This post is a long time coming. I've always wanted a full sleeve tattoo, but for the longest time…read moreI had no idea how to start. Like many people, I thought I could just walk into a shop and ask, "How much is a sleeve?"--and quickly realized that's not how it works. A sleeve takes time, planning, patience, and commitment. My first point of contact at Electric Street Tattoo in Ft. Lauderdale was Nick, and he was incredible in helping me plan, design, and kick off my sleeve with some major pieces. He was patient, collaborative, and made the process enjoyable. His linework is bold and crisp, and I genuinely appreciated the hours spent with him. From there, Nick introduced me to Lexi, CJ, and Lyandra, who each added meaningful pieces to my arm. Every one of them took the time to not only tattoo, but to connect through great conversations that made me feel like part of the family. To this day, I feel like I could stop by just to say hi--even without booking a session. That's how comfortable and welcomed they made me feel. While working on my sleeve, I came across an Instagram video by Carlos Gonzales at Heart in Hand Tattoo in Arlington, TX (also known for his work at Elm Street Tattoo). His video showcased his incredible ability to tie tattoos together with creative gap fillers, making the whole arm flow beautifully. The moment I saw it, I knew I had to make the trip to Texas to have him finish my sleeve. When I finally sat in Carlos's chair, it felt like we clicked instantly. He freehanded with a Sharpie, which made the planning and flow effortless, and he was both meticulous and insanely efficient. If you can handle the pain, he can accomplish a ton in a single session! He tied everything together with gap fillers and larger webs on my shoulder and elbow, and when we wrapped up, I realized he had put the perfect finishing touch on my sleeve. This journey has been deeply personal. My inner-arm soccer player was my first tattoo below the t-shirt line--visible to the world. For me, it symbolized finally being comfortable in my own skin at 40 years old, making decisions for myself instead of for others. Every artist along the way has contributed to that story, and their work is now permanently part of me. I recently saw a video of an older woman explaining why she got her first tattoo at 80 years old. She said, "When I was a kid, I got stickers for being good. I've been good my whole life--I want more stickers." That resonated with me. Tattoos are my stickers, my reminders that I've lived, grown, and celebrated who I am. So, if you're looking for artists who not only create incredible tattoos but also make you feel welcome, valued, and inspired, go see the amazing team at Electric Street Tattoo in Ft. Lauderdale--and if you get the chance, make your way to Carlos Gonzales at Heart in Hand Tattoo in Arlington, TX. These are the people you want on your sleeve journey

This was my 3rd time coming back to this shop and let me tell ya, I just love it! The shop is fun…read moreand the artists here are all so talented. I found Monica back in 2023 for a Friday the 13th event and I really like her style, she's done 3 of my tattoos so far! I am absolutely in love with my new tattoo and I have gotten so many compliments so far. It means a lot to me and I appreciate the talent and time from Monica! Every time I've come here, it feels comfortable and the atmosphere is always so nice! They're all so talented and I suggest you check them out if you haven't yet. I will be back for their next Friday the 13th for sure and you should be there too!

My daughter only gets her piercings at The Chosen One. She is 17 and has gotten 14 of them with…read morePhat Matt. They have amazing customer service and the shop is SO clean. We will never go anywhere else!

My friends and i walked in and had such a great experience! Matt has the best energy, super genuine…read moreand was honest the whole time about the process. Also to mention, this shop believes in Jesus Christ!! Can't wait to come back!! Thanks Matt!!!

Emmy never fell to disappoint always makes me happy with her work and personality everyone is…read moreexcellent work speaks for self always professional

I finally got some new ink from my favorite tattoo artist, Juan Martinez. It's been 16 years since…read moremy last ink therapy session with him, and I have to say, his talent never disappoints. Even though the Dallas Cowboys are testing my patience right now, they're still my team. I made sure this tattoo reflected who I am--someone who's been a diehard Cowboys and Texas Rangers fan since childhood. I also added a tribute to DJ Screw, representing the music that shaped me over the years. Finally, I included the Texas State Capitol building to symbolize Austin, my home away from home. While I miss DFW, growing up means moving on. I've kept in touch with Juan over the years, ever since a friend introduced us. He did my first piece in memory of my mother before she passed, and I've trusted him ever since. Juan owns the shop, and when you walk in, you're welcomed by a chill vibe: a pool table, a couch, a TV, and music setting the tone for good vibes. The shop has three separate studios where they offer piercings, tattoos, and even tattoo removal. Parking in front of the building can be tight, but there's extra parking across the street near the Domino's Pizza. Juan is an incredible artist, and you can't go wrong choosing him for your ink therapy. He maintains a clean, professional setup needles are always sealed and properly disposed of in biohazard containers after each session. I booked my appointment a couple of months in advance, and he was flexible with my schedule since I was traveling in from Austin. He kept me updated all the way up to the day of the appointment, making the whole experience smooth and easy.

Malachi was great! Explained everything well for a first time tattoo! The tattoo looks excellentread more

This studio was very clean and extremely helpful. Christopher O'Toole was so awesome and very…read moreprofessional. This was only my second tattoo in my life and it was a big one. Chris helped me design an amazing memorial tattoo to memorialize my dad who we lost last year. Pop was a proud Marine, loved America to his core. Thanks again Chris I would happily go back again. He even helped answer my aftercare questions and gave great advice about long term care.

My first tattoo! Seda was wonderful and did an amazing job on my tattoo. We went through a few…read morestylistic changes and sizes, and she was not only kind and professional, but kept me engaged throughout the process.

10/10. Juice is absolutely amazing!!! We showed up as a walk-in and were greeted very politely and…read morewe felt instantly at ease. Juice listened to our ideas and started helping put our tattoo designs together and made us feel very comfortable. My tattoo was very simple but it turned out above my expectations, this is officially one of my favorite tattoos. Will for sure come back and get more work by him. Thank you for everything. #gator

I've been getting tattooed here for years. Top notch artwork, super clean and professional positive…read moreatmosphere.

Been going here for almost a decade and could not recommend anywhere else; the art is fantastic,…read morethe the artists are friendly and helpful, best tattoo shop around!

Ben Workman was excellent to work with. I sent him some concept images and he sent back the first…read moredraft. We made some revisions and ended up with the art in the pictures. He was so easy to work with, he didn't have any resistance to the changes requested in the design. The day of he was professional and incredibly helpful with managing some unexpected discomfort with my skin sensitivity. 10/10 recommending to all of my friends.

Mr grouch is as a super talented artist! Absolutely love his work. He is super fun to be tattooed…read moreby and makes you feel comfortable (while in pain lol) he has amazing attention to details. definitely worth the $$$. The shop is also very nice and super clean! All the staff was super welcoming!