I have the tattoos that you see in magazines. I have the tattoos that without a doubt, always invoke a stranger to stop what he/she is doing and come tell me how awesome my tattoos are. These people don't just look, they grab my arms, spin them around, and try to take in all of what they see. The person that made this happen, and hand down, one of the BEST tattoo artists on this small blue planet we call earth, is Matthew Tillman aka Matt aka MTflesh. I searched a very long time for a tattoo artist and when I found Matt, he had only been tattooing for 6 years. The level of his work was what initially intrigued me to go in and get a "consultation" from him. Yes, that's right, a consultation. That in itself was already new to me. The tattoo industry unfortunately comes with an unprofessional side that is just part of the business, sadly. I myself had dealt with tattoo artists that were unreliable, couldn't keep appointments, wouldn't return calls, etc., etc. NOT MATT. Not only is he the epitome of professionalism, he has never cancelled on me, never not returned a call, never not taken on a challenge. He's creative, he's smart, he's a true ARTIST, and he loves what he does. I've always wanted a tattoo artist that made every session feel like a memory was getting etched in stone, rather than a business arrangement that needed to hurry up and end. If this is what you're looking for, call this place up and ask for Matt Tillman. TRUST ME when I say, it will be the best decision you have ever made, in your entire life, ever. read more

I came here after being recommended by a friend of Todd's (the owner) so that I could have an under-skin bio-mechanical arm piece done, once I went in Todd said that while it wasn't really his style, one of the other artists could help me out. I'm 8 hours into my piece with Matt Tillman and couldn't be happier, he's a hell of an artist and an amazing tattooist, I don't see myself going to anybody else in the near future. Hold Fast also happens to be an incredibly CLEAN and neat shop, and they do a great job at making you feel relaxed there. read more

Just updating my last review from a few years ago... and everything I said before still stands! This is THE tattoo spot. Their new shop is GORGEOUS, and the work that ALL of the artists put out is incredible. Todd is still my tattoo man though! read more

Hold Fast Studio - Loving the newest addition to my sleeve. Thanks Todd! - Tattoo Near Me - Redwood City, California

Hold Fast is a super clean and professional shop with nothing but solid artists. Everyone here is very approachable and kind. Matt Tillman is the only artist there that I have had the pleasure working with. He has an amazing ability to visualize your concepts and bring them to fruition, and surpasses any expectations of the artwork. I cannot recommend Matt enough or anyone at the shop for that matter. read more

I highly recommend this tattoo place if your looking for good, professional, clean tattoo art. I had my tattoo done by Craig and am extremely happy with how it came out. The place is clean, nice open space, prices are decent, and every one that works here are professional and nice. If you want a tattoo done by a real artist, GO HERE! read more

This is a way long over due review. My review is for Matt. He's done two of my pieces now and as long as he stays local, I will continue going to him. He really does show care in the pieces that he does. That comical one star review is just that, comical. You need to let the artist have creative control. Yes of course tell him what you want but when it comes to letting the piece flow and end up being aesthetically pleasing, the artist will ultimately know best. I told Matt the aspects that I wanted in my piece but to combine them in the best way that would look nicely done. He really does take pride in his work and that comes through as he is tattooing you. As far as im concerned, the lines of communication are pretty easy. Yeah, hes busy so getting ahold of him via email would just be easier but, any questions, changes, or ideas I had, he always replied quick. My husband and sister have been tattooed by other artists at Hold Fast and they came out wonderfully too. This shop really does have a higher caliber of artists. As far as pricing, I feel like their costs are on par with other really good shops. Great tattoos arent cheap and cheap tattoos arent great, you get what you pay for here. read more

This shop is amazing. They really care about their clients and do beautiful work. Ive gotten 2 tattoos, here. One was about 2 years ago, the other was today and the service is still awesome. I have been to a few other shops in the area, and this is the best one! Hold Fast does quality work. read more

