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One of the most common questions people ask our shop is " How much does a tattoo cost? "  The answer to this isn’t as simple as scanning a cereal box at the grocery store. It's more like asking a grocery clerk, "How much does a bag of groceries cost?" Just like a bag of groceries, the price of a tattoo depends on what it is. Let’s talk about how Solana Tattoo Company prices tattoos in Fort Collins and Northern Colorado ; what information you need to provide when asking for a quote; and how other shops calculate prices. How Solana Tattoo Company Prices Tattoos Pricing a tattoo with the grid Solana bases quotes on the average time a tattoo artist in our shop needs to complete a similar-sized tattoo with the same design and placement. We use a specific grid system laid over the design. This grid makes pricing consistent across artists and keeps things fair. It accounts for the fact that some artists work faster and some work slower, without penalizing or rewarding clients based on the artist's speed. Key facts about Solana pricing: • Hourly rate: $150 per hour  • Shop minimum: $80  • Quotes are based on the grid system, which reflects average completion times for tattoos of similar size, design, and placement.  • For large projects or complex pieces that are harder to predict, Solana may choose hourly pricing rather than a flat quote.  • Some larger or complex pieces that require significant pre-drawing may require a nonrefundable deposit. That deposit is credited toward the final cost when the tattoo is completed. Important note about perceived value and artist speed: If the final completion time falls a little above or below the studio average, that does not mean a client was overcharged or undercharged. It means the client’s tattoo was completed by an artist who worked slightly faster or slower than the studio's average in the grid. The grid ensures clients receive consistent pricing regardless of which artist completes the work. Aiden is typically a super-fast tattooer What Affects the Price at Solana Size: A bigger tattoo requires more time to complete and therefore costs more.  Placement: Placement matters because some body areas take longer to tattoo or are more difficult to tattoo. For example, the ribcage is more difficult to tattoo than a bicep.  Design Complexity: A highly detailed tattoo will take more time than a small, simple piece. For example, an intricate full back tattoo will obviously cost more than a small linework heart on the wrist. Client Factors: How your skin accepts ink, how well you sit still, and how many breaks you need can also affect how long a session takes. Come to the appointment hydrated and rested whenever possible.  Color vs. Black and Grey: Color versus just black and grey does not automatically affect the price. Time needed, design, and technique (like stipple/dotwork shading) determine cost more reliably than whether color is used.  A flower tattoo with stipple shading How Much Does a Tattoo Cost For Larger Pieces? For large pieces or complex work that is hard to estimate precisely, Solana commonly uses hourly pricing. For projects that require extensive pre-drawing, a nonrefundable design deposit may be required. That deposit is applied to the final invoice. How to Get an Accurate Tattoo Quote Solana recommends a free consultation, in person or virtual, to provide the most accurate estimate. For a ballpark quote, you can also email solanatattoo@gmail.com , call 970-666-4842, or message the shop on Instagram @solanatattoo . The in-person quote (based on your unique body and specific design/size) will always be more accurate than an email guesstimate, so don’t take a ballpark quote as a guarantee.  When requesting a quote, have the following information ready: • Design idea.  If you have a drawing or pre-drawn design, include it. If not, provide photo references or examples of styles you like. Be specific about any details you want.  • Placement.  Be precise, for example, upper outer arm or inner forearm. Placement affects time and price.  • Size . Give dimensions in inches, for example, about 4 by 6 inches. Avoid vague phrases like forearm size because body proportions vary. Also avoid saying “the size of the attachment,” because that changes based on the screen the image is opened on. Providing clear details upfront helps the artist or front desk give the best estimate possible. Typical Tattoo Rates in Colorado and Why Shops Differ Around Colorado, typical hourly rates often fall in the $150-$200 per hour range. Some artists or studios charge more, sometimes $250-$300 per hour or higher. Shop minimums commonly range from $80-$120. These are general ranges. Shops may use hourly rates, flat quotes by piece, or a hybrid model. Read more about how tattoos in Colorado are priced here . Solana’s approach is to use our grid system so pricing is consistent across artists and predictable for clients. Other shops may price tattoos based on each individual artist’s experience, speed, or demand. Those systems can result in more variation from artist to artist, which is why it helps to ask a shop how they calculate quotes. At Solana Tattoo, we want to keep pricing fair and transparent. Our grid system is used to estimate the average time for tattoos of similar size, design, and placement, so you get consistent prices from artist to artist. For large or complex projects, hourly pricing and deposits may apply. For a precise quote, schedule a free consultation. For a ballpark estimate, email the shop clear design, placement, and size information. Contact Solana Tattoo Company  Email: solanatattoo@gmail.com  Call: 970-666-4842  Instagram: @solanatattoo

Colorado is the most beautiful place in the world to live (pretty sure this is scientifically proven somewhere). But the same things that make Colorado so incredible (sunshine, high altitude, lovely white winters) are the very things that can affect your skin and tattoos in surprising ways.  Many people don’t realize it, but understanding Colorado’s climate can make a difference in how your tattoo heals, looks, and ages over time. Let’s talk about tattoos in Colorado throughout all four seasons, including how altitude, sun, dry air, and temperature impact your skin and immune system. Colorado’s Climate 101: What Makes Us Different? That's a high mountain. Colorado is defined by four big factors: 1. High Altitude Much of the state sits between 5,000 and 9,000 feet above sea level. This means: Stronger UV exposure due to thinner atmosphere. Lower humidity. Slight impact on circulation and inflammation. All three matter during tattoo healing. 2. Intense, Year-Round Sunshine Colorado consistently ranks in the top states for most sunny days per year, even in winter. Love that! But (there’s always a but) UV rays are the biggest cause of tattoo fading over time. 3. Dry Air With humidity often under 20 percent, your skin can become prone to cracking, flaking, slower healing, and irritation after getting tattooed. 4. Sharp Seasonal Swings Hot, dry summers. Cold, dry winters. Sudden temperature changes and wind. Your skin is constantly adapting. Put it all together and what do you get? A climate that is beautiful but heckin’ demanding on tattoos. How Colorado’s Climate Affects Skin, Immunity, and Tattoos Skin Health Colorado’s dry environment makes skin less elastic, more dehydrated, slower to regenerate, and more reactive to friction. This directly impacts tattoo healing. Immune System Altitude can increase inflammation slightly and makes dehydration feel more intense. Good hydration and moisturizers matter more here than at lower elevations. Tattoo Healing Colorado’s climate affects tattoo healing in several ways: Dryness can increase flaking and itching. Sun exposure can cause quicker fading. Cold air can crack the skin and disrupt healing. Wind can irritate fresh tattoos. What to do about it? Timing your tattoo can help improve your healing experience. Do Tattoos Fade Faster in Colorado? Short answer: Yes, if you are not careful.  