Jon was very responsive and easy to schedule with. He made our appointment feel important even though we were just getting small, quick tattoos. Would definitely go back for any future work, the shop is spotless. read more

I have been a customer of Solid State Tattoo for many years. The owner Jon is my "go to guy" for tattoos. I have nearly a full arm sleeve from him and 1/2 my lower calf. He is super talented and does beautiful traditional style tattoos, color tattoos and black and gray tattoos. He has always exceeded my expectations and taken my tattooed farther than I imagined. Each new one becomes another top favorite. The shop itself is amazing. Yes, it is clean and you feel comfortable and safe being tattooed there. But more than that, Jon has uncovered the gorgeous historical aspects of his shop. The brick walls, gorgeous trim work, floors,and stunning tile ceiling makes his shop a piece of artwork itself. Just stop in and be in awe. There are tons of flashes to see and lots of cool artwork. But the best thing is leaving there with your very own piece of artwork to enjoy forever. Artist Josh is also fantastic and I have see tons of his pieces as well. He is someone you can trust and you'll be happy with his work. Both Josh and Jon take pride in their artwork. It shows. That's why I keep going back. It's pretty awesome to have talent right here in the city and not have to go searching for it. read more

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Great shop, beautifully done, clean n really nice. Jon was very helpful in finalizing my design of the US Marine Corp eagle, globe, and anchor. Honoring both my dad and son, my son is currently serving. I'm very happy with the results and so are a few of my friends that have some ink. I highly recommend this shop and Jon. It's a really cool shop honoring some of the old tattoo artists. Jon is truly into his craft and it shows in his shop. Thank you very much for a great job. read more

Solid State Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

I waited until I turned 40 to get my first tattoo. My wife had heard of Jon and Josh's shop and recommended I go there. The tattoo came out as good as I could have hoped, if not better. Jon was my artist and it went very smoothly and I had no discomfort at all. If I ever decide to get another I will be coming back to Solid State Tattoo! read more

Josh is great! Nice guy, works on the art until it's just how you want it. Makes suggestions too which is helpful for this tattoo newbie. Clean place also. Have gotten 2 from him now and referred several people. Thank you Josh! read more

Solid State Tattoo - By Josh Howard: world globe on one side with the plane taking off to the other - Tattoo Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Been going here for a few years now. No games or gimmicks, great work every single time. I Highly recommend.

Great experience. I had a cover up tattoo done by Jon last year, and it looks great a year later, and I'm sure it will look great in the years to come. I was so impressed with it that I got the itch to get another tattoo (this time, not a cover up). Same great experience as last time. Jon is good at reading whether you need to talk, want to relax, etc to make you comfortable being tattooed. My thigh piece took about 2 hours for both lining and color. My husband also got tattooed by Josh and has no complaints. He was very fast - about 15 minutes for a inner forearm piece. read more

An excellent experience all around. I've had Josh do two tattoos for me, and on both occasions he was quick, professional, and friendly. The artwork is terrific, and the shop is clean and bright. Solid State is the best in the City of Milwaukee. read more

I was visiting Milwaukee for the first time so I decided to get myself a souvenir piece. Josh Howard did a great job with the concept I suggested and I'm really glad I chose him and this shop. I was able to chat a bit with John the owner as well and he seemed like a genuinely nice person. I highly recommend this place and will be back next year for another round.... read more

Solid State Tattoo - Well Milwaukee is a beer town so what better way to commemorate a good time in a really cool town.... - Tattoo Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

I had an appointment originally at Old Salt a couple of blocks away, but the guy going to do it said he "thinks he forgot about me" and never showed up which was disappointing. So, I called at 6 pm, pretty sure Solid State closes at 8 pm and asked if they were still taking walk-ins, and luckily, they were. I made it there within five minutes of the call, had the design of my tattoo drawn out, filled out the paperwork, and got my very first tattoo that did not hurt at all really. In and out in less than thirty minutes. Josh was amazing. I meant to write this review a long time ago. But for a freshly turned 18-year old getting her first tattoo, he walked me through the whole process in a way that actually made me comfortable as I was about to have my skin abraded. So, thanks for that. DEFINITELY returning for any future ink. read more

I visited Solid State Tattoo for the first time earlier this afternoon. After spending 43 years on the planet and not having a tattoo, does a person have the right to write a review about a tattoo shop? Hear me out. Last Saturday night, I grabbed a sandwich at Fuel Cafe and fell in love with the geisha girl painting on the wall. The following night, I went to Palomino and noticed a painting from the very same artist. After a short amount of time searching for him on Google, I discovered the artist was named Jon Reiter. I contacted Jon about buying a painting and visited the shop to make a deposit on my purchase. While talking to my friend, Katie, as she cut my hair I discovered she was a fan of Jeremy's work from the shop and had plans to get a tattoo from him in the future (which lead to me thinking of writing this review). After spending 43 years on the planet without a tattoo, I think Jon Reiter is the artist I trust enough to put needle to skin. I think that speaks volumes, does it not? read more