Hold Fast Studio - Cover up by Todd! Love it! he did an amazing job! 3/24/15 - Tattoo Near Me - Redwood City, California

One of my friends has two awesome tattoos, and she told me she had them done at Hold Fast. The first time I went to Hold Fast was in April of last year. I walked in and asked about getting a small tattoo on my foot, a keystone, to represent my home state of PA. I was expecting to make an appointment, but Tony was available right then and there. (Cool!) Tony took the time to recommend a placement that would work for my foot and one that would last over time. He was very professional and made me feel comfortable and welcome. This was only my second tattoo, and it was a great experience! A year later and my tattoo's fine lines look sharp as can be! Today, I was tattooed by Kim, and I had an awesome experience! Kim has a genuine enthusiasm that really shines. I felt like she was excited about my tattoo and excited to tattoo me. I got three pyramids on my foot, and they look rad. Like Tony, she also took the time to really make sure the tattoo placement was right on the mark. Kim has a such a kind, energetic personality. I honestly felt like I was hanging with a friend in addition to getting a tattoo! It was fun time! Regarding the shop overall, it is clean, organized, and professional. (Also, the bathroom is clean and tidy.) Everyone there is friendly. If you are a bit anxious or nervous about getting a tattoo, check them out because they are very welcoming, and the shop has positive vibes. The artists are enthusiastic about their art and seem to genuinely respect/admire each other's work. Also, they have an updated website, and the artists and shop can be found on instagram, too! read more

Great, clean and a very friendly staff. Got my tattoo done by Jesico. He was very patient and respectful. Great prices as well. Thank you. read more

TONY DUONG IS THE MAN! I came to him for a cover up, and he was the PERFECT artist for the job! My original tattoo was so deformed and crooked I was embarrassed to show it in public. The new tattoo he did for me is simply stunning. He took it from pitch black angel wings to a full on colored dahlia flower. The shop is very clean and well decorated, and it was very easy to book an appointment. Tony was incredibly patient with me through the whole process, and I couldn't imagine ever getting a tattoo from anyone else ever again! Five stars! read more

Hold Fast Studio - This flower is literally a cover-up OF a cover-up. True artistry! - Tattoo Near Me - Redwood City, California

Went into the shop to get my third tattoo 40 mins before closing, with my friend who wanted to get tatted as well. Got greeted right away and talked to Tony to see if they would still take walk-ins. He took both of us, sketched mine out. Asked repeatedly if it was what I wanted or if I wanted to change anything about it. Stayed after hours just so he could finish both me and my friend. Tony was very professional and is a very clean and great tattoo artist, would recommend him and go back to him for another tattoo. The actual shop is very welcoming and clean as well, all around good vibes! read more

Hold Fast Studio is the BEST and most professional tattoo place in the SF Bay Area. I got a large tiger tattoo on my back five years ago, and recently Kim gave me an incredible Lotus Blossom tattoo on my shoulder. The artists are amazing, and the location is a national landmark, large open space with great light. I recommend Hold Fast 100%! read more

Mark was fantastic. I am from portland and decided that it would be fun to get my second tattoo while on vacation! I searched Yelp and the web and came across this place. I called and talked with Mark a little and then emailed back and forth to settle in the details. He got myself and mom and dad in for our tattoos. He helped me relax and was understanding to my craziness. I could see myself coming back down here for another tattoo. read more

Hold Fast Studio - Joshua 1:9 - Tattoo Near Me - Redwood City, California

I am so happy i came here to get tattooed. TONY was awesome, the stencil alone proved it would be worth the money spent $$$. I would recommend this shop for friends, family, strangers. Anyone looking to get a tattooed. The artist there are pretty dope and talented, the vibe inside was very chill and easy, im extremely happy with my piece! read more

Hold Fast Studio - Still cleaning up and healing, its so beautiful. - Tattoo Near Me - Redwood City, California

