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Idle Hand Tattoo Studio
Category: Beauty and Spas Tattoo Tattoo [Edit]
575 Haight St(between Fillmore St & Steiner St)
San Francisco, CA 94117
Neighborhood: Lower Haight
(415) 552-4353
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 12 pm - 8 pm
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
74 reviews for Idle Hand Tattoo Studio
74 reviews in English
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Review from Patrick M.
San Francisco, CA
4/3/2012 1 photo
I had a poem that means a lot to me that I initially wanted in four lines, fairly small, in script, on my ribs. Aaron took it and told me it needed to be a little bigger because the loops in the letter may run together, in the long run, with script. I took his advice, got it in eight lines and a little bigger, and I could not be happier. Everyone says that the ribs are one of the most painful places to get tattooed, but I barely felt a thing and Aaron did a great job. Everyone who sees it cannot tell me how sick it looks and how classy it is.
Thanks, Aaron. -
Review from Maggie P.
San Francisco, CA
8/29/2011
Just got my first tattoo with Iggy. Not being a part of tattoo culture, I had no idea of what to expect. Totally professional, funny, put me at ease, and great artists...
If you are considering it, go for it. Highly recommended. -
Review from Boo, F.
Emeryville, CA
8/6/2011 1 photo
A friend of mine mentioned Idle Hand amongst a long list of shops in Oakland and SF the he recommended. After doing the research and checking a number of artist's portfolios from a number of different shops, I was thoroughly impressed by Holly Ellis' body of work. A few weeks later during First Friday/Art Murmur, I just happened to see that a two hour session with Holly was amongst the items up for silent auction at the Hatch gallery in Oakland, and I happened to put in the winning bid.
I met with Holly for a consultation with two pictures of brown rabbits. She heard me out on what I wanted, and seamlessly combined the elements of the two images that I wished to have included in the piece. I went into the session not knowing exactly where I wanted the piece or the orientation that I wanted it to my body. Holly created two stencils so that I could figure out exactly how I felt it would look best. The session lasted one and a half hours, which was surprisingly short. Holly had a gentle hand, and kept mentioning how much fun she was having with the piece.
I can not be more thrilled with her work. I am super honored to have had her create this piece for me, and would recommend her without hesitation. The shop was super clean, the environment was laid back, and everyone was very friendly. Just be prepared to wait a at least a few weeks from the time that you schedule your consultation, as Holly is a very sought after artist (and rightfully so). -
Review from Celeste A.
San Francisco, CA
5/28/2011
I wanted to get some script on my ribcage, and I like to take the small work as an excuse to explore new shops. I had been referred to Idle Hand by a friend.
I walked in at noon on a Sunday. Erik and Cris were there, but they were about to start working with some early appointments they had. "I texted Hanna; she can do it, but she's not coming in until 2. Is that cool?" It was. If you don't make an appointment, can you really be pissed at any length of wait time?
I checked out Hanna's portfolio - solid stuff. So I snagged some lunch and came back around 2pm. Hanna drew it up pretty quickly, and it looked great. I'd never been tattooed by a woman before; she had a fairly light hand, and got it all finished up in under an hour. She was also hilariously awesome in conversation - a huge bonus if you're getting a large piece done and end up spending a ton of time together.
TL;DR? Bottom line: the atmosphere of the shop is laid back and friendly, and all the other artists there were helpful and professional. Everyone's portfolios looked great, and it's a clean shop. What else can you ask for? I'll definitely be stopping by in the future for some of my larger work.
(if that goes well, which I'm sure it will, I'll be changing my review to 5 stars) -
Review from Ethan S.
San Francisco, CA
1/6/2012
Wanted some birthday ink, walked in, sat down and left with some sick work done by Jason Donahue! Great imagination for giving practically nothing to work with except a small idea. F**Kin epic work and a real nice hand too! Definitely recommend.
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Review from Beryl S.
Berkeley, CA
9/7/2011
I got a piece on my thigh done by Cris Cleen, and he is amazing! Super friendly and sympathizes with the pain you're going through! :) haha He is moving to NY and I know SF will miss him greatly as he is extremely talented! He's easy to get in contact with (email, fb) and is fast to reply.
