I discovered Temple Tattoo by recommendation about five years ago and haven't gone, and won't go anywhere else now. Everything about this place is excellent, a cut above the handful of other establishments I have visited over the years.
 The first thing I noticed was how friendly everyone was. Freddy's nickname isn't "Mr. Nice" for nothing. Getting a tattoo can be a nerve wracking experience, even for veterans of the ink. The way they are patient and welcoming puts you at ease and I've almost felt like I was "one of the gang".
 Now niceties are great but that alone won't leave you with quality work on your body. Rest assured that pleasantries aren't their only talents here. These are some world class artists here with years of experience.
 I have had five tattoos done here and have been beyond happy with them all. Derrick Snograss has done most of mine and two for my wife. I hope to work with him again soon, he's a great artist but also a great guy. I have also had the pleasure of working with Jason and once had an appointment with Freddy that was cancelled due to circumstances and we weren't able to reconnect unfortunately. Freddy himself is in high demand and also travels a lot as I understand. One day we'll get that portrait of my deceased and beloved cat done and I wouldn't want anyone else for that particular one.
 A couple years ago my niece wanted to pay for my sister to get a tattoo. My sister is very conservative and probably had reservations about, not only getting a tattoo but also being in the environment. I was thrilled to be able to recommend Temple to her because I knew they would put her at ease and take care of her the way they do with everyone.
 I love this place and am coming back as soon as I can!
Got tattoos here and the ink is starting to bleed on both me and my boyfriend. This occurs when the artist goes too deep into the skin tissue, and the ink will only continue to bleed out underneath my skin. The fact that this happened with two different designs placed on two different areas of skin, on two different people make me think it's not just me that might have experienced this. I got three dots placed along my finger and it's starting to look more like a blurry line. Paid the 60 bucks minimum for my three dots.
To Temple's credit, they did deter me from getting my ear tattooed - explaining that the tissue was too soft on the ear and would not hold the ink well. I'm not sure about the accuracy of this statement and it does not redeem the fact that I have a bad tattoo on my finger but it is nice that they were firm on not doing something they weren't comfortable with.
PS my boyfriend and I both have multiple tattoos and have never experienced this sort of ink bleed out
I read the reviews and decided on this place, because I had a very specific piece in mind. Â I walked in showed them my piece, which was just script but they were signatures.
They cleaned them up and did a really nice job. Â Heath did my tattoo. This place is clean and professional. Â I have another design I want done, and I will be BACK !!!
I got a tattoo done by Heath back in June and I love it. He added on to an existing tattoo I had gotten a few years earlier and you can't even tell, it looks like just one big piece! Great smooth lines and good color. He was really nice an patient with me too. I'm definitely going back to him!
Review Source:Got my Tattoo there a while ago, almost 2 years ago and finally leaving my review. I went in there with a specific piece that I wanted. Looked at the different artists work and reviews before hand and chose Heath. I booked my appointment and put down my deposit. On the day of, I came in and while Heath does seem like a really cool guy, he was late for my appointment, and about halfway through my tattoo stopped to eat lunch, so i was there for a total of 4 hours when it should have taken maybe an hour and a half. The customer service was alright, the vibe wasn't the best, but the work was great. I'll recommend this shop, but the experience I had wasn't the greatest.
Review Source:Cash only!! They have an ATM machine upstairs. Minimum price is $60.
I got a simple matching delta tattoo on my wrist with one of my close friends.
Jonah has a great personality. Very laid back, yet professional. He was SO friendly and funny -- I was super scared but he nonchalantly made my anxiety vanish.
My first tattoo experience was quick and easy. I will definitely be coming back when I have money!! Thanks Jonah, you're awesome.
Had my tattoo done by Jason and it's amazing! Â I took in a piece my husband had drawn for me in black & white, and Jason touched it up, colored it and made it beautiful. Â The shop was clean, professional and reasonably priced and he had my piece done really quickly. I'll definitely be back to Temple to see Jason and I recommend you do too.
Review Source:Just got a tattoo done today by Jonah. I walked in with my design and was out the door with an amazing piece in less than two hours (just script).
The shop is clean, Jonah was kind and professional and I felt very comfortable. He redesigned my lettering and re-sized it for my arm. he has a light touch and did beautiful work. i am so thrilled with my new piece that i can't wait to go back and get another one done. this place is the place to go.
This was my first time visiting this shop and I read such awesome reviews about it I just had to check it out. I called to schedule an appointment for a small ankle tat and was seen the next day. I happened to get Chummy and I have to say he was great! Â He was very patient and easy to talk to. Overall, it was a great experience. The shop has a cool vibe and I'm very pleased with the work he did. Â Ill be coming back for more. Thanks Chummy! Cheers!
