Hands down one of the best tattoo artists I've ever worked with. Kristo is the kind of artist you hope you find but rarely do. I brought him ideas for all three of these tattoos, and every single time he took my concept and turned it into something completely original, creative, and better than I imagined. He doesn't just copy references -- he creates. If you want a tattoo that actually feels personal and unique, Kristo is your guy. Beyond the art itself, the experience is just as solid. He's incredibly thoughtful and professional: * Checks in constantly to make sure you're okay * Takes breaks when needed so you don't feel rushed or overwhelmed * Has a light hand (seriously, way easier than expected) * Makes the whole session comfortable and relaxed On top of that, he's genuinely funny, empathetic, and easy to talk to, which makes a huge difference when you're sitting for a while. You can tell he actually cares about both the person and the piece -- not just getting through the appointment. If you're on the fence, don't be. Give Kristo an idea and trust the process -- he will give you something original, meaningful, and done with care. I'll absolutely be booking him again, and I recommend him to anyone who wants high-quality work and a great experience from start to finish. 10/10. Worth it. Book him. read more

I just got tattooed by RILEY! Very very pleased with what I got, I felt comfortable in the shop, the folks there were very nice and helpful! I had an idea of what I wanted and got something that blew my mind, the tattoo is better than I could have ever imagined. I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend this shop, the other folks that were in there also were in the process of getting tattooed and I was also very impressed with their work as well. On another note, I checked out more of Riley's work. Sickest skulls I've ever seen, also his roses are killer! He is a MASTER OF FINELINE, if you wanted anything fineline, Chicano style, or just something simple. He's definitely the guy for the job. Make sure you stop by and check out the shop and pick up some fine leather goods as well. read more

I wanted to leave a Review for the artist Kristo. I can't thank him enough for how great of an Artist he is. He did two pieces on me that have such sentimental value, I tear up at even talking about them. One is in ode to my Grandmother who recently passed and the other is in Ode to my Best friend who passed as well. He just did them perfectly and he really sincerely listened to me on how I hoped to have the pieces done and where I'd like them placed. Aside from him being a great artist he is just a real genuine person overall and it shows. His work speaks for itself and his character is of the utmost. Appreciate your time and kindness endlessly Kristo, one of the best artist I've been privileged to have a piece done on my body from. read more

Five Ball Tattoo is hands down one of the best shops I've been to. The vibe is clean, professional, and welcoming, and you can tell everyone here takes real pride in their work. The artists are incredibly talented and take the time to make sure every detail is perfect. I also want to shout out Reese -- he's an apprentice there and has been nothing but helpful, respectful, and hardworking every time I've been in. He goes out of his way to make clients feel comfortable and taken care of, and you can tell he's passionate about learning the craft and supporting the artists. If you're looking for a shop with great energy, skilled artists, and a team that truly cares about their clients, Five Ball is the place to go. Highly recommend. read more

Absolutely amazing experience at this tattoo shop! From the moment I walked in, the staff was super friendly, welcoming, and professional. They took the time to listen to what I wanted, answered all my questions, and made sure I was comfortable the entire time. The quality of the work is top tier clean lines, great detail, and clearly done by artists who really care about their craft. The shop itself was clean, well-organized, and had a great vibe. If you're looking for great service, talented artists, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, this is the place to go. I'll definitely be coming back and recommending them to everyone I know! read more

Yesterday I got my millionth tattoo done by Kyle. I used to go to him when he was at his previous shop. Although even with an added hour commute from me I still went to see him. I have complete trust in Kyle in whatever ideas I send towards him. It's comforting knowing that no matter what the idea is he will do that and then some. Kyle also makes the process much more calming with his vibe and personality. I couldn't recommend Kyle enough. Also his girlfriend Justine works In the same space and them together joking and talking with you makes the process a million times more enjoyable. All to say you need to make the appt with them!! read more

Made an appt with Kristo. He's great at envisioning the ideas you have inside your head and bringing them to life. Whatever I had in my head for a chupacabra did not even reach what Kristo put in ink. He's not lying when he says he's 8 steps ahead of you Really cool dude to talk to as well, felt like we've known each other for a minute. There was another artist, Riley, working on someone's chest with a Cleopatra design. Very beautiful piece. The time spent in there with the both of them was filled with laughs and exchanging eateries. These dudes definitely know how to bring out the ideas in your head so look no further! read more

Five Ball is a unique and welcoming tattoo shop. Every artist that works there is insanely talented. The art work that is created and brought to life is varied and incredible. These artists appreciate their clients who allow them to do a job they love and go on a one of a kind journey with them. The vibes are top tier, and their cleanliness goes above and beyond. Shout out to Reese and Riley specifically for helping me out and giving me the experience of a life time!!! Oh ya they also sell really cool gear at the front which is nice if you're looking for a lil gift for a family member or friend! read more

