Reviews of Carl Hallowell (Tattoo Shop)

Jeremy C

I got my first ink with Carl. He's distinctly professional, friendly, and really knows his craft. Whether you're looking to get your first tattoo like I was, or you're adding something fresh to your person canvas, Carl's a great choice.

Adrian Garcia

If you want smooth line work, an experience artist in tattooing for 20 plus years, great converstations about life then Carl Hallowell is your man. I found his instagram which you should follow because I was looking for someone experienced in traditional japanese tattooing, and when I found Carl I was blow away. I asked him for a traditional tiger with cherry blossoms; without giving any details on how I wanted the tattoo to look he drew it and colored it exactly how I wanted. He's a pro and I highly recommend him to anyone looking to get a gnarly traditonal tattoo.

Jeremy Eck

Carl is wonderful!! He tattooed a sleeve for my wife andI.World class tattoo artist.

Diana Jones

Carl is by far the best tattoo artist I have ever had the pleasure of being decorated by. His work is always of the highest quality and is just gorgeous to look at. His distinctive traditional style stands the test of time. I have received thousand of compliments over the years on his work becuase of the beautiful pigmentation and clean, classic lines. He's a treasure. And funny. And has good taste in music.

jcrack23

I couldn't be happier with the tattoo Carl did in memory of my son. He took my idea and made it so much more. It turned out better than I even imagined in my head.

Jordan Adams

Carl draws, tattoos, and creates with dedication, love and respect. He holds the not only the most respect for the history of tattooing and the ones that paved the way before him, but for the work he puts on to each and every one of his clients. He takes so much pride in his trade. Meeting someone with that mindset is not only a privilege but an honor.

Brady Smith

Carl is the man. He is doing it the right way, he took my idea and turned it into a sweet tattoo. Heart in Hand is really nice, and I will definitely be going back to see Carl for more. Thanks!

Penelope Pitstop

Carl was great to work with! I threw a lot of ideas at him and he was able to focus on the key elements that I wanted. He was collaborative and his #1 goal was to make sure I was happy. He took the time to listen and came up with a great design for my tattoo. The session flew by, with great conversation and classic country music. I love my tattoo!

HONKY-TONKIN COWGIRL

Carl's creativity and expertise makes him the most incredible tattoo artist around. His professional demeanor and sense of humor makes your tattoo experience a pleasure. He's very precise and takes his talent very seriously. If you're looking for the best...I would recommend Carl over and over again.

Julio Gonzalez

My experience getting tattooed by Carl hallowell was pretty amazing. I got my first traditional Japanese tattoo from him and he went all out. He ground up his ink in the traditional japanese method using ink stones. His experience in japanese tattoing helped guide the development on my 7/10th sleeve. I would highly recomend anyone wanting a Japanese tattoo to seek him out and look st his portfolio.

Abel Narezo

Always happy with the artwork and craftsmanship of Carl’s work

Caitlin Rose

Carl is the best. He's done my past 4 tattoos. After seeing him, I won't use anyone else. He's the only one I trust with my ink. He's amazing. He's sweet, patient, and very passionate about what he does. I highly recommend him.

Blake Elder

My experience with Carl and his services have been nothing short of spectacular. He is a well-rounded, knowledgeable, professional who takes his work very seriously and does not cut corners. I was very new to the world of tattooing and Carl took the time to teach me about the process from start to finish and even took the time to educate me on history, techniques, styles, etc. I not only love the work Carl puts out but he genuinely cares about his customers. His workspace is extremely clean, calm and relaxing as well. I’d alway recommend a visit to Carl to anyone looking for some classical work!

hannah crenshaw

From all aspects, Carl is a admirable artist to work with. I set up my first appointment with him for July back in January, and from the beginning he was very prompt about getting back to me and straight forward about everything. I asked for something very specific, but gave him free range on execution and design, and I can not be any happier. I could not have imagined it better myself. You can tell that he takes his work extremely seriously, and executes it with such detail and pride, which to me is very important in a tattoo artist. Small details I noticed throughout getting my tattoo in things that he did just made me even more confident and pleased with my choice of artist. If you are looking for a true artist, you my friend have found one.

