Where are the Best Tattoo Artists in Honolulu? Here at 434 Tattoo!

434 Tattoo our award-winning Waikiki tattoo studio recently received another accolade! In a recent message from the Director of Community at Expertise.com, we learned that our team was listed among the best tattoo artists in Honolulu!

The process included the team at Expertise conducting research and reviewing 268 artists based in Honolulu.  The list was further curated down to 112, with a shortlist of the top  narrowed down artists at 19 shops here, of which 434 Tattoo sits at the top. Criteria factoring into the decision included Reputation, Credibility, Experience, Availability, Professionalism, & Engagement.

“We’re honored for the award and to be listed amongst the other great teams here in Hawaii.” Horiyume Tattoo Adam Siehr, Owner of our Hawaii Tattoo shop.

We could not have done it without all of our loyal and enthusiastic clients!  Thank you for being a part of the 434 Tattoo Ohana!

Now, come on down and get inked by the best!

434 Tattoo
Custom Tattooing LLC.

Directions:
434 Ena Road
Honolulu, Hawaii
96815

Contact:
mailto:adamsiehr@gmail.com
1-808-391-8287

 

Rules of the Game – Tattoo Etiquette Revisited

Tattoo etiquette might often be overlooked but it is one of the most important things to consider before and after you set foot in a shop.  So here are a few rules of the game to consider as you continue or take your first step along the tattoo journey.

  1. Do your research before even coming into the shop about the tattoo artist and the artwork offered.  Know her/his style of artwork and if that’s the style you want before going into the shop.  If you haven’t done that yet, then our Owner & President, Tattoo Adam says: “Shop around, look at portfolios and get to know the artist.”
  2. Have a clear idea of what you want, look into the subject of artwork, send it to the artist or have it ready to share with the artist before you even come in.
  3. If it’s a really big piece, bring your own towel.  “It’s a custom that traces its roots back to Japan.”
  4. Take care of the tattoo.  Check out 434Tattoo.com for some tattoo after-care tips and ask your artist for info when you’re in the shop. Every artist can tell you their view and many have the info on their cards or printed out for you to take home.  We also sell after-care our Waikiki tattoo studio located at 434 Ena Rd. in Honolulu, HI.

These are just a few of the unspoken rules that are important to factor in any time you are getting a tattoo or looking for something new with a new artist.  Learn the rules, play the game fair, and let us take care of making it beautiful and fulfilling for you.

So come on down and get your ink on!

434 Tattoo
Custom Tattooing LLC.

Directions:
434 Ena Road
Honolulu, Hawaii
96815

Contact:
mailto: adamsiehr@gmail.com
1-808-391-8287

Convention Season in Hawaii – The First Annual Hawaii Cannabis Expo

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The First Annual Hawaii Cannabis Expo was held in Honolulu, Hawaii, this past weekend!

Our Waikiki tattoo shop recently had the pleasure of inking one of the State Representatives from New Hampshire, who have been at the forefront of policy making related to Marijuana, in particular in decriminalizing this herbal medicine that has been used by humanity through its history.

Hawaii currently has 13,000 active, registered medical marijuana patients.  With the evolving stance about medical marijuana and dispensaries here in Hawaii, dispensaries are estimated to bring in an additional $5 million in revenue to the State of Hawaii.

Many feel that it’s only a matter of time before this is fully legalized and following in the footsteps of Colorado and Washington, particularly with both States reporting huge windfalls because of the initiative.

Stay tuned for more info on this issue as we watch how it all unfolds!

Aloha and in the meanwhile, come on down and get your ink on with the talented team here!  Led by Tattoo Adam, a 20+ year veteran in the game, we’ll be featuring a special guest tattoo artist Takashi, who will be here for another convention coming up, the Pacific Ink & Art Expo!

434 Tattoo
Custom Tattooing LLC.

Directions:
434 Ena Road
Honolulu, Hawaii
96815

Contact:
mailto: adamsiehr@gmail.com
1-808-391-8287

The Pacific Ink & Art Expo!!!

Hawaii Tattoo Convention

The Pacific Ink & Art Expo is less than a month away! We’re thrilled to have one of a handful of international artists highlighting the show with us starting from July 30!  Be sure to sign up today and get your work done by Takashi Matsuba before he’s whisked away in the convention madness!

The expo, or Hawaii Tattoo Convention, is one of the largest gatherings of its kind in the world!  Though just a few years old, it has quickly evolved into a popular event and showcases talented tattooists from Hawaii, the US Mainland, and other countries, such as Takashi.