Everyone else at the shop was nice as well, and I'll probably be back for work from Holly in the future!
Only complaint: they do not take credit cards! Personally, I don't like walking around with $500 in my pocket (if not easily more!) I don't know why they don't take CCs but it is a huge inconvenience!! I nearly wasn't able to cover my whole appointment, but luckily everything turned out just dandy. :) -
Review from Rich S.
Fremont, CA
6/10/2011
I got a tattoo from Erik at Idle Hand. Had a great time. Really laid back friendly environment. It's a really clean studio.
They had a lot of happy customers/friends come by to say hi and get more work done. I wish I had more excuses to go back. -
Review from Katie B.
San Francisco, CA
2/25/2011
I just got my first tattoo--a couple of Victorian-era-style sparrows on my shoulder. I had seen Erik's work online and thought his style matched my vision. I wanted them to look like etchings--no color, just black, white, and shading. Erik took my idea and turned it into the most beautiful piece of artwork! I was so thrilled when I saw the sketches, and the end result blew me away. The level of detail and artistry made my jaw drop. SO beautiful and realistic! Erik is truly a gifted artist. Thank you Erik and Idle Hand!
p.s. It was very easy to set up an appointment, and everyone at the studio is very easygoing. Good music, atmosphere. -
Review from Matthew H.
San Francisco, CA
7/9/2011
Got a recommendation from a friend of mine to check out Idle Hands and speak with Eric Jacobsen. We made an appt with him and I planned on getting a skeleton key on my chest. Went in, he designed the key and got it all done within an hour and a half. The design was great and he added colors and some of my thoughts into it. He definitely listened, had an easy hand and 2 months down the road I LOVE my tattoo!
Would most definitely recommend him to anyone! He only takes cash so make sure to have some with you. Decent price as well! -
Review from Gloria Z.
San Francisco, CA
3/14/2011
I came here to get some new ink for my birthday. Eric did my tattoo, and I'm not going to lie, he's extremely talented. I wanted a Pisces tattoo done, and brought in a print out of what I wanted. Basically, I came out with something that I didn't really ask for. The only thing the finished product had in common with what I asked for was that it was two fish that are tied together.
Long story short, Eric is a great artist and his work is absolutely stunning, but he's not a very good listener and not really willing to compromise if he already has something else in mind for you. The finished product I got was not in the place I wanted or the style I asked for.
Oh well... you live and learn. I mean, I guess isn't the worse thing that could happen when one gets a tattoo. I pretty much got a cool tattoo but it's not what I wanted. I guess it's partly my fault, since I should have been more firm on what I really wanted.
Also, the wait is really long. I called twice beforehand to ask if they can take two walk-ins and they said they did without asking any other questions. Eric took me and did the tattoo really quick, but my boyfriend, on the other hand, was told his can be done at 6:00. We waited until 7:00 before anyone even came to prepare the artwork for his. If you're going to go, definitely make an appointment. -
Review from Dave S.
San Francisco, CA
6/8/2011
I love this shop. The everyone I've interacted with there is really nice and all the artists are world class talents. I've only actually been tattooed by Jason Donahue, but I would feel comfortable getting work done by any of the AMAZING folks here.
I will definitely be back. -
Review from TRafael R.
San Francisco, CA
2/21/2012
I got a koi fish tattoo there years ago that I was happy with so I returned for more work. After looking through the artist's profile I found someone I thought would be right for the job. When I met him he was very friendly, professional and interested in my ideas, which is always a good sign when looking for a tattoo artist. The first couple of sessions went well, but to make a long story short, the end result was a tattoo that is very sloppy in many places; it honestly looks like a kid did part of it. I have since had to spend hundreds of dollars having it repaired. This might be an OK shop to get real simple work done, but if you are real work done go somewhere else.
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Review from Berna T.
3/23/2008 1 photo
I got my first tattoo when I turned 18 - a small, blue butterfly located just above my right ass cheek (I like to call it the "side of my lower back hip kinda"). Photo here: http://static.px.yelp....
