Est. 2004 · American Traditional · San Diego
Since before your grandfather got his first tattoo. Bold outlines, saturated primaries, flash that outlasts a lifetime.
Traditional American Flash
Rex apprenticed under a third-generation tattooist in New Orleans and has spent 18 years refining the perfect bold line. His flash sheets are collector's items.
@ironhand_rex
18 Yrs
Americana Pinups & Roses
Dee brings feminine power to Americana—her roses bloom with depth and her pinup portraits carry genuine personality. Booked months out but worth every day.
@dee_ironrose
11 Yrs
Nautical & Maritime Traditional
A former merchant marine, Marcus tattooed his crewmates for years before turning pro. His anchors, mermaids, and ships have sailed around the world on willing skin.
@sailor_marcus
9 Yrs
All flash available for walk-in sessions. Custom designs by appointment.
Honors & Conventions
Two decades of conventions, magazine spreads, and judged competitions. We don't chase trophies — but we don't leave them on the table either.
Awarded to Rex "Ironhand" Valdez — large color panther, day three.
Dee Marsh's rose-and-dagger sleeve, Pasadena Convention Center.
Six-page spread on the Sailor Jerry revival in Southern California.
Sailor M's full-back clipper ship, judged out of 84 entries.
Rex invited to chair the traditional category panel three years running.
Shop-wide listing, voted across editor and reader categories.
Keep your bandage or second-skin wrap on for 2–4 hours (or overnight for Saniderm). Your tattoo is an open wound—keep it clean.
Use lukewarm water and unscented antibacterial soap. No scrubbing. Pat dry with a clean paper towel.
Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion (Lubriderm, Curel) or artist-recommended balm. Twice daily for 2 weeks.
Avoid direct sun, swimming pools, hot tubs, and long showers for at least 3 weeks. Sunlight will fade your tattoo fast.
Peeling is normal. Picking disrupts healing and can pull out ink. Let it flake naturally.
We offer free touch-ups within 3 months of your session. Once healed, show us the finished piece!
Fill out the form. We'll confirm within 48 hours. Walk-ins welcome Tue–Sun — call ahead to check availability.
A $100 non-refundable deposit secures your spot and goes toward your final cost. No deposit, no appointment.
Our shop minimum is $150. Hourly rate is $175/hr. Larger pieces and full-day sessions may be negotiated—ask your artist for a quote.
Yes! Walk-ins are welcome Tuesday through Sunday. Flash tattoos and small pieces are often available same-day. Call ahead to check artist availability.
You must be 18+ with valid government-issued photo ID. We do not tattoo minors under any circumstances, even with parental consent.
Fill out our booking form below or email us. A $100 non-refundable deposit secures your spot and goes toward the final cost.
We require 48 hours notice to reschedule without losing your deposit. No-shows forfeit the deposit automatically.
Absolutely. Bring reference images, sketches, or inspiration. Your artist will adapt and redraw it in their style unless you specifically want a direct copy.
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Thursday | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Friday | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Sunday | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
