece of illustrative forest scene hand drawn by Jojo. - Piercing Near Me - Crofton, Maryland

Clean efficient and customer friendly. Was able to have my piercings removed and purchased new ones. Will return for a tatoo.

The place has a really nice vibe, the people who work there were all helpful. Charlie was the person who helped me with my nose piercing and suggested a really good placement for my nose ring. He was very patient and explained everything to me. I will be going back to the Crofton location for future piercing (he gave me suggestions for my ears!) and tattooing needs. Love this spot. read more

My daughter went to Jenna for her tattoos. Jenna was awesome..so down to earth, professional and worked her magic. Londyn is very happy with what they came up with. it was an all day appointment. Londyn was nervous at first and Jenna made her feel so confident and comfortable. We definitely recommend Jenna and I will be booking my appointment ASAP. Londyn will be getting more tats with her. The shop was very clean and the vibe is great. The staff is friendly and easy to talk to. read more

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I want to start by saying this review is purely for their piercer, Emily. The front desk staff were super nice and welcoming! The shop itself looked cool. Anyway, I didn't get pierced here. I just went in to get a smaller post for a piercing I had done at a different shop a few weeks prior. When we got to the room, there wasn't much conversation, which was totally fine. However, I wasn't given any heads-up that she was about to remove the jewelry. She just took it out abruptly, which was painful. I can handle some discomfort, but a simple warning would have been appreciated. As she was putting in the new jewelry, she asked how long I had the piercing, and I mentioned it had only been a few weeks--so still fairly fresh. She then put in a post that was visibly too tight. I'm not a professional, but I know enough to feel that it shouldn't have been that snug, especially for a healing piercing. I don't expect small talk, but a little communication with the client would make the experience better. Even a quick, "Alright, I'm about to take the piercing out. You ready?" would have made a big difference. read more

Love this shop - The artists are amazing, the staff is always professional and welcoming, and the facility is immaculate. I've been going to Jenna for three years and won't go anywhere else. Can't recommend this place enough read more

Red Octopus Tattoos - Piercing Near Me - Crofton, Maryland

I've been to Red Octopus many times and my daughter even more. We've had piercings and tattoos done, always a great experience! The shop is very clean! The check in staff is helpful, polite and always professional! Recently my husband, my daughter and I had an appointment with Pat. In one evening he did one after another. He's very experienced and an expert in his craft! Each tattoo was perfect, the lines and shading were very well done. We're looking forward to another tattoo! I 100% recommend Red Octopus in Crofton. read more

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I've been wanting some new piercings for a while now, a forward helix and double helix on my left ear. I'm a bit of a chicken so I have to go when my adrenaline is rushing. This time, I only got my forward helix. Charlie did my piercing. He was great. I had a million questions and he answered them honestly and politely. I have my nose and belly button pierced (and tattoos) but it always feels like it's my first time. It was a quick pinch. The asking questions portion lasted longer than the piercing. There hasn't been any pain for me. I'd rate it about 2 on a scale of 10. I know everyone is different. I always tell people your healing process is based off of your piercer. I learned that after having my nose pierced twice in the same spot. They also provide you with cleaning instructions. They offer a cleaning kit as well but I have some at home so I declined. I will be back soon when my adrenaline gets pumping again to get my double helix. Thanks, Red Octopus! read more

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I first discovered Red Octopus several years ago. I have been inside several tattoo shops with my husband, because he has gotten several tattoos over the years. This shop is by far, the nicest and most welcoming shop I have been in. If all you know about tattoo shops is what you have seen on TV, then you do not know anything about this place. It is not the stereo typical tattoo parlor. It's very inviting and professional looking. The lobby area is very spacious and well appointed. The back area, where the artists work, is well spaced out and kept very clean. The owner and all of the staff take great care and pride in what they do and in ensuring a hygienic and safe environment. They do all kinds of tattoos and each of their artists has their own specialty. When I was there I even recall hearing that they pierce ears four people. I don't just mean the special piercings, but the kind you might get at the mall. Personally, I would much prefer it be done here than at the mall by a 16 year old! At least I know they are qualified and that all of the equipment is clean and sanitary. If you are looking to get work done, I highly recommend that you check them out! read more