I can't say enough good things about Solid State. The shop is immaculately clean and the entire staff is friendly. I highly recommend booking an appointment with Josh Howard. He's very talented and down to earth. He does beautiful work and swiftly, too! I followed Josh to Solid State after he left Pioneer in Chicago. Do yourself a favor and book an appointment. Even if you're in Chicago, it's worth the drive. read more

Took my 18 y.o. daughter to Solid State yesterday for her first tattoo, and she was thrilled with it. Exactly what she wanted. Now, I thought it was pretty damn good too, and I've got about 80-some hours worth of tattooing on me, so I'll go out on a limb and claim that I know a bit about tattooing, tattooers, and tattoo shops. I've known Josh Howard lo these many moons, since he worked in Chicago for a large shop there. His work was solid then, and he has built on his experience and really come into his own here at Solid State. IF you're shopping for quality tattooing in Milwaukee, here's the place. I've already given Josh the design for my next piece, and am taking my other daughter back for her next piece here shortly. read more

I've been going on for years about getting a cover-up done on a 20 year old koi tattoo that was showing its age. I liked the work of Jon Reiter's that I saw online, and a few friends had also had great experiences at Solid State, so I booked a consultation with Jon. The studio is impeccably clean, and feels more like an art gallery than the 'typical' tattoo shop. I brought inspiration images with me, we went through them together, and Jon asked a lot of clarifying questions to make sure we were speaking the same language. I really appreciated the effort he put into understanding precisely what I wanted, and he was also very matter of fact regarding what could feasibly be achieved as a cover-up. Jon was very up-front that the look I was after was outside of his natural, go-to hand as an artist, but he took on the challenge and seemed to be inspired by it. I booked my appointment for about three weeks later. I didn't see my drawing until the time of my appointment. That made me a little nervous, since I'm overly particular and wanted to make sure I had time to tweak the art if it wasn't exactly "right" -- but I had absolutely nothing to worry about, since Jon seems to be overly particular as well. The art was awesome and matched up with the vision in my mind. Jon got to work, and 2.5 hrs later, my cover-up was done...and I am SO pleased with it! The work is really beautiful, achieved the unique look I was after...and you'd never know it was a cover-up unless I pointed it out. I also have to add that this tattoo healed AMAZINGLY well. I don't know if it was Jon's skill, or the fact that his care instructions are simple yet specific...but I had very little weeping, itching, or discomfort from the healing process. My new pair of 'painted' koi are really beautiful, and I couldn't be happier with the end result. I will absolutely go back here when the urge for more ink hits me! read more

I hiiiighhlyyy recommend going to Solid State for a tattoo. Most people on the east side just go to the 3 star places around Brady but if you want awesome 5 star quality, hop on the bus for 20 minutes and go here. I requested Josh based on his online portfolio and I couldn't be more satisfied. I will definitely go back. read more

I love my tattoo that I got from here! Very friendly staff. The owner himself did my tattoo. Very fun to work with. He considered my needs while giving his view on it. He was very willing to give advice on good and bad if tattoos and just made me and my friend feel comfortable. The price was good as well for the tattoos too. I am very happy with the tattoo I received from there and I will be going back! read more

Solid State Tattoo - Swahili symbol done by John. - Tattoo Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Josh is my man. Created a stunning tattoo (see picture) from just my quotation, a grainy kid's book illustration and a song. I never imagined it looking as beautiful and I cried when I first saw it! Josh is a quiet fellow but gets the job done without delay. It was my first tat so I don't know common practice, but hoo mama it would have been nice to have a distraction for the 45 minutes it took! Hurt worse than anything I remember, despite Josh's HILARIOUS joke that it just felt like "someone scraping a pen across sunburn." If I get another, I'll go nowhere else! read more

Solid State Tattoo - Couldn't be more satisfied with Josh's design and work. - Tattoo Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Great place, very professional and Josh did an amazing job with my artwork. The shop it's self is a work of art with a great work. Josh Howard executed my vision to perfection. read more

Great shop, awesome artwork, excellent service. Ask for John-- very cool guy, great to talk with, talented as hell. Very great experience, I look forward to going back. read more

My husband and I both have sleeves done by Jon and couldn't be happier with the results. The shop is clean and classy, the guys are extremely professional and really listen to what you're asking for. I constantly get asked where I got tattooed because of the quality of my tattoos. My dad and sister also got tattooed there! read more

Solid State Tattoo - So happy with all of my work! - Tattoo Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Since my first review, I have been in twice to get additional work. Both times I was inked by Josh and both times I walked away happy. I was particularly pleased with the way Josh recolored one of my older tats. It was about 15 years old and the colors had significantly faded. Josh made it look better than the original. Vibrant and crisp--just the way I like it. read more

Such a great place. Jon has been more then helpful with taking the time to design at tattoo for me. The shop is very clean. When you get there make sure to look at the ceiling it's truly amazing... Can't wait to go back and get some more work done.. read more

i just happen to catch a glimpse of my back in the mirror and got inspired to write this. for real if your getting a tattoo in milwaukee then you should be having john or jeremy do it. you walk threw the door and instead of the traditional janky tattoo shop you walk in to something that more resembles an art gallery. i could not be more pleased with the work done here. my dad is pretty stoked on his too! read more

Solid State Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Jon was great. First tattoo ever and he did a great job - patient, safe, and expert work. I highly recommend him and Solid State!