It was a tribute to my late maternal grandfather - the man who taught me to read, write, and do math when I was four years old, made me enroll in piano and dance lessons, and was basically my best friend up until the day he passed away. My Lolo Amancio donned a large blue butterfly tattoo on his forearm, a remnant from his days in the Navy. My grandfather was a pretty hip dude. Since my first inking, I've wanted to continue to build on that tattoo...it's taken TEN years...but I've finally gotten some more ink done!
I originally tried to get an appointment with the famous Holly Ellis (per Luis M.'s recommendation) but she is booked 6 months in advance, and I'm more of the "It's Now Or Never" mentality. But, since all the Yelp reviews pretty much agree that all the Idle Hands artists are pretty damn competent, I was fine with being someone else's canvas.
I flipped through some portfolios and found the work of a guy who had a style pretty similar to what I've been wanting to get done. His name is Jeff Pickens - a heavily tattooed guy with a great sense of humor, steady hand, and an amazing visual artist (he has some work up in the shop). I booked an appointment for a week later. He took the design that I brought with me, and said, "You don't want this. I'll sketch a better one for you." He was right - the design I picked was too cartoon-like and two-dimensional.
The following weekend, I arrived at my appointment nervous - I am a giant wuss when it comes to pain. He freehand sketched one the same size and shape as the design I found, about the size of my hand, to go around my butterfly. Thankfully, he let my two girlfriends sit with me, and they distracted me as much as they could from the needle's sting, and we all made very raucous and bawdy chit chat with Jeff (conversation revolved around penises, vaginas, and assorted related topics). They snapped photos ( http://static.px.yelp.... )and I tried my hardest not to flinch (he said he only counted twice where I flinched so bad he had to pull away - I think he was just being nice). He worked quickly and before I knew it, it was over.
Less than an hour and a half later, I have a beautiful sakura (cherry blossom) tattoo adorning the lower part of my back and side. Photo can be seen here: http://static.px.yelp....
Thanks, Jeff!! I think my grandfather would approve, cause he would've been down like that :)
I am now formulating ways to extend this tattoo even more.... -
Review from Alice S.
San Francisco, CA
11/2/2006 1 photo
I'm almost reluctant to review my favorite tattoo place on account of the fact that people are gonna find out how great it is and start filling up these guys' calendars.
But they really do deserve some love so here goes.
First of all, Terry is a peach! She's sweet and chatty and she got me several glasses of water while I was desperately trying to find my 'happy place' for about 4 hours under the gun last Saturday.
Zach Johnson just moved his ass to Monterey, but I'm told he gets back up here occasionally. He tattooed some vintage style roses onto my shoulders that are really really lovely. Well balanced, beautifully shaded with nice bright colors. The guy has a good eye. I've heard he is comfortable with both traditional American and Japanese style tattooing.
At some point I might hit Andy Lowlife up for a pin up girl, he's a really nice guy and his girls are super cute and saucy.
Check out Holly Ellis' book as well, her work has the sensitivity of a painter.
Iggy did a beautiful day of the dead skull (sugar skull they call it) on a friend of mine. I thought the outline was incredible by itself, but he did a great job shading it as well.
And then there is Jason Tyler Grace. This guy is incredibly talented. And enthusiastic. And NICE! He literally designed me one of the most beautiful tattoos I've ever seen. It really compliments my figure and I just don't know if I can fully express how excited I am about it.
So there. Go there. Talk to the artists and let them design you something. Just leave me some time on Jason's book, will ya?Listed in: Consistent goodness.
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Review from Megan G.
San Bruno, CA
10/29/2011 1 photo
Amazing! We went in August too book our appointment in October with Holly and it was worth the wait! All the artist portfolio's are amazing. My husband got a portrait of his brother and she captured every detail! This was my husbands first portrait and after some research we are glad that we chose Holly!!!!! My husband said he enjoyed his time and experience with Holly. My observation was that they were very professional and overall an amazing shop! Will always recommend Idle Hand and will be back for future work!
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Review from Victoria C.
Los Angeles, CA
3/31/2010
Jared Powell at Monkey Wrench Tattoo/Black Saints in Santa Rosa recommended Idle Hand so I knew they would be good. I wanted to work with an artist to create my tat. I had a vague idea in my head of what I wanted and the style that I liked. I checked out all the artists on their site, looking at all their myspace pages and individual portfolios and sites.