The work alone here is 5 stars!!! I'm gonna put you on to some helpful info. This is a place for those who take pride in their tattoos and understand patience is a virtue. You must have patience to deal with the wait time here. This is not a fast food wait type tattoo shop experience. Please bring your earphones, entertainment devices, good book, and a extra charger because I have waited between 2-3 hours to be serviced on each trip but the finishing work is worth it. I have been serviced by Domo and Patrick and each time they both did a phenomenal job! I am convinced they properly screen their tattoo artist here for great talent. The tattoo work itself didn't take long at all since the tattoos was small and looked very good! What I love now is they give you a general time frame of how long your wait will be so you can actually leave grab a bite to eat and come back. PARKING and DRIVING: I've always got a spot right outside of the business. When driving on 301 depending on which direction you're coming the business can be a little hard to see. You have to come in around the backside of the business (industrial looking street) to come around to the front the front of the business- or at least this is the way I come. You can use the Exxon as a landmark to try to locate this business. read more

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This is my go-to place for tattoos and piercings. About a year ago I got my triple forward helix done by Jax, who did a great job, especially with so many fresh piercings in such a small space. Jax also works in the Prince Frederick location, if that is closer to you. Afterwards, Melissa assisted me with several jewelry changes after having to put in spacers for my job. Both of them were very friendly and handled my piercings quickly and skillfully. Prices were very reasonable. Next, I set up an appointment with Will to get a hand-sized tattoo on my stomach. I was able to look through a large book of his previous work, as well as the work of other artists, to pick an artist whose style best fit my idea for the tattoo. I brought Will a photo of a tattoo and he redrew it for me so that I'd have my own unique piece! He did a great job on the tattoo, and was very engaging for the several hours I was on the table, which made the time go by much faster. I had a great experience working with Will, as have my friends who have also been tattooed by him. Again, the prices were reasonable and discussed upfront. Tattoo is now healed and is as vibrant and clear as ever. The shop itself is clean, organized, and has lots of displays for their jewelry and tattoo samples. There are books from the artists all over to look at as well as sample sheets, all framed and mounted for guests to flip through. I've never found myself just waiting around in the shop; they get customers in very quickly. Their website is well done and easy to use. Love this shop! read more

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I got a tattoo done by an inexperienced artist and I had to go back more than once for the person to fix it. I blame myself because I should have waited on a more experienced artist. read more

I walked in and got my flat pierced right away. Jewelry quality is great and lots of options. The front desk staff was super nice. The piercer was fast but didn't talk much. After I got pierced, they just handed me the aftercare instructions and said have a good day. Overall it was what I wanted but wish they would have explained the cleaning and healing process since this was my first cartilage piercing. read more

The worst piercing I've ever gotten and service was bad. I will definitely never go back.

Jojo was great! Kind, patient, and funny- she made my son's first tattoo a great experience!

Red Octopus is definitely locally known to be the best tattoo shop in the area! And for good reason! I took the chicken way put though and only came for piercings lol but Jax is amazing! And makes you feel so comfortable you forget about the pain! I went during the reopen of things during Covid 19 and I mean on a regular day it doesnt get no cleaner then a tattoo shop done right but Red Octopus definitely sets the bar high! Staff are friendly, patient, yet effective during this high volume crowd time. While waiting I witnessed a few interactions of artists with the customers and they were dedicated to making sure their clients got exactly what they wanted. Making 2-3 trips of corrections and asking about specific details wanted or not wanted to make sure people are getting what they pay for! Definitely come with your big boy wallet when looking to get a work of art done here but that's exactly what you'll walk out looking like and itll be worth every penny. read more

I went for a simple nostril piercing and was SO nervous! The front desk staff was so nice and comforting and gave me a stress ball while I waited and Melissa did such a great job walking me through it. So quick and no more painful than my monthly eye brow waxing. Love the way it turned out! She did a great job with placement and the girls helped me pick out the right size stud. I was in and out within 25 minutes with no appointment. Highly recommend! Especially if you're a nervous nelly like me! read more

Red Octopus Tattoos - Piercing Near Me - Crofton, Maryland

Amazing studio, very clean and the staff are very professional and helpful. My tattoo was done by Jenna, wonderful artist and just down right nice person. My piercings were done by Kira, yet another great person on the staff, very professional. Would highly stop by to see what they have to offer. read more

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I went to Red Octopus on 1/10/23 and Ms. YoYo was my tattoo artist and I must say she was absolutely amazing. from the moment I came in she was extremely friendly and courteous. I love my tattoo and I will return to have her construct a sleeve based off my favorite video game franchise. read more

