I have two tattoos, each of which I got at Side Show Studios. I had shopped around for a few years to find the perfect place to go. I am a girl, I am blonde, and I get intimidated easily. I was always putt off by the pretentiousness of most of the other tattoo artists I had spoken with and did not like how they looked at me almost mockingly. So what, I am not grunge or emo, but I find tattoos beautiful. It was important for me to find that studio where I would feel comfortable. A friend of mine recommended Side Show and from the moment I stepped my foot into their studio I knew this would be the right choice. First of all, the receptionist was very, very friendly and extremely helpful. I felt welcome and it was overall just a clean, warm, and artistic environment (not like one of those sleazy run-down tattoo places). I spoke with Josh Green and made an appointment with him quickly. He is just so great about making you feel comfortable and really listening to what you want and where you want it. Everyone there is just to brilliantly talented. The price is also perfect, not too expensive. They take their time and will work with you, which I love. I am going to be moving back to So. Cal this coming summer, but will continue to drive back to Sacramento to get any future tattoos done at Side Show. read more

Ok, I've spent some time in Tattoo shops over the years and when you even just spend 2-3 hours you get a feel for not just the artist, but the shop. Side Show is very professional, and I believe all of the artists bring something to the table. I don't think you could get a bad tattoo there. Plus, they are about Art, not just Tattoo. That says something. Char, which would get more than 5 stars if possible is amazing. She has a way of giving you a tattoo that exceeds what was even in your head......of course that's why she's book 6+ months in advance. Clean, sterile shop, very professional, and is all about the customer, not the artist......that's a good shop!! read more

I haven't been to Sideshow's shop in Sacramento yet and do not live in that area. You can thus divorce my opinion from any local politics. I met Char at the SF Tattoo expo in 2008 while looking for someone to do a realistic dinosaur back piece. After perusing the MANY amazing artists work I settled on Char because of her incredible portfolio and artistic vision. I KNEW she was right for the job. As I said, I'm not in the Sac area, so it wasn't until the following SF expo that she started work on my piece and I have not been disappointed. The work is meticulous and unlike anything else. The style is so much more like a painting than traditional tattoo work and her eye for detail is wonderful. I cannot wait for her to finish what will be an amazing piece of art. I'd also like to mention that because I'm not in the area all the arrangements for the appointment at the show and my follow up appointments have been done online with Cy and she has been very helpful and everyone I met at the Side Show booth was very friendly and warm. I feel privileged to have been able to give her my body as a canvas. read more

Got my first tattoo here with jessica. She was super cool and nice and made me way less nervous after talking to her. She did an amazing job and I highly recommend her! THe prices are fair here and totally worth every penny. the people here have talent! also, the enviroment here is totally relaxed and comfortable. I will be going back! read more

Now that my tattoo has completely healed I can write my review! I came in looking to see if I could make an appointment with Jocelyn for my tattoo, but was told she was completely booked for months and was not currently taking any clients. However, they asked me what style I was looking for and gave me the portfolios of three artists they assured me could do a great job based on that style. I ended up really liking Keith's portfolio, and I told them I was looking to get a tattoo done preferably within that week that I would be in town. So Keith came down and gave me a consultation, asking me what design I had in mind. We talked for a while and he gave me some advice based on what he thought would work better for what I had in mind, which I really liked. He ended up giving me an appointment for that Friday. This place was distinct to me in that it had a very welcoming, friendly, "homey" vibe to it. Everyone was super courteous and I had a great time. Their waiting area even had very nice artwork for sale, and a bowl of candy (score!). Kevin did a great job on my watercolor tattoo and was able to tailor it to what I had envisioned. I have recommended this place to my friends and I would definitely come here again in the future! read more

Hmm those art gallery's you say "were not there"? well look around you, your missing some of sacs weirdest and amazing art that hits you right in the face as you come in. The people there were nothing but pleasant and the atmosphere was exhilarating, I couldn't stop looking around at all the cool painting and toys! And the tattoo artists portfolios are definitely worth seeing, the art is amazing and i would recommend everyone to stop by, even if its just to see the cool art that's everywhere( ha, even in the bathroom) read more

Char is incredible. She's absolutely the best. She is so talented and gentle and her work comes alive when out on skin. She helped me with a cover up, and this is it so far (one more session to go!) She took her time in making sure my tattoo was exactly what I wanted, and asked me about exactly what I didn't like about the old one. She fixed all the colors, you can't even tell what was there before. Char is hard to book, but well worth the wait! read more

