Recently back for more. And yes it was worth the effort and planning to get an appointment. If you are reading this review I will assume you are a serious tattoo aficionado who respects/appreciates a true artist. Everyone has their personal opinion about tattoos. And if you are a person reading reviews of tattoo artists hoping to find a person to trust with putting art on your body that is permanent I can't recommend enough the value of coming to this studio to see Marlo. She is a true artist. Tattooing to me should represent a spiritual experience with the artist. Trust in them to put on your body a piece of art that fits you. Something that matches your unique life and personality. Well, Marlo does all that. No stencils. Just free drawing an extension of my heart onto my body to remind me of my strength and resilience. She told me more meanings and I was absolutely touched at the insight she had into me as a woman. She created a visual representation that is so beautiful. Does getting a tattoo hurt? Yes. Of course it does. But Marlo is an amazingly caring professional and will stop as needed to check in on you and take breaks if necessary. But don't go into it thinking it isn't going to hurt. That is just silly. Some parts hurt less than others of course and everyone has their pain tolerance. But be realistic peeps, come on now! Be safe and enjoy life! SYOY! read more

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I am beyond HAPPY and in LOVE with my tattoo!! Marlo is welcoming, professional, and clearly extremely passionate about her art work. She genuinely took the time to make you feel comfortable and safe. She understood exactly what I wanted and what I wanted it to represent, and executed the design flawlessly! Her line work and shading are top-tier, and hygiene standards were excellent! Earthbound Tattoo brings on good and positive vibes, and is great with communication! If you're looking for a skilled, reliable tattoo artist, she is the one for you! Marlo - I am so honored to have the privilege to get this beautiful art piece from you! You and Le are genuinely great people! Keep doing what you both are excellent at! Aloha & Mahalo! 'til next time read more

Marlo is amazing. She's confident and kind. She took my vision and turned it into an amazing piece of art I will treasure forever. She's honest, authentic and talented. Mahalo! read more

My favorite art on my body. Thank you so much. Can't wait to get more work done by you. read more

Earthbound Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - Sand City, California

A long overdue review for the ABSOLUTELY wonderful Marlo. I requested a memorial piece for my grandfather because I love Marlo's floral work. She incorporated something in Mexican culture we call a Centenario, and then added calla lilies and daffodils. To this day, it's my favorite tattoo I have ever received, and she is bar none the best tattoo artist if ever had the pleasure of receiving work from. Marlo is a beautiful soul, someone who treats you like family during your appointment. Her work is worth every penny, and it is truly incomparable. I cannot recommend her enough not just for her work quality, but because of her spirit. read more

Earthbound Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - Sand City, California

Marlo is genuinely a kind hearted person who not only made my experience there fun and made me feel safe but she also has such a talent with drawing you don't see an artists tall the time and she made the perfect tattoo for me as a guy he didn't know what he wanted and was scared of getting us tattoo I highly recommend this place read more

The BEST experience-- Marlo free handed my shoulder based on a rough description of what I had hoped for and reference images of some of the elements. The end result was something spectacular! She is so warm and inviting, and it was a smooth and comfortable five hour sit! read more

Earthbound Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - Sand City, California

Best Service I could ask for and made me feel at home. Made me feel very comforting to fight through the pain and if I needed anything to help. In the end it was all worth it. She made the best tattoo fitting for my body and I absolutely love it, and always love to show it off. One of the Best Tattooers in the World!! read more

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Marlo. Is an amazing artist who is well worth the wait. The shop has a unique vibe like you traveled to the islands. I sent her some ideas of my vision for the tattoo. She talked with me and using my ideas came up with an amazing freehand drawing. She is in high demand so don't hesitate and book a session to get your place in line! read more

I love my custom tattoo by Marlo. She was great to work with, was extremely kind, and professional. I had my entire left leg sleeve completed in a total of 3 sessions. On the last day, she completed 10hrs of work in a day. Im extremely grateful for her and her son, Le. She made my sister and i feel very comfortable at the shop. 10/10 recommend to everyone who is looking for a tattoo artist. read more

