Find a tattoo shop in San Francisco, CA

Find tattoo shops in San Francisco, CA

Find tattoo shops in San Francisco, CA

Share a few details and we'll show you the best tattoo shops in your area.
Zip code

Find tattoo shops in San Francisco, CA

Share a few details and we'll show you the best tattoo shops in your area.
Zip code

Top 10 tattoo shops in San Francisco, CA

Clients agree: these San Francisco tattoo shops are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
Fonk Ink

Fonk Ink

New on Fash
Offers online services
7+ years in business
Serves San Francisco, CA
Let me start off my saying nothing is possible without God. I'm a self taught tattoo artist with over 10 years of experience. This is my passion and I love what I do.
Uncover Body Art

Uncover Body Art

5.0Exceptional(23)
19 hires on Fash
7+ years in business
Serves San Francisco, CA
Victor R. says, "Jim was very chill and is a great artist. I got my birth year tattooed on my neck and it turned out amazing! The studio was also spotless and I loved the decor." Read more
Tea Tattoos

Tea Tattoos

New on Fash
19+ years in business
Serves San Francisco, CA
Hello I’m tea like Mr.tea bin tattooing for 15 years I do my best to bring to life any idea and make the experience a amazing memorable one no matter how big or how small. I have spent years training in different styles and still after all these years keep learning and expanding my tattoo abilities and craft amazing tattoos
Golden Star Tattoo Company

Golden Star Tattoo Company

New on Fash
6+ years in business
Serves San Francisco, CA
We are the premier tattoo studio in historic San Francisco Chinatown, specializing in custom tattooing.

Your tattoo shop questions, answered

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Fash.

How much do tattoos cost?

The average cost for a tattoo is $50 to $250 for a small or simple image like a heart or cross, or $150 to $450 for a medium-sized tattoo like a portrait or tribal design. For a complex design or large tattoo, like a half or full sleeve or full back, prices start and $500 and can reach $4,000.

Tiny tattoos under 2 inches typically cost $30 to $100 or the tattoo parlor's minimum fee.

Tattoo artists charge $120 to $150 per hour, depending on their experience and reputation and the design complexity.

How much should you tip a tattoo artist?

Tip a tattoo artist 20% if you're happy with their work or up to 25% for intricate custom designs or if the artist exceeded your expectations.

Do tattoo shops do piercings?

Many tattoo places also do piercings for ears, noses, tongues, belly buttons, and more. However, not all shops offer this service. Contact local tattoo parlors to confirm whether piercing is offered.

What should I expect when getting a tattoo done at a shop?

After finding a tattoo artist who specializes in the style you want, book an initial consultation to discuss your design placement, size, colors, and features. Most consultations are free and last 30 to 60 minutes. After confirming the design, the artist will schedule your appointment.

During your appointment, you'll be seated in a tattoo chair, usually in an open area. If you prefer a private area, be sure to request it in advance.

The artist will prep your skin, then apply a stencil or draw the design on your skin so you can review it and make any final changes. Then, the artist will tattoo the design with needles inserted into the skin. Though the process will hurt, most artists agree the first minute is the worst.

How long does a tattoo take to heal?

A tattoo takes up to 6 months to fully heal, though your skin will go through several stages of healing during that time.

  • At week 2, the tattoo may begin to itch as it flakes and scabs.
  • In weeks 3 and 4, a layer of dry skin will form over the tattoo before exfoliating itself, and the itchiness will fade. Redness and itching at this stage may be an early sign of an infected tattoo.
  • After the first month, all itchiness and redness should be gone, but the skin below your tattoo may continue repairing itself for up to six months.

How do I choose the best tattoo shop near me?

Follow these tips to select the right tattoo artist for you:

  • Decide what style of tattoo you want. Look for artists who specialize in that style.
  • Ask for recommendations from friends and family.
  • Read reviews on Fash and Google.
  • Browse tattoo artists' portfolios of designs similar to yours.
  • Look for licensed, certified tattoo artists.
  • Choose the tattoo placement.
  • Meet with the artist for an initial consultation to discuss your ideas and vision for the design.
  • Confirm the shop is clean and sanitary and the staff is professional.

What questions should I ask tattoo parlors?

Ask the tattoo artist these questions before deciding who to hire:

  • How long have you been tattooing?
  • Are you licensed and certified?
  • Which styles do you specialize in?
  • Can I see your portfolio?
  • Which placement would you recommend for this design, and why?
  • How do you sanitize your equipment?
  • What aftercare routine do you recommend?
  • What deposit do you require?
  • Do you guarantee your work? What happens if you make a mistake in my design?

Reviews for San Francisco tattoo shops

Recent success stories from people in the San Francisco area.
Gabriella P.
Jimmy was very attentive to detail and answered any and all concerns I had about my tattoos. I felt very comfortable throughout the session. He also gave helpful aftercare instructions
Uncover Body Art
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