I went in to Hold Fast on 3/4/17 right away Kim approached me and my husband. I felt confortable with her right away. I scheduled an appointment with her on 3/10/17. Soooo I went in yesterday and got my first tattoo with Kim! I loved it! I got a sunflower on my shoulder with 2 little hearts in the middle for my 2 angel babies. She did exactly what I waned and colors and all. I'm sooo happy with her work, I loved her attitude as well it made my first experience great! Thanks Kim!!! read more

Hold Fast Studio - Tattoo Near Me - Redwood City, California

Don't listen to the review of the newbie down below. This place is great, they are all really down to earth and cool people. Got my new art done by Mark. He is AMAZING! Great guy to work with and chat with while you're there for hours being tatted. He's truly an artist and great at his skill. Love my cover up and my whole experience from the very first call I made. I'll be back for sure. Thanks Mark! read more

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I got my first tattoo at Hold fast and i can definitely say that i would go back. I went in with a very specific idea in mind and Todd came through and made the piece explode. To this day I LOVE my tat and I will be back for more. If you want a perfect piece of art Hold Fast is the place to go. -Thanks Todd read more

Tooooo many people get really bad tattoos. That does not happen here. Every artist here is legit. Sooo much solid work comes out from this shop every time I've come by. Always have clients so book your appointments. I have had the pleasure of getting work done from Matt on three pieces now and I am so stoked on them. He's amazing at what he does and he's a genuinely good dude to know. So if you don't want a shitty tattoo then come to this shop. read more

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This place is the best! Everyone is so nice and professional and they all do incredible work! Matt Tillman started my sleeve about a year ago. I did a lot of research before selecting him as my artist. Matt has exceeded my expectations by miles. His attention to detail, precision, and line work is incredible. I receive compliments from so many people everywhere I go. I cannot recommend him highly enough!! read more

About a year ago, I finally decided to get my fourth tattoo. After hearing great thing about the space & the artists, I decided to walk in and ask for an appointment. They were able to get me in that day for a simple, easy piece of work. Everyone was really welcoming, and Mark Heredia agreed to be my artist. I am so glad we paired up! I just had him do a simple tattoo on my foot. He resized the art until I was happy and placed it perfectly. The actual process took less than 10 minutes, was painless, and I healed exceptionally well. I am so glad I worked with Mark! About 8 months later, my brother got work done at this shop, and had such an amazing experience, too. I cannot rave about this place enough. It's clean, the staff is amazing, and there is no pretentious air about it. read more

Props to Ali (below me) who wrote everything I could possibly want to say about my experience with Matt Tillman. I've been tattooed by Matt for years now, and we've put in a collective 30+ hours on my body. It started with a small collection of flowers on my left lower back that blossomed into a massive and beautifully detailed phoenix that covers most of my back, as well as a huge thigh piece we are currently working on that continues to turn out above and beyond my initial expectations with every session. He is patient, happily willing to make alterations along the way, and has such a gentle and careful tattooing style that you're able to withstand even the most painful of areas as he works his way around your piece. Matt is indeed a true artist. He is able to take your vision (however crazy and scattered it may be) and turn it into a piece of permanent art that is guaranteed to have people tapping you on your shoulder for comment. I can't tell you how many times I've had people stop me to ask about the work I've had done, and it is with pride that I tell them the source. All talent aside, this dude is honestly one of the raddest dudes I've had the pleasure of meeting. I truly look forward to our wild discussions every time I go in. Talking about the madness of life while getting inked is quite the cleansing experience. I would never for a moment hesitate to recommend Matt to anyone looking for a truly unique and beautiful piece as well as the most perfect and professional tattoo experience. He is the f**king man. read more