Jeff Hunt

Carl has been tattooing me for decades. Seriously. He always puts me at ease even long before firing up his gun. His artwork is as on-point as his professionalism is. And his tattoos stand the test of time, as evidenced by the ones I wear.

Nick Sacy

Receiving a tattoo from Carl is more than simply ink on skin. It’s an experience. He is a master of his craft. His grasp of the time-honored, American and Japanese tattooing traditions lays the foundation for his powerful, dynamic work. With a deft hand, Carl gets the job done in less time than most. He has a knack for putting you at ease. Or, perhaps it’s the classic, old time country tunes playing in the background. Most importantly, Carl is a good person. He is salt of the earth, honest and fair. He brings honor and integrity to his industry.

Kelly Carpenter

Carl is the absolute best out there. I just got my second tattoo from him last week and couldn’t be happier with it. The consultation with Carl is thorough and really makes sure that at the day of the appointment you will be blown away with what he comes up with. He’s taken my ideas and really turned them into the best images they can be! The tattoo experience with Carl is amazing especially at the new studio. He knows what he is doing and can really get a lot of work done in a very quick amount of time. He is also calm and collected from the beginning to the end of the session, even dealing with my stress and pain being maxed out at the end. Wouldn’t go to anyone else for my work! Keep it up Carl!

Tim Wilson

Carl is great! He worked with an existing tattoo and brought my vision to life when many others wouldn't or couldn't. Color coming soon!

Winston Nget

Though I had an initial idea for a tattoo in my head, Carl advised me in a different direction to stick more to the classic style and I’m glad I trusted his expertise! The tattoo I ultimately got is awesome and the whole process was really seamless. He’s truly devoted to the art form and preserving the American Traditional style. Great conversation on top of everything. Definitely coming back for more pieces in the future.

Isabella Alexander

I got tattoos on my fingers about 6 mo ago from Carl, he took my ideas and made it come to life and I couldn't be happier with the out come! You can tell he truly cares and is super knowledgeable about his craft. Not to mention, it healed beautifully which on hand/fingers tattoos is always a concern. I will be coming back when I'm ready for my next one!

Joel Constantine

I decided to get my first tattoo, and after reading the other reviews decided to reach out to Carl and see if he could help me get what I was looking for. He was very polite and interested, and when I suggested what I was looking for with only a vague description and a few adjectives to go on, he was very encouraging and seemed down to try. He answered all of my questions about the inks (whether they contained animal products) and told me a bit about his history of tattooing. When I arrived for the tattoo, he was very congenial and friendly and showed me the design he drew up which was exactly what I was looking for. After walking me through the process and his tools, we chatted about guitars, music and art while he worked. An excellent tattoo artist, definitely recommend.

kgouldttu

Love every session with Carl. He takes my ideas and runs with them turning out excellent work time and time again. As a matter of fact, I am due for another session. Be calling you soon, Carl!

Angela Zahm

I had wanted a cover up of a small tattoo I had gotten when I was 18, but was a little nervous - who to go to that would provide quality work? After seeing Carl's work come to life in my husband's Japanese leg sleeve, I had my answer. Carl Hallowell. I shared with Carl that I wanted a peacock and was absolutely speechless with the design he created for me. In fact, what I had originally envisioned as a small piece, we turned much larger to embrace the artistic beauty he captured with my peacock. I couldn't be happier with how this has turned out and am thankful to have met Carl and be a canvas for him!! A great guy, a great artist.....someone I highly recommend!!