Review Source:I had a PHENOMENAL experience at Temple Tattoo. A couple of friends  and I got tattoos together, all done by the wonderful Dustin Wengreen. My friend designed the tattoos, and Dustin took great care to stay true to the original art, while being flexible with each of us to cater to our personal aesthetic tastes.  The tattoo process was comfortable and collaborative-- Dustin frequently checked in to see how I was doing and asked what I thought of the lines and colors. In addition to being a fabulous tattoo artist, Dustin was super nice and seemed like a stand-up guy. While I was getting tattooed, a recent customer came in and asked for Dustin. Turns out that the guy unknowingly overpaid for his tattoo and Dustin called him and asked him to come back to the shop so that he could return the $60 the guy overpaid. What a guy! Our tattoos took longer than Dustin had originally estimated, so he actually charged us for less than time than we used. My friends and I were more than happy to give him big tips and hugs before leaving.
Other shop staff were great as well. My friends and I were all carrying backpacks (hadn't been to where we were staying after flying in from Portland, so had a weekend's worth of gear on our backs) and the Temple Tattoo folks graciously allowed us to move in for the afternoon.
The shop itself is comfortable, clean, and uniquely decorated.
I would, without hesitation, recommend this place to friends. Temple Tattoos gets six thumbs up.
I got my first tattoo at Temple. Actually, I had initially gone to Tattoo 13 to book my tattoo. I had been planning this tattoo for about 7 years and had finally decided to do it on my 31st birthday which fell this year on 1-13-13 so I thought I'd get the tattoo at Tattoo 13 since I'd been in the shop before and liked the vibe and they came highly recommended by a good friend of mine.
Dustin approached the counter to book my appointment and because I wanted to do it on a Sunday, he booked it at Temple which I said was fine - I wasn't actually picky about it being done at 13, I just figured it was a good place to start. And when I checked out Temple on Yelp, I found they had an even better rating than 13 anyway.
And damn, do they ever deserve it. For my first tattoo, it was pretty big (a band around my calf - so also SUPER painful) and had a lot of straight lines and little circles. I'd dropped off several photos of the tattoo that I wanted when I booked my appointment, including two photos of the tattoo the way I did NOT want it done, and when I arrived the day of, Dustin had prepared the design perfectly. He also took a lot of time and care in placing it and ended up tweaking the band a little to make it connect better which I think looks even better than what I had initially proposed.
I highly recommend coming to Temple on a Sunday - the street outside is really quiet and the atmosphere is chill and relaxed. Considering that I was in excruciating pain for most of the time that I was there, the relaxed atmosphere was perfect.
The art around the place is amazing, and the artists are friendly, professional and DAMN good. This place deserves its good reputation and I can't recommend it enough.
I'm going to chime in here and add my praise for Temple Tattoo. Â Got my first tattoo over the weekend, and I couldn't be happier. Jason is an artist of the highest caliber. Â He did a magnificient job. Â I came in with one of my favorite Pacific Northwest native American prints and he perfectly translated it to my arm. Â It was really intricate and detailed but he did it in a little over three hours. Â It was worth every penny because it wasn't just some random piece of ink, it was body art at its finest and EVERYONE who has seen it has raved about it. Â Thanks Jason! Â I know where I'll be going for my next one.
Review Source:OK finely got my first tattoo. I knew I was going to get tattoo in Oakland so I been searching for that special shop. After consulting several human canvases I decided Temple Tattoo was the place to go. Went in after work and was able to get tattoo that night. Dustin was the artist in shop and did a great job. Showed Dustin my design and he did his magic. Now I'm looking for my second tattoo.
Review Source:DUSTIN WENGREEN at Temple Tattoo is a superior artist. I knew he was going to be good, but after two hours in his chair, I left with my expectations crushed. My tattoo required many straight lines and perfect circles and Dustin nailed it. I am still blown away by his focus and attention to detail. The atmosphere at Temple Tattoo is great, and its the people that make it this way. Don't wait, go to Temple Tattoo if you're looking to get inked in Oakland. Â
I should add: their sister shop, Tattoo 13, is equally amazing. The receptionist, Esther, is a sweetheart and she made the original recommendation for me to schedule with Dustin Wengreen. All around, amazing experience.
Me and hubby happen to have stumbled upon this place after looking feverishly for an ink fix. Â I am so glad that we did! I told Dustin my vision for my cherry tattoos and he sketched exactly what I had been envisioning for the last year! I'm happy with my new tat and hubby is very satisfied with his tats that represent his conscious at battle for good and evil! Wow! All that and u receive great service, honest tattoo artist that will give you advice on ur tattoos! Were planning on coming back! soon....very soon
Review Source:5 stars on Yelp is almost impossible, but this place really deserves it! I've been contemplating getting a tattoo for years and last week decided to finally do it. I called over and they had some time for my friend and I to get our first tattoos.
I'd done quite a bit of research and knew the reputation that Temple earned, plus it's in my hood so it was an easy decision. I happened to get Chum (he's only in once a week) and am so pleased! There were 3 people in the shop and they were all so nice. Chum made it so easy on my friend and I (also her first- she chose tourist ink of the GGB since she's from the UK).
Reasonable rates for the quality of the work, and now that I have something small and uncomplicated, I'm ready for something big and designy. Thanks Chummy- I'll be back!
