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Affinity Tattoo and Piercing
Categories: Beauty and Spas Tattoo Beauty and Spas Piercing Tattoo, Piercing [Edit]
513 E 6th StAustin, TX 78701
Neighborhood: Downtown
(512) 476-4596
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 1 pm - 2 am
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
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$$
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
31 reviews for Affinity Tattoo and Piercing
31 reviews in English
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Review from Ryan J.
Austin, TX
12/12/2011
I consider myself a 'loyalist' in the sense that when I observe a sound business being righteous in so many ways that I will commit to their business and even put off emergencies to make sure I only deal with them. Affinity Tattoo qualifies to stand out as the only place you ever need to go. They are attentive without being assertive and if you're getting a piercing, Ryan can walk you through and make you confidant about your choices.
I only come here. I only recommend here. -
Review from Abby K.
Fredericksburg, TX
4/27/2012
The place was extremely clean and the guy who pierced my nose was very professional and showed me how every step was sterile. I believe the piercer's name was Keelan. He was very nice and knowledgeable about what he was doing. It made me feel very secure about the procedure.
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Review from Lau M.
Austin, TX
10/12/2011
Affinity was on a short list of tattoo/piercing studios/parlors (I'm not a local, I don't know what terminology will get you into trouble in the TX body art/modification world!) that I wanted to check out for a dual nipple piercing. I consider myself fortunate that it was the first one I visited. As soon as I walked in, I was attended to at the front desk by a congenial, knowledgeable employee (I found out later that this was Ryan).
Straight up, he talked with me for twenty or thirty minutes about questions I had, information I'd encountered online about piercings and after-care, and microbiological errata related to piercing and hygiene. It was the highest level of customer service I think I've ever experienced at a piercing place. We went over the jewelry type and his decision to do free-hand piercing (something that initially made me nervous). He put me well at ease, and it was something of a surprise to segue to paperwork after that-- I felt so comfortable that I forgot all the rigmarole associated with having someone put holes in your bodily tissues. The prices seemed competitive to me, and he kindly offered me a discount (the two-for-one piercings are meant to be for you and a friend, not two-on-one-body! ;) ).
The process itself went kinda the way I imagined-- marking, sterilizing, ouch, ouch, shirt back on-- but I never felt uncomfortable in any state of undress. Ryan was the consummate professional, the surroundings were clean, and the vibe of the shop was great. Rather quiet on a Tuesday evening. :)
Healing is just beginning, but I'm armed with the know-how I gained from talking over the course of my 1hr45min with Ryan, as well as his contact information and the instructions to "call any time, with any question or problem." With service like that, they deserve your business (and a tip). -
Review from Billy C.
Austin, TX
1/29/2012
Excellent service. Extremely knowledgeable staff. Pristine facilities. We drove all the way from Houston to get a nose piercing and it was well worth it. We were greeted immediately upon walking in and the process was explained to us in great detail before anything was done. We will be back.
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Review from Whitney L.
Austin, TX
2/24/2012
I went in a couple of weeks ago to get my belly button re-pierced. Ryan was very thorough in all of his explanations and the piercing itself was not painful in the slightest. 2 weeks later I have not had one problem with the healing and I'm very pleased with everything. While trying to figure out the process and asking various questions everyone in the shop was very helpful and amicable. A few days ago I noticed that the top portion of my ring had fallen off- I went down to Affinity to let them know and it was replaced at no cost to me. How's that for customer service?
I also just finished the process of getting my first tattoo, done by Rachael at the shop. Everything went really well and the work looks superb. Rachael drew out a design by piecing together several ideas I sent her and hit the nail on the head. 1 week later my tattoo is healing very well and I couldn't be happier. -
Review from Shea B.
Austin, TX
7/19/2011
I am beyond impressed! I chose this studio based on the excellent ratings, and am happy to report they're all right! First of all, it's immaculate, and a gorgeous space. I was greeted immediately and quickly introduced to Ryan Terrillion- body piercer extraordinaire! I was there to get a small nose ring, and left highly educated on all aspects of the proceedure including their rigorous sterilization process. I had no idea there was so much to know about the differences in jewelry choice.
Ryan was so professional from his appearance to his attention to detail on everything. I can't imagine a better experience, and I love my little amethyst nose ring! Thanks Ryan! -
Review from Tiffany B.
