It's a friendly, clean, and comfortable environment. I enjoyed getting my tattoo here over multiple sessions. It was well worth the wait, and the price was reasonable. I highly recommend this place. I went with Tex, but everyone I met working there was fantastic, and their clients all left pleased as well. read more

I had a remarkably negative experience at Red Kestrel Tattoo. First, with Hannah who took a deposit to develop a design, then barely touched it by our next meeting three weeks later. I then switched artists for what I thought would be a more professional, skilled artist. But Jessica was even worse. Jessica and I discussed the design, made an appointment, and I paid a deposit. A couple days later, upon Jessica's recommendation, I postponed the appointment for an impromptu trip. When I returned to town, I had to reschedule once more, which I did well outside of the mandated 48 hour time frame. I thanked Jessica for their flexibility, and they said it was fine. The week before my tattoo appointment, I sent them an email requesting a small addition to the design, with no worries if not. They responded saying that I should probably just cancel my appointment if I wasn't fully committed to the tattoo due to the "large number of reschedules" I had made. I was surprised and upset, suddenly feeling like I had crossed a line when I was led to believe everything was fine. I responded saying I was committed, then Jessica backtracked on the whole thing saying they were just "checking in". In reality, this "check in" felt like a challenge. To what, I had no idea, but things now felt tense. I told them I would be at the shop to get my tattoo at the scheduled time. I received no reply. I was told during our first meeting that their policy was to send the tattoo design the day before the appointment and I would have a chance to make any revisions that evening. By the time the shop closed the night before my appointment, I still hadn't received the design, so I emailed. Rather than sending the design, Jessica replied that we had previously agreed I would see the design in person at the appointment. This was false. I distinctly did not agree to that. I reiterated the original agreement to view the design the night before. Jessica then shortly agreed to send it, but only on the condition that I wouldn't share it online or with another artist... Which didn't make sense. Why would I share the design if I was getting the tattoo the following day? I confirmed, since I had no intention to go elsewhere with the design. Once I finally viewed it, I sent back some notes, as agreed upon, and sent them to Jessica. I got no reply. The next day, I arrived at the appointment. Jessica told me that they weren't going to "be able" to make the design the way I wanted, and affirmed that I was supposed to have agreed, without revision or comment, to the design as it was agreed upon in the original and only design meeting (gratuitously adding that "all tattoo artists do it this way", so good luck finding one that would allow design alterations after a single consultation). This directly conflicts with the agreement we made when I commissioned the work, and also the policy of their colleague Hannah, who had just recently done it differently. The whole experience left me feeling distressed, lied to, and utterly confused as to what actually happened. I'd suspected there was something being unsaid, but since Jessica was never honest, I will never know what really happened. I think they simply grew tired of my case and angled to get me to cancel, while pocketing my deposit. Perhaps I was not the ideal client, but I certainly was not deserving of the hostility, falsehoods, and manipulation attempts, when some simple direct and honest communication would've sufficed. The insult to injury is that Jessica claims to be "trauma informed" in their online artist bio, when this entire situation was emphatically triggering to someone like me who has ample experience with abusive, manipulative relationships. In the end, I was sent away from the appointment in person. While I got my security deposit returned, that didn't amount to much when I'd already lost a deposit to one artist and endured weeks-long emotional turmoil with another. The whole experience was an immense drain of energy, time, and money. read more

I got my first tattoo from Jared Smith and love his work! (He apprenticed under Tex Buss, the owner of Authentic Tattoo). Jared is very precise and did perfect concentric circles. He knows the importance of maintaining negative space in a design, something critical for having a design that lasts and does not bleed together. I'm very happy with my piece and will go back to him with my next design. PS: Regarding the photo taken at the shop; it looks like there is a little waver in the black outline circle, but that is just from my vein popping out. The circle itself is perfect! read more

Red Kestrel Tattoo - Perfect circles, very precise! (What looks like a waver in the black ring is just my vein popping out.) - Tattoo Near Me - San Francisco, California

