Chapter One Tattoo History

When looking to get a new tattoo in San Diego, or elsewhere for that matter, it is important to find an experienced and knowledgeable artist who can design a beautiful and unique tattoo with skill and precision. Guided by their creative vision and the ever striving desire for perfection, some of the most talented tattoo artists in the business call San Diego home.

We at Chapter One Tattoo are lucky enough to have Cash Scott at the helm, who through years of practicing his craft and attention to detail stands out as a master artisan having earned him immense respect in the industry.

Becoming a San Diego Tattoo Artist

Years before Chapter One was even thought of, Cash Scott got into tattooing while still in high school by drawing tattoos for his friends. The year was 2000, and at this point in time it was difficult to find someone to give a custom tattoo as most tattoo shops just had flash on the walls (flash being pre-drawn designs you can pick from). Cash’s friends knew he was a talented artist so they would ask him to draw their tattoos and he would create unique, individual pieces for his friends to take to their local tattoo artists in San Diego.

After having a few of his friends show up with his designs, the artist doing the tattoos for Cash’s friends asked about meeting him and invited him in. Cash began learning the business and, always having a passion for art, immediately became interested in becoming a tattoo artist. He ended up getting an apprenticeship, his first job out of high school (a rarity even today). His approach to drawing came from black and white photorealistic portraits as something he picked up from watching his mom who did pencil and charcoal art as a hobby.

The Beginning of Chapter One Tattoo

Not being satisfied with doing mostly flash tattoos, Cash wanted to do things differently. He at first had resistance from the shop owner, and even other shops as most San Diego tattoo artists all had a similar way of working, with no one wanting to disrupt the status quo. Cash wanted to give his clients more, and in turn allow his art to grow and shine, so he began taking appointments and booking out in advance to give him time to create beautiful and more intricate works of art his clients would love.

When first approaching his boss with his idea, Cash was met with resistance, but Cash persisted. Recognizing that the average tattoo shop was very cliquey which could be off-putting for potential clients, Cash wanted to create a shop with a more welcoming environment. Something clean, bright, and focused on art. Thus, in 2011, Chapter One Tattoo was born. Cash opened the shop to serve as inspiration for other shops who have since borrowed from its design and branding.

The Future of Chapter One Tattoo

Chapter One Tattoo has grown organically since its opening in 2011 at a pace that is never forced. To this day, Cash still tattoos some of his earliest clients and people he has met and known through the years continue to come back for piece after piece. His motivation, as well as that of the other artists who work with him, is to push the art forward, always challenging each other to grow and become better artists. The shop started with only three artists, but it quickly outgrew its space as more artists wanted to join.

The shop grew so much that in 2015 Chapter One Tattoo moved into a bigger building. Ultimately, Cash’s goal is to have another location in San Diego to accommodate more art and other types of creativity. He would like to see more people doing different styles of tattoos and art, and needs more space for inspiration and growth. Cash’s long term goal is to be able to pass the torch to his sons who at a young age are already showing an interest and proclivity in art.

The Best Tattoo Artists in San Diego

Cash has been able to assemble a team of artists at Chapter One Tattoo that specialize in custom tattoo pieces that stand out from the rest and last a lifetime. If you are looking for amazing, high-quality tattoos in San Diego, look no further than Chapter One Tattoo.

Our artists are the best in the business and passionate about their work guaranteeing you a wonderful experience as well as a truly unique and beautiful tattoo. Make an appointment today to start your next tattoo journey.