Austin, TX
3/8/2012
Nic Lynds was my tattoo artist. I called ahead of time, and they said to just walk-in and we would go from there, no appointment necessary. Went in the middle of the week so I wasn't worried about a wait. Nic was the first to greet my friend and I (who was also getting a tattoo). He was super friendly and asked us what we wanted/where, etc. After we chatted about both of our tattoos, he started drawing them up. A short wait later, and my friend was up first. Her tattoo was on her ribcage so I know it hurt. He was super fast, but the work he did was amazing. This was her 3rd tattoo. I was up next, and really excited...this was also my 3rd tattoo, but my largest one yet. On the top of my foot, so he let me get comfortable, made sure I was good with the placement of the tattoo, and got to work. I'd say he was done in about 25 minutes. He was so fast! But once again, the work was great. The color turned out beautiful! Nic was funny, kept us both distracted from the pain. I can't wait to get my next tattoo, and I am definitely going back to Nic!! The shop was really clean and surprising classy for downtown 6th st. Minimum was $60, but with tattoos, you always get what you pay for...quality!
Side Note: I accidentally used some lotion on my tattoo about a week & half after I got it, that I shouldnt have used. MY FAULT, not theirs! But I emailed Nic to ask his advice and he got back to me right away. After-care is important and it made me feel so much better to have the artist's opinion! -
Review from Mary N.
Austin, TX
3/12/2011
After work I passed by Affinity and decided to stop by to ask the price of a septum piercing. I've been wanting to get my septum pierced for such a long time, I finally mustered up the nerves to come through. A piercer named victor helped me , and was ridiculously cool. Haha he was knowledgeable and kind, bewildered I love my septum!!!!
He hands down is the most informative piercer I have ever met. His incredible knowledge left me overwhelmed!
I have had many piercing experiences at different shops in the past and nothing compares to Affrinity!
Yay! Success with my first piercing since I have moved to Austin.
-sterilization
-very welcoming
-lots of rooms/privacy
-wide jewelry selection
Only negative thing is the room is a bit cold, I couldn't tell if I was cold or just really nervous. Hahaha but yes, 5 stars.
:) -
Review from Lori S.
Austin, TX
5/27/2011
I am so completely in love with the gorgeous tattoo on my leg from Rachael Shelly at Affinity! I had an idea, based on a song, but little else & Rachael brought it to life. I really could not be more pleased & have been telling everyone I know how wonderful she is.
As for the shop & other artists... the shop is clean & neat. Everyone I've encountered there has been friendly & helpful. Never felt that stuck up vibe that some shops have. I spent a few hours here over 2 separate appointments to get my tattoo & enjoyed my time there. I would absolutely recommend checking them out for your next tattoo or piercing. -
Review from Jessie C.
Austin, TX
12/16/2011
I had my nose pierced last month at Affinity and the whole thing was excellent. The regular guy wasn't there, but an excellent sub named Pineapple (for serious) took care of me. I'm not having more piercings done, but if I was, I'd come back here.
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Review from Dominga L.
Austin, TX
Updated - 6/14/2011
I have bought jewelry at one other place, and it did not compare to Affinity. I will not make that mistake again. :/
The professionalism and customer service here is above and beyond any I've ever had at a piercing/tattoo studio, and I've been to a few, all over the country. I won't even take my niece anywhere else to buy jewelry and any other piercings we get done will definitely be done here.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/9/2010
If you are getting your first piercing done or you have more holes than a window screen, this is the… Read more »
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Review from Melissa T.
Seattle, WA
11/19/2010
My boyfriend and I went in about a month ago and the guy at the counter was so nice and informative that we talked about going there when we finally decided on our tattoos. After a month or so of sketching we both pinned down designs we wanted.
With this being my first tattoo I wanted to make sure I went for quality above all else, so I went on to yelp to see what tat places had good reviews and Dandylands were all 5 stars, so I thought Id check them out. When we got there we realized WOW-this is the same shop we had stopped in a month prior. We were already impressed with them BEFORE all the 5 star reviews, so we went for it.