Colorado’s combination of altitude and intense UV exposure can make tattoos fade more quickly without proper protection. Color vs. Black and Grey Color tattoos, especially reds, yellows, and pastels, are more vulnerable to UV fading. Black and grey hold up better but still fade faster in strong sun. Fine line tattoos can blur sooner in very dry climates if the skin remains chronically dehydrated. This does not mean you should avoid color tattoos or that fine-line tattoo of your dreams. It simply means sun protection and skincare are essential. How Colorado’s Seasons Affect Tattooing and Healing Colorado has four distinct seasons, and each one affects tattooing differently. Winter – The Best Time to Get a Tattoo Benefits : Less sun exposure More clothing coverage Cooler temperatures that reduce swelling Fewer outdoor activities that interfere with healing Easier to protect your tattoo while it heals Challenges : Indoor heating dries skin Many people enter winter already dehydrated Client perspective:   Sessions feel comfortable and cozy, and aftercare is simpler. You spend more time indoors and bundled up, which helps healing. Artist perspective: Skin tends to stay calm and dry but predictable, which makes tattooing smooth and consistent. Spring – The Transition Season Benefits : Moderate temperatures Less extreme sun Great for medium-sized pieces Challenges : Windy conditions can irritate healing skin Unpredictable weather Client perspective: Spring is a great choice if you want a tattoo healed and ready to show off by summer. With diligent aftercare, healing goes very smoothly. Artist perspective: Skin hydration varies. Some clients still have winter-dry skin, which may slightly affect saturation. Summer – The Hardest Season for Healing Challenges : Strong UV exposure Hiking, swimming, sweating Sunscreen cannot be used on fresh tattoos Friction from clothing and gear Higher chances of irritation Benefits : Many clients love showing their skin in summer, which makes them excited about new tattoos. You can show off healed tattoos more quickly. Skin is often naturally more hydrated. People feel great and energized (often a fun time to get tattooed). Client perspective: Summer is motivating because you’re thinking about showing off your skin. The challenge is avoiding sun and water while your tattoo heals. Artist perspective: Skin is soft and hydrated in summer, which can be great to work with. Clear aftercare  guidance is extra important. Fall – An Underrated Tattoo Season Benefits : Comfortable temperatures Less harsh sun Skin typically well-hydrated after summer Fewer sweat-heavy activities Challenges : Wind dryness increases Holiday travel and stress can interrupt aftercare and routine Client perspective: Healing is quick and uncomplicated. Temperatures are perfect, and sun exposure is lower. Artist perspective: Fall skin is usually ideal to tattoo. It is hydrated from summer yet calm from cooler weather. Northern Colorado and Fort Collins: Local Climate Factors on Getting a Tattoo Woman walking through downtown Fort Collins. Photo by Geoff Worcester The Fort Collins, Loveland, and Windsor region has its own climate characteristics: Higher winds than many other parts of Colorado Lower humidity than Denver, especially in spring and fall Strong UV exposure due to elevation Occasional warm winter bursts that spike dryness Highly active outdoor culture For tattoos in Northern Colorado: Wind protection matters just as much as sun protection Hydration is essential year-round Winter and fall are noticeably easier healing seasons Summer tattoos require planning but are completely manageable with proper aftercare How Colorado’s Climate Influences the Tattooing Process Client experience Skin may feel tighter or drier during long sessions Hydration noticeably improves comfort Stencils can lift more easily in dry air Some clients feel more fatigued during long sessions due to altitude, especially if dehydrated Artist experience Dry skin can absorb ink differently Pre-session moisturizing (start weeks leading up to the tattoo) can improve saturation Cooler seasons reduce swelling, making the tattoo process smoother So When Is the Best Time to Get a Tattoo in Colorado? EZ tattooing a client Winter is the easiest season for healing and long-term protection. Fall is the second-best option. Spring works well with good aftercare. Summer requires extra caution but is completely doable with a committed plan. The best time is simply when you feel ready — but knowing how Colorado’s climate affects your skin can help your tattoo heal beautifully and last longer. Ready to book your next tattoo? We’d love to help you plan the perfect tattoo at the perfect time of year. Book your session today .

Eric “EZ” Johnson could still be working in the aerospace field. For years, he worked on satellite components, docking and separation systems, and even the original Mars Rovers. Or he could be putting his engineer brain to work on the ground, building motorcycles. He built and repaired his first one out of spare parts around the same time most kids are learning to ride a regular bicycle, and has since built more motorcycles than he could count.   A few years ago, EZ strongly considered becoming a pastor — a logical extension of his volunteer work with rehab centers, unhoused people, and others in need. But today, he sits in his private room at Solana Tattoo Company, a top-rated tattoo studio in Fort Collins, with a tattoo machine in hand. It’s his tool for connection. His purpose. His calling. And also full circle to where he began. EZ tattooing. Photo by Cinesinner If you saw EZ riding his motorcycle through town, you wouldn’t be surprised to learn he’s a tattoo artist. With tattoos face to feet, he looks the part. But look closer. Those face tattoos? They’re all spiritual. He jokes he’s a walking bulletin board for Jesus. He’s the artist who can and will tattoo just about anything, from fine-line tattoos to portraits to American traditional , and anything in between. Hands? Sure. Head, armpit, inner lip? It’s your body. But no hateful ink will come from his hands. Gang signs and racist symbols are a no-no . EZ may look intimidating, but he says his mission is to spread hope and love to lives he wouldn’t normally cross, while helping people permanently mark essential moments in their lives and claim their bodies. “That’s what wakes me up every day,” he says. “There are 100 million people way more deserving of life than I am for all the bad that I’ve done. There are people who have life a whole lot worse, too. But I am thankful to be able to do what I can to be a type of healer, someone to talk to, someone people can connect to in their own way.” Growing Up in Tattoo Shops EZ tattooing a client. Photo by Cinesinner EZ was raised in Colorado tattoo shops. His dad was a tattoo artist, and EZ got his first tattoo on his 13th birthday: a small star with angel wings on his shoulder, a tattoo he says he will never cover up. EZ always loved art classes, and he began tattooing under his dad’s mentorship at age 16. His first tattoo was an Old English letter “P” on a guy named Peter. EZ tattooed friends (with their parents’ permission), his dad’s biker buddies, at Sturgis and biker parties. It was 1997, his third year tattooing at a Fourth of July biker event in Silverton, when another tattoo artist approached him, impressed by his talent at such a young age. On the spot, he offered him a job in his tattoo studio in Durango. So EZ moved to Durango and made it official. Soon, he was tattooing at conventions, shaking hands with some of the best tattoo artists in the world. He relocated to California, chasing a bigger bite of the industry, and tattooed up and down the Pacific Coast, before returning to Colorado in 2000 to open his own studio in a shopping mall in Aurora. Then came the news that changed that trajectory. His wife was expecting a baby. EZ decided to trade his art for a more stable job with health insurance and benefits.  A friend from his high school in Lyons had graduated from CU with an aerospace engineering degree and invented a satellite docking system that could double their length of service in space, reducing space garbage. His friend needed help with the mechanical side and reached out to EZ, who had been building engines his whole life. That’s how EZ joined the aerospace industry. He worked there for 15 years, through company buy-outs and subcontracts with Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace. He continued tattooing on the side – just nights and weekends – through the birth of two more children. After making other people a bunch of money, he says, he decided to pour his energy into his own dreams and he opened a motorcycle shop in Loveland. But a falling out with his partner a few years later left EZ back where he started. He returned to tattooing full-time in 2019, but he just wasn’t happy at any of the shops he found. One slow day, with no appointments on the books and his bills piling up, he left work to get tattooed by another artist friend at a newer shop in town. He walked in and recognized JD , a tattoo artist he’d seen before at his gym. JD offered EZ a job before the stencil even dried. EZ moved into the Solana Tattoo Company the next day. It was busy, artist-forward, and different than anywhere else he’d worked. The Artist’s Journey EZ tattooing at Solana Tattoo Company. Photo by BAM Photography. EZ’s story is as real as it gets, and so is his art. While he mastered grit and creativity at an early age, his life didn’t always stay clean-lined. At one point, EZ spiraled into addiction, violence, and self-destruction, a life that took him in and out of jail and nearly cost him everything. His marriage fell apart, and he lost time with his children.     But rock bottom is a strong foundation to build upon. The turning point came five years ago, when a friend named Sara invited him to church. What started as a curious visit became a choice that changed everything. Maybe his first tattoo at age 13 -- the angel wings -- was foreshadowing. Standing waist-deep in a metal horse trough on a windy Wyoming field, surrounded by cattle and sunshine breaking through clouds, EZ was baptized. It was a cold and windy winter day at Sara’s family farm.   “It felt like I could see the light coming into me — or maybe the darkness leaving me,” he says. “It was just me, God, and the elements.”   That moment redefined his purpose. He saw tattooing through a different lens.  “God made it really clear that I could reach people through tattooing who would never set foot in a church,” he says.  