Incredible tattoo studio, and not just for the amazing art. Marlo worked with me step by step to understand my vision, made artistic suggestions that I am so grateful for, and made sure I was happy before we started and after we finished. Her pricing is fair and I couldn't be happier with my new ink! Beyond the tattoos, Marlo is a warm and welcoming spirit, willing to not only share her own story, but to listen to others. After hanging out with Marlo for a few hours, the art is almost a bonus! She's easy to trust, talented and dedicated to her craft, and well worth the wait. read more

S/O to Marlo! Made my 1st tattoo experience great and I love my Tattoo! Definitely going back! read more

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NIGHTMARE SHOP!!! For as undoubtedly talented Marlo is, she is as equally insane. Due to the disorganization of her shop she forgot what she quoted me and when the topic of money got brought up she became completely unhinged launching into a full 24 hour email temper tantrum where she insulted me, mocked me and flat out bullied me to the point that I no longer felt safe being tattooed by her. She will sink to any depth to be right as I'm sure her response to my review will prove. Don't bother trying to tell her you don't like the direction the tattoo is going in because she changed it from your agreed on sketch cause she'll tell you her shop doesn't guarantee the tattoo will reflect the sketch you agreed to. I waited a year and paid over $2,000 to be traumatized by this woman and her son and didn't even get the tattoo I paid for because she was so unbearable. According to her she did no wrong because she shared her lunch with me. Seriously no artist is worth the level of disrespect and abuse you will endure from this shop. If you want to see for yourself it'll only take a few hours for the red flags to fly, I only wish I listened to them sooner. read more

Earthbound Tattoo Studio - Sketch - Tattoo Near Me - Sand City, California

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Perfection! Love, love , love my newest Tattoo Marlo's work is flawless and exquisite , One of a kind - every time. read more

New: I just got a new tattoo, as always it was a great time talking to her, and get inked by her :) Old: Marlo is simply AWESOME! Her design always amazes me...! It's so honored that I have her artwork on my skin and you will sure be happy about your tattoo too, because she won't put ink on you until you're surely happy with the design. read more

Earthbound Tattoo Studio - Inside, super cozy and cute! - Tattoo Near Me - Sand City, California

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I got my tattoo done by Noel and he is amazing and patient and lets you know what's going on at the time and asks how you are and if you need a break. He did mine free hand when I told him what kind of design I was looking for and that I wanted it to cover a scar I've had for a long time. It came out amazing and you can barely see my scar. I love it. He designed my tattoo in a way that if I wanted to add to it then I can or leave it as a solo piece. Great place to get your tats done! read more

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This tattoo artist does stunning freehand work! Her sterile technique is beyond perfection.Her attention to cleanliness kept me at ease. Her talent and humbleness is exactly what you want in a tattoo artist. And to top it off she's a lovely person to spend 5 hours with!!!! Could not have asked for anything more. She also very intuitive, knowing exactly what I wanted. read more

Earthbound Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - Sand City, California

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Marlo was amazing. I called her for a coverup and explained to her exactly what I wanted. She went above and beyond with helping me cover my tattoo before a wedding I'm in. Thank u soo much Marlo. Will definitely booking again! read more

Earthbound Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - Sand City, California

10 stars! I had to book almost 3 months out, but it is well worth the wait. Once you see their work online, you know this is the only place place come to. Those lines, the precision, the designs- just beautiful! Marlo is an amazing artist, and also a kind, warm and wonderful soul. I was a little nervous (my first tattoo!) but Marlo's warm approach and sense of humor put me immediately at ease. I already know where I will get my second tattoo in the future ;-) read more

Let me start by saying that I am so glad I waited months to see Marlo instead of going elsewhere. I knew from the moment I saw her work, she was the one I wanted to put ink on me. She is not only an incredibly amazing tattoo artist who is passionate about the art, she is an incredibly amazing woman! From the moment I walked in her studio, I felt this warm welcome. She's vibrant, down to earth, talented beyond words, and keeps it real! I traveled 1.5 hours for my tattoo and if I had to hop on a plane, and fly across the world just so that she could tat me again, I would! Mahalo, Marlo! #AMAZINGARTIST #PASSIONATE read more