I have had a few tattoos done but Justine but yesterday I had my first tattoo done at five ball. Not only is Justine an incredibly talented artist but she makes you feel so comfortable while being there. I text her with a vision and she goes above and beyond. The studio was such a comfortable atmosphere and everyone who came in was super welcoming and reassuring during the process. Getting my knee done by Justine was such a rewarding expierence. If you are on the fence about trying a new tattoo artist I couldn't recommended Justine enough. It will be an experience you wont regret. read more

Five ball tattoo is the raddest shop in Los Angeles! I got a tattoo from Riley, he was super friendly and gave great design suggestions, and the tattoo healed beautifully. I also got a piercing from Reese while I was there, his energy was so fun and contagious, he made me feel so comfortable the whole time! You could tell they really love their craft and take pride in the work that they do. The overall vibes are immaculate, the shop is super clean, everyone who works there is extremely professional, and overall a really fun environment! I would recommend these guys to anyone!!! read more

Justine is an incredible tattoo artist! From the moment I walked in, she made the entire experience feel relaxed and comfortable. She's super friendly and easy to talk to, which really helped calm any nerves. One thing that really stood out was her light hand, by far the least painful tattoo session I've ever had. Her attention to detail and gentle technique made the process smooth and enjoyable. I would highly recommend Justine to anyone looking for a talented artist who truly cares about their clients' comfort and experience. read more

Got tattooed at 5Ball Tattoo Shop on Melrose in LA and had a great time. Being on Melrose honestly makes it even cooler. The shop is super clean, laid back, and everyone there is professional, friendly, and clearly knows what they're doing. Shoutout to Frank and Riley, they're the best. Everyone there seemed like they were super talented, easy to work with, and they really care about the quality of their work. If you're looking for a great shop with good energy in a legendary LA spot, this is it. Definitely coming back! read more

Beyond the art itself, Riley is professional yet easygoing, making the whole session comfortable and enjoyable. He checked in with me throughout the process to make sure I was happy and comfortable, and his passion for tattooing really shows in every stroke. I've gotten compliments nonstop since leaving the shop -- people literally stop me to ask where I got my tattoo. If you're looking for an artist who combines insane talent with genuine care for their clients, look no further. I'm already planning my next piece with him! read more

Fiveball Hollywood is hands down one of the best tattoo shops around. I was lucky enough to work with Riley (@Riley_coyote1) and Kristo (@Kript_o_), and both are absolute masters of their craft. ​The talent doesn't stop there...The entire crew is amazing. Frank Ball (@frankballjr) has built a team of true professionals who make you feel comfortable from the moment you walk in. Everyone there has an incredible work ethic, including Reese (@reesesalken) who handles the piercings. Highly recommend and will be coming back soon! read more

riley is amazing. was having existential crisis and was totally ok with maybe making a mistake by walking into a random tattoo shop on melrose. well.. i did NOT make a mistake :) i happened to walk by right as the door was opening. and me thinking he would roll his eyes at the fact he barely opened the door and i was asking for a walk-in.. he politely obliged :) not only did i receive amazing courtesy and kindness, i walked away with an AMAZING piece. will be coming back. will be referring. 20/10. highly recommend. read more

I went in got tattoo by Kristo, who's work I like very much. I've been tattooed by him before and keep returning to him because his line work, coloring, and shading is good. I went in for a back peace and again line work is spot on. Other then his work he's chill dude friendly have great conversations with while he tattooing me. I even brought my mother and my little sister to get tattoos. It was my sisters first time so he's great with those first timers. I would definitely recommend him! read more

I came in to get a rosary tattoo from Riley and he did an amazing job. His attention to detail and placement was truly above and beyond and I love the tattoo so much. I also got a tattoo from Tyler's flash and I'm in love with it. He was super kind and professional and very talented The shop is in a great location, everyone working was extremely welcoming, and the space is beautiful and really bright and open. 10/10 will come back for all of my future tattoos read more

I could not tell you how pleasant this experience was. I got in contact with Riley for a tattoo, I messaged him the night before on what I wanted at he put up a piece together just for me and he was epic. His attitude and love for tattoos was amazing and the way he took his time and effort to make sure the piece was perfect stood out to me. The vibe the artists had put me at peace knowing I was in good hands with them. Honestly. I'll def be coming back. read more

I was recently tattooed at Five Ball by Riley. I got a fine line black and grey stem rose witch turned out amazing and I couldn't be happier! Riley was great to work with and I hand a blast hanging out with everyone. Five Ball has a great atmosphere and a solid crew of talented tattooers with a ton of experience. If you you're looking for quality tattoos, and an authentic experience, go check out the guys at Five Ball. You won't be disappointed. read more