I was set up with Cory, and although my tattoo is small (an owl and a heart about 1.5" long), it is on the inside of my wrist and I had to be sure it was perfect since its so visible. Cory went above and beyond for me, taking the time to scrutinize every line so it would turn out as close to my sketch as possible. His execution was flawless, and he took more time even to mix up special colors with me to make sure they were exactly the right shade. He was professional and super nice, and he took a lot of time with after care instructions to make sure I really understood how to take care of my tat when I got home.
Side note- Barry did a fantastic job on my boyfriend tattoo also!! He had a large tribal/celtic-ish clover on his shoulder and it is impeccible...
We are both thrilled with our tattoos, and I cant imagine them being any better... If youre thinking of a new tattoo its definitely worth the trip downtown! :) -
Review from Mike W.
Austin, TX
3/29/2011
Everyone that works here is really good at what they do and have alot of knowledge and style.
the jewelry selection is fucking amazing.... behold!
Victor is practically like buying insurance for a perfect piercing. He will make sure its perfect and that you take the best care.
cory schoefield, michael williams, david guy.... if they work at affinity... you're good! -
Review from Jason D.
Austin, TX
6/20/2008
I have two tattoos so I don't think that this makes me an expert in the field but what I do know is that Daniel at Golden Apple Studios was awesome when he did my tat in November of 07.
I decided on my second tattoo based on a book that I had read called The Curious Incident of the Dog in The Night. It is a great book and inspired me to get my ass in gear. The book is about an autistic teenager in the suburbs of London who after much trepidation realizes that despite his mental set backs, can do anything he wants if he puts his mind to it. On his way to school each day he would sit on the bus and count red cars that drove by and the more he counted, the better his day was going to be. 5 red cars was his "Super Good Day". I decided that I wanted 5 red cars in a band around my forearm.
I had never seen this shop before and was skeptical about getting a tattoo on 6th street. But I went in and explained to Daniel what I was looking for and what I wanted and about the book and its meaning to me. He told me to give him a few days and sketch somethings out and we made an appointment. I also told him that my Grandmother wanted her first tattoo as well and gave him an idea of what she wanted.
My Grandmother and I went in about two weeks later for our appointment and Daniel was nothing but great. He was respectful and accommodating to me and my Grandmother. It was an overall great tattooing experience and I would recommend anyone in this shop to anyone looking for a great tattoo experience. I constantly get compliments on how great my tattoo looks.
Clean shop, professional staff and friendly. -
Review from Megan H.
Austin, TX
11/6/2011
I went here to get my nose pierced based on other Yelp reviews. The shop was maintained well and it was a nice space. Ryan was my piercer and he talked to me about the placement of the nose piercing and his philosophy about the purpose of piercings (like to enhance one's facial features). He also took the time to explain the auto-clave machine and step-by-step what he was doing once I was about to get pierced. He was very informative.... talked to me a lot about how to clean the piercing (which is essentially just leave it alone and it will heal itself!). I would recommend the shop to anyone else looking to get pierced. The tattoo artists had some interesting looking work, but I didn't get a tat so I can't speak to that.
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Review from Danikae D.
Austin, TX
5/3/2011
BFF calls my yesterday because she was looking for a place to get her facial sub-dermal. She found the awesome 50% off coupon on here and decided to go talk to them. (I also facebook stalked Ryan and Victor beforehand) When we got there, the place was clean, inviting, and the people behind the counter were very friendly. We setup a consult with Ryan for the Piercing. He was super informative and was careful to make sure we understood the pros, cons and logistics of the dermals. (he even drew us a picture!) He did a fantastic job on my friend's face. (really should be able to post pictures on Yelp....) I even ended up leaving with a new Rook piercing and Sternum Dermal, which also turned out amazing. Aftercare was gone over in great detail and he was adamant that we could call if we had any questions or concerns after we left. Hands down, the only place I'll let poke me ever again!
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Review from Lucky D.
Austin, TX
2/23/2009
This review is for Henna Kim who works in a lush little hippy corner of the Golden Apple (what I think is now Dandyland). She applies henna to your skin in beautiful, affordable designs. She is wonderful to talk to and has many other amazing skills. She will get up and give you a hula hooping performance...really, you would be amazed at what she can do with a hula hoop. She actually sells these hand made hoops and lessons to boot! Go visit her at http://hennakim.com/
As far as the rest of the shop goes, all I know is it's professional and the people are very nice. It's just a joy to walk in there to a warm environment and many smiles! -
Review from Cassie R.
