Worth the Trip: Custom Tattoos for LA County Clients
Many of our clients drive in from across Los Angeles County: the San Fernando Valley, the San Gabriel Valley, the South Bay, Long Beach and the Gateway Cities. They come for a specific piece and a specific artist. Mantle Tattoo is at 705 S Olive St in Downtown LA, the hub the freeways and Metro lines all lead to, so getting here is simpler than the map suggests.
or text us at 323.395.0049
Planning a trip for your tattoo
When you're traveling in for a session, a little planning makes the day easy:
- Start with a consult. Book a free virtual consultation or send an appointment request with references, placement and size. We'll match you with an artist who specializes in your style.
- Book a time that beats traffic. Midday and early-evening slots usually avoid the worst of the freeway rush. Tell us your constraints and we'll work around them.
- Secure the date. A $100 deposit holds your appointment and goes toward the final cost. With at least a full business day's notice, we'll reschedule without a new deposit (deposit policy).
- Plan for healing. Read our aftercare guide before you come. Touch-ups are free within the first year if anything heals lighter than intended.
Getting here from around the county
- San Gabriel Valley and Pasadena: the Metro A Line runs directly to 7th Street/Metro Center. By car, take the 110 or I-10 into Downtown. See our Pasadena page.
- Long Beach and the Gateway Cities: the A Line also runs north from Long Beach to 7th Street/Metro Center with no transfer. By car, take the 710 to the I-5 or the 110.
- South Bay: take the 110 north. The J Line (Silver Streak) bus also serves Downtown.
- San Fernando Valley: the B Line from North Hollywood runs to 7th Street/Metro Center. By car, take the 101 or the 5.
- Glendale and Burbank: Metrolink to Union Station, then the B or D Line. See our Glendale page.
Once you're Downtown, metered parking is sometimes available out front, and several paid lots and garages within a block offer all-day parking from about $10.
What people travel in for
Clients making the trip usually have a clear piece in mind:
- Detailed fine line and delicate work that needs a specialist's steady hand.
- Realism: black and gray portraits and nature scenes, sometimes over multiple sessions.
- Custom script for names, dates and quotes.
- Traditional and neo-traditional pieces with bold lines and color.
Good to know
- Appointment-only, with same-day openings often available. Text 323.395.0049 to check.
- $150 minimum. Single-use equipment on every tattoo.
- Languages: English, Spanish, Russian and Korean.
- Payment: cash, all major cards, Venmo, Zelle, PayPal and Cash App.
LA County FAQ
Is it worth the drive to Downtown?
Our clients think so. Matching you with a specialist in your style matters more than proximity for work you'll wear for life. Most of our out-of-area clients plan their visit around a midday slot to keep the drive easy.
Can I do a consultation before traveling?
Yes. Book a virtual consultation to discuss your idea, ask questions and get artist recommendations from home.
Can a large piece be done over multiple sessions?
Yes. Your artist will plan the sessions with you, and each one is scheduled in advance.
Do you take walk-ins?
We're appointment-only, but same-day appointments are often available.
What's your minimum?
$150. Larger work is estimated based on design, size and placement.