For my first two text tattoos, I picked a shop based off of proximity. But it's my third time, with a picture this time, and I was looking for some charm. I messaged Crystal on Instagram, and she was quick to respond, enthusiastic about my ideas and input. Scheduling was just as quick, within a week. She did text asking to postpone a half hour to finish her prior client, which I respect as quality art takes time. She obviously takes care with her work, as she presented me with the most adorable reinterpretation of my reference, save for the words so that I could select a font. She also wanted to check for size and placement before making the final copy, keeping me entertained with a lively conversation. She's Uber friendly with people skills and artistic talent, a double punch that would have me considering flipping through her flash book or 60 dollar gumball machine roulette if I wasn't saving my limited canvas for future ideas. (She does take that into account as well.)
While I waited, I relaxed in the inviting space, complete with couches and plants and candles, a custom playlist hitting the right part of my punk soul. There were shirts and pens and signs to shop and paperwork to sign off on while she copied my ID.
She has a gentle touch, allowing me to sit comfortably with only a mild tingle of the clean needle. She covered me with a dermaskin to last a few days while going over aftercare. While my bill was only 150 total, including deposit, I left a tip because I am over the moon with my new permanent art. I swear, girl is called Crystal because she is a real gem. read more