I initially wanted to go here to get some work done based on the reviews on Yelp. About 2 weeks ago, I called to schedule an appointment and I let the person I was speaking with know that I was fine with whoever was available. She suggested that I come in to take a look at each of the artists' portfolios, so I could choose myself who I wanted to get work done from. I took her advice and went to the shop on Wednesday, 4/18 and spoke with Josh. I let him know what I wanted, and he even emailed a picture from my phone to himself of what I wanted done, so he could show the artist exactly what I wanted. He said that he'd call me the following day to confirm my appointment. Thursday passed, never heard from him or the shop. No worries, figured they were just busy. Friday afternoon comes around, still havent heard anything, so I decide to call the shop myself. I explained to the person I was speaking with the situation, and that Josh was supposed to confirm my appointment with one of the artists, and that an email of what I wanted was sent as well. I also explained to her what I was looking to get done. She said she would figure out what was going on and will return my call to schedule my appointment. Never heard back at all. Based on all the reviews, they seem to be a shop that really values the relationships with their clients, but not so much in my case. I'm sure they do really good work, but if they don't even have the courtesy to return my call let alone schedule an appointment, that should be more than enough to turn any potential client away. Needless to say, I'm taking my business elsewhere. read more

LOVE this shop. Great ambiance, very professional/clean and superb artistry by Char. Love my latest ink!

I worked with Jocelyn at the Hampton Roads Tattoo Convention and she is amazing all around! Besides the fact that her artwork and tattoos are absolutely incredible - she's super sweet, easy to talk to, and really helpful. I really lucked out running into Jocelyn and Mary at the convention! I highly recommend Jocelyn's unique and rad tattoos! My tattoo is healing really nicely and the machine she uses is extremely gentle! read more

This is the best tattoo studio i have ever been to. They have the most amazing artists and is also home of the famous Char Hall. I am currently having a large piece done by her and I already have plans for my next one. I get compliments on it everywhere i go. Getting a spot with her can be hard because she is so talented but if you have a really unique idea swing by the shop and run it by her. They also have a great selection of art that is actually affordable. The studio is also home to a frame shop so its very convenient. Super cool and down to earth folks here and the studio is home to amazing art. I feel like its sacramentos best kept secret for tattoo studios. Check it out! read more

I got 2 of my tattoo's here: one from their old employee Blue and the other from their new artist, Cory. I'm 100% satisfied with both their work. The place is clean, professional, and decently priced. Each artist has their own work station with a display of their talents. I've been to other tattoo studios in Sacramento but this one is the best by far! read more

Recently visited sideshow to see my favorite tattoo lady Jenn Ponci. (We know eachother from living up the hill) the shop was huge and impeccably clean! (Which was really nice to see.) Jenns space is comfortable and welcoming. I was so eager to hop on the table and wake up with "whatever." I love working with Jenn because she takes her job very seriously. There is an Integrity within her that shows throughout every step of the process, she genuinely wants you to LOVE your tattoo. (I've always loved everyone. More than I expected!) I appreciate her hand drawing up ideas before our appts. And doing a full consultation with me and putting in her ideas in how to make it better. Jenn has a soft touch and checks in with you regularly to make sure you're comfortable, which my chest appreciates. I've had her fix old tattoos, draw me custom things, and I've also adopted her flash I love Jenn ponci, she's the cats meow. read more

Side Show Studios - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Grove, California

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I have been a customer of Side Show studios for over two years now. I initially was interested in getting a tattoo here because a friend of mine got a tattoo from Char when she first went into business, and I went with my friend to her consultation appointment. I was so impressed with Char's calm, professional attitude and how she seemed to nail exactly what my friend wanted, that I didn't want to get a tattoo from anyone else. My tattoo took two years - a full back piece - I had a once-a-month appointment. Unlike many other tattoo shops, I had a regular monthly appointment time just for me - this is another mark of Side Show Studio's professionalism. A lot of tattoo shops overbook their master tattoo artist, and if you start a huge piece they just fit you in "whenever" and several months can go by inbetween appointments. I am so glad that Side Show studios does not employ this practice. I followed Char as she switched locations, and can say that her new studio is the classiest tattoo shop I've ever seen. Absolutely professional environment, very clean (you can tell that Char's shop follows all the required health and business standards because of the daily cleaning checklist in the bathroom that employees are required to check off as they clean the bathroom each day.) Staff is always welcoming, friendly, polite. Very on top of their scheduling too - on the rare occasion that Char came down sick, staff called me right away and worked with me to find a new appointment time. My review is mostly about my time with Char, but I have found every member of her staff to be professional and helpful at all times. Char also worked with the Department of Health or whatever regulating agency it is when she opened up her new shop to ensure that my service dog would be allowed in the shop during my appointments. I mean, this should really be a given, right? Yet, I have found that a lot of businesses are ignorant about service dog legislation. In other businesses I have been asked to leave even though my black lab is clearly identified with her service dog vest with the name of the nationwide service dog agency AND she has an ID card. (Unlike the "fake" service dogs you see everywhere these days - people buying those fake vests off the internet and taking their pet chihuahua or pomeranian with them into the grocery store or into Starbucks - but that's another story.) I appreciate that Char went out of her way to educate herself on the ADA legislation. Another way that Side Show Studios goes above and beyond. I am extremely happy with the quality of my tattoo, the welcoming atmosphere of the shop, and the quality of the staff. I wouldn't go to anyone else. read more