Earthbound Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - Sand City, California

It's hard to put my experience with Marlo into words. So many know that tattoos have meaning and purpose behind them, but for me, my tattoos had a special purpose for healing and Marlo truly captured what I was looking for - not only in the tattoo itself, but in the conversations we had during my session. After my tattoo was done and it was time to leave, I felt like I'd crossed a bridge in my journey to healing! Needless to say, I would recommend Marlo and can't wait to get my next tattoo with her! read more

It is truly an honor to have art pieces on my body by both Marlo & Justin. I've seen Casper's work as well & it is awesome too. I feel so comfortable trusting that I can share an idea & the artists can expand on it & make it a reality. Everyone there is professional. The shop is clean & I absolutely love the vibe!!! My first piece I received from Marlo, she did freehand & I just recently went back after about 4 years to get it touched up & enhanced with color. I just give her an idea & let her do her magic! I'm already planning my next piece & look forward to going back. They are all so amazing they book up fast!! So plan ahead ~~ TOTALLY WORTH IT ~~ read more

Marlo is simply AWESOME! Her design always amazes me...! It's so honored that I have her artwork on my skin and you will sure be happy about your tattoo too, because she won't put ink on you until you're surely happy with the design. -UPDATE I just got another amazing tattoo by Marlo. I'm super happy with the design and couldn't stop showing off. read more

Earthbound Tattoo Studio - A special tattoo with special meaning. Marlo's design is far beyond my expectations! - Tattoo Near Me - Sand City, California

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My cousin and I flew in for our tattoos, and we both are incredibly happy with our tattoos and the entire experience! My cousin met Marlo at the Northwest Polynesian Tattoo festival. We both dance hula & Tahitian, and know Marlo had danced as well, so that shared experience made the tattooing extra special. From the start, Marlo was super sweet and hilarious. Her nephew was also very helpful in maintaining the workspaces, for example, helping me when the bandage on my tattoo was falling off while moving about as my cousin got her tattoo after me. The stories we all shared with each other helped us get to know one another better; Marlo is just so down to earth that it's so easy to converse with her about any aspect of life. As for the tattooing process itself and the shop, it's incredibly precise and clean! Based on my story and some photos I emailed to Marlo ahead of time, and talking before we started the session, Marlo drew by freehand what the tattoo would look like. Even the drawing alone and placement was so amazing! She also helped clarify whether I wanted to keep the tattoo on my right side vs. left, explaining the meaning/difference. Her attention to detail and kindness made the process so easy and enjoyable. She was very particular about what the pain might feel like (this was my first tattoo), to let her know if I needed a break, and how to tend to the tattoo. I am so incredibly happy with the experience and how the tattoo turned out! I would highly recommend Marlo for any Polynesian style tattoo in particular, or any tattoo you'd want to be very precise, as she's certainly a perfectionist, which I can appreciate with something so permanent. Mahalo, Marlo! read more

Earthbound Tattoo Studio - custom freehand Polynesian tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Sand City, California

Marlo is amazing! Freestyle custom tattoos. I'm so glad I was patient in waiting to find the right artist. I got a Samoan tribal piece with flowers on my upper arm and it's beautiful! I was very nervous but all of that went away bc Marlo is super sweet and the shop is very relaxing/chill. Highly recommend her :) read more

Marlo was incredibly professional and kind. She was attentive to our wishes but also very creative and we love how it turned out! She takes hygiene very seriously and we were treated like family the whole time. Aloha all over. read more

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My husband and I got tattoos by Casper this last year, and I just booked another. We have completely different styles, and it didn't faze Casper a bit. Casper took every curve ball and knocked them out of the park! We are constantly getting compliments on the detail and shading of our new ink. Casper is super professional, pays attention to every detail, and is great company during the long hours sitting in the chair. Thank you, Casper, for making our tattoo processes so easy and for your amazing work! You are a brilliant artist and we are so grateful for your time. read more

Recently, my daughter got her first tattoo. And everything about getting this tattoo was amazing... from the artist, the owner, the time spent in this shop, the art, the doggie (Makoa).... Marlo, you really give your heart when drawing on your clients, pure talent, amazing gift. read more

Earthbound Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - Sand City, California

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My husband got a tattoo. Kozy was amazing. Marlo is awesome. The studio had a great vibe. Love this place!!!!