I finally decided on Aaron Hodges after looking at stuff he did for art school and liked his style for the piece I wanted, which was this pen and ink ship thing. I requested him and he called me back almost immediately and we started emailing back and forth so he could do a sketch. I gave him a few photos and when I got to my appointment he had sketched out the exact photo I gave him, which wasn't what I wanted but he worked with me in tailoring the piece to my liking.
It took him about a half hour or so to make the new sketch and after I made a few tweaks we got to work. The vibe of the place is a lot of fun-- the guys were tattooing each other and their friends.Aaron was really patient and kept modifying the tat making sure I was happy with it until what was supposed to be an hour of inking turned into over 2 hours. All in all, I was at the shop for about 3 and a half hours and it came out to $200 for a detailed piece the size of a Post-It. I recommend Aaron Hodges and will probably go to him again. -
Review from Bryan B.
San Francisco, CA
9/25/2007
I really wanted to get some more ink done before I left for a 3-month stay in London. I had heard good things about Idle Hand, but, fearing that it would take forever to get an appointment, I wasn't sure if it was possible.
Yet a quick phone call made me realize I could simply walk in on a Friday afternoon to have it done, and honestly, there was no wait at all! My tattoo was pretty straightforward (some sort of a heart on my chest) so I didn't need much of a consultation. The entire staff was friendly and cooperative. I felt completely at ease during the process.
My friend was getting a slightly complicated tattoo on his ankle, but his artist worked diligently to make the tattoo work to where my friend was satisfied. Their rate is pretty standard, at $150/hour.
I'm definitely going back when I return to SF! -
Review from Eliot W.
San Francisco, CA
3/13/2010
Clean shop, good vibes, and great artists. Look through the portfolio of anyone at Idle Hand and you will be blown away. I highly recommend Erik, but you have to choose the artist who's style is right for you. They're all unique.
I walked in with an unfinished idea and left with a masterpiece. -
Review from jes m.
San Francisco, CA
10/25/2007
I really like Idle Hand. The atmosphere is not at all pretentious like some shops and it's not flooded with Haight Street tourists trying to get that rebelious rose tattoo on their ankle or the fighting Irish guy on their bicep...no offense to those who may have such works of art...
My guy is Aaron and I have followed him all over town. First in the Castro. Then down on Gough. And now here. This is my favorite space yet. Though, there are no "private" rooms. If you have such a requirement due to the placement of the tattoo then they will have you set up in the back room with a screen or something I think, but other than that it's pretty open...but at least it's not crowded like Mom's!+++
They have space upstairs from the store front shop now that I assume are private....just wanted to add that in. (5/23/08) -
Review from Alan W.
Larkspur, CA
9/3/2009
I can't say enough how ecstatic I am with the tattoo I got yesterday from Ben. I must have had amazing luck because he's currently a guest at this shop and only there this week. Nevertheless being my first tattoo I really wasn't sure what I should be looking for or how to go about trying to explain what I really wanted. My tattoo was going to be a memorial for my recently passed dog. I walked into the shop with the idea that I would just get her name written on my forearm.
After meeting with Ben he sat down with me and asked more specific questions as to what I really wanted to convey in the piece and also gave me a slew of suggestions. He showed me his portfolio where he had a couple photo realistic pieces. I had never seen these types of pieces before and was really blown away by their level of detail and realism. I quickly changed my previous idea of just having her name, to having a portrait of her instead without the name. It speaks volumes and now I can easily look at her for the rest of my life.
After about half hour I left and decided that I'd bring in some photographs the following day to see if he could work with any. Ben really was patient and understanding and took the time to ensure that the piece would be something that would truly convey Jennifer's personality as well as fit best on my body structure. In the 2nd day we spent about 1 hour choosing the photograph and prepping it to be used. By that time I was so impressed (and excited to get it done) that I decided to have him to it right there. Never did I feel rushed, or uncomfortable, the complete opposite.
The guy is very meticulous too when it comes to his work, a lot of true attention to detail from his setup of the equipment to the actual piece. Three hours later and the piece was done. Perfectly. It's still very red but looks incredible. The positioning was flawless and he got the emotions in her eyes down exactly as the photo.