Kelsey Kulaga

Carl has done 2 half sleeves on me and from someone who is a tattoo snob I gotta say, he is the real deal of old school tradition in tattooing. Everywhere I go from both professional tattooers to old ladies who say they hate tattoos alike I get compliments on how strikingly beautiful my tattoos are, and how the bright colors really "wow". Carl is a perfectionist and will work with you to create something you love that is fit perfectly to your body and looks incredible. No tiny detail goes unnoticed.

ken goldberg

Biggest tattoo I have gotten so far. Been over 4 hrs with more to go. I have had numerous tattoos before but this is my first time with Carl. I am pleased so far. Besides doing good work, he provides a good atmosphere and intellect. Helps pass the time under difficult circumstances. I would post a photo if I knew how.

jordan pitts

If you want traditional tattoo work that will stand out from the crowd Carl is your guy. I dropped really vague guidelines for what I was wanting drawn up and he blew it out of the water. He had the designs drawn up in 30 minutes and they're my two favorite tattoos. Carl and the gang at Elm St make their own ink so the colors are one of a kind. Even if you go with traditional flash out of a book you'll still get a standout job because you're walking away with colors that don't exist anywhere else. Can't say enough about how good he is, people compliment my tattoos daily. Make an appointment as soon as you can.

Jeffrey Davis

Carl is not only an amazing tattoo artist, he has great stories and awesome music playing. So put your phone on silent leave the ear buds out and talk to him he will take you on a tattoo history ride. I know he has several clients but he will always remember you and ask how the family is. He males you feel like more then just a person getting a tattoo........update almost a year or more has went by since I got tattooed got me a friday 13th tattoo. Carl walks out say hey Mr Davis then immediately ask "how are the girls" my wife and kid. That right there is what it is all about folks

Jessica Schueler

Both my husband and I have had a lot of work done by Carl. His work is always above and beyond!!!

Brad Lewis

Carl worked with me on a Christmas themed tattoo- Santa to be exact! And what a stellar job he did! I couldn't be happier. He took my idea and made it better than I could have imagined. Carl is also a really great dude! We enjoyed fun conversation of all our adventures during the session. And the endless amount of kickass artwork on his walls shows his talent as well! Experience, talented and friendly. Thank Carl- I'll be back! :)

Eduardo Virgen

I have always been wanting to get work down by Mr.Carl Hallowell as soon as I saw his work. I was counting down the days to get my work done with Carl, and today I went in to the amazing Heart in Hand Gallery to finally get my Friday the 13th tattoo by Carl. Everyone was so friendly from the front desk receptionist to the tattoo artist, the establishment was clean and welcoming. Once I met Carl we got straight to work, I loved his private room, as soon as you walk in you are put in an awe situation because of all the beautiful flash around the walls, including the ceiling, which was work he has created in the past. I had previously picked the flash already for my tattoo and once I arrived he had the stencil ready and he went out of his way to make sure the stencil was positioned in the best spot possible, so that was cool of him. Once we had it positioned Carl began tattooing me, boy this was a real painless tattoo for me, I guess because Carl and I were just so caught up in our conversations I didn't even feel pain haha. I admire Carl so much because he is not you’re typical tattoo artist, he is a people person. Carl’s biggest goal is to not only focus on providing a badass tattoo but also making sure the customer has a great tattoo experience! In my opinion what set Carl apart from other tattoo artist I had worked with in the past, was that Carl really does care about the “tattoo experience” he’s not the type of artist that just wants to get you in and out and take you’re money, he genuinely cares about the tattoo and the experience. It was awesome having one on one conversations with my tattoo artist, I never had that type of service before. Carl is such and amazing genuine, down to earth guy. Because of all of this I am always going to invest my time and money in Mr. Carl Hallowell, he is a true class act. Can’t wait to see you May 10th Carl! Thanks - Eddie

J Florence

Carl drew and tattooed my eagle chest piece and I LOVE it. The overall experience was great talking tattoo history and listening to classic country. I'll be back soon to finish my front.

brandon alvey

Having my fair share of shoddy tattoo work, there's now only a few people I will let tattoo me and Carl Hallowell is someone that I know I can trust. I got my first tattoo from Carl 10 years ago and it still looks as good as the newer work that surrounds it. I have spent a lot of time with Carl over the years and I plan on coming to him for as long as he is going at it. If you want a traditional tattoo done right, and one that will stand the test of time, look no further. Carl is steeped in the traditions of tattooing and I receive compliments on his work all the time. As a bonus, you'll get to hear to great tunes to help ease the pain!