Not to push his beliefs on others, but to listen, connect, and care, as a person who has been through just about everything you can imagine.  That friend who originally invited him to church? Sara. Now his fiance, helping him raise his children, who are back in his life. A second chance – at love, at being a father, and at using his gift of art to provide for his family. He knows many people don’t get a second chance.  “I thank God for waking me up every day and giving me another chance to do it again,” EZ says.  Artistic Style and Specialties A fine-line bird tattoo by EZ With nearly three decades of professional tattooing behind him, many clients consider EZ one of the best tattoo artists in Fort Collins, thanks to his versatility and range. He’s as comfortable doing a crisp fine-line piece as he is a full-color sleeve, an American traditional design, or a custom cover-up. “I came from street shops where you have to be versatile. Your specialty is whatever comes in the door,” he says. “I like that variability. You don’t paint yourself into a corner.”   He enjoys doing tattoos that carry meaning: memorial pieces, faith-based designs, and cover-ups that give clients a fresh start. EZ knows all about new starts firsthand.  What It’s Like to Get Tattooed by EZ EZ at Solana Tattoo Company doing an arm tattoo. Photo by Cinesinner If you’re booking a tattoo or tattoo consultation in Fort Collins with EZ, expect your session to be relaxed, direct, and honest. He listens first, before putting the needle to the skin.  “Everybody has a different story,” he says. “Why are you getting this tattoo? There are a million different reasons. I like the personal connection of helping somebody fulfill that dream, or have closure, or bridge that gap.”  Whether you’re getting your first piece or a finishing touch on a sleeve, EZ’s approach centers on safety, communication, and collaboration. His private room at his tattoo studio in Fort Collins is clean, personable, and welcoming. The process is straightforward: a thoughtful consultation, careful stencil placement, and steady execution. EZ values comfort and clarity, so clients leave knowing what to expect and feeling respected throughout the session. Book With Fort Collins Tattoo Artist EZ Johnson Eric “EZ” Johnson is more than a talented Fort Collins tattoo artist; he’s a craftsman, a listener, and someone who’s turned his past into purpose . Whether you’re looking for custom tattoos in Fort Collins or want a pre-drawn design of nearly any style, EZ brings decades of experience, empathy, and technical skill to every appointment. Check out EZ’s portfolio and book your consultation to see why so many people call him one of their favorite tattoo artists.

The halls of Solana Tattoo Company, Fort Collins, Colorado, are like a tattoo design art gallery: winding walls of original tattoo flash. Thousands upon thousands of unique and hand-painted designs in every style and mood, from feminine to spooky to traditional to quirky and unique. And on the first Friday of every month, all this creativity culminates into one big, glorious tattoo event we call Flash Friday. (Ahh, alliterations.) People know and love Flash Friday for the discount tattoos. But to us here at Solana Tattoo Company, Flash Friday is so much more. It’s a revival of tattoo heritage, a celebration of our amazing artists’ creativity, a showcase of community partnerships, an opportunity to make tattoos more accessible, and a way to inspire you – your creativity, self-expression, and personal style.  Above all, it’s an experience that is uniquely, authentically Solana.  Flash Friday Started Here A person looking at some of the flash on Solana's walls. We’re proud to say we were the first shop in Colorado (and quite possibly anywhere) to launch the concept of Flash Friday . We started this way back when we opened, long before it became a trend.  This matters in terms of quality, expertise, experience, and service. Over the years, we’ve refined our events into something truly special, thanks to our talented artist team, which constantly adds to the region’s largest selection of readily available, original flash. Our discounts are designed to make tattoos more affordable for all, and our events run smoothly because we’ve been doing this since day one. There’s a reason other shops have followed our lead: Flash Friday at Solana comes from a place of authenticity, experience, and creativity. Why We Started Flash Friday Walls of flash at Solana Tattoo Solana Tattoo Company's Flash Friday is built around five pillars:  1. Honoring Tattoo Heritage Flash tattoos are a foundational part of American tattoo history. Solana created Flash Friday to bring that heritage back into the spotlight, preserving a tradition that helped shape the industry. 2. Giving Artists Creative Freedom While our artists love creating custom pieces, Flash Friday gives them the chance to design and tattoo what they personally love: their own styles, ideas, and inspirations. Much better than Pinterest!  3. Sparking Creativity in the Community Flash is inspiring. It gets people thinking. It pushes ideas forward. Maybe you see the perfect tattoo. Perhaps it becomes the seed of a new idea. Either way, flash makes creativity contagious. 4. Making Tattoos Accessible Solana believes everyone deserves to express themselves. That’s why Flash Friday pieces are discounted by $50 or more, with designs starting at just $60 (the shop’s minimum usually is $80).   5. Celebrating Community  Flash Friday is heckin’ fun. It’s a way to kick off the new month and has become a tradition for many people. We love seeing the same faces return every month to add to their tattoo collection. Partnerships Make Flash Friday Even Better Many Flash Fridays include collaborations with local businesses and creatives. Past highlights include: Lucky Joe’s  offering free beer for anyone who got an Irish-themed tattoo Breckenridge Brewery  having a custom flash sheet and giving a free seasonal beer Free crystals with witchy flash A tarot reader  offering free lobby readings A CSU art student’s original flash sheet and an in-shop art exhibition Flash Friday changes every month, but it always includes a little surprise. What Makes Solana’s Flash Friday Different    Flash at Solana Tattoo Company Here’s what makes Solana’s Flash Friday stand out: First and foremost: We’re the OG Flash Friday in Northern Colorado. It all started here. We offer meaningful discounts: $50+ off flash designs every month. Our flash is original and artist-made. Never copied, not templated, not generic. We even have a separate page just for our flash designs: Solana Flash.  We are always adding to it! We have one of the largest artist teams in the region, which means more flash, more styles, and more creativity. Our events run smoothly because we’ve been perfecting them since we opened. Our event is rooted i n our own authenticity and historical tradition. Beyond the monthly event, our flash is available seven days a week, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thousands of designs, always on display. You can always browse our designs and get one tattooed. The discounts just come on the day of that month’s new releases.  Connection: The Heart of Everything Flash designs at a Flash Friday Solana’s mission has always been the same: To offer quality tattoos to good people with unmatched customer service. But beneath that mission is a commitment to connection. A tattoo or piercing is more than art; it’s an experience. As the saying goes, people might forget what you did, but they never forget how you made them feel. Solana’s environment reflects that. Clients are treated like family. Artists are supported as professionals and humans. Comfort, communication, and consent guide every interaction. Creativity thrives. Your stories are honored. In fact, three of our current artists first came in as clients; the connection they felt moved them to actually join the team. That’s the Solana way. Did You Know? Solana Tattoo Company: Is an artist-run, female-led, family-run shop. Has private studios for every artist. That means you don’t have to be in a vulnerable position while getting your tattoo or piercing. Has a professional front desk that accepts all  forms of payment (not just cash). We take credit and debit cards, Venmo, PayPal, you name it.  Has a front lobby where you’re welcome to hang out. You’ll find shopping, a saltwater fish tank, and complimentary coffee and tea. Has free parking right out front. Requires all artists to get blood-borne pathogen certifications to ensure your safety. This is above and beyond what is needed and the norm in this area. It is walking distance to some of Fort Collins’ best restaurants and bars, and is right across the street from the CSU campus.  Features an award-winning piercing team. It is open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. Offers tattoos by appointment or walk-in, custom pieces or flash, and full-service piercing from brows to below the belt. Jewelry is always included in our piercings; no surprise extra costs.  People browsing the flash on the walls at Solana Tattoo So come walk our art-lined halls, say hi to our team here at Solana Tattoo Company , and be part of Northern Colorado’s original Flash Friday tradition.

