Baltimore folks - help me decide!

[Synesthesia]

Back from a long hiatus, thirsty for more tattoos.

I'm considering getting color peonies and/or chrysanthemums on my knees in a fairly traditional Japanese style (I'm not opposed to a more modern style though). I live in south-central PA and wouldn't mind traveling a few hours. I know there's a few really great Japanese artists in the Baltimore area and I could also easily make it into a short vacation while I'm down there, so that's kind of what I'm leaning towards. Who do you guys recommend in Baltimore, or maybe elsewhere?

[PinkUnicorn]

I had a modest size tattoo done by Charlie Foos, and he was fine.

However, I've not used either of the other folks above, so I didn't vote...

[Gingerninja]

Would you go to NYC?

[Synesthesia]

1 hour ago, Gingerninja said:

Would you go to NYC?

I'd consider it. It would just be a little more of a trek and might take me longer to save up for. I'm a little more familiar with Baltimore and have friends down there, so that made sense to me. But I've been to NYC a couple times and would make the trip again if I found an artist I loved.

[Gingerninja]

Yeah, I just don't know anyone in Baltimore but there are a few folks in NYC that do lovely Japanese peonies and chrysanthemums. 

Edited December 29, 2017 by Gingerninja

[scottyg]

*If* you decide to go to NYC I'll of course recommend Takashi Matsuba at Behind the Circle.

[Gingerninja]

So many great choices depending upon what style and how bold you would like to go! Agree with @ScottyG 's recommendation. :)

My NYC laundry list: RG, Garver, Rubendall, Kiku, Beckerich and O'Donnell. 

My international list is long but I really want a flower from Claudia this year...

 

[byzantine]

I'm not from Baltimore and I don't know tonnes about Japanese -  but this guy looks good https://www.instagram.com/franmassino/

[Synesthesia]

On 12/30/2017 at 8:00 AM, Gingerninja said:

So many great choices depending upon what style and how bold you would like to go! Agree with @ScottyG 's recommendation. :)

My NYC laundry list: RG, Garver, Rubendall, Kiku, Beckerich and O'Donnell. 

My international list is long but I really want a flower from Claudia this year...

 

Rubendall and Garver are both like unattainable dreams for me. Imagine getting one to do each knee, I think I'd die right there on the spot. I might see if I can make NYC work for my budget.

Anybody else with any suggestions since my travel net has been broadened? 

[Gingerninja]

So, Garver only books a few months in advance, just saying. :) Mike is a little longer but see if you can get in at Pagoda convention in August which is SO MUCH CHEAPER than NYC! O'Donnell only books a few months in advance, too!

[Synesthesia]

Whoaaaa, how did I miss this last year?! The lineup was crazy and it's super close. Will definitely be on my radar for this year, thanks!

[Gingerninja]

It's always a good time! Super low key, easy in/out, and not crazy like the big conventions.