This year’s headliner’s include Freddy Negrete, Lyle Tuttle, Richie Lucero, & more! To see a full list of who’s scheduled to appear, visit this link!  AND don’t miss this fabulous opportunity to see some of the world’s finest artists and get ahead of the game by booking your appointment with Takashi, from July 30 on, by contacting us now!

Our Waikiki tattoo shop is open 7 days a week from 10a – 10p and we’re happy to ink you!  Consultations and touch ups are free so contact us today!

Aloha!

434 Tattoo
Custom Tattooing LLC.

Directions:
434 Ena Road
Honolulu, Hawaii
96815

Contact:
mailto: adamsiehr@gmail.com
1-808-391-8287

Where to Get Polynesian & Tribal Tattoos in Waikiki

Looking for a custom tattoo in Hawaii?  Interested in a unique Polynesian tattoo for your body? Let your Google Search of Tattoos stop here at 434 Tattoo!

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Our award-winning Hawaii tattoo studios specializes in a variety of custom tattoo styles including Hawaiian and Polynesian Tattoos.  We are open from 10a – 10p, 7 days a week, and most Holidays!  Customer Service is a top priority and we strive to serve you as best as possible!
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Founder and lead tattoo artist, Tattoo Adam, has over two decades of experience and is well-versed in every style!  Stop by our tattoo studio located in Waikiki for a free consultation today and we’ll be happy to help you take the next step in your tattoo journey!
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434 Tattoo
Custom Tattooing LLC.

Directions:
434 Ena Road
Honolulu, Hawaii
96815

Contact:
mailto: adamsiehr@gmail.com
1-808-391-8287

Aloha!

A Day in the Life of a Tattoo Artist

What’s it like in a tattoo shop?  I know I had the question myself before I ever even got my first tattoo.  It’s where I myself have found great peace and whole lot more authenticity and honesty than anywhere else.  Here’s but a peak into the Life at our custom tattoo studio in Hawaii with…

Adam Siehr.

Tattoo Adam.

Horiyume.  Names all shared by the same entity.  The name was bestowed upon Tattoo Adam by the legendary Japanese tattoo master, Horiyoshi III.

I walk in to see Horiyume Tattoo Adam on a sunny day in Honolulu, Hawaii.  His tattoo studio in Waikiki, 434 Tattoo, is located in a high traffic street just down from the historic Wailana Coffee House, and the area has known its share of infamy.

“Just up a ways is where the Massie incident took place back in the day.”  Reverend Manny shared with me on one trip here.  Reverend Manny, Zach, Peonu,  Meow are just a sampling of the characters I’ve met since being introduced to the 434 Ohana in 2010.

“It’s important to pay homage to those who came before us.” Horiyume shares.  “If you read some about Sailor Jerry, when it was slow he took notes about what he saw going on in the world around him.”

One story he told was one of surprse at how the prostitutes, who worked the streets near his tattoo shop in Honoluu, made more money than the tattoo artists…

“Bro, when it’s slow now, I go outside it’s the same thing!  You see about 4 dudes per hour head over to Empire.”

The new ‘establishment’ that popped up nearby is just one of the many Honolulu relaxation studios or asian massage parlors in Honolulu.

“They’re making like $1000 an hour!”

From the era of Sailor Jerry to that of modern day tattooists like Horiyume, some things never change.

“The prototypical John is your average looking local dude, wearing an Aloha shirt, no tattoos.  Looks like he works at a bank or who knows, maybe it’s a politician?”  Horiyume shares.

“Sounds like that newly elected Governor.” A customer jokes as she waits to get her custom tattoo.

“Politics.” I sigh.  The stories I could tell about my own experience working in local politics for three years with the Hawaii State Legislature.

“There’s politics and rules in tattooing.” Horiyume has shared with me on but a few occasions.

Politics is in every facet of human experience and unavoidable.  The word, the concept, is just another form of tradition that plays itself out in our daily lives no matter where we find ourselves.

Political bullshit aside, men and women from all walks partake in the sex industry.

It is what it is.

And a day in the Life at our Hawaii tattoo shop, voted Honolulu’s Best Custom Tattooing Studio is anything but dull.

434 Tattoo
Custom Tattooing LLC.

Directions:
434 Ena Road
Honolulu, Hawaii
96815

Contact:
mailto: adamsiehr@gmail.com
1-808-391-8287

 

Searching for a tattoo shop in Waikiki?

Get your ink on from the best tattoo shop in Hawaii!

Horiyume Tattoo Adam started tattooing over 20 years ago and never looked back!  Along the way, he made it a goal to provide customers with awesome tattoo experiences.  In addition to being an artist, Horiyume loves tattos himself and there is a joy about receiving service from people who love what they do and love their products!