I came here around 2006 for my very first tattoo and then in 2007 for my 2nd. Â Met Derek and he was very helpful with drawing up some ideas and I liked them instantly. Â The inside of the shop is very unique and words can't really describe it, meeting Freddy was also really cool. I've recommended Temple to many friends and family all of which who go in regularly.
Review Source:Got my very very first tattoo done here over five years ago.
A good memory; over before I knew it, painless (and cheap since it was quite small).
Can't remember the name of the girl whom tattooed me but it was a chill & easy process. I brought in what I wanted, she made adjustments and within 30 mins and around $40 later, I had a new piece of flesh.
Went in based upon yelp reviews, as well as reading about the shop, it's owner and the artists. Met with Freddy, a great guy, and he pointed me in the direction of Dustin based upon the kind of work that I wanted done. Came back a couple days later after making an appointment, and met with Dustin. Another great guy that's laid back, and takes his craft seriously. He came up with a very clean, unique design idea in a short amount of time and I went with it. The shop was clean and to top things off, these guys had some classic Ice Cube bumpin' in the background. The service was great, the price was right, and Dustin is the man. I'll be recommending this shop to all my friends and colleagues, and most likely going back to get some more work done.
Review Source:Showed up for my appointment on time, rushed to do so, artist was running behind with client before me, no biggie, but then when he finished with her he says he really needs to eat first. Then mentions he 'never really got a chance to work on the drawing'. Â What exactly does an 'appointment' mean?? Â Went elswhere
Review Source:Dustin popped my cherry a few months back, and I'm going back for more!
Amazing clean shop, friendly and professional, affordable....
Here's a short doc on the owner, Fred Corbin: <a href="/redir?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3Df44F7o2JDSU&s=1dd0800c7612044410d689dc3f53d2b878b50836f55e31fbef9555953ab54e20" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/w…</a>
extremely recommended :)
This is definitely the best tattoo shop I've been to in the bay area thus far. Everybody's very chill, and a quick sweep through their portfolios will let you know that all the artists working here are incredibly talented also.
I had Jason do a tattoo for me and it's everything that I wanted and so much more. I love it, it's beautiful, and when I want a new one you bet I already know where I'll be going, and who I'll be going to.
Props to Jason also for powering through the piece and getting it all done in one session. *high five*
I came here as a walk in and only had to wait a short while. Â Jason gave me some beautiful script "Hopeless Romantic" on my chest and kept the lines nice and thin and feminine looking, as I requested. Â He was very gentle with the needles (in my opinion) and a pleasure to get tattooed by.
Review Source:I got my FIRST tattoo here about a year ago and the experience was GREAT! everyone was chill and friendly & it was a very down to earth environment..
JASON!!! he was my tattoo artist and I chose him thanks to some of the other yelpers & photos that were provided of his work. He is truly awesome... he took my verbal vision and made it a reality and it is a beautiful piece that i will keep for the rest of my life.
This is a great place to get a tattoo and the only place i will ever go for the rest of my life!
Out of all the tattoo shops I've had work at, Temple Tattoo is, by a landslide, my favorite to go to. I decided to get a large piece done here because of the many rave reviews I've heard from friends and this shop has surely lived up to their name.
I've had the greatest pleasure to have Heath work on my autumn-themed sleeve and I couldn't be more happy. The first day I walked in, Heath has been very accommodating. I told him I wanted an autumn-theme for a sleeve and the design was totally up to him. Before I knew it, he had a design all ready to go and exceeded my expectations. Heath is very easy and enjoyable to work with and there has not been any issues with setting up appointments with him (so far, I've set up 4 different appointments).
While in the chair getting work done, the other tattoo artists in the shop periodically made the effort to come by and comment/make suggestions on Heath's work and even offered to grab me some coffee or food nearby. I can tell that everyone there works very well together and truly enjoys what they're doing.
The music they play there is great. They accept credit/debit cards (great so you don't have to carry a wad of cash around Oakland; minimum of a $200 charge though). Location is great. Temple Tattoo is just an all around awesome place and since then, I've been recommending this shop to everyone. I will most definitely be returning here for more work.
The only con I can think of is the parking situation. There are paid parking lots a few blocks away, otherwise, you do have to resort to the metered parking. Usually, you can find a spot because people are coming and going on that street, but having to leave in the middle of your session to go add on another 2 hours (that's the max time) is annoying.
If you're wondering about price, I believe I have been charged an average of 120-140$ per hour for a full sleeve. A little pricier than most of the places I've been to, but honestly, if you're going to get something on your body permanently, don't be cheap and shell out the dough for it. It's already a guarantee that you'll get great work from Temple.
Clean shop, great artists.
My review is based on Derrick's craftsmanship, I don't know how the other artists are there, but I'm sure they are just as good.
First of all, this place is very clean and well kept. This is one of the most important things one can look for in a shop. Very professional work spaces. Never seen anything that would alarm me cleanliness wise. Everything is sterile and well kept.
Derrick is an amazing tattoo artist. He has done 3 pieces for me, including a half sleeve that is my favorite out of my 7 tattoos. He made me feel comfortable and has a very laid back attitude. Not too chatty or cocky, which I've gotten from others in the field. He did a great job on everything I've had done and his work is nothing less than top notch quality--the color, lines and technique are all AMAZING. I know I'm not the only one who thinks so, he has a bunch of great reviews on here.