Let me tell you...from the moment I entered till the moment I left, I really had a good experience here. I went today to get my first tattoo (well actually two). Jason was my tattoo artist and he was so awesome! He was professional ... explained what he was doing and the sanitary safeguards he was putting into place ... took time to discuss the tattoo and any suggestions he might have... he was gentle with his application ... and his artistry was top notch. To top it off, the prices here were also very reasonable compared to other shops i had checked out. I highly recommend them if you're wanting a tat! read more

Red Octopus Tattoos - The finished tattoos by Jason - Piercing Near Me - Crofton, Maryland

Jason was awesome! He was professional, personable, listened, and made me feel very comfortable. He did matching tatts on my sister and I and the price was very reasonable. He has a gentle hand my experience was painless. I would definitely return and would request Jason, hands down. Overall the Red Octopus is very clean, has a great ambiance, and the all staff overall from start to finish was great. read more

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Went in for a walk in for my first tattoo. The staff was great and gave realistic timelines for my brother and I. We got to work with Jenna who was the "walk in" artist for the day. She was absolutely amazing and her line-work is flawless. Multiple other artists came over and were joking around. Great environment, clean shop, and amazing staff!! read more

Red Octopus Tattoos - Piercing Near Me - Crofton, Maryland

I'm not really satisfied with the tattoo I got here. I went as a walk in which was my mistake because I should have taken the time to find a good artist and view their previous work before making an appt. I thought because red octopus is pretty well known in the area and had great Yelp reviews i would be good to get a relatively small tattoo. I thought i communicated what i wanted very well, as well as brought a picture, but it ended up looking very basic with hard outlines and cartoonish, kind of like one of those fake tattoos kids wear you can get out of a happy meal or party bag. No shading, no detail. Looks a little childish. I asked friends for honest opinions and didn't get good feedback on the tattoo, so now I'm kind of self conscious about it. Somebody even asked what it's supposed to be. I am now looking for a more experienced artist that can hopefully improve it. My advice is don't be impatient and forget common sense like me, research an artist's work first. Also overall I had a good experience with the staff taking me as a walk in. They were friendly and explained everything efficiently. I was a little underwhelmed that I let the shop know I wasn't happy with my tattoo, and the response was nonchalant. Didnt ask what was wrong, if they could fix it. I thought i read in their policy that customers get a free touch up, they didn't mention that to offer any kind of correction. So that didn't leave a good final impression with me either but anyway I will now be doing proper research and finding another artist. read more

Yesterday my sister and I went to get our first tattoos. First I'll say that the shop was beautiful! Everyone was very friendly with us which helped because we were ridiculously nervous lol... We hadn't made an appointment but were helped right away! Turtle was our tattoo artist. We had a blast with him! He saw that we were terrified and was very patient with us, told us what to expect, gave great advice as far as placement and tattoo care, and ofcourse it helped that he was extremely funny and friendly the entire time! This was a great first experience and we will definitely be back for more ink :) read more

Red Octopus Tattoos - Piercing Near Me - Crofton, Maryland

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Always enjoy walking in and hearing the buzz of the tattoo machines. Staff is always willing to help and the shop is spotless! I've gotten a lot of work done by Pat and hands down the best tattoo experience, not just the quality of work but the willing to work with your idea and the conversation is always great! I recommend him to everyone I know looking for ink. read more

I just got my daith and conch piercings done by Melissa and it was AMAZING! She was super nice and really helpful . The shop is clean and set up really nice. The whole process went great and it did not hurt at all . I was in and out in less than 30 minutes . I would definitely go back . I really want my rook next . I would highly recommend Red Octopus for piercings and make sure to ask for Melissa . read more

I have wanted a tattoo for quite sometime. I had a couple of little ones and then decided to get a bigger piece on my arm. I went back and forth for years and finally went to look online for an artist. We did have a friend recommend Pat as well. I went in and met with Pat he gave his opinion on how to incorporate his art with my idea. The session was great, chill atmosphere, good conversation, clean and comfortable. He delivered on the tattoo and I couldn't be happier. The ink he used is amazing and his lines so good! Highly recommend! read more

Red Octopus Tattoos - Lion tattoo done by Pat Aikin - Piercing Near Me - Crofton, Maryland