Summer may get all the attention because your skin is on display. But winter is the real MVP of tattoo timing.  Even when your skin is bundled in layers, and you’re shuffling through the snow, December is the perfect time to be thinking about fresh ink. The cool weather creates the best environment for healing, which makes this a great time to start or complete a big piece, add those small filler tattoos, or get your first tattoo without worrying about as many healing complications.  The same is true for body piercings . Winter offers your skin the most comfortable, low-stress conditions for clean healing. Here are the top 8 reasons December is the perfect time for fresh body art at our Fort Collins tattoo shop. 1. It’s Easier to Book Your Preferred Artist or Piercer Winter often provides more appointment flexibility, which gives you a better chance to secure time with the tattoo artist or piercer you want. If you have been waiting for availability with someone specific, December is one of the best months to get on their books.  Solana is open 10 a.m.-10 p.m. seven days a week, and we accept walk-ins and appointments .  Click here to contact us 2. Tattoos and Piercings Heal Better in Cooler Weather Holiday season in the tattoo shop Cooler temperatures are much kinder to healing skin. There is less sweating, less irritation, and fewer environmental factors that can interfere with the healing process. Tattoos settle in more cleanly, and piercings typically experience less swelling and sensitivity. Winter creates an ideal atmosphere for low-stress healing. 3. Far Less Sun Exposure UV rays fade tattoos quickly and can irritate new piercings. December naturally limits sun exposure, and your clothing layers provide easy, reliable protection. Your tattoo stays crisp, and your piercing stays comfortable without constant sunscreen or sun avoidance strategies. 4. No Concerns About Swimming Restrictions Fresh tattoos cannot be submerged in any body of water, and new piercings should avoid pools, lakes, oceans, and hot tubs. In summer, those restrictions can affect your plans. In December, you are probably not swimming anyway, so healing feels much easier and fits naturally into your routine. 5. December Creates a More Indoor, Low-Activity Healing Environment Liv tattooing in her cozy, private room. Photo by Cinesinner December may be a busy month socially, but most people spend far more time indoors and far less time doing physically demanding activities. It’s hibernation time, y’all. That makes it an ideal environment for healing. Cozy nights at home, fewer outdoor workouts (and gardening), and naturally slower physical routines allow new tattoos and piercings to rest without friction, sweat, or sun. Many clients find winter aftercare easier simply because their lifestyle keeps them inside and comfortable. 6. Winter Clothing Provides Natural Protection Soft, cozy layers help shield a healing tattoo from bumps, rubbing, and the environment. Winter clothing also protects piercings from excessive sun and dirt. As long as your clothing isn’t too tight or prone to snagging, your wardrobe may actually support the healing process. 7. Holiday Gift Deposits Are a Great Gift If you want to give a thoughtful and personal gift, a tattoo or piercing deposit is a perfect option. December is the best time to receive one, since you can use it to plan your next piece in the new year.  To buy a gift deposit for a loved one, message solanatattoo@gmail.com .  8. A New Tattoo or Piercing Is an Epic Way to End the Year December is a natural moment for reflection, celebration, and self-expression. Ending the year with new artwork or a new piercing adds excitement, meaning, and intention to the season. Make a mark to memorialize the year past. It’s a memorable way to step into January feeling bold and refreshed. It's the Best Time to Get a Tattoo or Piercing If you want a comfortable healing experience with fewer environmental challenges, December is the time. Whether you are planning a large tattoo, a small filler piece, a piercing project, or your very first appointment, winter offers your skin the best conditions for healing beautifully. If you want to learn more about Solana Tattoo Company, please feel free to stop by our shop or explore our website. If you are interested in booking a slot for a tattoo or piercing, click here or contact us

If you’ve spent any time exploring Fort Collins’ tattoo scene, you’ve likely heard of JD Markwardt — the towering, soft-spoken co-owner and creative force behind Solana Tattoo Company, one of the city’s most artist-driven tattoo studios. With more than 20 years of experience and a reputation for quality, integrity, and passion, JD has built a name synonymous with quality flash and custom tattoos in Fort Collins and a shop culture rooted in respect for the craft. JD at the front desk of his shop. Photo by BAM Photography A Colorado native raised in Longmont among a family of artists, JD built Solana on one simple belief: Artists deserve better.  After years of witnessing the struggles many tattooers face — low payout, burnout, and lack of creative freedom — he set out to create the kind of Fort Collins tattoo studio he wished existed but didn’t. Today, clients and artists alike know him for his artistry, mentorship, and the one-of-a-kind atmosphere he’s cultivated at Solana. The Tattoo Artist’s Journey JD putting on a stencil. Photo by Cinesinner JD’s story begins in the mountains of Colorado, where art ran deep in his family. His mom painted watercolors and crafted stained glass, his cousin Carrie Pearce  became a renowned fine artist in Illinois, and JD — always with a pencil in hand — dreamed of one day turning art into a lifelong pursuit. JD painting in the park After high school, he immediately set his sights on becoming a tattoo artist, landing an apprenticeship in Longmont. But after a year and $10,000 in wasted "tuition," he realized it was going nowhere and left, an early experience that would later help shape his values as a mentor and studio owner. Discouraged, JD left tattooing for a few years, working as an electrician, trim carpenter, and in other craftsman roles. He appreciated the creativity of the construction industry and opportunity to build something out of nothing, yet tattooing kept calling him back — a theme that would echo throughout his life.  So he pursued it from a different direction. He enrolled in the Art Institute to study graphic design, honing his eye for composition, balance, and visual storytelling. While an art student, he learned about a new shop in Louisville that aimed to be one part fine art gallery, one part tattoo studio. He landed an apprenticeship there, helping it open and furthering his art and tattoo education in even more ways.  When several of the top artists there branched off to start Old Larimer Street Tattoo in downtown Denver, JD went with them, completing his apprenticeship under respected artists Zeb Palmer  and Joe Miller . JD tattooing at Old Larimer Street Tattoo, when he was featured on Green Light Radio in 2009. Photo by Mark Moczo After several successful years in Denver, life called JD home again, this time, to raise his newborn daughter, Betty. After a year at home caring for Betty, JD was invited to help open a third tattoo studio. He helped launch and worked at Big Easy Tattoo  in Broomfield for several more years, before he, his wife Aimee , and Betty moved further north for the schools. The drive to Broomfield was tough in JD’s 1970 VW Bus, so he decided to put all of his knowledge of opening tattoo shops to personal use.  