I also really appreciated that Derrick knew his strengths and weaknesses. When I was interested in a tattoo on my neck, he had no problem telling me that was something he wasn't used to doing. THAT is a good tattoo artist--he isn't looking to take your money and run because his good reputation rides on his work.
Price is standard for good work, maybe even a bit under, in my experience. If you're looking for a $50 tattoo, go ask your brother's friend who does work out of his garage. You get what you pay for in this industry.
A friend of mine got tattooed by him as well and it was through her that I decided on getting my work done by Derrick. He isn't a local anymore, but I left my name and number and when he comes back to the bay, he calls me. It's worth the wait.
Super Heath strikes again!!! I just broke up with a lying son of a bitch and I needed some ink to heal my broken heart...and I call Heath 3:20PM and by 7, I've got some fresh ink across my shoulder, all free-handed and all done beautifully by Mr. Jesus (b/c Heath looks like Jesus...but a little less judgmental ;)
The guys are super chill and my artist (just mine, not yours) is the best...he'll be seeing me again for sure!!!
Trust the yelp review - Temple lives up to its high rating. Â
I had an anchor done with Heath who features a couple of nautical tattoos in his portfolio on Temple's website. Â He was really sure-handed, and he put a lot of thought into the tattoo design. Â Design work took much longer than the tattoo work, which I think is a great thing. Â We discussed colors before he brushed them in and I came out with a pretty amazing tattoo.
I've gotten many compliments on it since I got it last friday. Â Most everyone is amazed by the super clean line work. Â
If you're in the market for a tattoo, do yourself a favor and head to Temple.
Heath did text (nice original scrollwork and some Times text) on my BFF and I. Â He was really chill and did an awesome job. Â Our friend was getting tattooed by Jason ~ who also did a superb job ~ and Heath was able to fit both of us in spur of the moment. Â
It was nice that he was straight up about the fact that it was going to hurt a bit because of where it was on my body. Â They both worked quickly and did top notch work. Â Also, they take credit cards, which is def a plus. Â I highly recommend.
Show me someone who DOESN'T respect Temple Tattoo within the greater bay area or for that matter anywhere else. And I'll show you a NICKEL AND DIME ASS M#H F#!KA!!!
This shop is probably one of the best to just be in...I think we all wish more of Downtown looked like that cut between Webster and Franklin on 17th. I had been here many times before just to check out books and always came away feeling like this was the spot everyone says it is. After coming in to see Whitehead, I found out he was gone traveling around the globe and such...for a year. Good lookin to Heath Preheim for stepping up and getting my idea done...some of the best work I got. Healed real well too...
Yessir, don't cheat yourself, treat yourself...glad I finally made it into this spot and without a doubt will be back.
I went in to Temple Tattoo to get a piece I had wanted for some time, Yelp even directed me there. Â After simply explaining what I wanted (somewhat delicate but not wussy Shakespearean script) the tattoo artist I was talking to instantly said "No, that's not going to work with the space you have, you need to choose somewhere else to put it." I understand that after time tattoos bleed out, and can become fuzzy if it's too small, but what this guy was asking me to turn my tattoo into was ridiculous. He didn't even TRY to make it work. I did not at all appreciate the over-all attitude of the place.
In all honesty, I think he was just telling me that because he was too intimidated by the idea of having to do a tattoo that actually involved thought process and work. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure they do great traditional "tattoo" style tattoos. So if what you want is a Sailor Jerry pin up girl or "Love kills slowly" in a big ugly font across your chest, or something you picked out of a tattoo book, go ahead and get tattooed here.
But if you are looking to get anything unique, original or out of the ordinary, you are completely out of luck; they will probably try and scare you out of anything interesting and tell you to "go simple". That was my biggest problem, there was no appreciation for originality or anything beyond what they had displayed on their walls.
By the way, I got my piece done elsewhere, EXACTLY how I wanted it, and in a way that won't fade and destroy the tattoo over time. And I love it.
LOVE THIS PLACE!
Just writting a reiview for the shop makes me crave more ink!
Derrick has done some ink on me in the past as well as two other pieces on my brother. Derrick is an amzing artist and a well skilled tattoo artist.
The shop is very eclectic, full of character, and filled with a wonderful staff. I love the sticker that they have on one of their flash frames on the wall that says something along the lines of "KEEP YOUR BERKELEY OUT OF MY OAKLAND" lol.
Eveyone in this shop are very skilled and amazingly talented. This place needs to be a land mark... Â
Wow... I just read in one of the reivews that Derrick is leaving.. Sucky..
I'm pretty excited that the second out of two categories this is under is "Women's Clothing." Â I love a good, accurate categorization.
Temple is an outstanding shop, and everyone is amazing there. Â I've never had a bad experience at Temple or it's conjoined twin 13 over on Tele, and i don't really see that happening any time in the future.
