My husband got a new Tattoo today. He really loves it and highly recommends Marcelo. Studio is clean, welcoming and very professional. The entire staff are friendly and cool people. He will have more work there in the future. Read Less

Good guys!  They walk the fine line of cool, but not too cool for school. I have had Adam add to an on going project on my arm a couple times now. I like his work, but more importantly I like him as a person. I would definitely recommend the shop! Read Less

I looked up this shop because the artist I usually go to doesn’t have weekend appointments anymore. I met with Adam, he was super awesome and friendly and got me a weekend appointment within a couple of weeks. My appointment was last Sunday and even though I was running late because I just flew in from Colorado on a last minute trip, he was still gracious about my being late. The artwork is beautiful even better than I imagined in my mind. So now I might be moving to Colorado but until I do, I will definitely go to Adam with all of my tattoo appointments! Read Less

I had a fantastic experience at The Forge with Nate. It was easy to schedule an appointment, I received a call the day before confirming and going what I wanted to have done. This was my first tattoo and Nate took the time to explain to me the process and answer all of my questions. He gave clear aftercare instructions and went over the healing process with me (what to expect etc.). My tattoo was on my ribs and he was very thoughtful to put up screens which I greatly appreciated. Highly recommend to any person wanting to get a tattoo. The shop is really cool with great music and art. Love the result! Read Less

I am absolutely devastated to leave a bad review for a local business but I got screwed :( I met with Nate twice, once not about a tattoo but just to go in and see what the shop was about and say hi. We talked for about 15 minutes. About 6 months later I went back in to talk about a tattoo I wanted - a mermaid. I left $100 cash deposit.We spent 10 minutes talking as he had someone who showed up and wanted to get a tattoo immediately. I told him what I wanted and sent the photographs (of a friend's tattoo) but I said I wanted it to be "girly" and explained that I wanted the tail to be "flowy". I asked to see the drawing prior to getting the tattoo but was told that wasn't possible.I showed up on the date and time for the tattoo and Nate wasn't there. I texted, called and waited for close to an hour. After I got home he called and said he had the tattoo scheduled for Thursday. I told him that I work from 8am to 9pm on Thursdays and would never have scheduled then. He never apologized, just kept saying "well I don't know what happened". I said, "you wrote it down wrong, that's what happened." But he didn't apologize-ever. I asked for the drawing and he sent me a very quick line drawing that my boyfriend who is a professional artist said he could have drawn in less than five minutes. The drawing also didn't look anything like the photo I provided him (in my opinion) and it looked like a sailor tattoo (not that there's anything wrong with that but it's not what I was looking for). I'm happy to post the drawing here, after all he is now charging me my entire $100 deposit for a photo of it!I figured OK, the fact that he was a no-show for my appointment was a really bad sign but after the drawing, I knew I couldn't go through with the tattoo and asked for $80 of my deposit back. I figured I'd offer $20 for the time it took him to do the drawing. Well, he told me he spent 60 minutes in consultation with me, which is completely untrue and he spent an hour on the drawing and so in his opinion, he lost $200 and will not return my deposit.I'm completely floored! Let me qualify: I have my own business and I charge $200 an hour but I don't charge for the consultations (and I have them for each person I see and not all of them use my services). I've had 4 large tattoos done and I've never been charged for the consultation - not to mention my consult with Nate (about the tattoo) was 10 minutes tops but regardless... I've had other tattoo artists draw the tattoo prior to getting them and they've all been completely drawn, looking exactly like they do now on my body. The drawing Nate provided was incomplete. It's a quick line sketch. For my first tattoo, I asked the artist to change the drawing and he did but he didn't charge for that. He charged for the time it took him to ink it on my body.Anyway, I'm really unhappy, sad and disappointed. I wanted to go local, I want to support local but sometimes that doesn't always work :( This is the worst experience I've had in a very long time and I wanted to warn others. I assume they're all great artists here but that type of behavior is extremely unprofessional and if you give Nate a deposit and don't get the tattoo, make sure you can afford to lose $100. Read Less