Vanessa Schiafone

What can I say about Carl?? First of all, his private studio is so nice. It's clean, comfortable and he plays great tunes the whole time. My friend and I came in together from Austin to get tattooed and he let us hang out together, bring snacks, watch Netflix and just chill out while we got tattooed! From the start he was super easy to communicate with via email. And when I finally saw the sketches he created from our email correspondence, I couldn't believe he was able to create exactly what I wanted! He really creates beautiful pieces that will look great for a long time! I really appreciated that he took the longevity of my tattoo into consideration when he created it, he wants it to look good today and years from now. I love my tattoo and get compliments on it literally on a daily basis. His artwork speaks for his skill level but what it doesn't tell you is that he is truly one of the nicest people I have ever met! Will definitely get a tattoo done again! If you work with Carl, you will not be disappointed!

Jon Harrison

I found Carl on Instagram and his work really stood out to me. After a very in depth consultation I went from having a few tattoos to a full sleeve. We made a plan and stuck to it and he finished my sleeve in three sessions. He’s an awesome guy, very professional, extremely clean work space, and he truly cares about his work. If you’re looking for a quality artist, Carl is the guy. -J.T.

John Burmester

Having Carl tattoo me was truly a world class experience. From the beginning of the process to the end Carl used his expertise to give me the best piece possible. I had high expectations for my tattoo and Carl exceeded even those high expectations. I would recommend anyone who wants an amazing tattoo by someone who takes pride in their work to Carl.

Tyler Bowie

Got my first tattoo with Carl and it is amazing. Lot of attention to detail, great line work, and a beautiful design created by him. I had a specific idea I wanted for a design and he was able to work with me and create something that I was happy with. With this being my first tattoo, Carl did his best to inform me about getting a tattoo and create a comfortable atmosphere for our five hour session. He worked with me on short notice, provided snacks, great guy to talk to, and a lot more. Can not say enough good things about the experience I had getting my first piece. If I plan on getting another tattoo, I would not hesitate to consider doing business again.

Tj Glowicz

Had an amazing experience with Carl when he did my Hop flower. Love his style and artwork is amazing. I was recommended to him by a friend who also got work done by him and fell in love with his style. Plan on going back for more!! He's quick to respond to emails and he did this work after I sent some images of things I liked. He really helped guide me to something I would love after seeing a few drawings. Keep up the good work Carl!!!

Shaun Bailey

I sought out an artist for roughly 6 months before feeling like I was comfortable enough to take the plunge and get my first tattoo. After following Carl on Instagram for several months, examining his style and technique, I contacted him about getting my first tattoo. We exchanged a few emails back and forth about my concept and how he felt he could help execute it. I left a lot of freedom for him to feel like he could create a custom piece for me and was super pumped when I saw it. He was great to appease my curiosity. From watching him set the machine, to prepping the table. He was super clean, provided great conversation, and gave me a great tattoo that took just shy of 3 hours. I had him do.another piece a few months later and hope to schedule another appointment soon for my third. Carl provides a classic and timeless style that I cannot get enough of. He's a great guy that does even better work.