If I ever need another piece done, I'm definitely tracking Ben down (http://www.myspace.com...) but I hope he comes back and becomes a permanent artist at Idle Hand.
NOTE: Make sure to eat a large meal with enough sugar before you come in for a tattoo, or you'll pass out :( -
Review from Lauren V.
San Francisco, CA
2/8/2008 1 photo
I should have done this review a while ago but later then never is better just like the tattoo.
Yes it's a long wait to get a tattoo but it's a long wait that's worth it!
I had been researching a very special tattoo for myself for a LONG time trying to find the artist I really wanted. When I saw Holly's work on Idle Hand and http://Tattoonow.com I fell in love instantly! Her work was amazing! Then I met her at the Tattoo Expo and her personality went along with it. I tried to make an appointment with her a few months after meeting her and found out that It'd be at least 6months to a year till I would even make an appointment with Holly. I didn't mind because i REALLY wanted her to do my work. 6 months pass no call. No big deal I give them a call they say that she's still busy and that it'd be around winter when she'd finally be available. Another 6 months but I don't mind. So she calls and wants an consultation in a week I was stocked!
I wanted something custom done. A Peach Blossom with an anatomically correct heart as one of the pedals, with the veins of the heart merging with the pistols of the flower.
During the consultation we talked about how it'd be better if the heart was a separate entity (but still attached through the vein/pistols) and that it should be full color rather then black and gray like I originally wanted. Also it was going to be a LOT bigger but she talked with me and said it'd be for the benefit of the tattoo. She wanted me to get the bigger one that she said would be around $450 but I knew i couldn't afford more then $300 so we did the size smaller which would be 2 hours and $300.
A week later I show up for my tattoo to see her new design and it was AMAZING! Much better then my design ever was! The tattoo (which is on my right shoulder blade) was nearly painless (especially for it being my first tattoo). The tattoo session was 3 hours straight (with a short break). So i was a bit worried about how much it was going to come out to be but she only charged me what she had quoted $300 which was MUCH appreciated!
She's an AMAZING tattoo artist and a Great person. Well worth the year I waited to get the tattoo and WELL worth Every penny!
I can't wait to get another tattoo and I know exactly who I want it from even if I have to wait another year :) -
Review from Alex W.
San Francisco, CA
1/22/2009 2 photos
I'm giving Idle Hand 5 stars because I can't think of anything about it I would change...
I got my first tattoo from Alex in 2007 at the age of 19.
I picked Aaron to do my second tattoo because I felt what I wanted fit better with things he usually does.
Aaron is currently 1/2 way done with a sugar skull/roses piece on my back. The outline took about 2 hours and after a month the lines have already gone completely smooth.
Before I got my first tattoo I went to 5-6 places in the Bay Area that were recommended by some of my heavily tattooed friends. Some places were mean to me as a newbie wanting to start small but everyone at Idle Hand was totally cool to me and it calmed my nerves right down.
These guys rock! -
Review from Luis M.
Oakland, CA
5/8/2006
I've been getting tattooed by Holly Ellis since last year and have a few sessions scheduled with her through August of this year. I found out about Idle Hand and Holly from a friend who had some work done there. I went with her on for her first consultation and browsed through the portfolios. I was impressed by everyone's work but one tattoo in particular caught my eye. It gave me an idea for a piece on my right arm. I made an appointment with Holly gave her my ideas and she ran with it, creating the beautiful cherry blossom branch on my right arm.
I had also been wanting to expand on the Plumeria that I had covering my left shoulder (done by Clifton Carter of Tattoo City). Once I had a good idea of what i wanted I called Holly again, ran my idea by her and once came up with something that was ever better than what I had in mind. We've got a couple more sessions to go before it's finished but I'm definitely looking forward to seeing it completed.
The shop as a whole is really great. Everyone there is very positive and they all seem to get along great with each other. I love the look of the place as it isn't the typical glass case front desk, or flash covered walls.
http://myspace-214.vo....
http://a391.ac-images.... -
Review from Sabrina b.
Reno, NV
4/28/2008
I knew what I wanted for my first tattoo for around 5+ years before I laid eyes on the perfect portfolio of work from the perfect artist for me.