I waited months to see her and will wait again for my following tattoo.... She is truly an artist and freehands which not many tattoo places do. I love how she sees in her mind what you want and lays it out with her markers... I got to see my sleeve complete and fell in love. Marlo! I was blessed to get the privilege to meet such an awesome soul/woman. Thank you for the good vibes and beautiful tattoo read more

My husband is the blessed recipient of a tattoo from this amazing shop!!!! Marlo is the owner of the shop, and she is the one who did my husband's tattoo. She hails from Hawaii, as does my husband....so he was ECSTATIC when I surprised him with an appointment with her! Marlo is a wonderful soul, she's hilarious and super hospitable, and one of the best tattoo artists out there. People fly from all over the world to get work done by her!!! My husband's tattoo came out perfect!! He's regretful that ALL of his tattoos aren't by Marlo LOL Marlo books out several months, at times, and she isn't cheap. You get what you pay for. She takes her work very seriously, she's SUPER talented, and it shows that this is her passion.... THANK YOU, MARLO, FOR YOUR AMAZING ARTWORK AND FOR BEING AN EVEN MORE AMAZING HUMAN BEING! We love you!!! read more

Clean place, clean tattoos, and AMAZING artists. "You don't have to worry bout a thang". Marlo is very professional, the way she handles herself and her shop. I went to check this place out because of all the publicity Earthbound was getting. First interaction, I already felt like I was family and not a client. They are very busy, so make sure to set an appointment up with them. Marlo did an amazing tattoo transfermation for me, she made an old lotus flower come to life, custum made. I am speechless, and very happy with my tattoo. read more

Earthbound Tattoo Studio - Marlo did this amazing, transfermation tattoo. Custom made. GENUIS!!! - Tattoo Near Me - Sand City, California

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I have been looking at Marlo's work on Instagram for awhile and decided I wanted to do a Polynesian piece on my leg. Marlo was friendly during our consultation and went over the details with me prior to making an appointment. She tattooed me yesterday and I couldn't be happier with her work. Not only does the tattoo look beautiful, but she also took the time to explain the symbology and customized it for me. She also did it freehand, which made it even more impressive to watch. I would highly recommend checking out this shop and I plan to get more work done by Marlo. read more

I went back in on March 8th to have some more work done. Met Justin again, he took my simple idea and ran with it; improving it. Justin was pretty light-handed and the sess went by fairly quickly (between some good tunes and a movie). During this sess I got to meet the shop's owner, Noel - He was definitely a down-to-earth dude. This tattoo has healed up now and definitely looks how I wanted it. Perfect. read more

-My First Tattoos- I had heard about Earthbound through over 20 close friends who had work done mainly by Justin and Marlo, after seeing all the art on my friends, I decided to check the studio out for myself. My first impression walking through the door was a very welcoming, clean, and rad atmosphere. I had very high standards for getting my first tattoo, and Earthbound surpassed them in every sense. Justin, an amazing artist and an equally as cool person, greeted me and I even got pet his dog. I had told him of my ideas and timeline that I wanted to get them done. He was enthusiastic and knowledgeable to the multitude of questions I had, it gave me a great sense of confidence. I felt very comfortable during the entire process, from sketching to after-care instructions. I have had my tattoos for exactly 4 weeks, I have received nothing but great comments and questions of where I got it done. Earthbound will get high remarks and recommendations from me, I will be coming here for any future tattoos. If you're looking for a high quality studio run by down to earth(bound) individuals, look no further. Stay rad Earthbound! read more