I got biten by sth right before my appointment for a tattoo on my foot. I emailed Jared to cancel my appointment because of a bleeding on my foot. He did not reach out to me to ask where exactly it was bleeding or did not ask when to re-schedule. He just sent me an email notifying my deposit is forfeited. At that point I decided my deposit is a sunk cost and I would not get a tattoo from someone who treats their customer in such a manner. By the way they try to make it sound about my dog somehow. I just asked them if my dog could come into store because she is a puppy and she can't stay by herself for a long time. They told me it's not possible and i was totally with that. It's funny how a human psychology makes an excuse for sth totally irrelevant to make you feel guilty. These guys don't respect their customers for sure and you can see the whole attitude towards their customers by reading the owner's response below. read more

Red Kestrel Tattoo - My foot injury - Tattoo Near Me - San Francisco, California

My tattoos from Tex are teeny weeny compared to the really great pieces that I've seen from her. I wanted an Americana look for the two angel wings that I got on my arms, and what she did was perfect. I know someone who got work done from her about ten years ago, and his art still looks pristine. It was definitely worth my time and money. I never imagined ever having awesome girl talk with a tattoo artist, but Tex is also good for that. If you want to be tattooed by an artist that holds a certain integrity and value she's your girl. In my opinion SF girls have the best tattoos, and I'm sure somehow Tex has something to do with that. Please mess with Tex. She's the bomb. read more

I got my first tattoo here from Tex (Laura Buss) after a lot of research. She is the owner, and has some 25 years of tattooing experience. Her drawing and painting ability is topnotch which was something I was looking for; I definitely wanted a beautifully designed and drawn piece. I chose a bird design, her specialty, although she does many other subjects. She worked very efficiently and her touch was light and not too painful. The whole process from choosing the tattoo to the finished piece took two short sessions and was made very pleasant by her friendly, easygoing and down to earth attitude. Everything was straightforward and clearly explained with no ego or intimidating mystery and I really appreciated that. I could tell that the other artists in her studio were the same way! read more

Red Kestrel Tattoo - Outline, First Session - Tattoo Near Me - San Francisco, California

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It feels weird to review a tattoo artist on yelp but then again; why not Tex did my tattoo and she was fantastic. She was professional and you can tell she holds herself and her work to a high standard. Her place of business is clean, comfortable and nicely decorated -- and close to a coffee shop for during a break :) The other staff who were present during my time there also seemed to care a great deal about their work. read more

Red Kestrel Tattoo - Rottweiler portrait - Tattoo Near Me - San Francisco, California

I am over the moon! Got my first color piece from Claire Evans yesterday. I gave her creative freedom for a custom cat skull/dagger/blackberry piece on my shin and she knocked it out of the park! She was also very understanding when I did dumb shit like arrive 5 minutes late and under-estimated the initial price. I felt terrible but she took it in stride. Their COVID protocols also made me feel extremely safe. I enjoyed my entire experience and will be back for more. Her artwork is well worth it!!! read more

I just got my tat done from Tex, and I'm very happy about it, especially, since I threw her a last minute audible. I came in for my appointment, told her I wanted a different picture, and she was totally cool with it. Didn't throw a fit, roll her eyes or anything of that sort. She just went straight to the drawing board, and worked with what my ideas were. After all that was done, we worked on placement. She had to erase and replace the pictures several times, but not once complained or convinced me to settle for a spot I didn't like. She's real chill. And super easy to work with. And very, very BIG on cleanliness. Something I like a lot. I still need to get a little more work done, and I am definitely going back to her. Even if it does mean, waiting a few months. read more

Tex is amazing. Really. She created a piece of small birds resting on branches for my forearm. The color and blending is gorgeous. Tex is a fine art painter and her understanding of composition and color really shines. We are almost done with this first piece, and I'm already thinking about what I would like her to do next. And on top of it, she's a fascinating person who's a lot of fun to talk to and also plays great tunes while you're with her. read more