Bradley Wong

Carl gave me an amazing Irezumi quarter sleeve early November. This was my first tattoo and we knocked it out in just 2 sessions. My time spent with Carl at the Heart in Hand studio was professional, comfortable, and compassionate. Carl was able to take my ideas and come up with 2 personal designs for my choosing. Both of course were of the highest of quality. The sessions itself were relaxed and clean, our chats were genuine and altruistic. Carl is keen at distinguishing moments of conversation and moments of silence when concentration and focus is needed on certain moments. The tattoo created by Carl is strong and embedded physically and mentally. The permanence of vitality within the tattoo is even greater than the physical permanence of the tattoo itself. I would recommend Carl to everyone. Be it their first tattoo, second, or their final tattoo.

lindsey carmichael

Let me start by saying that Carl Hallowell is a true Texas gentleman. He is a tattooer with a full handle on what real, pure, American traditional tattoos should look like. He will deliver that look with confidence. There are many tattoo artists in the world today who can do,"traditional," looking tattoos. But Carl has the background knowledge to truly make the traditional tattoo that you want done look RIGHT. Soul is a very hard thing to capture in tattooing. Carl's tattoos are pure soul every single time. Go check out his work. I guarantee you won't be disappointed. Sincerely- Lindsey Carmichael

Garrett Morgan

Carl is the man. Just got tattoo'd by him the other day and the compliments don't stop. Very professional, talented artist and just one hell of a guy. You can't go wrong.

josh hallmark

Carl is the best tattoo artist I've ever worked with. He just finished a Japanese style half sleeve for me and I love it. Give him few details and he will come back with something amazing. The private shop is awesome, he plays good music and Carl is an all around good guy. He definitely makes you feel comfortable while you are there. I will be contacting Carl for any future tattoo.

Michael Davis

Received my very first tattoo from Carl a couple of months ago and it was all around an excellent experience. He happily awnsered all my questions and was easy to work with. He created an amazing tattoo and I hope I can get another one from him.

billywalden97

Loved the work, excellent customer service, and an all around great guy! Definitely coming back for more ink!

Kayla Visor

Fantastic experience! Carl designed a tattoo that was made for me. It’s beautiful. He’s a professional tattoo artist that knows exactly what he’s doing. I would return to him in a heart beat. If you’re looking for a traditional artist, he’s your man.

Daniel Hayden

Working with Carl was, hands down, the best tattoo experience I've had. The private studio is great. Carl is one of the nicest people I've ever met, and his traditional tattoos are the best out there. I think the thing that stood out to me the most was that after 4 hours, and one beautiful pin-up, I didn't want to leave. I had to force myself out the door because I could've stayed and chatted with Carl all day. What are you waiting for? Go get a kickass tattoo!

Mike Magill

Carl is an exceptional artist and truly has passion for what he does. He listens to what you say, makes sure both parties have a firm understanding of the desired outcome, and delivers just that. His energy and vast tattoo experience will make you feel comfortable and excited, whether it's your first tattoo or you're a veteran!

Joel Dunacusky

I was lucky enough to get an appointment with Carl last week. I wanted a Japanese Oni with sakura. I could have not been more pleased with the design and the work. He is a wealth of knowledge and very personable. It was my best tattoo experience by far and have I been getting them for 20 years. I will no doubt be going back to him going forward.

audrey richert

I did a lot of research on traditional Japanese artists in the area before contacting Carl. I’m an active duty Army Officer in Louisiana, but took a chance and traveled from Ft. Polk three times for one of his 3/4 sleeve originals. The entire experience was flawless, from email exchanges, having to reschedule, discussing how best to represent what I wanted, his incredible artwork, and the tattooing itself. He made my family feel welcome in the shop, put me at ease with doing such a big piece, and our 24 hours worth of conversations were interesting and stimulating. The finished piece is absolutely breathtaking and I have received countless compliments in the very short time it has been completed. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him to anyone looking for a traditional Japanese piece. He cares about ensuring each piece is correct, is constantly striving for improvement in his technique, and was genuinely excited while talking about other pieces he is currently working on. I’m incredibly thrilled with the finished product and so honored to have a Carl Hallowell original!

Andrew Dunn

Carl is an extremely talented and professional tattoo artist. Great experience all around! It was my first time getting a tattoo and he was more than helpful every step of the way. I was new to the whole process, but he listened to every question and idea I had and made some suggestions about the tattoo. He is quick responding to emails and tells you what he thinks from the get-go. His area is very neat, clean, and private which made the process that much better for me. During his sessions he makes you feel relaxed and is a good conversationalist, which was great for me since I was new to that sensation of getting tattooed. That and the awesome country music makes for a great experience all around! Now I have an awesome traditional style tattoo!!!