Prices are reasonable, and if you don't think that then you're an ignorant fool. Â Maybe you could go to your friend's apartment and he'll do the same tattoo for waaay less than that. Â And by same i mean exactly the same, as in same quality in every aspect. Â I can't imagine your friend who tattoos out of his apartment to be of a lesser caliber than the fine folks at Temple. Â Really. Â
Be sure and have Freddy give you the same tattoo he did in Sons of Anarchy. Â Please.
This placed POPPED my girl's cherry.
She hasn't been the same since. A total of 10 tats between the two of us and no complaints. You get what you pay for and Derrick is the man. These guys are genuine and not full of themselves. A chill, laid back place to get some ink you hopefully will die with.....
TIPS: Stop by ahead of time to check out the artists work and make an appt.
Usually they hit u with a $40 to $60 prepay that goes toward the tat(until u develop a relationship anyway).
Bring cash cuz it makes a better transaction, and coins for the parking.
Finally, relax and enjoy the me hurt so good.
This place is awesome. Â I look forward to every visit. Â Good guys, good work, good times.
Jason McAfee turns out excellent tattoos and I appreciate that he doesn't talk your ear off the whole time. Â The work isn't the cheapest, but it isn't the most expensive either. Â Which is exactly how it should be...quality work isn't cheap and cheap work isn't quality.
Thanks fellas.
Jason McAfee was referred to me by a friend. He did an EXCELLENT job covering up an exisiting tattoo with a beautiful one on my back. It's everything I wanted and more...colorful & vibrant, detailed and you can't even see the old tattoo he covered up. Â I finally booked another appointment with Jason and going back tomorrow to add on to another existing tattoo. Can't wait!
Overall:
CLEAN, professional, great customer service, parking, solid tattoo artists and the work speaks for itself. I HIGHLY recommend this tattoo shop to everyone. A+++++++++++++++++++++
Well, this update is WAY overdue! Â My upper back piece took 4 sitings of 3-4 hours each. Â Sitting one: outline, sitting two: shading, sitting three: half color, sitting four: second half color. Â I have gotten so many complements about this back tatoo that I have been thinking ever since about getting another one from Jamie Ruth.
Maybe it is time...
I've been to Temple for seven of my tattoos, and always had an excellent experience. I recommend this shop any time someone asks me where I get tattooed in the bay area. I've worked with both Jason and Derrick, with Jason doing some of my favorite pieces including a big, graphic blackwork piece on my back.
I also brought my mom to Temple for her first tattoo (at age 60!) and Derrick did a fast, beautiful job, despite her not-quite-crying the whole time.
These dudes are solid. Quality work, nice, trustworthy folks!
Got my first tattoos yesterday at Temple!!!!
This was actually my second (and successful) attempt at getting a long coveted Zep symbol done. On my first visit, a few other artists in the shop, also Zep fans, couldn't agree on its correctness, so Heath decided not to do it until we were 100% positive.
Once that was out of the way and the transfers applied, Heath had us break, which allowed me to feel out the placement and orientation of the tats. Â He continually asked me, "How is that?", "Are you sure?"
I mean, how friggin' badass is that?!!!! Â
All the guys in the shop are super laid back, super professional, and friggin' CARE that you're gonna be happy with your tat. Â
This is a great shop! Â They have a 'Temple Tattoo' mirror done by some badass Letterhead on the wall. Â As one that spent 10 years in the sign industry...I don't know, it just melts my heart to stare at it...Anyway...
Lots of great/crazy art on the walls to look at, and funky/hot metal artists to look at if you need the distraction!!!!
Some super-tatted guy came in that had work done by someone whose name I wasn't paying attention to, but was apparently some badass, 'cause the whole shop gathered around to look and talk about his work. Â To me, that spoke of craftsmanship and love of the art, attributes I sadly find hard to come by these days. I can't begin to express how much respect I have for THAT.
Heath Preheim is the SHHHHIIIIIIIITTTT! Â The experience was surprisingly easy and, honestly, relatively painless. Â So much so, that I got a second one at the same visit! Â The majority of the time, it felt like Heath was merely pressing on my wrist...a light-handed virtuoso!!!
This place friggin' rocks!!! Â Comin' back to Heath to finish the rest of the designs, and will likely have even more tats done by Derrick and Dustin, too! Â Woooohoooooooooooo, f*** yah, Temple!
I got my first tattoo here at Temple. I was terrified because I have no previous experience whatsoever, but after I saw Jason's design I told myself it would be all right. I have to be honest I did not enjoy the pain, but the tattoo is so tasteful that I fell in love with it immediately. Jason did a terrific job on my tattoo and the art work is extremely delicate. I went back 2 weeks later for some refill on the fading colors and he did it for FREE. I was so pleased with the tattoo and my friends love it as well. I couldn't stop getting compliment. I will definitely go to Jason again if I want to get another tattoo. The color is very vivid and there is no sign of fading. It's just simply fantastic.
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I came back to Temple a year later to get my 2nd tattoo, and again, i wasn't let down. Happy with the tattoos i got from Jason. It's been like 4 years since i got my first tattoo, the colors stayed true and vivid as people keep asking me whether i just got the tattoo. So, what can i say, Temple is excellent with what they do.