He opened his own small, private studio, Surfbilly Tattoo, in Berthoud. For seven years, Surfbilly was an art, custom tattoo, and piercing haven, complete with after-hour painting gatherings. The Surfbilly Bus Then COVID-19 forced its closure. Once again, JD considered walking away from tattooing; the quarantine made it nearly impossible, so he returned to electrical work and briefly tried being a postal worker and truck driver. But the art pulled him back. He hopped between several Northern Colorado shops, but he couldn’t find a tattoo shop that valued artists the way he believed they should be. So he created one himself: Solana Tattoo Company,  co-founded with his wife, Aimee, a CSU  journalism graduate and content marketer. Named after their favorite California beach (still keeping with the beachy theme of his original private studio), Solana is everything JD once needed but couldn’t find: artist-first, family-run, and built on integrity, customer service, and artistry. JD pushing baby Betty through Solana Beach in 2010, when he first learned to surf. Artistic Style and Specialties JD is best known for his clean, bold approach to  American traditional tattoos,  blending timeless tattoo heritage with modern precision. He’s particularly drawn to classic imagery —panthers, daggers, roses, and pin-up style portraits — but he’s also developed a signature niche: drawing and tattooing women inspired by the strong, creative women in his life. JD's flash An old-timey soul, JD loves solid lines, rich colors, and enduring designs that never go out of style. And his customer service has earned him a loyal following of clients who trust him to create meaningful, custom tattoos that stand the test of time. For JD, tattooing isn’t just about ink; it’s about legacy. His personal motto, “Make your mark” (a spin on his last name “Markwardt”), guides both his art and his leadership at Solana. What It’s Like to Get Inked by JD Markwardt JD tattooing a client. Photo by Cinesinner Getting tattooed by JD is as professional as it is personal. From the moment clients walk into Solana Tattoo, you can feel the care he’s poured into every detail, from the spotless workstations to the approachable but modern vibe. JD’s consultations are always collaborative; he listens carefully to your story and helps transform ideas into timeless tattoos that fit your body and personality. And while he’s known for his calm demeanor, JD also has a hilarious reputation among the team for his obsessive cleanliness. He’s been known to walk around the shop with a white paper towel just to make sure there’s no stray ink anywhere — which, when you’re a 6'6" weightlifter, makes quite an impression. (There's a reason why his tattoo nickname is Jacked Kirby!) Facts About Fort Collins Tattoo Artist JD Markwardt JD drawing. Photo by Geoff Worcester Favorite Local Spot:   The Still. Order the Meat Pile. Do it. Go-To Music While Tattooing:  Mike Pinto, Dirty Heads, Johnny Cash, and old-school country. Hidden Talent:  Can fix quite literally anything, from tattoo machines to home wiring. He can build a house from the ground up. Fun Fact:  The shop’s famous Flash Friday  events were JD’s idea, inspired by his love for traditional tattoo heritage and community connection. He has been offering these since the shop opened.  Today, the shop offers the largest selection of readily available, original flash designs in Northern Colorado, if not far beyond. With more than two decades behind the needle, a portfolio full of timeless traditional tattoos, and a shop that’s reshaping the Fort Collins tattoo scene, JD Markwardt stands among the best tattoo artists in Fort Collins today. His story — from mountain roots to master tattooer — embodies passion, perseverance, and purpose. If you’re ready for a custom tattoo in Fort Collins, there’s no better place than Solana Tattoo Company. Explore JD’s work , experience the difference of an artist-run studio, and book a tattoo consultation in Fort Collins today at   www.solanatattoo.com . JD is available by appointment  only.

Getting your first tattoo is an important milestone -- it's like a rite of passage to truly owning your body and life's story. Due to our location near the Colorado State University campus, we are honored to be a part of MANY first tattoos. You could say we are pros at first-timers. That's why we've compiled a step-by-step guide walking you through getting a tattoo -- from booking through prepping for your appointment to aftercare. First Tattoo Preparation: What's the Process? (Also see: The Creative Process of Our Tattoo Artists ) Read This Before You Book Your Tattoo Appointment How to Make a Tattoo or Piercing Appointment Steps to Follow After Booking The Day of Your Tattoo: What to Know What to Wear to Your Appointment A Quick List of How to Prepare For Your Appointment Tattoo Aftercare Got more questions not answered here? Need help picking the right artist for your vision? Message anytime at solanatattoo@gmail.com or call us at 970-666-4842

“Tattooing completely changed my life. It taught me to stand for something I love.” Aiden tattooing at Solana Tattoo. Photo by Anthony Howard-Crow When Aiden Keller sat down for a dog-head tattoo from an artist named JD , he had no idea he was getting inked by someone who would soon be his boss. Back then, Aiden was an uninspired CSU student with no plan. Burdened by core credits that didn’t excite him, he rarely went to class. Instead, he sat alone in his dorm room with a pen and paper in hand.  Little did he know, that doodling was foreshadowing his future. It was the beginning of everything.  Those little sketches – on the edges of his books and instead of notes in his binders – would ultimately point to a career as a Fort Collins tattoo artist. A casual hobby turned into equal parts obsession and profession. The kind of pursuit that reshapes who you are. Tattooing didn’t just change Aiden’s career path; it changed his life, he says.  Aiden talking to JD at the front desk. Courtesy photo “I learned to work hard, to have a backbone. Most of my life, I've been someone who just stands around and doesn't do much,” he says. “But being in tattoo shops has taught me to stand for something that I love. To be passionate about that. To have confidence. I’m very grateful for that.”   Tattooing gave Aiden a service and therefore a purpose.  Today, you can spot Aiden’s work around Fort Collins. If you see one of his pieces, even from a distance, you’ll know it’s his. It’s bold, precise, and Aiden’s own unique style. His tattoos carry a rhythm and energy that make them instantly recognizable. They’re not just tattoos; they’re his voice in visual form. Aiden's tattoos spotted in downtown Fort Collins. Photo by Geoff Worcester At Solana Tattoo Company, a tattoo studio in Fort Collins known for its emphasis on artistry and collaboration, Aiden has grown from a hungry apprentice to a busy, full-fledged artist. In a short time, his distinct style and dedication to constant learning have earned him a place among the best tattoo artists in Fort Collins — not only because he chases perfection, but because he chases progress. The Making of an Artist “I’ve always been interested in art. It was something I enjoyed doing in my pastime. It started out as a hobby, but I fell in love with it.” Aiden tattooing a client Aiden’s story begins in Boulder, where he prioritized drawing whenever possible: in class, after school, on anything he could find.  “In high school I took mostly art electives,” he says. “Even in my other classes, when I should’ve been taking notes, I was doodling and drawing skulls — stuff I still draw today.” He made an art Instagram account back then, sharing sketches with friends and family.  “It wasn’t a huge following, just close friends and family, but I was constantly posting on that,” he says. After graduation, Aiden enrolled in Colorado State University with an undeclared major. He needed to leave Boulder (and the bad habits he’d developed there) for a fresh start. What he really wanted was to study art, but college is expensive and he struggled defining what career he would pursue with an art degree. His first year, he was weighed down by mandatory core classes that meant nothing to him. He offset those classes with some foundational art classes as an excuse to spend more time making art. The classroom never held his attention like a sketchbook did. “I really just wanted to draw,” he says. “I didn’t go to classes. I just sat in my dorm room and drew.”  Toward the end of his first year, he decided to drop out.  “That whole year, I’d been getting tattooed,” he said. “I loved being in tattoo shops. It was enticing and interesting to me.”  Photo by Geoff Worcester The energy of tattoo shops excited him in a way that school never had. With no idea of what an apprenticeship would entail, how long it would take, or even how to get one, he made the decision: This was where he belonged. He pulled together a portfolio with some of his best artwork from college. He studied the work of Colorado tattoo artists and picked his favorite: a guy named Matt .  On the last day of his freshman year, Aiden walked into a tattoo shop where Matt worked. Matt was intimidating. Fully tattooed, face to feet. Unsure what to do, Aiden, booked a chest tattoo from Matt.  As he lay there on the bed getting tattooed, he brought it up: “How do I get an apprenticeship?” Turned out Matt was an experienced tattoo mentor open to teaching a new apprentice. But only if they were serious. Tattoo shops get frequent requests from people who think they want apprenticeships – but bail when they realize how hard being a tattoo artist actually is.  