B. Nichols

Over the last two months Carl has been working with me to design the pieces that would make up the tattoos for my chest and ribs...(Japanese munewari). At each of our sessions he has been prepared - stencils ready for each of the pieces, a full sketch of the entire piece and a plan in place to make it all work. Today he spent a few hours with me as he free-handed the remaining details, meticulously making sure that everything was to his liking before we proceeded. His attention to detail, methodical planning and overall knowledge of the art of tattooing simply reminded me that I had chosen the “right” person for this big tattoo project. Carl is a heck of a good guy and is keeping the history of Traditional Tattooing!

Mallory Scherrey

Carl has a lot to offer. Great insight into and passion for tattooing. The experience was definitely special. I’m in love with the art he created for me. He put a lot of thought into it- making sure it fit me personally, but that it was also true to the Japanese style. Will be returning!

sarah R

Carl did a sleeve on my left arm and it looks amazing!! Love it so much! I get compliments on it almost every day. Cant wait to start another project with him! If u want top quality work, hes the man to go to, no doubt. Worth every penny.

salasfamilee

Carl is the most coolest dude. When we got there we just talked like we’ve known each other for ever. He loves his family. He doesn’t act too cool for school like a lot of other tattooers I’ve run across. The atmosphere is so comfortable. The very first time I contacted him he spent days communicating with me about tattoo ideas and made sure I was happy with what I was getting. My tattoos were so clean, beautiful colors, clean lines. Great work. We finally found someone we can go to in Dallas. Thank you Carl. Thank you so much.

Phil Coward

Carl is a true professional, and a master of his craft! I couldn’t be happier!

Rico Suave

I got my first tattoo with Carl and I couldn't be happier with my experience. He is personable, knowledgeable, and professional. He made me feel right at home getting my work done. The shop is great as well. Super clean and new with private rooms. I highly recommend Carl, and I am already thinking of more ideas for future pieces to be done.

Stefan Castino

Carl did a really good job on my tattoo--he was prompt in the appointment, charged a fair price, and the parlor was clean and comfortable.

Fernando Cavazos

Carl is one the coolest people I’ve met in general. This was my first tattoo and I went big. We emailed back and forth for almost 4 months before I stepped foot into the shop. When I got there, it was like we’d known each other forever. I didn’t change a thing on the design he created for me. We did a 3/4 sleeve in 3 days. He had awesome tunes playing, talked about almost everything. Every question I had, he had an answer. He really takes pride in his craft and it shows in the work. I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out. But what’s been really great for me, is service after the sale. He’s still messaging me tips and how the healing process should go. I drove 8 hours to get it done and I’ll do it again when I decide I want another one. It was a wonderful experience and I can’t stop talking about it!

Trent Palmer

Last summer, while shopping, my wife saw a tattoo that was incredibly beautiful and had the cleanest lines she had seen in a long time. She asked where they got it and by whom....Carl Hallowell. By that October, my wife and daughter (who flew in from PHX) had an appt. Carl's shop, Heart over Hand, is clean, private and easy to get to. Seven hours later both my daughter and wife left with magnificent tattoos. Wife's was two geckos running up her arm (representing our g-sons) in full color and my daughter's was a realistic sunflower in grey scale. So, this past February, my wife saw Carl again....this time for a forearm tattoo. Carl is a gentle spirit filled with kindness. Their conversations were filled with laughter, enlightenment and joy....which made the time go fast. My wife loves her artwork!! She gets compliments everywhere she goes and shares Carl's name with all and yes is already planning her next tattoo as I write. :-)

Brette Minton

Words are hardly enough for this experience but I'll try anyway. I initially reached out to Carl back in April to set something up as I was going to be in Dallas (coming up from Austin) for the weekend. Although he was booked till mid-June, I decided to wait. It was beyond* worth it. We had a detailed consult via email and when I arrived at the shop, the stencil was all I could've hoped and dreamed for. After a couple times resizing for the perfect fit, we got started. We chatted the whole time and it helped keep my mind off the needles pressing into my forearm. I also have a raised scar on that arm as well and it's covered beautifully. Carl is one of the most genuine tattoo artists, and persons, I've met. "Talented" would be an understatement.