My Grandmother/Parental Guardian has passed away. Â I decided I wanted a tattoo while in NYC attending her funeral. Â Of course I came to YELP to find a shop. Â Based on the reviews I called Temple it seemed perfect. Â The reviews were fantastic and the location seemless. Â Parking on a Saturday afternoon was challenging.
The Pros: Â
I got the tattoo same day
I love the piece, the colors are vibrant and the details are amazing
The price was reasonable
I was able to take my time looking through the books of sketches
The Cons:
I felt invisible. The guys banter back and forth and there was hardly any conversation with the customers while the work was being done. Â I only got my artist's name (Jeff) after he'd started my tattoo and I had to ask him for that! Â The negativity runs rampant, laid back guys with an opinion that try so hard not to conform that they all end up looking the same. Â I look like a square so I'm sure they assumed that we probably have nothing in common and I ended up wanting to finish as much because of the discomfort as for the awkward feeling of disconnect I had with anyone else in there. Â Perhaps watched, heard and observed too many tattoo experiences where there is dialogue about the meaning of the tattoo, the decision to get it. Â Perhaps that's a good thing I was able to mourn in private. Â Jeff definately would have gotten all of my money for future pieces as I loved his work but the abrasive disposition put me off. Â I'll keep looking for an artist I connect with for the rest of my work. Â Peace to the Temple.
I did speak to someone there that may have been Fred Corbin and he was personable and seemed like a gentle soul, can't say much for the remaining crew after he left.
I love Jason, 'nuff said. Haha. He's done the majority of the work I have and I have not a complaint about any of it. Jason did my largest piece, a mermaid on my back. It took around 2 or 2.5 hours and he made me feel completely relaxed the whole time. Frequently checking how I was doing and if I needed a break.
The shop is clean, everyone there is super friendly, and they play good music. Can't go wrong.
Hmm. I really like this place. The guys that work there are terrific, and the work I have had done is stellar. Getting it done is a little more complicated.
My first tattoo that I got there I went in at random, and had a small piece. Jason was excellent, he hammered it out in just a few minutes, and he was super easy to deal with.
The next one I tried to plan, something I should remind myself never to do, spontaneous ink is where it's at. Anyway, ran into snags there with communication errors between the receptionist and timing blah blah...so it didn't get done.
I still recommend the place highly, but do be patient if you're a planner....if you wait, the work is awesome.
Here's my short and sweet review for Temple. Â The shop is welcoming, clean, and professional -- although sometimes parking sucks. Â I had a large back piece done by Jason McAfee and a smaller piece on my arm done by Derrick Snodgrass. Â Both are amazing artists and were able to interpret the vision of my tattoos from vague descriptions into real pieces of art. Â
I will continue to get tattoos here.
Maybe it would help my review if I had made it into the shop to get some work done, but my experience didnt even make it there....
When I spoke to the receptionist (read: never actually tattooed someone, just a tattoo groupie) she was condescending beyond all hell. I asked for 2 small lightsaber tattoos on the outsides of my index fingers, and she proceeds to tell me:
"we'll do a lightsaber for you, but not on your fingers, that just wont work"
Is that right?
Hmmm....why is it that Ive seen a ton of people with finger tattoos? Were the ones I saw fake?
I guess the tattoo artists over there dont care if their crap receptionist loses them appointments.
The recommendation of a newb for a tattoo shop can't be all that meaningful, is what I'm thinking. And yet, perhaps it's simply more of a specific meaning - almost irrelevant for a sleeved veteran, but helpful for someone considering her first.
And so the newb speaks. And the newb speaks about a fantastic first tattoo experience. No more than 3 doors down from my favorite Vietnamese spot sits an unassuming, simple shop called Temple Tattoo.
I was a little nervous that day, of course. Yet not too nervous to be more than just slightly distracted by the beautifully painted flock of birds in flight along one of the waiting room walls. Really, just amazingly simple and stunning. It was the perfect thing to take my mind off the needle+forever decision that awaited me in the other room. I'm starting to think they thought that one out.
The actual tattoo experience was, of course, not anywhere near as painful or traumatizing as I'd anticipated. The artist, Jason McAfee was incredibly patient, laid-back, and friendly. Oh, and a fantastic artist. That was appreciated.
It may be the only tattoo I ever get, but certainly not because of the experience itself. If I ever do get the itch again, I certainly know where I'll end up. Nothing comforts a gauzed arm like a nice warm bowl of pho.
Simply amazing. Â I came in to Temple Tattoo with a screen shot of a YouTube video. Â That was lame and should have destroyed my street cred; however, no judgments were made. Â At least not to my face. Â Plus five stars.
My friend made the appointment for me and described via text message that the guy on the phone "sounded super hot!" Â Very promising. Â Indeed, her ears did not lie. Â All the boys in Temple were all hairy and tattooed. Â Hot. Â However, my Blackberry addicted mom came as well and she was the ultimate game killer. Â
I had Heath and he did such an amazing job. Â He was very focused on making sure my lovely tattoo turned out great. Â He also made a few suggestions that I loved it.