Thank you! Tex did such a great job working with me on my design! I am so happy and enjoyed the whole experience!! She is amazing at what she does and her shop is beautiful and so comfortable! Thanks again!!!! read more

Tex is working on my full water world sleeve. I was going to wait and write a review when it was complete but I am just too excited and need to express my enthusiasm and gratitude for this amazing artist. Not only is she constantly surprising me with unexpected subtle nuances and flair and detail as the piece progresses, I just really appreciate her as a grounded person with an open heart. I could go on about how she seems to 'know' how to create the perfect aquatic ambiance to resonate with my soul which I don't even know how to ask for much less preconceive, so let's just say she works with some serious intuition, grace, and professionalism on all levels. And as we know, there are MANY levels of skill that make up a great tattoo artist and Tex is defiantly a master at her work. Hard to not already be thinking of what she can do with my other arm. Oh yeah, and the studio is dope with the perfect sound track. read more

Tex is awesome. She puts you at ease and absolutely nothing is awkward about the experience. She's a complete professional but is still easy-going where you feel compelled to divulge details about your life that you wouldn't normally divulge to another artist. School, her dog, is a rascal and the best receptionist ever. Ever since my wife and I found her, we've been hard-pressed to go to anyone else. Come to think about it, we haven't gone to anyone else. She's worth the wait! read more

Red Kestrel Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Francisco, California

At long last, my full back piece is done! As with my arm piece, I had originally brought Tex a picture that I really liked but that she (thankfully) did not put on me because she said it would not look right on skin. So she redesigned the piece (Baphomet) to better match the canvas of my back, and the result was pretty outstanding! (Picture uploaded.) Tattoos are pretty much forever. You can trust Tex. :) read more

Red Kestrel Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Francisco, California

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I just had my first big piece done by Tex and I am so impressed and happy with my tattoo. I had originally seen her work when she was at Cold Steel in the Haight, then my best friend got a cover up and a new tattoo with her when she was at Body Manipulations. Tex now has her own personal studio and it's so nice and cozy. I have received so many compliments on my tattoo, everyone is blown away by her artwork! If you are looking for a quality tattoo by a great artist I highly recommend Tex. read more

Words fail to desctibe just what a great tattoo artist Tex is. She's done over about 20 tattoos on me including an incredible full-back Buddha. Her technique and artistic abilties are beyond excellent. Tex is refreshingly no-drama and completely professional. And that is very reassuring thing to know when someone has a vibrating needle in your skin for hours. She is great at taking your ideas and making them work on your body. If you are really nice to her, you can play with her sweet dog, School. Needless to say I highly highly highly recommend Tex. read more

Ooooohhh, so good! I got 2 pieces done by Tex when she was at Body Manipulations, and I was really, really excited to work with her again. I have my 2nd appointment this week for a huge, lovely bunch of pomegranates on my back. I brought in the art, she & I discussed what I wanted, and she came up with the most BEAUTIFUL design. I really, really love her input on design (she talked me out of what would have been a disaster of way too much white ink on a prior tattoo), and she makes fantastic suggestions for how to make her impeccable work even more amazing. As if that were even possible. Yay, Tex! read more

TEX is the bomb!!! You won't regret your tattoo done by Tex. She's awesome, a great artist and a very approachable individual!

Tex did a great job translating the images I brought to her into an amazing tattoo and really had a great sense of what I was looking for in terms of size and placement, despite my vagueness. I'm really happy with the final product. In addition, Tex and I had a great conversation and the hour went by in a flash! I would highly recommend her. read more

Tex is great - very detailed - I get tons of compliments on the detailing actually. She has a super clean studio, not intimidating and makes the process very relaxing. read more

Thank you Tex for an awesome tattoo! You took my written deas and turned them into a life long work of art that i'm so happy with. For those considering a tattoo in the San Francisco Bay Area, go to see Tex! She is an AMAZINGLY talented artist! Her workspace is super confortable, clean, and profesional. i have some disc problems and she went above and beyond to accommodate me. Thanks again Tex!!!!! read more