434 Tattoo, our Honolulu Tattoo shop is conveniently located in the heart of this growing city.

Looking for a tattoo parlor near Ala Moana?  That’s us!

Searching for a tattoo shop in Waikiki?  We got ya!

Our location allows you to experience the most Hawaii has to offer from beautiful beaches, great restaurants, fun activities, and get a tattoo that’s a short distance from your hotel and right off the road that will carry you to the airport.

Stop the questioning and get to the inking of your body!  We’re open 7 days a week from 10a-10p and our team would be honored to serve you.  Please schedule an appointment so we can talk with you about what you want to get and help create a most memorable and positive experience that you’ll wear for the rest of your days!

Aloha!

434 Tattoo
Custom Tattooing LLC.

Directions:
434 Ena Road
Honolulu, Hawaii
96815

Contact:
mailto: adamsiehr@gmail.com
1-808-391-8287

Top 5 Places For Aussies to Visit On Oahu

Sunset at Magic Island, Honolulu HI (Picture by: Jason M.A. Walter)
Sunset at Magic Island, Honolulu HI (Picture by: Jason M.A. Walter)

G’day Mate!

Your friends here at one of your favorite Hawaii tattoo studios434 Tattoo, have a fun list to experience Hawaii’s beauty and history for our friends down under to consider while making memories on the island of Oahu.  Enjoy!

1. The North Shore  

Australian beaches are no joke but Hawaii is the birthplace of surfing and well, the North Shore of Oahu is equal parts amazing and magical!

This place is breathtaking and be sure to stop in Haleiwa and grab the Hawaiian treat, Shave Ice, to cool off after soaking in the sun (remember, wear sunscreen)!

2. Magic Island

Having gone to the North Shore, you have to spend some time on our South Shore!

Conveniently located near the busy thoroughfares of Ala Moana Shopping Center, Waikiki, and the up & coming Urban Arts District of Kaka’ako, Magic Island is a great place to get in the water, go for a run, have a picnic, enjoy a Sunset (pictured), and more!

Fun Fact: This is a man-made beach.  This part of the island used to be swamp lands back in the day!

3. Iolani Palace

Visit the only Palace in all of America!

Hawaii was once its own Kingdom before an overthrow led by rich, business owners and the annexation by the US took place, which still rankles some locals to this day.

It’s free to walk the Palace grounds and a guided tour is also available to walk through the multi-story dwelling, where you can learn cool tidbits, including the fact that Hawaii had electricity before the White House!

4. The Pali Lookout

Experience Windward Oahu in one amazing view.  You can also feel the spirits that rage on in the winds of this supernatural place that is also home to one of the greatest military massacres in Hawaiian history.  Kamehameha I was successful in uniting the islands and forming the Hawaiian Kingdom but not without casualties as his army drove the opposition off the sharp cliff face!

5. 434 Tattoo

We’re sure we are number one on your list!  After all, we have received the award for Honolulu’s Best Custom Tattooing Studio over the last half-decade!  But we list this last here because we want you to get in the water, enjoy the sun, and save your tattoo for the last day or night you’re here.  We want you to have fun and we also have your tattoo to last!  Remember the sun and water can do alot of damage to a new custom tattoo.

What are you waiting for?  Book your flights from Australia to Hawaii today and come and experience what Oahu has to offer!  We’ll see you when you’re here and ready to commemorate the trip with a Souvenir Tattoo or whatever your Heart desires!

Aloha!

434 Tattoo
Custom Tattooing LLC.

Directions:
434 Ena Road
Honolulu, Hawaii
96815

Contact:
mailto: adamsiehr@gmail.com
1-808-391-8287

The Custom Tattoo Experience

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Greetings Tattoo Earthlings!

Shoot, what’s up Tattoo Aliens, if you’re out there in Andromeda reading this!

When last we left off, we shared what the word tattoo means, in more ways than one.  Now we want to take it a step further and give your some more context on the custom tattooing experience.

The first step in a custom tattoo is getting a consultation.  At our Honolulu tattoo studio, 434 Tattoo, a tattoo shop located in Waikiki, we offer free consultations on tattoos!

The consultation is very important because it allows you to discuss your ideas for a tattoo with a tattoo professional. You will find everyone under the sun with opinions about tattoo ideas or tattoos in general, but the people best prepared to answer questions, guide you, and help you decide what to get and how it will flow on your body, is a tattooist.

Think about it…

As cool as it was for Grandma to pull out your baby teeth, you’d probably want to go to a dentist as an adult for any questions involving your teeth!

With over 22 years of experience in the tattoo industry, President and Owner of 434 TattooHoriyume Tattoo Adam Siehr, knows a thing or two or many about the different types of tattoos out there.  The whole team here in our Waikiki tattoo studio is well-trained, licensed and prepared to give you proper guidance in getting a tattoo!