Earthbound Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - Sand City, California

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I just had my first tattoo done by Marlo. I couldn't have picked a more competent, kind tattoo artist if I had traveled far away. I spent a long time searching for the right person to do my metaphysical work. When I dropped in she took an interest in me and in the art I brought to her. She listened well and came up with some great suggestions on how to improve the piece. The results were amazing, and far better than I had imagined. Would definitely return again and will highly recommend to friends. As she said to me, "you're family now"!! Thanks so much Marlo. Maholo kaikuaana!! read more

Earthbound Tattoo Studio - Caduceus Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Sand City, California

I spent a lot of time scouring different artists' Instagram pages trying to find the right person to create my tattoo. This is a forever deal, so to me doing diligence was imperative. While researching, I stumbled upon Marlo. I loved what I saw in her portfolio of work and contacted her right away. She responded a few days later and I was able to stop by to meet her in November. The studio had good energy and Marlo herself was so awesome, she did a quick consult with me and I made an appointment. I just had my session with her a couple days ago and I am so incredibly happy with the result! The studio is located in an industrial area off of a main street. It is tucked in a small charming strip of salons and another tattoo shop. It is a welcoming and cozy space with a quaint and homey feel. The moment I walked through the door I felt the island vibes. Also, the studio is very clean which is super important! Also, it doesn't hurt that the shop is in the Monterey area...my family went to the beach and hung out while they waited for me. Marlo herself is a highly sought out artist. While I was there, she took a call from someone in Vegas who wanted to fly in to see her. Her clients come from all over: Maryland, Colorado, Texas, etc. Lucky for me I only had to drive about an hour from San Jose to get worked on by her. I showed her a few reference pictures, and from there she created a beautiful completely original custom design. If you want a generic tattoo or to copy another person's tattoo, she won't be doing that for you. Many people come to her for her knowledge and skill in neo-Polynesian tattoo design. As a Hawaiian woman and devout student of Polynesian culture she isn't willy-nilly about those designs. She will make sure you're tattoo is meaningful to you and that you are educated about the designs on your body. Despite Polynesian tattoos being her specialty, she really can do anything! I sought her out because I love the clean look of her black line work. I needed a coverup and she hooked me up with an gorgeous cluster of mandalas. I can't stop staring at all the intricate and beautiful detail of her work. If you choose to go to Marlo you really have to have to put your trust in her and her process. She doesn't do stencils and actually draws a freehand sketch on you with a sharpie. You really won't know what the piece will look like until it is done which can be scary. However, I felt comfortable with this process after seeing so much of her work already. I took a leap of faith and it paid off for me! After getting to know Marlo during our 2.5 hour session, I left feeling completely honored to have her art on me. She is an incredibly strong woman, a trailblazer in her field, and just an amazing person overall. Tattoos are a big commitment and deciding on an artist can be a stressful endeavor for some. I know it was for me. However my work paid off, because I finally found Marlo. I left Earthbound with work that exceeded my expectations. What more could one ask for? No regrets here! Mahalo Marlo! read more

Earthbound Tattoo Studio - Cover up with mandala cluster - Tattoo Near Me - Sand City, California

You won't be disappointed here.. Marlo hooked it up with my tattoos and will be doing more. She free hands her tattoos and honestly I can't figure out how she does it.. all around great artist and person! Thank you for the great work read more

This weekend I got a coverup done by the amazing Marlo! I love her work and how she does everything free hand. She did my cover up so much more than I expected. And can't even tell there was a tattoo there before. She is the third person I have gotten a tattoo by and I must say I probably won't go with anyone else now. Highly recommended!! read more

Earthbound Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - Sand City, California

Marlo is without a doubt the most talented artist I have ever met. I went in with an idea and she put together exactly what I wanted. It was a surprise for my anniversary and my husband loved it. She really knows how to make a unique tattoo that stands out. I get compliments everyday and I will definitely be back for more!!! read more

Earthbound Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - Sand City, California