I've had an unfinished back tattoo for the past year and half...been wanting to get it done, but just didn't think i could find an artist to make it as i had imagined in my head. I pass by Hold Fast all the time living in RWC, and looked it up on yelp. was pleasantly surprised to read all the rave reviews so i decided to pop by one day & take a look through the portfolios. Todd greeted me nicely & answered some questions for me & as I looked through the portfolios, Kip Delaney's book really stood out to me. I had been searching for an artist that worked with details & bright BRIGHT colors that really stood our & popped. His book showed some awesome color work & i decided to contact him. Kip is a super nice guy, very efficient & quick. He knew exactly what I wanted & he knew exactly how to make the colors jump off my tattoo. He quoted me 3 hours when every other artist quoted me at least 4-5hours. I was stoked & he finished in that exact time frame. My tattoo looks so badass. The shop is clean, the people are nice & the work is even better. I can't rave about Kip & his work enough. He really killed it. Looking forward to my next tattoo with kip again! read more

Long overdue review for a coverup of a DIY tattoo in January. I'm an 18 year old girl, who "wisely" chose to tattoo myself in November of 2013 (I was 17) and then had to wait until I turned 18 to get it covered up. After a bit of research, I contacted two places that never contacted me back, so I called Hold Fast to set up an appointment for a consultation. They told me I should just walk in. So I did. A pretty ditsy, nervous, barely 18 girl with an infinity sign on my wrist and the statement "oh, I want to cover this up with an octopus". They were so nice to me, and the guy in front introduced me to Mark, who did wonders with my vague "Oh, I want it to cover the tattoo, obviously, but I don't want it too big. There should be tentacles but I don't want them all over the place. You should be able to tell that it's an octopus" This was Saturday, we made an appointment for Monday I think it was and when I showed up Monday, Mark had two drawings that had me blown away. I chose one, we decided to go with "octopus colors" (my words) and we got started. I wouldn't say it was a pleasant experience, but it wasn't awful. At the end, I ended up with an amazing tattoo that covered up the poor life choice I made just months earlier. My one complaint is that I was warned that my tattoo would peel and scab and that was true. But it also swelled up like a balloon. And when I called, slightly concerned about this, I was told in a condescending tone, "yeah, that's what happens when you get a tattoo" and there was no need to be condescending. If I was either warned before hand, or told in a non-condescending way, that would be fine. But considering this was my first tattoo, of course I'm going to be nervous when my wrist is almost twice the size of my other wrist! Aside from that, I'm glad I got my tattoo here, and am already planning my next one. read more

Hold Fast Studio - Coverup tattoo from Mark! Original on top, fully healed, octopus on the bottom. - Tattoo Near Me - Redwood City, California

My daughter and I went in to Hold Fast Studio to make an appointment for matching tattoos. We had a short chat with Mark Heredia, explaining what we liked. He took notes and exchanged numbers after making an appointment. In a few days when we came back, Mark had a fantastic design for us. We both agreed and the artist began his work.. Mark keeps a very clean work space and has a very light touch. He finished inking both us in a timely fashion. No stopping what so ever. All in all, my daughter and I love our matching tattoos. They mean a lot to both of us . Mark Heredia's art work is fantastic... Thanks read more

Went in today to look into my next tattoo, very happy with the friendly service. Looking foward to my first session!!! Update: Had my first session and very happy with it, Jesico did a great job and now looking forward to my coloring session. read more

Came in, greeted by Mark. threw out an idea about what I wanted, came back two days later to see the sketch and then sat for 3.5hrs , ended up with an incredible tattoo. This is my first tattoo, first experience and it was great al the way around. Now that I am familiar with the process, I am looking forward to putting my next idea on my arm. I recommend Mark and Hold Fast to any friend of mine. I will post a pic when I get a chance. Thank you Mark!! read more

Hold Fast Studio - 5 days after, healing pretty awesome. Thank you Mark! Look forward to coming back to aee you. - Tattoo Near Me - Redwood City, California

These people are so dumb. How hard can it be to return a phone call or email. Very unprofessional. I guess they do not want any business. Why even list it online. STUPID!! read more

Been here a few times for Mat Tilman, what an amazing shop. Very clean and professional. Mat Tilman is an extremely talented artist! So happy with his work! read more