Side Show Studios - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Grove, California

I just finished my 1st tattoo ever, at Side Show today, the personnel, were very professional and on point about the process and art. My wife had hers done here and I have had nothing but respect with the way the shop is run and the integrity of the artists. I have an original piece of Char Hall art work, that I have long admired. It is something that speaks to who I am and I am very proud of it. Thanks to Char and Cy for an awesome first experience. About the next two........ read more

I went here for a tattoo a couple of weeks ago, and my artist was absolutely amazing! He made me feel totally comfortable, and made sure I was in no pain while tattooing me. I was a bit worried that the actual tattoo was going to hurt (it was right underneath my collar bone) but he kept me in a conversation, so I didn't even notice! Great place to go to if you're getting your first tat done, they are very kind people. Price wasn't bad either. And unlike other tattoo shops, they don't have a sign posted every five feet reminding you to tip your artist. I will definitely be returning to them for my next tattoo. read more

I love this studio, not only are the artists amazing, and great people,but the art on the walls and the layout of the shop is nice. I have many hours, a good 25 or so, under the hand of Matt Marsango and he has never disappointed. With complete freedom of color, which I leave up to him, he goes to work and everytime I leave with a more than amazing work of art. Both of my pieces by Matt recieve compliments almost daily, on the detail, quality and how much the colors pop. read more

Andre was a consummate professional as always, while also being funny, friendly and comfortable to be around. The time flew by and the work is stunning. The rest of the staff are beyond cool and welcoming. An amazingly warm, friendly and fun vibe from all I encountered. A great experience. I recommend this place to all as it rises above and beyond the run of the mill tattooing experience. read more

Jenn has done amazing work on me for the past few years. I usually give her a vague idea of what I'm thinking and I am always amazed at what she comes up with. She takes her time to make sure it's perfect and I always appreciate the detail to her work. I have recommended a few people to her as well and they have all loved her and her work! read more

Side Show Studios is the best. It is housed in a restored Craftsman cottage, very clean, with lots of art on display. After two bad tattoo experiences at other tattoo studios (hated them), I was leery of getting another one, but I was intrigued by a friends beautiful and delicate tattoos. She told me about her tattoo artist, Shawn Mahaffey at Side Show Studios, and I set up a consultation with him. Shawn listened to what I wanted (a gecko on the inside of my ankle) and created the most beautiful, realistic gecko for me from photos and drawings we both found. I am complimented on it all the time, and tell everyone who did it. I had Shawn do some work on one of my existing tattoos and now I'm no longer embarrassed to show my back. And this is just the beginning: my friend and I are going in soon for custom-designed tattoos by Shawn. I have seen tattoos done by the other artists at Side Show and have no reservations recommending this studio for anything you might want done. read more

Jocelyn McGregor has an endless creative mind. From photography to her latest venture in tattooing, she proves she is one of the best "up & comers" (though I feel she is already there) to hit the scene. I have already tossed her name around, plenty, when asked where I got my tattoo (my first). I'm excited to see how her work progresses. read more

I've been meaning to do this for so long. I heart Shawn! Such an awesome artist, great bedside manner and puts up with my squirming and overly talky self. I have finally decided to get over my long drummed in idea that women with tattoos were something bad....and this is something that Shawn has earned a life long customer over. Thank you Shawn for all your just out right bad-assness and everyone that I've met there who have been nothing but fantastic. Here's to many more to come with you Shawn!! read more

The shop is amazing. Very friendly people awesome conversation to take your mind off the pain :) Andre and Jen are both fun to be around and Jen does great work! read more

Super CLEAN and welcoming with a lot of smiling faces. The caliber of Artists here is amazing! Shawn Mahaffey is my mega-talented Artist and we will be back for more from him! There is a bit of a wait but he is worth it. Shawn has done a large photo-realistic piece for me that has incredible depth and beauty. We collaborated on concepts and all his ideas/changes were thoughtful and brilliant. He is very creative and was able to work off a few sketches, photos and some of the "emotions" I wanted to evoke when people saw my tat. I also love how comfortable and clean Shawn's space and equipment is. I feel very comfortable with asking him to execute anything I can dream of. I would recommend him to anyone wanting anything from simple to super special. I LOVE that he is always on time. read more

Love this place!! We have been coming here since 2008 and have left happy every time. We are having a back piece fixed that was started by a different shop. It will be so amazing when it is complete! Char is the one and only for my husband and myself!! read more

