Redink Tattoo Studio — Local services in New York

New beginnings: that is something that I’ve been yearning for as I try to move forward from the past through replacing the reminders of those struggles long ago with art. With a sleeve in progress, I decided to take a chance and stop by Red Ink Tattoo after a local doctor’s appointment. The moment I was before the entrance, a kind receptionist greeted me warmly. The shop’s manager was also friendly and offered to help me up the stairs as I’ve had some mobility issues after suffering a recent e-bike accident. I was moved by the hospitality and kindness from the team overall, and felt rest assured that I made the right decision to work more on the sleeve, despite not yet knowing what design I would end up choosing out of the sketches and ideas I was debating on. What I adore about tattoo shops is, you can be the loneliest person on the planet, and suddenly that goes away in an epic, healthier way than mere escapism. A kind tattoo artist referred me to one of her colleagues, who was just as kind and patient, allowing me time to brainstorm and work on the design. The facility is exquisite, super neat and tidy, very good hygiene meeting industry standards, and an all in all fun yet peaceful space to get inked. The chairs were the most comfortable tattoo shop chairs I’ve ever sat my toushie upon, and enjoyed the atmosphere including with soothing aromas and lighting. The price was not too bad for such exceptional artistry, and wish I had more of a budget to work with out of respect for these incredible artists. I was so happy with my tattoo experience that I was eager to have another tattoo that very night, one of those classic flash tattoos, but with a limited budget and my arms needing a specific style to properly cover-up the past, I accepted with a sigh that it’s better to revisit the sleeve work via custom design/appt. Although I can get a bit funky when low, I appreciate how the tattoo artist I spoke to had my best interest at heart, and the whole team overall being so professional and diligent in their craft. I also am glad to have clarification on what days there are discounts, etc. Unfortunately I stopped by on a weekday where everything is at the usual price point. Having my tattoo done at RedInk was honestly one of my greatest tattoo experiences: I would recommend them at the top of my list for anyone looking to get exceptional, artistic, innovative pieces—very much worth the investment. I will definitely be saving in my piggy bank to continue my project with RedInk, including with adding more of a tip for the amazing tattoo artist who did my piece here: God bless, and all...

Do not let this place take advantage of you like they did to my friend and I! We were on a girls trip to the city and after dinner decided it would be fun to get small tattoos. The atmosphere at this shop was nice and I truly appreciate the gentleman that worked with me to come up with a design that I liked. I also appreciate that he said he didn’t do much fine line work so he passed me off to another gentleman in the shop. After 1 week my overpriced tattoo is DISAPPEARING. Same for my friends. I have another large fine line piece that never disappeared. I tried writing the “artist” afterwards and he told me that happens with thin lines. Well if it happens with thin lines then why couldn’t he share this before or ask if I wanted it thicker? I was charged $250 and then left him a nice 20% tip so $300 for a small (maybe 2 inch) tattoo to now have to pay again for someone to fix it. Again, I do like the design. But the artist should not be offering his services if this is what is going to happen. It’s not right to charge someone an arm and a leg for something that’s vanishing. The third girl in our group was tattooed by someone else and hers looks good. But for my other friend and I, we were tattooed by Jager Fernandez (this is the name on his Instagram) so please be aware. An artist should always be open about what they do or don’t feel comfortable with doing. Don’t do something just for the money. They had also said the tattoo was going to be over $300 after I had asked for a price and when I got hesitant they started negotiating the price. I felt weird about that. Again this is maybe a 2 inch tattoo…. I do understand this is in the heart of New York City, but I am just emphasizing don’t take advantage of people because they...

Ooook I have to gush…because we had the BEST experience here!!! My husband and I got each other’s initials on our hands to celebrate another great trip! (Will post his artists review too!!)

A) my artist had the same name as me (Taylor Pope) - and I’ve never met a Taylor I didn’t like!!! And she was one of my favorite Taylors yet!!! Does this help other non-Taylor clients? No. But it made my night!

B) TAYLOR DID SUCH A GOOD JOB!!! Literally barely felt it and it took longer to prep than it did to finish. She was so meticulous about prep and sterile technique - I got a tattoo on my other hand on Valentine’s this year and the tattoo Taylor did already looks better than that one ever has. She’s also cool as hell…I’m just a fan I guess lol proud of her!!!

C) We walked into several shops in Brooklyn and Manhattan and this one was the only one that felt safe, clean and cool. The door service and the way they move you around the shop for each step feels like you just got invited in to some kind of speakeasy or something. Call me a hipster, but that shit feels cool and I like being in your club 😂

D) LOVE LOVE LOVE seeing so many female artists and artists of different backgrounds. (Did I mention Taylor also seemed to be fluent in multiple languages? - an educated queen 👑) If a generic white dude never tattoos me again I’ll die happy 😊

Basically, we loved it…but I’m pretty sure Taylor Pope could make getting a tattoo in a dumpster fire feel like a luxury experience. And on a WALK-IN service?! That’s crazy. I’ll be making sure to follow and support Taylor’s career…gotta be able to get on her books when she’s famous for this...