I am absolutely devastated to leave a bad review for a local business but I got screwed :( I met with Nate twice, once not about a tattoo but just to go in and see what the shop was about and say hi. We talked for about 15 minutes. About 6 months later I went back in to talk about a tattoo I wanted - a mermaid. I left $100 cash deposit.We spent 10 minutes talking as he had someone who showed up and wanted to get a tattoo immediately. I told him what I wanted and sent the photographs (of a friend's tattoo) but I said I wanted it to be "girly" and explained that I wanted the tail to be "flowy". I asked to see the drawing prior to getting the tattoo but was told that wasn't possible.I showed up on the date and time for the tattoo and Nate wasn't there. I texted, called and waited for close to an hour. After I got home he called and said he had the tattoo scheduled for Thursday. I told him that I work from 8am to 9pm on Thursdays and would never have scheduled then. He never apologized, just kept saying "well I don't know what happened". I said, "you wrote it down wrong, that's what happened." But he didn't apologize-ever. I asked for the drawing and he sent me a very quick line drawing that my boyfriend who is a professional artist said he could have drawn in less than five minutes. The drawing also didn't look anything like the photo I provided him (in my opinion) and it looked like a sailor tattoo (not that there's anything wrong with that but it's not what I was looking for). I'm happy to post the drawing here, after all he is now charging me my entire $100 deposit for a photo of it!I figured OK, the fact that he was a no-show for my appointment was a really bad sign but after the drawing, I knew I couldn't go through with the tattoo and asked for $80 of my deposit back. I figured I'd offer $20 for the time it took him to do the drawing. Well, he told me he spent 60 minutes in consultation with me, which is completely untrue and he spent an hour on the drawing and so in his opinion, he lost $200 and will not return my deposit.I'm completely floored! Let me qualify: I have my own business and I charge $200 an hour but I don't charge for the consultations (and I have them for each person I see and not all of them use my services). I've had 4 large tattoos done and I've never been charged for the consultation - not to mention my consult with Nate (about the tattoo) was 10 minutes tops but regardless... I've had other tattoo artists draw the tattoo prior to getting them and they've all been completely drawn, looking exactly like they do now on my body. The drawing Nate provided was incomplete. It's a quick line sketch. For my first tattoo, I asked the artist to change the drawing and he did but he didn't charge for that. He charged for the time it took him to ink it on my body.Anyway, I'm really unhappy, sad and disappointed. I wanted to go local, I want to support local but sometimes that doesn't always work :( This is the worst experience I've had in a very long time and I wanted to warn others. I assume they're all great artists here but that type of behavior is extremely unprofessional and if you give Nate a deposit and don't get the tattoo, make sure you can afford to lose $100. Read Less

I had to start an account just so I could write a review about this place. I came in today to get my first tattoo with Marcelo Diaz and he surpassed my expectations! He was incredibly informative, he did a wonderful job incorporating the things I wanted into a singular piece of art, and he did a beautiful job. It barely hurt and the lines are so precise. The Forge also just has a great vibe to it. Tattoo shops have a stigma of being intimidating places but I felt so comfortable. I also enjoyed reading the books that were provided while Marcelo was working on the design. I'm definitely keeping Marcelo from The Forge in mind for my next tattoo! Thank you! Read Less

I happened upon this little shop while meeting a spiritual adviser in Fairfax; and was greeted by a group of people who were so full of life, and joy.  It was nice to walk in to a place with such a joyful vibe, most tattoo shops have a more stand offish, annoyed attitudes, not here!!Unfortunately, my spur of the moment idea of a new tattoo was lost the moment the owner told me they only accept cash.  It's understandable in today's world so lost on technology that maybe in order to keep that good vibe going, to cut the electronic world out (not saying that's it, just my perception of the good energy I felt in there) and I don't use ATM machines, so maybe next time I'm in town, and stop in with a pocket filled with cash and give them a shot.This review is not based on getting tattoo'd there, just the great energy, friendly owner, and general "everyone is welcome" attitude.  I wish them continued success and hope to get some ink there in the future. Read Less

It has been an absolute pleasure collaborating with Nate Gonzalez on my most recent tattoo. He is very talented, professional and very realistic about the creative process and then the actual implementation of the tattoo on the body.  His technique is controlled and precise while being gentle and relaxed at the same time.  It was able to get my outline done  quickly and book my follow up appointment for shading within weeks. I believe that this is the start of many more pieces of art from Nate and The Forge. Read Less

Our volunteer group wanted to celebrate the past year of working together with everyone in the group getting matching tattoos. We called on Saturday and were able to make an appointment for the same evening. We had a basic idea of what we wanted but the image needed a little editing. Nate did a great job re-designing the image. He was personable and his shop was very clean. He did a great job with all six of us, great art work, clean lines and pretty fast as well. Would highly recommend Read Less

Nate was great - casual and professional. I provided some guidance and some artistic liberty. Nate delivered better than anything I saw on the Internet. 5 Stars for Nate, 4 Stars due to location and logistics. Make the trip. Read Less

