Recommend a tattoo artist

[mdubz]

Hey all, looking for a tattoo shop/artist who specializes in traditional japanese style tattoos (koi, dragons, fu dogs, etc). This will be for a half-sleeve.

People used to always rave about Smiling Buddha as a tattoo shop, but it seems that they aren't as popular as they used to be. I've heard Bushido has some talented artists. Anyone have any experience with them? Any other shops/artists you recommend for this style?

Thanks

[Gundo]

Doug Fink & Brando @ Bushido have done my arms, back and leg they are both phenomenal at what they do. Doug may not be taking new clients right now due to his work load but one can argue he is the best in town.

All that being said I have friends who have work from Paul Jefferies at Smiling Budda (Doug apprenticed under him I belive) and its amazing, same can be said about James Tex @ Deadly Tattoos both renowned in the tattoo world for their talents. I bring those two up because I have friends who have work done by them. Who knows who else is around.

Look at different shops, read reviews, LOOK AT PORTFOLIOS!!! See what their work looks like and don't be in a rush. Once you find someone who specializes in that style then talk with them and come up with an idea.

Lastly and most importantly DON'T BE IN A HURRY and you get what you pay for my sleeve was once quoted to me for $550-$700 it actually cost me over $1700 once I looked at the artists portfolios I understood why there was such a price difference. Good luck and post pictures when it's done.

[Yasa]

If you can book an appointment with Sam Smith, she's coming back to Bushido for a bit. She used to work there, but left for Vancouver.

Her site is here: http://samsmithtattoo.tumblr.com/

She did a sleeve for a friend of mine that included some pagodas and other brightly coloured things. It's nice.

[t0rrent98]

I haven't been to this one yet but its called Gypsy Rose in Huntington. They are pretty cheap but they also do a great job of tattoo's.

[Otto-matic]

Katina at the art house did a fantastic job on my 1/4 sleeve

[Flacker]

Ernie behind the Crack Macs.

If you spit on the needle yourself, you get a discount.

DISCLAIMER: Don't piss off his girlfriend, she gets stabby.