Austin, TX
8/29/2011
I went to Affinity this afternoon with a friend and we both had our noses pierced (she had her nose pierced previously and this was my first time). We both walked away -extremely impressed- with our clean, educational, fun experience.
The twenty minutes after leaving Affinity was spent going on and on about how impressed we were with how much good/help/important information our piercer, -Ryan Terrillion-, gave us about nose piercings, how clean the the place was, how well done the piercing is, etc. Though it was a little more expensive than I was initially thinking (which I was expecting around $35 for the jewelry and piercing, that may have been a little naive, after all this isn't a do-it-yourself piercing), the education on piercings and jewelry that I walked away with was well worth it!
I initially heard about Affinity from a tattoo parlor several of my friends use, that didn't do piercing, when I looked them up on yelp I quickly made up my mind. Not only do other shops in Austin recommend them but I couldn't find a negative review. Somebody get this place an Austin Chronicle award! -
Review from Russell W.
Austin, TX
7/8/2010
Seems Barry gets some rave reviews here. I guess I should add mine as well. ^.^ I finally got the nerve to get a couple of things I've wanted for quite awhile done. The first was rather simple, and the second was an image I've had in my mind for roughly 10 years. After popping into several shops around 6th, and having a long consultation with Barry, I decided to go with him for the first.
The experience was great. He calmed my nerves, was completely patient with me, and worked through the entire process. I was amazed at how much of a breeze it was! 2 days later, I went in with nothing more than an 'idea', and he sketched it out for me. The first sketch was 95% what I envisioned, and I mentioned that there was one thing I'd like done differently. No sweat. He went to the back, and came back the 2nd time with EXACTLY what I had in my head. Got it done quickly, and it's absolutely perfect. He's an amazingly patient, thorough, and creative artist. High recommendations to him! He'll always make time for you, whether you're there with ideas, or there with cash in hand. -
Review from Dawn H.
Bolingbrook, IL
5/14/2011
I had a daith piercing done in my ear last Sunday by Victor. I chose Affinity from the other studios on 6th street based upon the Yelp reviews and also their 50% off promo for piercings.
The studio is immaculately clean and professional. They have a gorgeous selection of jewelry. They use state of the art sterilization equipment and show you how they sterilize the equipment and let you watch the process.
I have had piercings done before but never has anyone taken the time to explain every little detail of the process to me from the preparation and sterilization of the equipment to discussing how to care for the piercing afterward. We also discussed sleeping suggestions to not aggravate a new piercing and simple things like staying hydrated to help the body heal. Victor also talked me through each step of the piercing itself while it was happening.
Readers who have never had a piercing probably will not believe this but it did not hurt at all - seriously - I'm not sure if that is just how good Victor is or if it is just my ear. When I had a rook piercing done, I felt pressure but no pain. When I had my anti-tragus pierced I felt a little pain but mainly pressure. When I had my nose pierced, I felt a LOT of pain. So, maybe it is just my ears?
I wish Affinity was closer to me as I live in IL and was only visiting Austin on a business trip. Check out their Facebook page for specials that they run. If I'm ever in Austin, I will be back for more piercings and maybe get some new ink done too.
* If I could give Affinity bonus stars for going the extra mile I would because I forgot my drivers license there and called them on Wednesday afternoon to see if they had it. Victor said it was there and he would mail it to me that day. I got it in the mail on Saturday. To me this shows a great deal of professionalism as he could have just mailed it back whenever he got around to it but he said he would mail it and he did so right away. -
Review from Devin P.
Chicago, IL
3/8/2011
I went to Affinity for a nose piercing only because it was super close to my apartment and stayed open late. I couldn't have been more happy with my choice. Victor did my piercing and he was great! He was unbelievably informative and careful to make sure I knew he was using the most sterile process possible and that I knew how to take care of it after I left there. Definitely the best experience I've ever had in a piercing or tattoo studio.
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Review from Curren M.
