San Diego August Special ~ $50 Off (or $100 Tiny Tattoos) ⟁ Book Yours Now
20+ Year Artist Stephen Carballo ~ Tattoos for Those Who Wander
Traveling Artist in SD For A Limited Time!
Fine-Line & Micro-Realism Tattoos in San Diego Aug. 22-24
In north County San Diego for a limited guest spot, Stephen Carballo brings his famed fine‑line and micro‑realism tattoos: 100% custom or selected from 300+ original flash pieces. Book at Golden Child Tattoo in Escondido while you can!
~ less than 2 hours of needle work ≈ a lifetime of “that was always meant to be there.”
⟁ Free Lifetime Touch-Ups ⟁ Clients Say Pain Level ≈ 3/10 ⟁ 5-Star Rating ⟁
"Super talented artist! He took my idea and made it even better. Really nice guy and there was almost no pain. I appreciate his professionalism too." - Cindy J.
Clean ~ minimal ~ made to last
Let’s Sketch Your Story in Real Time
It only takes a minute to tell me what you’re picturing. I’ll reply usually same-day with a quote and guidance on next steps.
Prefer texting? Drop me a line at (424) 317-8652
20+ Years Experience ⟁ Single-Needle Precision ⟁ 100 % 5‑Star Reviews
My Journey as a Tattoo Artist
About Stephen Carballo ~ The Man Behind The Needle
Raised in LA among the creative and adventurous energy of skate and surf culture, I learned early that the best marks are the ones that feel like they’ve always belonged.
From shaping boards for Vans to painting murals for Adidas to raising awareness about marine conservation through my collaborations with Sea Shepherd, I’ve carried that same philosophy into skin: simplicity that reflects a deeper meaning.
My studio in Venice Beach, CA was built for outdoor lovers, creatives, and anyone who wants a subtle piece that makes an impact. As a traveling tattoo artist, I bring that same spirit to cities like San Diego.
Think of me as your guide: you bring the idea, I’ll make sure it lands perfectly. Work with me at Golden Child Tattoo in Escondido August 22-24, 2025. See you there!
"Stephen is amazing. I’ve had him do all my work and every time it’s better than I could have imagined. His line work is incredible and he has a really cool aesthetic. I’ve gotten a lot of compliments on the work, but most importantly I’m super happy when I leave. 10/10" - Eric M.
Like the vibe?
Let's Tell Your Story In Ink
It only takes a minute to secure your 2‑hour session.
Design, tattoo, aftercare kit, done.
Prefer texting? Drop me a line at (424) 317-8652
100% Client Satisfaction ⟁ Collabs with Vans, Adidas, and Sea Shepherd ⟁ Tattoos Crafted in 40 + Countries
Latest Work from My Portfolio
Fine Line & Micro-Realism Tattoo Samples
Swipe through a living journal of subtle statements: from single‑needle memorial tattoos to micro pet portraits to miniature scenes of celebrating the open wild.
Adventure's calling. Let’s craft the tattoo that belongs to you.
That Piece You Just Loved?
Let’s Make It Yours.
We’ll riff on a inspiration you like from my portfolio (or elsewhere) and sketch something brand new on the spot. Or, pick from hundreds of original flash designs.
Prefer texting? Drop me a line at (424) 317-8652
100 % 5‑Star Reviews ⟁ Fair, Flat Rates ⟁ Pain Level ≈ 3/10 Client‑Rated
"Amazing work. Fantastic communication and care. Will be visiting Stephen again and again. Thanks man, for the bowl of brains!"
- David C.
Adventurous Micro-Realism & Fine Line Tattoos
I create tattoos for those who wander—for people who move through the world with a sense of wonder. Travelers, seekers, quiet rebels. Every piece is clean, intentional, and built to last.
As a traveling tattoo artist, I bring the same studio experience my clients in LA expect to destinations like San Diego. You bring the memory; I translate it into fine‑line art you’ll still love when the road bends again.
