Tattoos are permanent pieces of art displayed on your body. Knowing that they will last forever, it’s no surprise that people want their tattoos to be meaningful. Sure, there are some beautiful and intricate designs that you could choose from flash sheets on the walls of any tattoo shop around San Diego, but getting a custom tattoo that reflects something uniquely special to you makes for a much more personal piece.
Chapter One Tattoo in San Diego, CA was born out of its owner Cash Scott’s desire to stray away from repetitive flash sheet tattoos towards more personalized and custom works of art. Since 2011, Scott has been building a team of expert tattoo artists that specialize in a wide variety of styles.
The focus of Chapter One Tattoo is on working closely with clients to design custom tattoos that reflect exactly what they wish to express. From personalized portraits to intricate and detailed illustrative designs, the highly professional team of artists at Chapter One Tattoo are certified experts in their field. With body art currently more popular than ever, you’ll definitely want to work with one of the reputable artists at Chapter One Tattoo to design a personal, new tattoo that will stand out from the crowd.
Benefits of Custom Tattoos
Getting a custom tattoo is like commissioning a professional artist to paint a masterpiece of your own design. By working with a San Diego tattoo artist to design exactly what your dream tattoo looks like in your head, you’ll be able to bring your vision to life. Whether you want to get a piece that commemorates a special event, or something unique that reminds you of a loved one, being part of the design process of a custom tattoo will allow you to create something with more meaning than any tattoo copied from a sheet. With custom tattoos come stories, memories, and history. Working with a skilled artist who is trained to make your ideas a reality is crucial when it comes to custom tattoos, as you’ll want to be sure that your design is exactly how you imagined it. With your body as the canvas, your art should be designed through your own eye. The skilled artists at Chapter One Tattoo are there to ensure that your design is executed with precision and care.
Custom Tattoos Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it typically take to design a custom tattoo at Chapter One Tattoo?
A: This answer varies entirely on how intricate or large a client wants their design to be. With smaller pieces that use simple linework and shading, a custom tattoo can be designed in one sitting. Generally, however, artists will want to spend time with the designing process, so it may take a week or two for them to get back to you with a finished product.
Q: Can I bring my own design or do I need to choose from the artist’s portfolio?
A: Absolutely! Having a sketch, drawing, or idea of what you want your design to look like will help your artist understand exactly what you’re looking for and make the designing process easier and more cohesive.
Q: What is the process for scheduling a consultation for a custom tattoo?
A: Start by reaching out to the San Diego artist you want to work with. They will let you know what their schedule is looking like currently and figure out a time that works for both of you to meet and discuss your design.
Q: What is the cost of a custom tattoo at Chapter One Tattoo?
A: We have a standard $200 shop minimum. From there, tattoo prices vary depending on size, intricacy and time spent throughout the process. The artists at Chapter One Tattoo are very transparent when it comes to pricing, so feel free to discuss this during consultation so you’re able to plan financially.
Q: Can I make changes to the design during the tattooing process or is the design final once it is approved?
A: Making changes to a design once tattooing has commenced is a tricky process. This is not generally allowed by most tattoo artists, so be sure you are happy with your final design before the needle hits your skin.
Chapter One Tattoo’s Process for Custom Tattoos
Before beginning the process for a custom tattoo, you’ll want to decide what style you’re looking for so that you can choose an artist that specializes in that type of tattooing. Once you’ve decided on an artist, the process for a custom piece at Chapter One Tattoo begins with a consultation meeting at our shop in San Diego, CA. Here, you’ll be able to sit with your artist and discuss the details of your design. Walk-ins are always welcome, however with custom pieces you’ll likely need to meet with your artist beforehand so that they have adequate time to work on your design.
After consultation, the artist will then work on drawing up your design so that you can see it in person, where you’ll be able to further discuss any modifications or additions you want to make. The artists at Chapter One Tattoo are extremely personable and are trained to work closely with their clients to ensure satisfaction with the final design. You should never feel like you are being too particular about the way your design turns out, as they are glad to revise their sketches until you find exactly what you’re looking for.
That being said, these are expert artists who will have realistic feedback about your design ideas. While it is not their intention to change what you have envisioned, they know their craft and may have suggestions regarding size, color, shading and placement. Their ultimate goal is to give you the tattoo you want, but also to make sure that it looks proportional and professional in every way possible. It’s important that you have an open mind when consulting with your tattoo artist, as they are there to help make your design look the best it possibly can.
Once you and your artist have decided on a final design, the actual tattooing will commence. With larger pieces, this may span multiple sessions. Custom tattoos take time because your artist is creating something entirely new on your body. It’s important to have patience when it comes to custom tattoos, as you may not have a finished piece after just the first session.
Once completed, your custom tattoo will be ready to begin its healing process. Be sure to follow all aftercare instructions that your artist recommends to ensure that your tattoo heals properly and looks good for years to come. If necessary, the artists at Chapter One Tattoo will gladly do touch ups after the healing process is complete.