Josh did my first tattoo just over a month ago. It was exactly the experience I was hoping for. He was really chill, really patient, and gave me great advice without being pushy and still staying true to what I wanted. He encouraged me to be picky about placement, and I'm glad he did... the text on the inside of my left arm is fantastic and I'll be going back for the other arm very soon. read more

Beyond happy and thrilled! Josh is a wonderful artist! Found my shop and person to go to! Highly recommend! read more

Solid State Tattoo - Josh did a wonderful job! Beyond thrilled! - Tattoo Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

I finally put my big girl pants on and got the tattoo I've wanted forever. This place made the cut. They made me feel super at ease and comfortable. I got a pretty decent sized tat on my foot and its absolutely perfect. Julio is immensely talented. Worth the 5 week wait time. Can't wait to book another appointment. read more

Jon Reiter did my tattoo and he was just amazing! It was my first tattoo ever and i wouldn't go to any other artist! Jon was so friendly, polite and very attentive. He took his time with me, answered all of my questions, calmed me down, gave me time to take breaks. Very understanding, i really liked it! The tattoo itself turned out IDENTICAL to the picture i gave him! I am just so pleased and will be recommending Solid State and Jon to everybody! Thank you!!!! read more

Jon is a kind, easy going artist -- so happy we cosmically fell into his studio for some very meaning tattoo work. We showed up with his proposed sketches based on conversations we had over the phone/online. Looking forward to another trip back in to see Jon! Thank you for everything! read more

Loved my experience ! If I ever come back to this town I will most definitely go back !

Jon Reiter is one of the very best tattoo artists in Milwaukee. His attention to detail is unparalleled. If you have some serious ink that you've been wanting to get done, then Jon will work with you to make it just the way you want it. It will come out looking spectacular, then you'll be the cool kid with your friends showing off your awesome ink. read more

Solid State is absolutely the best shop in Milwaukee. Clean. Comfortable. Polite. Incredibly talented artists. I have several tattoos inked by Julio. If you want color, this is your guy. I am stopped constantly by those admiring the EL CORAZON piece he did for me three years ago. The color is still amazing! Go here. No hesitation. This is your place. read more

Had a great experience getting my very first tattoo at Solid State. The shop came highly recommended by friends, and it's easy to see why as soon as you walk in. The shop is very clean and filled with beautiful flash art, including some fascinating prints that show the history of tattooing in Japan; I was nervous, but Jon was great about walking me through it and giving me a chance to rearrange myself and take a break when I needed to. He has a calming presence & is a true artist. He's literally written books about traditional flash art, so I knew there wasn't anyone else in the city I'd rather work with for this piece. I absolutely love the tattoo I got and would definitely return for any further tattoo needs! read more

Solid State is clearly the best shop in Milwaukee. Don't chance it with anyone/anywhere else. Jon is super nice and and the shop is clean and full of character. Hope to see you guys again someday soon! read more

Josh Howard is the single best tatoo artist ive come across in my life. His vision and ability to understand what you want your work to look like is second to none. I would recommend him to anyone. read more

These guys are all super nice, even to a "newbie". I had Julio and I felt like he really listened to me and what I wanted. Especially with the colors and shading. He kept me entertained while he was working with funny stories and was really good at explaining what was going to happen, and why and all of that. I agree with the other poster that it has an "artsy" feel, and I like that. I will definitely go back, once I decide what to get! read more

I love this place. I am working on a half sleeve and have been here so far for two tattoo's with Josh. I couldn't recommend him more. He is super nice and gentle, not heavy handed. He is really good at listening to what your vision is and making it real. It's hard for me to imagine exactly what, what I want will look like, but he seems to always know how its supposed to turn out. He is great with bright colors and blending, just fantastic work. A great artist. read more

Josh is awesome!! He's a talented artist and the place is very clean. Highly recommended

Jon and Josh are easy to work with. A great tattoo every time.

Jon Reiter did my tattoo and it was a really great experience. It was my first tattoo (my friend bought it for me for my 50th birthday) so I was very nervous, but John made me feel right at home. And the results were amazing! I'm kicking myself that I didn't do this sooner! I can't say enough good things about Jon and the shop. read more