The next day, Aiden returned to the shop and brought Matt his art portfolio. It was good enough to stop Matt in his tracks.  “If you’re serious, come back next year and prove it,” Matt said.  Aiden was serious. He returned home to work and save money so he could be an apprentice full time. After working hard in construction all day, he came home and drew. He spent his free time looking up other tattooers, studying their work, dissecting how they drew skulls and panther heads – you name it.  He sent Matt a flash sheet every single week for months.  By the fall, Matt agreed to take him on. It was clear Aiden cared about art and had the grit necessary to succeed.  “He was testing me, and I loved that,” Aiden says. “It was an opportunity to see what kind of art I could draw, what I wanted to do, and to help me get a little bit of an understanding of what I’d be doing artwise as an apprentice.”  Aiden moved back to Fort Collins, excited and serious, and began his apprenticeship at Solana Tattoo Company. A year and a half of hard work later, he graduated.  “I needed to pursue something I cared about, and I’m really glad I did that,” Aiden says. “My  life is completely different now.”  Aiden tattooing a client. Photo by Anthony Howard-Crow Learning, Always “The moment you stop learning is the moment you should quit tattooing.” Tattooing came with a steep learning curve, but that’s exactly what Aiden loved about it.  “Tattooing is intimidating. It’s a beast you have to tame,” he says.  Aiden tattooing. Photo by BAM Photography He learned to adapt on the spot, not overthink everything, to trust himself, to adapt. Even now, he studies other artists daily.  “I’m inspired by modern tattooers and plenty of older ones,” he says. “Nick Strong, Kate Stell, Randy Randerson, Chris Detmer — there are so many. I buy a lot of books.” He’s especially fascinated by the ingenuity of tattoo history. He has most recently been studying books about Russian prison tattoos.  “Those guys made tattoos out of nothing: guitar strings, candle ash, soap,” Aiden says. “If they can do it like that, there’s no excuse for me not to keep getting better. That inspires and pushes me.” Style and Substance Aiden's tattoos in Fort Collins. Photo by Geoff Aiden’s style is anchored in American traditional , but with his own spin. He also takes inspiration from Chicano black-and-grey, comic books, neo-traditional work, album colors.  “It’s growing and changing all the time,” he says. “I am constantly inspired.” His innovation shows. His designs often feature skulls — one of his favorite subjects — layered with heavy contrast and bold composition. While Aiden’s approach is bold, his intention is thoughtful. Custom pieces start with a consultation, where ideas turn into sketches, and sketches into one-of-a-kind artwork. His main goal: that everyone he tattoos feels comfortable and leaves happy.  “I want them to have their own unique, special tattoo,” he says.  Outside the Studio Favorite place to eat near Solana: sandwiches at Road 34, followed by a round of pool. Hobbies outside of art: Riding his Harley, hanging out with his homeys, going to concerts, long walks. “I had more before I started tattooing,” he says.  Music: Metal, punk, rock, and rap.  Looking Forward “I love tattooing. I am so passionate about it; it’s all I can think about, honestly.” Aiden is the epitome of a growth mindset. He is always focused on getting better, taking on larger projects, and expanding his range. When he thinks about his future, he sees tattoo conventions and guest spots; tattooing is always at the center of all of his goals.  “I don’t see myself doing anything else,” he says. “Tattooing and drawing is what I have.” Book with Fort Collins Tattoo Artist Aiden Keller  Aiden tattooing at Solana. Photo by Betty Markwardt/BAM Photography From a Boulder kid sketching skulls in class to one of the favorite tattoo artists in Fort Collins, Aiden Keller’s story is one of persistence, creativity, and self-discovery. His tattoos carry his voice: bold, confident, and unmistakably his. Looking for a custom tattoo in Fort Collins? See more of his work and schedule your free tattoo consultation in Fort Collins here.

When Bismuth Trono first walked into Solana Tattoo Company , it wasn’t to start a new career. It was to support a friend getting a piercing. At the time, Biz was a Colorado State University biology major, taking a break from classes and working in veterinary medicine. She joined her friend for fun, not realizing that the visit would change everything. By the end of that day, she was sitting in the piercing chair talking with Adam — Solana’s lead piercer and stepping into the path that would lead her to become one of Fort Collins’ most precise and respected female piercers. Today, there’s an ease to Biz’s presence, the kind that comes from finding the perfect fit. From the Vet Clinic to the Piercing Studio Biz prepping for a piercing. Photo by Geoff Worcester Originally from Durango, Colorado, Biz had always envisioned a career working with animals. Before transferring from Fort Lewis College to CSU, she spent two and a half years working in a veterinary clinic, assisting with surgeries and daily care.   In Fort Collins, Biz’s roommate worked with a guy named Adam at an auto parts store. Adam was transitioning from working with cars to piercing full-time. When Biz’s car broke down, Adam and the crew helped fix it, and Biz later stopped by the auto parts store to drop off food as a thank-you. She got to know Adam better and soon joined her roommate to visit Adam at his piercing studio. After her roommate got a piercing, Biz ended up getting one, too. That visit turned into an unexpected introduction to professional body piercing in Fort Collins. “I was so accustomed to sterilization and cleaning. It was how Adam moves — his cleanliness and attention to detail blew me out of the water. Pre-Solana, I'd never seen that much in other studios that I'd found myself in,” she says. When Adam mentioned he was looking for an apprentice, it felt serendipitous. Biz had always loved body modification and already had well over a dozen piercings.   “Everything lined up so perfectly,” Biz says.  She started her apprenticeship while still working full time, until she progressed enough with her piercing to make that her sole focus, and she graduated her apprenticeship with flying colors. While she'd loved working with animals, piercing allowed her to still help others, and also feed her creativity.  Biz piercing a client's ear. Photo by BAM Photography Her scientific background and work in the vet clinic shaped how she approaches her career at Solana Tattoo today. That medical foundation is the backbone of her piercing work — one reason clients trust her for a safe piercing studio experience that never compromises on cleanliness or care. “Working in a clinic -- having things cleaned for surgeries and operating rooms -- made me hyper-aware of my sterile spaces. If I bump it or so much as breathe on it, I will burn everything and set back up. I don't like taking any kind of risk," she says. Her background in veterinary medicine also taught her to read subtle cues.  “Animals can’t say when something hurts or is cold or when they're nervous. You have to learn to feel it through them and by watching their small movements," she says. "That has translated to working with people, feeling for any difference in behavior, like clenching of their jaw. I am really attuned to that." As a professional piercer in Fort Collins, Biz brings that balance of structure and intention to every client she works with. She’s known for her meticulous setup, her calm demeanor, and her patience, especially with nervous clients.  “I like to get to know my clients a little deeper than just the surface," she says. "A more personal experience can elevate everything and help relax somebody who might be nervous." She walks you through every step of the way -- no surprises. She's happy to answer a million questions in as much detail as you need. She'll wait if you're nervous; sit with you and do breathing exercises; let you pick out the music. Whatever is required so you feel comfortable and safe. Biz piercing a client's ears. Photo by Anthony Howard Crow Biz approaches piercing as both technical and personal. For her, it connects the precision of science with the soul of art.  “Piercing has always had a very grounding and meditative purpose for me,” she says. "That's why I enjoyed doing it so much." That sense of purpose still guides her.  “Over the course of history, piercing has consistently been used as a meditation across many cultures," she says. "This is fascinating to me." Biz preparing for a piercing. Photo by Geoff Worcester Finding Her Place as a Fort Collins Female Piercer What Biz loves most about working in Fort Collins is the community itself, especially the students and creatives who come through Solana’s doors.  “Fort Collins has turned into a home away from home,” she says. “I got a fresh start up here and got to develop myself independently of anyone who previously knew me.” As a former student herself, she feels a special connection to CSU clients.  “I love being close to the college and seeing the college students. I'm close to their age and can relate pretty closely," she says. "I remember the buildings, the professors, the courses.” She especially loves working with clients who stand out a little.  “I really love getting to know the clients who haven't felt like they quite fit in, whether because of how they dress or orient themselves in any capacity,” she says. “I love seeing how comfortable they feel, even just in the lobby.” Grounded in Skill, Driven by Care Face piercings by Biz Biz is currently a “spectrumed piercer,” presently focusing on the most common piercings such as ear piercings, nose piercings, and facial piercings, while continuing to train under Adam toward advanced and specialty techniques, including more dermals, surface work, industrials, transverse lobes, and below-the-belt. She especially loves symmetry work — sets of lip or brow piercings that require precise alignment.  “The human body isn’t perfectly symmetrical,” she says. "I really enjoy that challenge, the detail required to make sure those piercings look good.” Her goal is simple: to give every client a safe, positive, and affirming experience.  “My studio space and Solana as a whole are very nonjudgmental,” she says. “I'm not going to judge you for who you are, where you come from, or how you view things. I want to make sure this is a safe space for everybody.” For many of her regulars, that means more than just jewelry changes or new piercings; it’s a chance to decompress and connect.  “Sometimes people have a rough day and just need somebody to talk to about it. I'm here for that as well,” she says. “If that’s what they need that day, I’m happy to be that person.” Looking Forward Biz working with clients. Photo by Anthony Howard Crow Biz is continuing to expand her craft, with an eye toward creative play piercings for art and photography projects. Play piercings are not permanent. They’re done for the aesthetic, feel, or the grounding experience some people get from them. Biz sees them as another way to explore how body modification can connect us to ourselves.  Whether it’s a bold facial piercing or something subtle and symbolic, Biz’s focus never wavers: clean, safe, intentional work rooted in respect for every person.  Book a piercing with Biz at www.solanatattoo.com/appointment .

Fine line tattoos are loved for their simplicity — clean, delicate, and expressive in a way that is both modern and subtle. But while these designs might look  simple and effortless, the artistry and precision behind them requires true expertise. The truth is that fine line tattoos require incredible technical skill and experience to do correctly. And that’s why it’s so important to get them done by a trained, professional tattoo artist whose focus and priority is tattooing, not by an esthetician or someone offering tattoos as an afterthought or add-on service. In recent years, increasingly more spas, skincare studios, medspas, salons, and beauty bars have tried to hop on the trend, adding fine-line tattoos and micro tattoos to the end of their menus alongside their cosmetic services. But tattooing isn’t the same as cosmetic work or skincare. It’s a medical-grade procedure that involves penetrating the skin with ink at a precise depth with the proper, sterile equipment. Professional tattoo artists spend years learning technique, sanitation, and the way skin heals and holds pigment — knowledge that’s critical to making sure your tattoo stays crisp, safe, and beautiful for years to come. Up close with Helena tattooing About Fine Line Tattoos in Fort Collins A fine line tattoo sits just millimeters under your skin, and even the slightest difference in technique can lead to blowouts, fading, or uneven healing. Professional tattoo artists spend years perfecting these techniques and learning how to make sure tattoos not only look great on day one, but heal beautifully and last for life. A fine line tattoo by EZ Someone without that training might unintentionally go too deep (causing blowouts or scarring) or not deep enough (leading to fading or patchy results). They also may not have access to sterilized equipment or understand the strict cross-contamination standards required in a tattoo setting.  Tattooing is not  an add-on service. The Spa Vibe Solana Tattoo's lobby It might sound convenient to get a quick micro tattoo after a facial, especially if you prefer a calm, polished environment and feel comfortable in your salon. It's understandable that some people might feel hesitant about visiting a traditional tattoo studio. Many associate them with dark lighting, loud music, or an intimidating atmosphere. That’s why finding the right environment matters just as much as finding the right artist. At Solana Tattoo Company, we’ve built a studio that feels welcoming to everyone. Our space has often been compared to a spa or salon rather than a traditional tattoo shop. In the lobby, you’ll find bright white walls, warm gold and deep green accents, clean modern design, upbeat but relaxing music, a saltwater fish tank, and free coffee and tea for clients. The atmosphere is light, creative, and friendly, proving that you can have a beautiful, calming experience and  receive work from trained, professional artists with excellent customer service. JD helping a client Tattoos aren’t afterthoughts. They’re permanent art. If you’re looking to get a fine line tattoo in Fort Collins , take the time to talk to a professional tattoo artist who specializes in that craft and works in an environment where you feel comfortable and cared for. At Solana, we take pride in offering both: exceptional artistry and an experience that feels as good as it looks. A fine line tattoo might look easy, but achieving that clean, confident line takes a steady hand, professional tools, and real tattooing experience. If you love the style, trust a licensed tattoo artist who specializes in it, Your skin, and your tattoo, deserve that level of care. A fine line flower by EZ

Piercings can be more than decoration. They can be a form of storytelling. Ear curation  is the practice of designing a full ear with intention, where every placement, shape, and jewel contributes to a larger aesthetic. Much like a tattoo sleeve or a carefully styled outfit, a curated ear balances flow, texture, and mood. If you are looking for a studio that specializes in ear curation in and around Fort Collins, don't look any further. Visit our studio, located at  1119 W. Elizabeth St., Fort Collins, CO , or call us at  970-666-4842  to discuss further. An ear designed by Adam At Solana Tattoo Company in Fort Collins , our piercers, Adam  and Biz , approach each ear like a canvas. Together with the client, they consider anatomy, personal style, and even jewelry combinations, creating an experience that is both creative and thoughtful. Ear piercings and design by Adam the Piercer Subtle studs can trace a constellation; small hoops can punctuate curves; statement pieces can anchor the composition. Each element interacts with the next, creating a visual narrative that’s uniquely yours. Jewelry selection is a vital part of the process. At Solana Tattoo Company, we work with high-quality, internally threaded pieces from some of the most reputable jewelers worldwide. Metals, textures, and stones are considered part of the overall composition, rather than isolated accents. Custom orders allow for a seamless integration of materials and design, ensuring that every curve and edge of the ear feels intentional. A gold ear designed by Adam Ear curation is not just about adornment; it’s about creating a cohesive mood, a vignette, a small story that lives on the body. For those who approach self-expression as an art form, the ear offers a compact and intricate canvas where subtlety and drama can coexist. Through careful planning and expert execution, a curated ear transforms the everyday act of piercing into a thoughtful, artful experience. Ear piercings and design by Adam Book a piercing or free consultation here .