If subtle storytelling and razor‑clean detail sound like your lane, let’s talk.
Styles & Services: Fine‑Line, Micro‑Realism & Flash Collaboration
Three Paths to Art that Feels Inevitable on Your Skin
Every session balances precision, speed, and a calm creative pulse. Whether you’re marking a milestone or chasing spontaneous inspiration, pick the lane that matches your story and let the craft do the talking.
Fine‑Line Tattoos ~ Single‑needle, black‑&‑gray linework so thin it almost whispers. From nature motifs like palm trees and mountain ranges to gorgeous cursive lettering tattoos, I focus on ultra‑precise strokes that stay crisp for decades, giving you a subtle signature that ages as gracefully as you will.
Micro‑Realism Pieces ~ Palm‑sized illustrations packed with photographic depth in under an hour. Walk out with a vivid memory—a pet portrait, a family member, or whatever you want to memorialize with precise detail—that invites a double‑take without ever shouting for attention.
Flash & Live Collaboration ~ Flip through 300 + original flash designs or co‑sketch something fresh on the spot. The idea is born in the moment, executed in about 20 minutes, and leaves the studio feeling like destiny, not impulse.
Every piece is designed to feel personal and timeless. Whatever path you choose, you’ll get one‑on‑one focus, flat‑rate clarity, and—if the years ever soften the lines—free lifetime touch‑ups to keep the story sharp.
Award‑Winning Lines, Magazine‑Worthy Stories
Collabs with Vans, Adidas, and Sea Shepherd ⟁ 100% Client Satisfaction ⟁ 40 + Countries Inked
My work resonates wherever adventure and art intersect. From collabs with Vans and Adidas to my ocean conservation awareness work with Sea Shepherd, I try to honor this belief: tattoos can tell powerful stories that spark real‑world impact. Whether it's a collaboration with a brand or with you on your new tattoo, that's my personal mission.
Got Questions First?
Let's Talk
Ask anything about design, pain, or pricing—reply within an hour Tues–Sat.
If you're ready to book, let's do this. Grab time with me here.
Private Studio ⟁ Tattoos in LA, San Diego, and Worldwide ⟁ Free Lifetime Touch‑Ups
My Process for Custom and Flash Tattoos That Resonate
From DM to Done in Three Smooth Moves
Finding the right artist shouldn’t feel like filling out mortgage paperwork. My process keeps your effort light and the creativity high, so the only thing you need to worry about is where you’ll show off your new tattoo.
Step 1 ~ Say Hi & Book
Shoot me a quick text or use the chat tool on this page to start a discussion. Or, you can book straight to my calendar here if you're ready to go! Spots for San Diego are limited. If you want to reach out first, I usually answer within an hour.
Step 2 ~ Design It Live
On session day we sketch together in the studio or pick something you love (customization optional) from my huge collection of original flash. We'll collaborate until the lines click. Most pieces settle in under twenty minutes of needle time.
Step 3 ~ Made for YOU Tattoo
On session day we sketch together in the studio or pick something you love (customization optional) from my huge collection of original flash. We'll collaborate until the lines click. Most pieces settle in under twenty minutes of needle time.
Aftercare & Safety
Your new tattoo deserves pro-level care—here’s how I keep it crisp for life.
What you’ll take home:
A sterile, breathable bandage sealed on the spot.
A vegan aftercare kit (unscented wash + healing balm).
Detailed guidance for the first 72 hours.
What lands in your inbox:
Within two hours you’ll receive a deep-dive email with step-by-step care and recommended products to carry you from day 1 to fully healed masterpiece.
Direct line, step-by-step support
Save (424) 317-8652 and text any time you’re unsure. Photos welcome!
I’d rather answer a “Is this normal?” DM at midnight than let a line heal poorly.
Follow the plan, keep it clean, and remember: every piece comes with free lifetime touch-ups, so your story stays razor-sharp for the long haul.
Wondering what to expect?