Jocelyn did an amazing job in my watercolor flower tattoo on my back. With her direction - the size, the placement, the essence, and the beauty shines through - her guidance was so important and she made it what it is - beautiful, perfectly placed, and proportioned. She is an amazing artist!! Thanks again Jocelyn for the amazing piece of art I can call mine. You're attention to detail and congeniality made me feel like i finally found tattoo artist I can be comfortable with. read more

I'm from Chico, but stopped by to check out the shop. Ended up getting a tattoo by Kellie Connor. She is awesome and did a great job. The shop has a cool vibe to it and is very clean. I highly recommend this shop in Midtown. read more

Seriously impressed by her work. In studio and online portfolios are amazing. Her work shows her passion for animals and plant life (flora and fauna) and so much more. She doe's cover ups too...very talented artist here! read more

I've been working with Andre Garcia since WAY before he was working at this shop and I've always had a wonderful experience doing business with him! He is extremely professional and has reasonable prices. His work is stellar and I cannot wait to have him tattoo me again. I recently came by this shop to have my neck touched up by Andre and I was amazed at how tidy and cute the place was. Char's work is all over the walls and she's made the shop have a very homey feeling to it. Looking forward to visiting again soon! read more

Shawn, at Sideshow, is remarkable. He added to a pre-existed tattoo and I love the results. Both times I sat with Shawn, the time flew by. I'm looking forward to working more tattoos down my arm. I can't wait. I recommend Shawn and Side Show Studio to everyone. read more

As always, the artists at Side Show were awesome during my most recent session. Not only is each and every artist there incredibly talented, they are personable and professional. Walk-ins are *not* the standard here so if you expect an empty chair and an artist waiting for you to meander in on a whim, you've got the wrong place; the demand for their time necessitates appointments scheduled in advance. The caliber of both the work this crew does and the customer service is a reflection of how much they appreciate not only what they do but also how much they appreciate us, their clients. The talent, skill, and competence of this crew is why Side Show is the *only* studio that will ever work on my dermis canvas. Do expect to respected, taken care of, and to leave elated with your tattoo. read more

I will never go anywhere else for a tattoo. I have 3 tats that were all done at this shop and will never go anywhere else. The day they close and Char Hall retires is the day I stop getting tattoos. Phenomenal work! read more

Great Tattoo Shop! Andre did a great Job on my boyfriends tat! I recommend making an appointment, they sometimes have a long waiting list!

So glad I found Side Show Studios! Keith has been amazing to work with both for piercing and tattooing. Everyone here is amazing, talented and fun to deal with. Just wa read more

I have gotten tattoos at many shops in Sacramento. One of the hardest things involving the the tattoo world is finding an artist who you can connect with. Consulting with an artist who does not seem excited to tattoo me has been one of my biggest complaints about shops in the area. Matt Marsango at Sideshow Studios has put all those complaints to rest. I've been getting tattoos from Matt for about 2 years now and could not be happier. There is a level of comfort and belonging at Sideshow that you don't get at other shops. I'm so tired of the "cool guy" attitude that you get at other shops. On top of being easy to get along with, Matt is an amazing artist. His shading is spot on and his color work is clean and vibrant. We are working on a "biomech" sleeve and my only gripe is that I can't decide whether to color it or not. As far as gripes go I'll take it. read more

Hmm, what can I say? I did research and a friend recommended Side Show to me and as I started looking at the work, I decided I wanted Blue to do my tattoo. I loved my tattoo......but as it healed, I definitely needed a touch up. I contacted Blue several times to set an appointment. Due to circumstances out of her control, my appointment was cancelled and she said she would contact me to reschedule. It's been 5 months and I've decided to give up - and I'm having the tat touched up by someone else. It's too bad, I thought she did incredible work - and was recommending her to other friends, although now, we are going to go with someone else. Customer Services goes a long way............ read more

Went to Jenn when she was in Grass Valley. She does my son's tattoos and he recommended her. She is the best! Very good experience and you won't regret tattoo from her. read more

I had a beautiful floral piece created here recently...and shall return for more! I love Side Show's artists and guest artists. They absolutely do some truly amazing custom work! Everyone at Side Show is so real, down to earth and loves to laugh..they totally greet everyone with big smiles. You can just walk in and look around without feeling uncomfortable. Fabulously clean environment surrounded by all sorts of wonderful art and good spirits! Definitely worth stopping by, even for a look-see! read more

LOVe THIS PLACE!!! all the artists are amazing the place is welcoming and no sheets of flash art on the walls original art is plentiful. if you want a piece of vintage flash art tattooed they can do it but better yet stretch shawns imagination and you will be pleasantly surprised read more

Strait up this is my favorite studio in the west coast. I don't even like a studio until I came here with my girl who is the art type ya no. She is makin me write this Smmfh. read more