I searched for 2 years for an artist who's work I connected to and moved me. I wanted to start a sleeve but knew that such a big piece had to be done RIGHT! I came across Tex on Yelp and went to her website...I was floored by her work and instantly knew that she was my artist. I gave her my concept and then gave her free reign with the design as I was 100% confident in her skill, talent and artistry. Tex delivered waaaay above what I expected. I have been stopped every day and asked about my sleeve, and complimented on it. I have had fine art majors approach me and rave about this tattoo! I will probably work with Tex fir the next few years as I build a collection of Fine Art for my body. If you truly are seeking a tattoo that is more than just a tattoo but something that becomes a part of you and feels like it belongs on your skin, and that it has always been there you MUST see Tex! read more

You shouldn't find your tattoo artist on Yelp. But if you come across Tex, do yourself a favor and get some of her art on you. She's incredible. read more

Well...Tex is pretty much awesome. I came across her work after my aunt went to her and I just about fell in love. So I booked myself a consultation and not only was she a super cool lady but her studio is lovely- clean (seriously clean), cozy and private. I haven't been super specific so I just let her know what i want and generally where I want it and it has resulted in two beautiful pieces. Of course she also knows what works as far as color, size, placement etc. so yea I guess you could say she knows what she's doing :) The wait can be a few months but I always get on the cancellation list and usually something opens up. But if not, definitely worth the wait. So you should really only come here if you want a stellar tattoo that's going to heal and age beautifully and a few hours hanging out with a hip and talented lady:) ****************** these are all the extra stars I'm giving her read more

Amazing!!! My best tattoo experience ever! Tex has such an amazing technique and is so professional. Tex is so friendly and easy going, and her private studio is such a great setting to get tattooed in. No drama and you don't have to deal with tattoo shop snobbery. She tattooed my first arm piece and it is so beautiful!! Such great attention to detail!!! You do have to reserve a few weeks or months in advance but if you cannot wait that long you shouldn't get a tattoo. Also Tex is worth waiting for. THANKX TEX!!!!! read more

You cannot believe how many times every day i get stopped and asked "Who did your tattoo? That's beautiful!' Or told, "Wow, I've never seen a tattoo so pretty," Tex's tattoos have changed people's perceptions, I have Grandma's telling me that my tattoos by Tex are true Art work. I am so glad to be one of the few in this world that have this incredible artistry imprinted on my skin. Thank you Tex! You are incredible... :) read more

I searched a long time for a tattoo artist and finally came across Tex. Unlike many artists I've known, Tex really ensures that the experience is all about you. It's about what you want, and she seems to be able to do just about any type of design. I have referred many people to her once they learn who did my inking. Her honest, straightforward personality is a pleasure to be around, and her artistic skill is unmatched. It really is all about the art, after all. Even though I am moving to another state soon, I will return to her for my tattooing no matter where I end up living. Yes, she is that good! read more

I am so so so so happy with my rad tattoo from Tex. She came highly recommended by friends but I never realized how awesome it would be. She takes so much to make sure that the placement and image are exactly what you'd like. She is also a great conversationalist so those 2.5 hours pass by quickly. I get so many compliments on her work - told many times that it is the coolest tattoo anyone has seen. I can't wait to come up with an idea for my next tattoo so I can work with Tex again! read more

Tex's space is clean, comfortable and fun! She is an extremely talented artist and I'm so glad I went to her for my first tattoo. She was calm, professional, and made the experience unforgettable. I highly recommend her for any tattoo you may want. read more

Tex just finished my very first tattoo and it is BEAUTIFUL! From the initial consult to the outstanding finished piece, Tex is the consummate artist and professional! She definitely has the artist's eye for design and placement. Her incredible detail work, the intense colors and her light hand are all exceptional!! She is meticulous in her sanitary preparation and her studio is clean and comfortable. Tex is very easy to work with, her rate is competitive and totally worth every penny! read more