Straight Answers Before You Book
Fine‑line ink should never come with fine‑print confusion. Below are the questions I hear most from Venice locals, cross‑country wanderers, and first‑time collectors—answered in plain English so you can lock in your date with total confidence.
What kinds of tattoos do you offer? Can I bring an idea, pick from flash, or request something custom?
I work exclusively in black‑and‑gray fine‑line and micro‑realism. Sometimes with a touch of red for dynamic contrast. Choose a pre‑drawn flash piece or bring a reference for something custom—either way, we’ll refine it together on the spot so it flows with your placement and feels like it’s always been part of you.
If you're confident I'm the artist for you, grab your appointment here.
If you want to talk through your idea, email me, use the chat form on this page, or shoot me a text. I look forward to exploring your vision together!
How does your design process work? Will I see the design before my appointment?
Most designs are born live and start one of two ways — you either pick something from my deep flash library (fine line and micro-realism), or we sketch something up together based on what you like in my portfolio and/or the inspiration you provide.
I love consulting, so don't feel like you need something for me to look at. No matter what, we’ll dial it in live and keep it clean. We sketch together at the start of your session so your piece feels fresh, personal, and inspired.
If you need a general concept-check first, I’m happy to send a rough outline—just ask when you book.
How does booking work? Do I need a deposit?
You can book online here if you're ready. If you want chat first, there are a few ways to reach me:
I reply within an hour during studio days.
A $50 deposit locks your spot. The deposit applies to your flat‑rate total. No extra fees, no hourly surprises.
When are you available? How far ahead should I book?
I'm only in Austin August 15-17, so if you're into what I do, grab a spot while they're available!
How long does a session take?
A typical piece takes anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour, but I offer time blocks ranging from 30 minutes to two hours. Average needle time is about 20 minutes. You can find guidance on how long to book based on what you're after on my booking page.
Does it hurt to get a tattoo?
It can. Depends on the tattoo style and placement and the artist's experience level. My clients rate the pain around 3/10 and often say it’s gentler than expected thanks to my light hand and single‑needle setup.
Can I walk in or bring a friend?
Since I'm only in San Diego for a few days, spots are limited, so be sure and book your appointment in advance. And yes, feel free to bring a friend if you'd like someone there for moral support!
Still have questions? Text me at (424) 317-8652.
I’ll get back within an hour or two most days.
“If you’re familiar with Stephen’s work, then you already know he’s one of the best fine line artists out there. He’s down to earth and passionate. A true artist indeed. Can’t recommend enough!” ~ Taylor H.
Dates fill up fast! Lock your spot in San Diego while you can.
In San Diego 22-24 Only
Your Dream Tattoo Awaits
Calm precision beats a packed schedule. Grab one of my remaining slots.
Private Studio ⟁ Tattoos in LA and Worldwide ⟁ Free Lifetime Touch‑Ups (I'll Be Back Again!)
Client Reviews
Here's What My Clients Say
Five‑star reviews from LA to Lisbon to San Diego fuel every clean line I pull. See why adventurers, seasoned collectors, and first‑timers alike trust me with their stories.
Every quote above is a healed piece in the wild.
Ready for a tattoo worthy of a rave review? Let's create it together.
EXPERIENCE good Tattoo vibes
From Sketch To Skin, Your Story Deserves The Sharpest Line
Small Tattoos with a Big Impact
You’ve scrolled the proof, met the process, and felt the vibe. The next move is simple: pick the date for your San Diego tattoo session, bring your idea, and watch it settle on your skin like it always belonged.
Schedule a one-on-one session with LA artist Stephen Carballo for a minimalist tattoo that feels timeless.
7,000 + Pieces Done ⟁ Free Lifetime Touch‑Ups ⟁ 100% Client Satisfaction
In San Diego Aug. 22-24 ~ Tattoos by Stephen Carballo
Fine Line & Micro-Realism Tattoos for Those Who Wander
Text me: (424) 317-8652
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