Overall, best first tattoo experience. Â
I'll be back!
I just got my first tattoo here a couple of months ago by Jason. Â I made the design and had Jason re-draw it because I am no artist. Â The entire process took less than 30 minutes and it turned exactly how I wanted. Â In fact, it was so easy I am sure I will be back for more.
Appointment-wise - I walked in to check it out and they couldn't do it same day, but they made me an appointment for the very next day.
I uploaded a photo of my cherry blossom tattoo by Jason... After my grandfather passed away in March and my brother's car accident soon after, I wanted a tattoo to commemorate those two very important people of my life. Â I wanted the tattoo to be in a traditional watercolor style, and Jason did a wonderful job...
I walked in on a Thursday, talked to Jason for a few minutes and had an appointment Wednesday the following week. Â I can't wait to return to get the rest of my back done!
Just got my chest piece done my Derrick Snodgrass this weekend, and what can I say, the dude is a seriously talented tattoo artist. I'm gonna keep this review short and sweet. If you enjoy any of the following:
-Tattoo shops with down to earth artist and a positive clean environment
-High quality work that won't require a loan
-Taco Bell (volcano taco all the way)
-Mayonnaise (apply to tattoo liberally 2-3 times a day)
-And of course tattoos
Then you need to go check out TEMPLE TATTOO, you will NOT REGRET the visit!!!
I got a second sugar skull on the other side and it was AAAAAWESOMENESS!!!! Jason created it, and it was all in less than 1 hour, amazing, this guy  has a really gentle hand, and it was over before I knew it. I am so juiced about getting it ifinalized, with Jason of course, I think after that I can move on to another artist=)
Review Source:I've gotten two tattoos at Temple, one by Jason and the other by a very cool dude who's name escapes me (my bad, cool dude). Â Both experiences were damn near perfect -- my first tattoo done here is the largest of my four tattoos, and yet Jason managed to get in done in under 15 minutes. I was amazed. My second tattoo was actually an adding-on to an older tattoo, and my only complaint is that the older part is noticeably not as good as the part done at Temple, which speaks only to Temple's goodness.
Bonus points for not giving me that you-are-so-lame attitude when I insisted my boyfriend hold my hand and mentioned that I occasionally faint during these sorts of things.
Thsi place was recommended to me. Â I did a little research because i was going to get a basketball sized tattoo. Â turned out to be just what i was looking for. Â they are friendly, but dont try and chat your ear off. Â I just got to lay there for three sessions of agony. Â When we got to doing the color i said oh this hurts.. he said "that sucks". Â i like that. Â i thin kit was at least 6 weeks for an appointment so come in early. Â they were great.
Review Source:For those of you in SF, this is worth the trip across the bay.
It's a no pretension, no asshole kind of place. The people are all friendly and open for your business.
I go to Derrick. He did an arm piece for me a few months back and I can't go sleeveless without somebody (usually several somebodies) complimenting me on it and asking who did the work. I gladly pass along the recommendation, although now that I moved to LA, it doesn't do much good.
Being there is like hanging out with old friends. They make you as comfortable as possible, considering you're being gone over with needles. Derrick let my friend that accompanied me manhandle his Ipod that was playing over the speakers the whole time were there. Imagine, a tattoo shop that lets you play DJ.
I'm so impressed with this shop and Derrick's work. I can't believe it took me this long to review it! I'm even making the northern trip to have Derrick do some more for me. It's worth the five hours in the car. I swear.
By the way, make a point of using the bathroom while you're there. They have a pretty sweet porn stash in the cupboard in front of the toilet. Take a gander.
I got my first tattoo here at the beginning of the month and had a great experience. Place is clean and comfortable, felt totally safe and relaxed.
So, the only problem was, and it wasn't really the dude's fault, but he mispelled two ofthe words. It's totally fixable, and now that it's healed he's gunna fix it for me for free. The only reason I mention it at all, is to let you know if it's your first tat: MAKE SURE YOU DOUBLE CHECK EVERYTHING. They will put you at ease to where you dont question them at all, which is great, but make sure you're set.
Ok, that said... was a great experience getting my first tattoo and will be back for more.
Just spent nearly 3 completely chill hours being tattooed by Jamie Ruth which have resulted in the beginnings of an absolutely stunning tattoo (see image at left). Â Still need to go back to complete the color, but I'm very very happy with the results thus far. Â
Bonus points for being in walking distance of my house and not getting all agro when my friend brought my kid in to check on me.
1. Â fast appointment from my walk in
2. Â made sure my tattoo was as authentic and close to the original design otherwise he wouldn't have done it
3. Â very reasonably priced
4. Â friendly enough to let my two friends hold my hands while i got tattooed
5. Â gave me good information about what i needed to do to take care of it
My guy is serious about his ink - he's had work done by some of the best artists on the East Coast, and Temple is the place he picked for his own work when he moved here.
So, it was a no-brainer for me to get my first tattoo here; Jason did an incredible job freehanding a grapevine the length of my spine, with two names in Farsi script drawn into it. It's clear and healed fast, and Jason was extremely patient with me despite my being a ninny.