On a Friday evening in Fort Collins, the line at Solana Tattoo Company stretched out the door. It was Flash Friday , the shop’s once-a-month special flash event. Somewhere in that line stood Sabrina Tassoni, fresh off a shift at work, waiting for a piercing. Flash Friday at Solana Tattoo Company. Photo by Cinesinner The second time Sabrina stepped through Solana’s doors was for another Flash Friday. But on her third visit, she wasn’t there as a client. She carried a portfolio and a dream that had lived inside her since she was a teenager: She wanted to be a tattoo artist. Today, Sabrina’s books are consistently full. She’s part of the newest generation of female tattoo artists in Fort Collins, helping to shape the city’s creative culture. Sabrina is leading the way with her unique, feminine spin on classic American traditional tattoo style. And she says the reality of this new life as a successful tattoo artist still feels surreal. “By 12 or 13 I knew I wanted a lot of tattoos,” she says. “It occurred to me that tattooing might be a good fit. "It sounded like the greatest job anyone could ever have.” A Life in Art Sabrina tattooing Sabrina has been creating for as long as she can remember. As a child, she loved to follow online tutorials for manga and anime, filling sketchbooks with faces, fashion, and fantasy. By high school, she was all in. Her AP art class was where she pushed her skills in charcoal and graphite. “I always knew I wanted to do something creative professionally,” she said. “My family supported me, but it was also clear it would be a difficult path compared to going into something like STEM.” After graduation, she chose a different route. Sabrina worked as a line cook, but it never felt right. Then, a pottery class changed everything.  “I fell in love with it,” she says. “People were making a living off pottery, and I thought maybe that could be me.” From Clay to Skin Sabrina making pottery Pottery soon consumed her life. For seven years, she built a business around it, creating functional pieces such as mugs, bowls, and vases while teaching classes at a studio in Illinois. Her designs stood out; she covered her ceramics in traditional tattoo-inspired illustrations.  “I joked that I got good at drawing on curved surfaces because I was putting tattoos on mugs,” she says. Tattoo-inspired ceramic mug by Sabrina When her favorite ceramic artist in Colorado offered her a chance to work in his studio, Sabrina jumped. She packed up, left Illinois, and moved to Fort Collins. But just six months later, the studio closed, and she was out of a job. She was forced to ask herself how she wanted to build a sustainable life as an artist. The answer, she realized, had always been with her. She had been tattooed since age 16; her first tattoo was a Twenty One Pilots lyric tattoo, accidentally done upside down on her wrist.  “I don’t recommend doing that,” she says with a laugh. “But it was music-related, and that’s still one of my favorite kinds of tattoos to do.” It was time to take tattooing seriously. The Apprenticeship Apprenticeships are notoriously tricky to land, and Sabrina experienced that firsthand.  “I had spent years asking people about apprenticeships, but it never felt like the right connection,” she says. Then, a friend getting tattooed at Solana mentioned her struggles. The artist suggested she talk to Matt , the shop manager known for his teaching. Over the years, Matt had successfully trained multiple apprentices who went on to become great tattoo artists. Sabrina already knew Solana tattoo studio in Fort Collins from her Flash Friday visits, so she gathered her portfolio and went in.  “The first time I met Matt, he could see I was serious,” she says. “He ran me through what an apprenticeship would look like. “I left Solana feeling like I was dreaming. For years it felt so elusive, and suddenly it was real.” Her apprenticeship began in September 2023. At 25, she was a little older than many starting tattooers, but she saw that as an advantage. She brought years of bartending experience with her, which helped her connect with clients and put them at ease. She threw herself into the work, eventually quitting her job at the bar so she could dedicate herself entirely to tattooing. Sabrina tattooing a client. Photo by BAM Photography Her apprenticeship lasted about a year — a demanding pace that reflected her commitment.  “I took my apprenticeship very seriously,” she says. “It was a big risk, but it paid off.” Pottery’s Lessons Though she (mostly) left the wheel behind, pottery shaped Sabrina’s tattooing in ways she never expected. “The wheel moves fast, but you move slow,” she says. “With tattooing, the machine moves fast, but your hand has to move steadily. Both are about rhythm and getting your body and your equipment to work together.” Sabrina making pottery She describes the process of centering clay as similar to pulling a perfect line with a tattoo machine.  “Centering is the hardest thing to do on the wheel — forcing the clay to the exact middle so it’s perfectly aligned. But once you hit it, it feels relaxing, almost meditative. Tattooing feels like that, too. When your speed, depth, and stretch are just right, it clicks,” she says. Sabrina tattooing a client. Photo by Geoff Worcester Even the unpredictability of both arts resonates with her. Just as glaze transforms in the kiln, tattoos change as they heal in the skin.  “You can prepare all you want, but there’s always a little magic in how it turns out,” she says. A Feminine Spin on Tradition Sabrina’s work is rooted in American traditional tattooing, but she gives it a distinctive voice. She loves bold lines, crisp details, and saturated colors, but filters them all through what clients often call her “feminine spin.” “I like it when people describe it as creepy-cute,” she says. “It’s delicate, but also a little edgy.” A feminine traditional tattoo by Sabrina She thrives on projects like pin-up girls and big cats. Patchwork sleeves are another favorite, along with anything inspired by music.  “Some of my favorite artwork is inspired by bands or songs,” she says. “It’s fun to interpret those ideas in a way that’s artistic and thoughtful.” Her flash (pre-drawn) sheets, which she labors over as carefully as her drawings and paintings, are often deeply personal.  Sabrina with her tattoo flash “A lot of it is inspired by whatever I’m going through,” she says. “It’s always meaningful when other people connect with it.” The Client Experience For Sabrina, tattooing is about more than the art. It’s also about trust. “I always strive to teach people to advocate for themselves,” she says. “I’ve gotten tattooed enough times to know how it can go, ending up with something you don’t really want or not feeling comfortable. I don’t ever want my clients to feel like that.” Sabrina talking to a client. Photo by Geoff Worcester Her approach is simple: Listen first, design second. Every consultation is about collaboration, and every session is grounded in respect.  “The last thing anyone needs to worry about is upsetting me or people-pleasing around me,” she says. “I’m just here to guide them through the process.” Beyond the Machine for This Fort Collins Tattoo Artist A Roller Derby-inspired mug made by Sabrina Away from the studio, Sabrina lives with the same passion and creativity she brings to her work. Here are some fun, little facts about Sabrina:  Played roller derby for five years and hopes to return to it Passionate about weightlifting and staying active Former vegan, still loves cooking and experimenting with food Cat mom to two: Bopbop, age 9, and a kitten named Meatloaf Big music fan, especially emo and pop-punk bands Loves traveling, going to concerts, and taking herself out to eat Favorite local hangouts include Jaws Sushi, The Whiskey, and anywhere she can grab a great burger Sabrina in her tattoo studio. Photo by BAM Photography Book Your Tattoo Consultation in Fort Collins From pottery wheels to tattoo machines, Sabrina Tassoni has built a career on persistence, passion, and a love for art that lasts. She has quickly become one of the best tattoo artists in Fort Collins, creating pre-drawn flash and custom tattoos in Fort Collins that reflect her thoughtful approach and unique, bold style. Schedule a free tattoo consultation  in Fort Collins at Solana Tattoo Company and work with Sabrina to bring your artistic dreams to life. After all, that’s the life she lives.  Sabrina tattooing a client