Weatherford, TX
4/14/2011
I walked in without a clear idea as to what piercing I wanted and Ryan not only helped me decide (daith in my right ear), but it was the best piercing experience I've ever had. He explained everything in full detail, was patient with my questions, and the experience was relatively pain free. Three days later and the piercing is still not giving me any problems. The store was clean and the rest off the staff seemed very friendly. I highly recommend Affinity Tattoo whether this is your 20th body modification or your 1st. Ask for Ryan if you are getting pierced!
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Review from Cassie O.
Austin, TX
12/2/2010
Victor is the shit!
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Review from athena o.
Philadelphia, PA
9/27/2010
Affinity is awesome.
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Review from Sheila S.
Philadelphia, PA
3/22/2011
Great place! The artists at Affinity were all so nice and made me feel comfortable. They helped me design the tattoo I wanted and it came out great! Cory is a talented artist who kindly told me stories (at my request) to keep my mind busy while I got my tattoo. This is the most clean and friendly tattoo establishment that I found in Austin. Everyone was so nice and helpful. I felt good about my tattoo and I felt that the staff gave me individual attention, taking the time to explain clearly the proper care for my new tattoo. GREAT PEOPLE!!!
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Review from Sara S.
Austin, TX
8/12/2011
First off, this place is clean and smells good! My piercer, Ryan, was so informative and nice. I was nervous to get my piercing, but he breathed through it the whole time with me. He knows what he is doing and will answer all of your questions before you even ask! Great place. AND they love animals!
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Review from J B.
Portland, OR
9/5/2011 1 Check-in Here
great service, super clean and friendly. what more can you ask for?
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Review from Rachel L.
Austin, TX
2/2/2012
I've wanted a specific tattoo for quite awhile, but I wasn't sure where I'd get it. My roomie called yesterday and said we should get it done last night, so we went for it - she yelped some parlors, saw this Affinity had high reviews and on our way we went. We ended up with Nic, a Fort Worth transplant who moved here about two weeks ago - He listened to both of us, took our input and made something even more beautiful than I had in mind. He was supremely patient and professional and put me at ease. Even though I have a few tiny tattoos, this was my biggest AND I was going for the gold by putting it on my ribs, so needless to say I was scared shitless of the pain. He has a really calm demeanor that pretty much chilled me out as much as possible. I am beyond thrilled with what he has done, and my roommate got a beautiful tat on her foot. We have been high-fiving each other ever since. He may be new to Austin, but he deserves high praise and repeat clientele. He's pretty awesome :) Thanks Nic!!
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Review from Kasey Y.
Cypress, TX
3/6/2010
Got my third tattoo last night by Barry. I took him a drawing I did myself Thursday, and got tatted on Friday. NICE! Considering the fact that this was my own artwork that I got inked, I'm simply blown away by how perfect it is. He did an absolutely amazing job. He was very sweet and funny, talking to me while I was laying there for an hour and a half. The price was very reasonable, everyone there was so super nice to me and my friends, and the studio is very clean. I'm already drawing out my next tattoo, and I'm planning on going back to Barry for it. I'm def recommending this guy to my friends!!
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Review from Patricia S.
Austin, TX
Updated - 6/12/2011
Now I know I said to avoid this place in my last review, but I wish I took my own advice! Am I invisible? Why is it they don't want MY business? I was downtown checking out the ROT Rally & I decided after walking around a while to go back on the hunt for some earrings. After coming up empty handed I headed back to Affinity to try & purchase a pair I had seen in the jewelry display. I thought surely with the big crowds that I would be sure that I would be helped. I swallowed my pride & walked in. I waited & waited . Finally my turn! As the worker came out from the back he walked right passed me to tak with a customer just behind me. NEVER AGAIN (with no exceptions)!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/13/2011
Avoid this place! They lure you in with discounts & specials, but I assure you it's NOT WORTH IT!… Read more »
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Review from Andrew P.
Middlesex, MA
9/24/2009
I just picked up a sweet piece of artwork on my right arm from Barry at the Austin shop. He was easy to work with and helped me come up with a great design based around an antique bike that I had wanted for quite some time. He nailed it and it came out perfect; just what I was after.
The shop is clean and professional with the prices being very fair. I must have consumed too much coffee and not enough food before my sitting, because I did get a tad bit nauseous. Barry was super cool about it and grabbed me an OJ from next door to help with my blood sugar. After that, we were good to go and I could not have been more pleased!