Hold Fast Studio - Mat Tilman - Tattoo Near Me - Redwood City, California

If you're looking for an amazing tattoo that will stand the test of time, then Hold Fast is your place. All of the guys that work here are insanely talented and 150% dedicated to their work. I've seen some super rad pieces walk out the doors of this wonderful shop. My tattoo artist is Matt, and if you're looking for the best of the best, book your appointment now. His talent is reflected in how long his waiting list is, but trust me, stick to it, it's absolutely worth the wait. I have my full sleeve done by him and it turned out better than I ever could have imagined. I came into the shop with a laundry list of things I wanted represented on my very meaningful piece, and Matt artfully and skillfully made everything flow. I am SO proud to have this one of a kind, kick ass tattoo with me every day. I couldn't be happier! I can't wait to start my next piece with him read more

This was an excellent experience. Relaxed and first rate from the start. Tony Duong handled the entire process and made me feel like an old friend. Thanks for everything. read more

After searching for months, my boyfriend and i came across this place and was amazed by the friendliness and cleanness. Got my first tattoo done here by Todd and loved it! very expensive, but great art work. Never can we feel over charged here, you get what you pay for. Will definitely return for more! read more

This is the place to go for Tattoos! I've gotten work done by Mark and Tony. Both are skilled artists and anyone else in the store can get your tatt done right. Friendly, spacious, and welcoming vibe. Love it there! Tony is the only guy I go to now read more

Hold Fast Studio - Koi fish that Tony drew up for me. - Tattoo Near Me - Redwood City, California

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I had a piece done by Kim today of some shots I took of some birds on a photo trip, and she rocked! I actually researched tattoo artists that excel in nature and animals, and decided to have her do my tattoo, so I drove from Berkeley to Redwood City, since I was so impressed by her portfolio! She made the time go by so fast, and is so nice and a pleasure to hang with. I couldn't be happier! read more

Hold Fast Studio - Kim's line work... - Tattoo Near Me - Redwood City, California

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Don't go here if you want to be treated well. The owner is very rude and acts like he doesn't need or want your business, like he is doing you a favor to take your money. I went to this studio with a referral from a co-worker who said he knew the owner, and that they were very customer service based and did good work. This is my first tattoo experience and I had some questions about pricing, and if they were able to create the "toe shoe" dance tattoo they way I wanted it done. I walked in at stood at the small reception desk for 10 minutes with a group of three men who worked there looking at me from across the room. Finally this very tall guy slowly walks over to me asks me what I want. I explain to him that I am looking for this particular tattoo and pricing. He told me in a very rude tone of voice that I had to pick something out of a book, I said I did not want something out of his book, he told me give him money and make an appointment before he would talk to me, that he was too busy. He also refused to give me any type of price quote, we charge hourly. I said it doesn't seem like you are interested in my business, maybe I should go some place else are you the owner? He said yes, and I don't care go some place else and he walked away. There are too many good studios in the area to be treated like this. My suggestion is you go someplace else. If they treat customers like this I can only imagine the negligent work that must come from that place. Good luck! Christine read more