Brian Morale

Carl is an incredible artist and such a friendly down-to-earth guy. For real, I wouldn’t go to anyone else ever again after my experience with him. Thanks Carl!

Edward Modla

Best tattoo experience you could ever have. Carl took my idea and turned it into a piece of art 10x better than I ever expected. Very professional and extremely talented.

Melissa Wilson

Carl is a talented artist! The consultation process was collaborative and I had a solid idea of the piece going in and was more than thrilled. But when I got to the studio and actually saw the sketch - it exceeded every expectation I had!! I was completely blown away and in love with the art he created!! Carl is a true professional and his passion for his art shows in his craft, his calm attitude during the whole process and his respect for the traditions. The studio is quiet and relaxing and the staff are great. I can't imagine having anyone else tattoo me again! Thanks for an amazing experience and a beautiful tattoo!

lewis896

I've known and been tattooed by Carl Hallowell for over 20 years now, and each and everytime he has strived for (and achieved) perfection in his work. Carl continues to dig deep into the history and traditions of tattooing, with both his traditional and Japanese artwork/tattoos being a testament to his love and knowledge of the subjects. Whether it's your first tattoo, or a complete back piece, Carl approaches all of his work from the same serious and detailed angle. He is an experienced professional, and a great friend.

Bob Burrell

Carl is a genuine person and an amazing artist! When I started thinking about a back piece there was no doubt who I would want to design my tattoo. He is a perfectionist and it showed in the number of times we resized and laid on the outline of my art, he would not start that tattoo machine until he knew it was right.

Brandon Deck

Been going to Carl for my tatoos for over 10 years now (6 tattoos). All I can say is that that his professionalism and respect for the images are top notch. He is well studied in and well steeped in the tradition of tattoos, specifically American and Japanese (the roots). Trust him to design something custom for you. That is his sweet spot. However, he'll take any idea (or lame internet reference) and make it bold and beautiful and it will stand the test of time. And if you're lucky, he may share his love of roots country and guitar playing with you.

Lombardo Avila

Great tattooer hands down. Carl is very attentive to the clients' needs and has got an eye for detail. The great thing is he's always improving as well. I've been getting tattooed by him for the past two years and every single tattoo is better than the last. Not only is he a great artist, but he also provides a nice, clean, comfortable atomosphere. Carl is an all around nice guy that will put out some of the best work I've seen. He has in a customer in me for life.

notceaubrite

Carl is just a top notch artist, and delivers consistent tattoos and bad ass conversation. I'll gladly wait and pay a premium price for him to put art on my body.

Kris Glenn

Carl Hallowell makes a tattoo look like a tattoo more than anyone I have ever seen. He is also the nicest guy in tattooing. Not only do you get an amazing tattoo but also a history lesson in traditional tattooing (loved talking Higgs and Trevino among others). Can't wait to get more work from him!

Barry Ward

1st sitting today with Carl. What a great time. Carl started on my 1/2 sleeve Japanese Tiger. I have waited years for this tattoo and I am so glad I went to Carl. His attention to detail with his "It has to be perfect" mindset shows in the work. Oh yeah..... He was a really cool guy to hang with. We talked about everything and anything throughout the sitting. Really good times. Thank you Carl. I am looking forward to our 2nd sitting. ~Bear !!! UPDATE !!! It's been a little while since my 2nd session with Carl. I am so pleased with the progress so far. I am even more excited for our next session. Everyone that see it are very impressed. Thank you Carl!!!!