(What did I expect, getting my first damn tattoo on one of the most painful spots on the body??)
Incidentally, someone noted that the studio is cash-only -- I don't think that's accurate, as I paid with a card.
As a first-timer, I walked from Temple with a fantastic tattoo. Â I'm very pleased with Jamie's work; timely and well-stylized. Â The colors are vivid, lines are strong and straight, and detail is thorough.
Unfortunately, she could work on her bedside manner. Â Regardless, the staff is laid-back and friendly. Â The overall atmosphere is relaxed; otherwise, I'd never have sat down. Â Believe me.
Now I have to figure out how to show my parents. Â I'm thinking during our Christmas celebration..
My tattoo experience at Temple was pretty much mediocre, but not an experience I regret. Â
Pros:
1. My tat looks pretty good (see photo of my "tendai")
2. The people there were nice
3. I got a tattoo right away
Cons:
1. The tattoo is not as opaque as I would like, and I will be going in for a touch up soon (got it two months ago)
2. Cash only
Neither Pro nor Con:
1. Did I smell Mary-J in the joint?
I like my tattoo but will probably go back to Zebra for my next one.
Derek did a touch up on me. Â He was awesome. Â I swear it didn't hurt. Â I made a comment that it felt like the tattoo was "licked on by kittens". Â The other artists in the immediate area had a good laugh about that one. Â Boys are so dirty! Â But they are very talented, dirty boys. Â Just like I like 'em. Â Freddy is dreamy.
Review Source:I have gone here for my past two tattoos and am coming back for more. Â Love this place. Â Good people, friendly, food and public transportation nearby... Derek was really helpful and worked with me on both of the tattoos I've gotten here - they are what i saw in my head, if not better.
Review Source:It truly is amazing how art is delivered through a series of pricks lasting anywhere from several minutes to an hour process.
I have a very sweet and incredibly attractive friend who has a work-in-progress on his back and down his arms. Â I told him I would stop by to check out his squeaking.
I walk in and right away, feel that I should have changed out of my work clothes and into a pair of jeans and tank top. Â But the atmosphere is very relaxed, laid back. Â I mean, I had take-out Chinese with me and ate it while standing and watching them ink my friend.
Gorgeous work, absolutely fine details and workmanship. Â The colors on his arm were vivid, bright........and if he moved his arm, the colors moved and changed shapes.
I was impressed. Â
"What about me? Â IF I ever wanted one, what would you recommend on me? " I quipped after his artist in residence finished.
He looked me over and stated that he would not mark my skin. Â "I wouldn't do it, honey. Â I like your skin."
Interesting. Â Maybe I should have changed out of my suit.
;)
Freddy Corbin, is one of the best tattoo artists that I have come across, and his staff provides an open and welcoming environment. They accept people of all backgrounds and are willing to work on differentiated  projects, whether if their simple or extremely difficult. Overall I would definitely go get another job executed at that establishment, and i recommend the same for anyone who wants to get a job done that they will cherish and not regret for the rest of their lives.
(Just be of age, because Freddy is very punctual when it comes to his business and laws)
Years ago, I didn't know what to look for when getting tattoos. Â I got my first tat done in a residential hotel, by my friends skinhead boyfriend... which by the way is going to be one of my next cover-ups. Â Thats not mentioning the needle dipped in indian ink that I let my cousin stab me with when I was in junior high.
In college, I let my roommate give me 2 tattoos, on on my arm, that came out pretty good for a homemade gun, but it laked in the shading and detail, and he gave me an ugly monstrosity on my chest that I lived with for years.
After doing some research, and a few more tattoos, I came across, TEMPLE TATTOO. Â After doing my homework, checking out the studio, looking at the portfolios, and getting an overall sense of peace from the shop as a whole, I decided to get my work done here. Â The guys LOVE what they are doing. Â The work is clean and beautiful. I have NEVER encountered any greater-than-thou, or stupid macho attitude. Â Some shops don't create a welcoming environment, but Temple does.
The artist who worked on my arm and chest was Jason McAfee. Â I chose him because I felt his portfolio reflected work that I liked best for the pieces I had done. Jason beautifully touched up the Posada piece on my arm, bringing it to life. And the monster on my chest, he covered up completely with a beautiful Black Skull, big enough to cover what I had before. Â Never ever let your roommate tat you when both you and him are drunk....NEVER.
I would be more than willing to have any one of the artists at the shop give me a tat, anytime!
The shop can get pretty busy, go in for a consultation, then schedule an appointment. Â tattoos shouldn't be spur of the moment, but I understand that they can be. Â Do your homework, find what you want, or have them draw it out. Â These guys have brilliant ideas and execute them beautifully on skin.
No drunk Marines... unless they make appointments at least a month in advance. Jesse Tuesday does astonishing work, so good you almost forget the 7 hours of mind-numbing pain. Bonus: the coffee house/marijuana club across the street. Extra Bonus: having your aura photographed a block down at Psychic reality.
Review Source:
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