Examples of Custom Tattoos and Styles
At Chapter One Tattoo, our artists’ portfolios are filled with amazing examples of custom tattoos and styles. Many tattoos can be seen around San Diego, and we’re proud to have produced some very exceptional pieces. Some of these standout pieces include:
- Cash Scott’s realistic black and gray full back family and Mexican heritage piece
- Dan Collins’ realistic black and gray small sized Nipsey Hussle portrait
- Daria Pirojenko’s realistic pop art style star wars pieces
- Yvonne Byers’ colorful and illustrative botanical leg piece
5. Casey Sullivan’s American traditional dog portrait
Create Your Custom Tattoo with Chapter One Tattoo in San Diego Today!
Custom tattoos are a way of forever immortalizing something that is deeply personal and meaningful to you. By working with an experienced San Diego tattoo artist, you’ll be able to collaboratively design a tattoo that is uniquely your own. Whether this is your first tattoo, second tattoo, or you’re already fairly covered in ink, you’ll want your custom piece done right and in a professional environment. Check out Chapter One Tattoo’s website today to browse custom tattoos San Diego artist portfolios and booking availability, or feel free to stop by the tattoo shop in person to learn more about scheduling a consultation. Walk-ins are always welcome. There’s no better time than now to get a custom tattoo you’ll be able to cherish forever.
Traditional Tattoos Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does a traditional tattoo cost at Chapter One Tattoo? Is there a consultation fee?
A: We have a shop minimum of $200. From there, prices vary depending on artist, size, detail, and placement. There’s no fee for a quote or consultation, so feel free to reach out with any questions you may have.
Q: Are traditional tattoos still popular?
A: Yes! Traditional tattoos are still one of the most popular styles of tattoos seen today. With their bold line work and vibrant colors, traditional pieces are widely considered the original American style of tattooing. What’s more, American traditional tattoos done in black and grey work have risen in popularity, so if color isn’t your thing you can still get a piece done in a traditional style.
Q: Does getting a traditional tattoo hurt?
A: Sometimes. Certain parts of the body are more sensitive than others, and larger pieces will likely cause some amount of discomfort. Everyone has a different tolerance for pain, so the answer to this question varies from person to person. If you truly want a tattoo, the bottom line is that it is a bearable process. You’ll be happy with your piece in the long run, so don’t sweat the initial discomfort.
Q: What are traditional tattoos called?
A: Traditional tattoos have a few different names. They are also known as American traditional tattoos, western tattoos, or old school tattoos. No matter how they’re referred to, traditional tattoos are characterized by bold line work, vivid colors, and minimal shading.
The Traditional Tattoo Process at Chapter One Tattoo
The process for getting a traditional tattoo at Chapter One Tattoo starts with you choosing which artist best fits your desires. You can browse portfolios online, or visit the shop to see their designs in person.
Once you’ve settled on an artist, the consultation process can begin. If you are choosing a design from a flash sheet, this will likely be a quick process, as they will only need to discuss size and placement with you. If you’re looking to have a custom design drawn up, the consultation process may take longer as the artist will need some time to work on your design. Our artists’ main goal is to give you exactly what you want, so if you’re not happy with your design be sure to discuss what you would like to change about it before settling on anything final. Keep in mind, however, that our artists are experts at their craft, so take any feedback with an open mind and understand that they are also trying to provide you with a tattoo that will reflect Chapter One Tattoo’s high standard of professionalism. They may have realistic limitations with regards to size and placement.
Once you and your artist have consulted and decided on a final design, the tattooing process will begin. If your design is on the smaller side, it is possible to have a finished tattoo after one sitting. With larger pieces, this process may span several sessions, so be prepared to make multiple visits before your traditional piece is complete.
After the tattooing process comes aftercare and healing. Your tattoo is an investment, so be sure to take proper care of it and listen to the aftercare tips provided by your artist. Tattoos generally take 4-6 weeks to heal, so you’ll want to be vigilant in your aftercare so that it heals properly and looks good for years to come. If necessary, free touch ups are offered for three months after your initial tattoo appointment.
Book Your Traditional Tattoo Appointment at Chapter One Tattoo Today!
Traditional tattoos are the quintessential American style of tattooing. With bold lines, vivid colors, and minimal shading, these tattoos practically pop off your skin. If you’re looking for a tattoo that will stand out in the crowd, a traditional piece may be the perfect choice for you. Harkening back to the designs created by Sailor Jerry, traditional tattoos will forever be a mainstay in tattoo culture. With multiple artists that specialize in this style, Chapter One Tattoo is your go to location for traditional tattoos San Diego. Book an appointment online today or stop by the shop anytime to talk with one of our many talented artists. There’s no better time than now to get the traditional tattoo you’ve always wanted.