I saw Jason Tyler Grace's portfolio at a Tattoo convention in Reno, NV. I had gone to accompany a friend as he searched for an artist to do a tattoo for him. I walked past Jason's album, browsed through and KNEW he was the one for me. I waited around for him to return, chatted with him about his portfolio and worked out an appointment to meet with him and go over my design.
He was gracious enough to keep my artwork and work on it since I was coming from Reno to SF for every session. It was my first tattoo and I had spent years figuring out exactly what I wanted, not sure if I would ever find an artist who could do it. I rolled in from Reno for my first actual sitting and was BLOWN AWAY by the sketch. It was an EXACT translation of what I wanted. It's relatively complex to explain so I will just leave it at intricate.
4 sessions later, I have my amazing tattoo and a tattoo artist for life. I'm considering other tattoo's and would NEVER go to anyone else. Everyone at Idle Hand is amazing and it's the perfect home for Jason Tyler Grace. He's a chill dude who makes you relax and enjoy (as much as possible) the sessions. He was patient and understanding, knowing it was my first tattoo and that it was huge and dark (go big or go home I say). I've already recommended him to friends and can't wait to see all he does in the future.
I cannot wait to head in there again for my next round(s) of ink. I encourage anyone who seeks intricate and detailed tattoo's to give JTG a chance at designing your next piece of body art. I'm sure he will NOT let you down.
There's a photo of my tattoo in my profile incase you are curious. -
Review from Mister G.
San Francisco, CA
6/8/2009
I was refereed by a friend who got a pretty effin awesome tattoo of a pelvic bone on his shoulder.
Went with my best friend to get our matching tattoos (Friends forever). We came at a slow time and were able to get right in. The tattoo was pretty simple text that I had already scaled, so it was a pretty quick process. So fast that we weren't even charged the full rate.
Took my room mate there to get his first tattoo a few weeks ago. Aaron did his ink and did a great job. He was attentive and really made the overall effect as my roomie wanted.
Going to get another tattoo this week sometime. Will update. -
Review from jules m.
San Francisco, CA
6/18/2009 1 photo
Wow. Is all I can say about Idle Hand. After going to a different studio 2 1/2 years ago and not feeling right and leaving when the artist had not sketched anything out with lots of communication 'tween us over 2 months time, then having another artist flake on me twice, I found Idle Hand. Halla-fuckin-lulah!
I researched my first tattoo, knew pretty much what I wanted. And I was ready. (very important element to getting permanent art-not like you can toss it out like an IKEA lamp or something, right?)
So I found Jason DONAHUE- I chose him because I liked his roses. I went down to Idle Hand one afternoon and walked in, was greeted by nice guy and then Jason came out. Trust was an instant reaction. We talked for a few, made the appointment, left him a deposit when I went back for brief consultation. After, we communicated a little by email about what I wanted.
When I walked in for my appointment Jason came out with a fantastic rendering of what was to be. He took my nebulous vision and created a work of art. ART. We went into the back room and he really wanted me to be happy, so we adjusted, flipped and reworked the size until I was satisfied. Jason Donahue is very chill, sincere, focused, and sweet as pecan pie!
He didn't rush me or make me feel pressured. I totally dug his style. No Rambo with a needle here. This guy is practically Zen.
Did it hurt? Not really. Or I'm one tough woman, because I was able to sit for 3.5 hours. Jason Donahue is really efficient. I sat, he created. It took much longer then we thought, but the result is a beautiful amazing tattoo I will show off for life. I am not done with my body story and I imagine Jason will be doing more work for me in the future.
If you are looking for a good place with many talented artists, I can highly recommend Idle Hand, but I think I'm sticking with Jason. Be willing to wait a month or much much more to get what you want-it's worth it. Prices are more then fair, and the shop friendly a good vibe. When people give neg reviews maybe it's their attitude that needs adjusting.
Thank you Idle Hand! -
Review from Towanda S.
San Francisco, CA
3/4/2008
I followed my artist to this studio when he changed employment.
and I'm glad I did!
This studio is much more friendly than any place I've been to.
No pressure to get something or get out.
Teri the "shop girl" is aways friendly and genuine. As are all the people there.