Once the consultation is completed and a design is chosen upon, give the artist an opportunity to prepare the art for you.  While you might be able to get a drawing completed and inked in the same day, your tattooer has valuable time and other appointments so it’s something to keep in mind.

Remember, that full-sleeve on your friend or that backpiece on your favorite model is a lot like Rome, not built in a day, and most times, the bigger it is, won’t be completed in a day.  Though it is possible to do a large amount of work in a sitting, there are many variables to factor in, so you might have to be patient.

You can schedule your appointments as close together as you like though it is recommended to let the skin heal for at least 1 to 2 weeks, 2 weeks being a bit more ideal.  Sometimes that isn’t the case.  Just ask Horiyume, who goes to Japan for his work from Japanese tattoo legend Horiyoshi III. 

Horiyume will have appointments as close together as every other day in order to maximize the amount of time he has to get worked on while visiting Japan.  Crazy!

As you get your custom piece, just like in Life, enjoy the Journey.  While you can always add different aspects to a tattoo or connect a chest tattoo to your arm sleeve, with each step in the tattoo Journey, you are left with a visual reminder of your Life.

As beautiful as the finished product is, remember to find the beauty in the process because that’s another element that makes your custom tattoo unique.

Once the custom tattoo is completed, you’ll have something that no one else can walk into a shop and say, I want exactly that because no two artists are the same and no stencils will exist.  The Japanese tradition is to give the stencil to the client and while this might not be the practice to give the stencil everywhere, no one else will ever have that stencil on a custom piece because the unique factor is what makes it custom.  While there might be certain universal artistic similarities but you will have unique art for life because repeat, no two artists are the same.

Once again, consultations on tattoos are free here at our Hawaii tattoo shop.  Our shop is open 7 days a week from 10a to 10p.

So come on down and get your ink on!  You will not regret it as its our mission to make this the happiest place around and to leave you satisfied!

434 Tattoo
Custom Tattooing LLC.

Directions:
434 Ena Road
Honolulu, Hawaii
96815

Contact:
mailto: adamsiehr@gmail.com
1-808-391-8287

Tattoo Care in the Summer

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Summer’s here!  That means a variety of things for many different people!  It’s a time to get outdoors, enjoy family, friends, and fun all over!  It’s also hotter than usual and trips to the beach, especially in places like Hawaii become very common.  As tempting as it is to just jump in the water, remember that the sun can do damage to your skin, and if your tattooed, not only are the ultraviolet rays cause for concern regarding sunburn and if prolonged even skin cancer, your ink can be in harm’s way!

“The sun is the number one enemy of your tattoos.”  Tattoo Adam, owner of Waikiki tattoo studio 434 Tattoo shares.

The sun can make your tattoos fade and all that time, money, pain runs the risk of being for not!  But fear not, for there are a number of things you can do.

1. Wear Sunscreen.  This is a given for anyone who will be in the sun for a period of time, tattooed or not.  Sunburn sucks and skin cancer is no joke, so lather up, the higher the SPF, the better.  Don’t worry, health is better than a tan.

2. Cover up.  It might not be cool to wear a shirt at the beach or the park but bring an umbrella, create shade, wear a hat.  Do whatever you can to help your skin.  Your older self will thank you!

3. Don’t go out in peak sun hours.  The peak time for UV rays to wreak havoc on your body is between 10a – 3p.  Do your best to stay out of the sun during the time.  In addition to the heat and the sun’s impact on your skin, your body also dehydrates, so if you’re in the sun during times when it’s not as hot, you will stay hydrated and feel better longer.  Which leads to…

4. Drink water!  Salt water dehydrates.  It’s science or something.  Or if it isn’t, just trust us.  It does.  Factor in that Hawaii is close to the Equator and intense rays and humidity and well, dehydration happens.  Drink water as often as you can.  Remember caffeine dehydrates, so does alcohol, so for every coffee, energy drink, and beer, replenish with water.  You’ll feel better and believe it or not, your skin will be more hydrated…

With that, the ball is in your court, players and playettes!  Take care of yourself, your skin, and both your health and tattoos will be stoked for Life!

See you at the beach and hopefully at our tattoo studio in Waikiki!  We’re open everyday from morning til late in the evening and we are happy to assist you in getting a custom tattoo in Hawaii!

Adam Siehr, President and Proud Owner
434 Tattoo
Custom Tattooing LLC.

Directions:
434 Ena Road
Honolulu, Hawaii
96815

Contact:
mailto: adamsiehr@gmail.com
1-808-391-8287