I finally decided to get my first tattoo after many years of thinking about it. I looked at the Yelp reviews for shops near my home and decided on Hold Fast due to all the positive reviews. I called and the first person i spoke to said to just drop in after i had asked if I could email what i was thinking about. When i called back to make an appt the next person said they don't really take appts and to just come by. I asked if a certain day worked to drop in and he said yes...after 6 pm. I asked for his name so i knew who to ask for. When i showed up he was there but i was about 15 minutes early. He came out of the glassed walled office. He was not with a customer. I acknowledged that i was a little early but thought i could look at some pictures while waiting. He seemed somewhat annoyed, never smiled once, and said "Why don't you go get something to eat and come back later". I was a little surprised at the lack of friendliness especially since this particular tattooist got so many good reviews and many even said he was so friendly and made them feel comfortable. I suppose he could tell i was a little disappointed so he said "If you don't want to wait my friend can do it" pointing at another guy who had received a bad review from another customer on Yelp due to lack of hygiene (according to her). I said that i would rather come back. As i started walking out the door it didn't help that he took a 2nd look at my teenage daughter who had come with me. At least that is how it appeared to me. WOW. Maybe this place doesn't allow customers to make appts with specific artists and i should not have assumed this particular tattooist would see me. Either way, the lack of friendliness (no joke...not ONE smile...) and being treated like i was annoying and being handed off to "whoever was available" made me uncomfortable. It seems that to these people a tattoo isn't a big deal...but they should think of the customer's perspective especially if it's their first one (which I told him). After walking out the door my daughter (yes the same one that seemed to have just been "checked out") suggested that if i felt uncomfortable i should go elsewhere because my first tattoo should be a positive experience done by professionals who take the time to show care and concern for the customer while making sure they get what they want...AKA good customer service. I thought "heck ya she's right..." and called Redwood Tattoo Co. I could tell immediately that they were far more friendly. They had an opening so I took my business (and my money) there. It was a much BETTER experience (check out my positive review for them). Did I also mention that they were more reasonably priced based on the specific job with no minimum fee (that I could see). I think it might be worth a mention that as i was getting my tatt at Redwood Tattoo Co I noticed another group who i had seen walking into Hold Fast earlier as we were walking out. I asked them if they had a bad experience there also and they replied that Hold Fast charged too much for the mini tattoo she wanted to get. If i ever want to get another tatt in the future I will definitely go to Redwood Tattoo Co before I go to Hold Fast. read more

I walked in on a Saturday afternoon to try and get a consultation/talk to an artist about an idea I have for my next piece. Walked in sat down as everyone was busy. I sat around for 10 minutes and no one even acknowledged my presence. A minute later, two young females walked in and were helped immediately and courteously. I sat around for 10 more minutes with still no acknowledgment of my presence. I walked out without so much as anyone looking at me. Extremely unprofessional. I have gotten work done 5 times around the country and have never been treated so rudely. My business will be going elsewhere. read more

For my first tattoo I spent a great deal of time planning my approach. From the design to the the timing to the artist, I was very careful in every aspect of the process. I am happy to report that the experience couldn't have been better. The shop is spotless: clean, open, artfully designed. The location is well maintained and every aspect of the business was top notch professional. I met originally with Craig who talked with me about what I wanted and kindly answered every question. In the end Todd did the ink as a scheduling opportunity arose to get an earlier slot and this was handled with great ease. And Todd was exceptional with me throughout the whole process. As a first timer I had many fears but Todd was kind and helpful throughout. His carefully planning of the design impressed me beyond what I imagined for this and by the time he started I was relaxed and ready to get started. The end result is exactly what I envisioned and I couldn't be more proud of my new tattoo. I would recommend this shop to anybody but certainly to anyone thinking about a first-time experience. I am a 47-year-old man and this changed everything about my impression of the art and business of tattoos. read more

This place is immaculate! Very clean, organized and professional. Everyone here is super nice and very experienced. Matt is the best! He is very knowledgeable and does some amazing work. I have been going to him for sometime now and I wouldn't go anwhere else. I've seen my fair share of tattoo studios but this one is one of the best. Check em out! read more

My daughter and I got tattoos today to celebrate the end of 2012. Todd did both of us. He was wonderful. We brought in pictures of what we wanted and he somehow managed to make them look even better than the pictures we brought in! He is patient, funny and a great tattoo artist. We are both more than thrilled with our tattoos. We got matching tattoos four years ago at another place and had a horrible experience. We were very nervous about doing it again. The experience today with Todd was amazing. It couldn't have been more different. We loved it. Big thumbs up!!! read more

Got my first tattoo by Todd. He did a tiger tattoo in just 1 hour. He is simply amazing! Highly recommended!!!