Personally I get work done by Jason Donahue. Two 3/4 sleeves, pin-up portrait of my mom, oriental fan, puzzle piece and soon a full back piece.
All of the things he's done for me have been custom and AMAZING!
So far he's done 3 cover-up jobs for me and no one would be the wiser.
I've taken a few "first timers" to jason D. personally and they've all been happy with his work and his "bedside manner".
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND all the artists at this shop.
***update****
I also get work done from Doug Hansen. -
Review from Jennifer M.
San Francisco, CA
6/18/2007
I never thought that it would happen to me. You know, one of those experiences where it just takes one glance...and you know.
Upon entering Idle Hands per a friend's recommendation, I immediately scanned through the artist's portfolios on the front counter. While flipping through one or two, I decided to settle with one of the artist. As the lady was taking down my information to make an appointment, I decided to flip through Jason Tyler Grace's. It took about .5 seconds for me to say "This is it." Jason Tyler Grace is truly talented and unlike any other artist I have seen (I mean not to say that I'm an expert in the field).
I had a basic idea in my head and just told him to do what he felt would work and the results are amazing.
hint: Keep in mind that a lot of the artists here are talented thus the wait can be a while. -
Review from Dani B.
Berkeley, CA
9/10/2007 1 photo
Holly Ellis rocks the party that rocks the party.
I'm both thrilled and devastated that she's so booked up these days - lots of people clearly recognize what an effing brilliant tattoo artist she is, but it means I have to wait longer to get in to see her. But she's always worth the wait.
I shopped my way through several SF tattoo artists before going to Holly, and she was the first who was not only able to take my ideas and descriptions and example pictures and hand-waving and make it into something beautiful and amazing, but also get really excited about doing it. I sent her pictures of some really amazing woodwork on a door in Paris and said, "I like this" - she managed to incorporate it into my tattoo. I brought my favorite brocade coat to our consultation and said "This is one of my favorite things in the world - is there a way to get the design into my tattoo?" - and there it was, incorporated into my tattoo. She is bloody brilliant. I've received so many complements on my work from people on the street, in bars, etc. that I've taken to having a stock of her business cards on me at all times.
I also have to mention that this was my first tattoo, a multi-session, semi-complex backpiece. And she made my experience better than I ever could've imagined. She's actually fun to spend several hours with, even when she's got a needle in your skin for those several hours. The guys in the shop all respect her and her clients and I had a great time with it. -
Review from Jake B.
San Francisco, CA
11/12/2008
Got a piece by Jason Tyler Grace when I first moved to the city 2yrs ago or so... and his style and handling are all about precision and control.
I brought him my idea and he didn't want to change a thing, so I knew that we had a similar aesthetic--- and I have never told an artist to "Put this on me", always not wanting to stifle the creativity of the artists to get the best work possible.
The shop is a lot of fun, as all the people here are easygoing and fun to chill and talk with. It's grown upwards a bit since I was there and the shop is huge now!! I'm waiting to possibly save up to get a piece from Holly Ellis as I really like her work --- but that's another day.
Great shop, great talent from those with it. They also have a ladder shelf which is neato. And everyone who is new to getting tattoos on themselves: PLEASE don't use the phrases like: "Getting inked..." "Sweet tats bro!" and "I'm thinking of getting this Hella crazy Tribal piece for my 1st tattoo on my back!!" Unless you're going to kill people in a jungle with your delta force training, you probably have no use for such craziness... For serious. -
Review from Eric A.
Burlingame, CA
10/9/2008
i went here to get my first tattoo! the place was chill probably the only spot on haight with a less than hour wait for tattoo work. I got a nice little bicycle cog on my ankle done for a bike scavenger hunt here and the circle and geometry of the cog itself matches the one of my bike! perfect!!
A+ to the studio for being bike friendly (let us bring our bikes in) and just being chill in general! -
Review from Nicole J.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 12/18/2008
I just got my 3rd tattoo from Iggy Van at Idle Hand. I have to say, once again, that he's amazing. He's an extremely talented artist, who can also adapt his work to what you want.
And he's crazy efficient, which I know shouldn't be a huge deal but it definitely cuts down on the total pain factor.