Overpriced and untalented. I can appreciate that they may employ apprentices to learn; I hope that is the case here. A simple, yet prominently placed, wedding ring tattoo, which was pretty much a simple straight, thick line, was crap. A line should have sharp ends, not a big ass period/dot. The fill of the black looks like water colors; it's not saturated at all. The dude must have thought he did well with the swagger and confidence, but dude needs a TON of more training before doing any more tattoos. Practice your craft! Art and skill. Get better or find a new career. read more

Ive been going here since I turned 18(23 now lol) This is definitely my happy place i love all of my tattoos and the piercer here is super gentle so i keep going back!! Ill be a customer here foreverrrr!!!! read more

Where do I even begging! I went in for a walk in and got Dominique Abban. He was amazing!! He was cracking jokes and making me feel very comfortable for my first tattoo! I will definitely go back to him again! If you are ever thinking about going here book your appointment with Dom!! read more

My daughter turned 18 and decided that the first thing she was going to do was get a tattoo. We processed this for quite some time prior to the date. We chose Red Octopus, what a great decision. This place is exceptionally clean and EVERYONE is professional, yet friendly. Pat Aikin did her tattoo. He is attentive and explains the process as he works. Her tattoo looks amazing! Thanks Pat! read more

I was tattooed by Kali Koltz earlier today- she crushed it, her work is awesome. Red Octopus Tattoos (Crofton) is great. I called their shop a few minutes after they opened to ask if they were taking walk-ins. The receptionist was pleasant and let me know they had some artists available. I swung by half-an-hour later, and there were already people waiting. I showed the receptionist what I had in mind, and she brought the picture back to Kali to see if she'd be up for it. Kali came up to the front, asked a few questions about the work, then said she could have something drawn up in no time. A little while later, she came back with an outline to show me. She asked what I thought, offered to print out a few different sizes to compare and contrast, and was overall very accommodating. I didn't ask her to change anything, it looked great. She took me back, got her station set up, then got to work. As we went, she offered breaks, as well as any sort of corrections or modifications to the work if something didn't look right (which wasn't necessary, she nailed it). Kali was clean, fast, and professional- most importantly the work she did looks awesome. The shop takes cards and has a great staff. They seem like a solid team and I saw some great communication between the artists. It looks like they get booked up quickly and there's only so much time for walk-ins, so call ahead (it'd be nice if they opened a few hours earlier- there was a line a few minutes after they opened, and I doubt they get that same sort of traffic late at night!). They also offer a 10% military discount, so if you're stationed at Ft Meade it's worth the trip. Don't be cheap, tip your artist well. Thanks again, Kali. My little squirrel dude looks awesome. read more

Just got my third piercing today done by Kira!! Absolutely love this place and will continue coming here for all my piercings. Kira is great and very sweet. She's great at what she does! I also love the jewelry selection at this location, there's truly a lot to choose from. I'm not much of a tattoo person but I love getting piercings. I definitely recommend this place. Good prices too in my opinion for good quality. I am about over an hour away from this location but the drive is worth it. Great people, good service. Always a positive experience. read more

I did a walk-in to get my navel pierced today. The process was super fast and easy and I was there for no longer than 10 minutes. Melissa did my piercing and she was super sweet and made me feel comfortable! My piercing turned out great. read more

Red Octopus (Prince Frederick) is definitely a clean, cool, and welcoming shop staffed by professional, happy folk. I really wish I could recommend it because it seems like a neat place. Unfortunately, I didn't have a great experience there just because of how crowded and seemingly confused everything was. I called and was told they offer walk-ins, but in order to get one, you do have to call, send an email, have a follow-up consultation over the phone, get placed on a waiting list, and then be ready to drop everything and come running in whenever they call you (which may be 30 minutes to closing), as they "can't hold your spot." I would honestly have preferred it if they just said they couldn't/didn't do walk-ins. Even once I managed to get a time sorted out, getting into the parking lot and finding an open space was a nightmare. The store itself was crowded and loud, which, on the one hand, is great, because surely a place with that much business must be good! But it does make for a bad experience, on an individual level, and I think it could've been managed better with a little organization and clarity. I'll be sticking with King of the Bay, personally, but I did have fun experiencing a new shop, especially such a famous/iconic one. If you're willing to endure a little hassle, by all means, try it out! read more