It can be hard to get an appointment with him- he's popular. But be persistent and you can get on his schedule.
The work Iggy's done for me:
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http://people.tribe.ne...1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/22/2007
My partner and I got matching tattoos last march. We originally came to Idle Hands looking for Jason… Read more »
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Review from Allen T.
San Francisco, CA
3/22/2008 2 photos
Artist - Iggy Vans
First Piece - Serenity Prayer
I was referred here by friends (both inked on by Jason Tyler Grace) and they were everything they had explained. Place is clean, people are cool easy going and helpful. Idle hands is a great shop and highly recommended if you want ink done. -
Review from Alex V.
Mountain View, CA
5/30/2011 4 Check-ins Here
Love Idle Hands Tattoo Studio. The cleanest studio in San Francisco! I had a back piece done by Holly, left shoulder dragon by TJ, and looking to get a piece on my forearm in July. These artists are TALENTED. I've gone to other artists outside the city and they were good but I really like the atmosphere of Idle Hands. Thanks Holly and I'll be back to finish up my "Endangered Species" back piece!
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Review from Peel R.
Oakland, CA
4/24/2011
Been here a couple times now to see Mr. Cris Cleen...it has been pleasant. Lot of good artist here...actually everyone here has paid dues, and has a good book...so come take a look. I actually enjoy this part of Haight much more...will be back to see Cris, and others as well.
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Review from Nick R.
San Francisco, CA
5/9/2008
Iggy Vans is great. He's an awesome artist and an all around cool guy. His lines are clean, packs color in smooth. His work speaks for itself. I have been working on a sleeve with him forever now, (I don't have the money to go in as often as I'd like, and I'm a fighter so when I get tattooed its two weeks away from training which is also hard to do.) He is still cool about it though. Even though I'm sure he wishes I would just get in there and finish the damn thing already.
Its a great shop, I love being in there. All the artists are good, but I recommend Iggy. -
Review from Jeremy C.
Berkeley, CA
12/8/2008
I came here a few years ago to get my first tattoo done by zach johnson. this guy is amazing and the detail and coloring he does on his work is priceless. since then, i've returned twice to have more work done and its a huge bummer he moved away but i cross my fingers for his return. i've sent a couple friends here and after they saw their results they couldn't believe they've wasted time at other shops in sf instead of going to idle hand from the get go.
my boy from philly used to come here to get work done by andy lowlife (now in santa cruz) - http://www.andylowlife... and now goes to iggy who is the fucking man. iggy tattoed the top of both of his feet, we're talking HUGE pieces, and he nailed it. since then i don't think he's gone a day without wearing flip flops to show off the work.
no matter who you go with, every artist in this shop is a MASTER at their craft. -
Review from S D.
San Francisco, CA
4/2/2011
Jason Donahue has been my tattoo artist for the past several years. He is always on-time, ready to start working at the set appointment time. Jason's art is amazing and I'm beyond satisfied with his work and professionalism. By the way, I think everyone at the shop is extremely talented. Meet the artists to determine your best match. This shop is clean, "sane" and fun.
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Review from Louis V.
Oakland, CA
3/15/2009
Idle hands rules- alot of talent and super cool people.
Anyone who complains about customer service for a tattoo shop should have their head checked. It's a tattoo shop, i sat for 3 hours with JTG and heard cuss words every 5 minutes. Awesome. Boner jokes. Awesome. Etc.
Waiting lists - here's the deal, get on the waiting list for someone you like. Tell them your idea, be really nice and open to having a conversation with them - remember they are people (artists) not copy machines or bullshit tattoo artists - that's why people go there, because your getting something permanent on you - have it done the best you can. THEN let them know that if they have a cancellation you'd love to come in. Then call and check up. But remember, most importantly be nice. -
Review from C S.
Raleigh, NC
3/23/2009
I had a great experience here. I usually expect to be treated like an alien when I walk into a tattoo shop, but that was not the case at Idle Hand. I was greeted quickly by the guy at the front and he was friendly.
Alex Empty did my tattoo and I highly recommend him. We sat down and discussed all the the tiny little details. He even brought out some books to show me ideas. Then he drew the tattoo a few times until it was perfect. Alex does not waste time putting bad work out there.