I've been to a number of tattoo shops all over the world. When I first found Adam at a shop in  San Rafael, he did an amazing memorial, very personal tattoo on my calf. That was about 4 years ago and the tattoo still looks better then ever. Now he and his business partner have moved to the forge tattoo shop and this place is remarkable. Very clean, organized and well put together. Great environment with good tunes and art and the walls. I still get work done by Adam, as well as my wife. I don't think I will ever go anywhere else now. He's that good. You will not regret your trip to forge tattoo, whether it's your first tat or 50th. Great work guys Read Less

The Forge is the best shop on Marin. I only go to Marcello as does my wife and both my daughters. His lines and dot work are impeccable. He fast, thorough and affordable though the quality of his work is such that he could charge anything and it would be worth it. All the lads in the shop are top class as well. I've seen the work and it's fantastic. The atmosphere is easy going and pleasant, like a neighborhood bar, welcoming to tattoo virgins and veterans alike. Go on in, you won't be disappointed. Read Less

I got my first tattoo today with Nate at The Forge. Right from setting up the appointment to meeting for the first consult to finally getting the tattoo done...Nate was professional, approachable, friendly, and set my mind at ease. The parlor was clean and airy. The experience was easy and I left with a tattoo that was exactly how I had wanted it. I couldn't recommend him and The Forge enough. Thank you, Nate, for making my first experience such a positive and pleasant one. :) Read Less

I had a wonderful experience with Marcelo at The Forge.  He was warm and down to earth and spent time getting my design exactly right.  He did beautiful work and the price was reasonable.  I will definitely be coming back to the shop for further work. Read Less

Fate was telling me not to go to this place from the beginning, as i hit two baby quail with my car on the way. My friend and I had called ahead for a 5:00 appointment. When we arrived there were two tattoo artists getting ready to leave. We told them we were there for our appointment but no one had given them the message. Nate agreed to tattoo us but next thing we know his condition started acting up when he was drawing my friends design. Because of his condition he asked up to put down a deposit and come back another time. Well- next time didn't happen. It's a strange place... Read Less

If I could leave these guys 10 stars I would. Both times I've been in have been the best experiences I've had at a tattoo shop. Everyone at Forge is super nice and chill, crazy talented, and totally willing to work with you to make sure you have the best experience possible. The shop owners have a ton of experience, you'll realize right away you're in good hands. I couldn't be happier with the work Adam did for me and will definitely be back. Thanks Forge! Read Less

I called ahead and was able to get in the same day for a small tattoo. This was my first ever tattoo so I was really nervous but Nate made lots of conversation to keep my mind off it. He resized my design and helped me decide the perfect size and placement. Overall great experience! Very happy with the result. Read Less

Though I try to thwart the stereotypes of female indecisiveness, when it comes to permanent ink, I couldn't help but fall into my own lady-brain-trap of vacillations.  I came in with the art that I wanted, but couldn't decide on size or a final detail I was interested in.  Nate generously indulged my curiosity with printing and reprinting, doodling and redoodling the graphic until I landed the perfect size.  The execution of the tattoo was seamless and every time I might have cringed in discomfort, he'd distract me with questions or stories.  Thanks Nate, I'll be back for my next one soon, I'm sure! Read Less

Not only are Adam, Marcelo, and Nate amazing artists- they are absolutely wonderful people who are true members of the community. Love these guys so much. Marcelo has done at least 5 of my tattoos and he always exceeds my expectations and does exactly what I envision. Read Less

Awesome experience.  Nate is a really nice guy with amazing skills.  This was not my first tattoo, but this is a first class shop.  He's easy to talk to and puts you at ease right away. Highly recommend!! Read Less

Super nice guys! The place has some really nice artwork on the walls. Nate was casual enough to keep the conversation social but focused enough to let you know he took everything seriously. Overall, awesome atmosphere! Read Less

Loved this place, amazing vibe the minute you walk in. Adam did my tattoo, he was patient, calm, funny, put me at ease, he listened to what I wanted, and he did an amazing job. The tat looks exactly like the original drawing and it's the perfect size for me. He played rad music which both calmed me down and rev'd my energy when I needed it. I'm already thinking of my next tattoo and will absolutely go here again. Why go anywhere else?! These guys rock. Read Less

Loved this place, amazing vibe the minute you walk in. Adam did my tattoo, he was patient, calm, funny, put me at ease, he listened to what I wanted, and he did an amazing job. The tat looks exactly like the original drawing and it's the perfect size for me. He played rad music which both calmed me down and rev'd my energy when I needed it. I'm already thinking of my next tattoo and will absolutely go here again. Why go anywhere else?! These guys rock. Read Less

Before I got my first tattoo I checked Yelp and called around,  Glad I did because I found Adam at Forge!  Adam was great to work with -- explained what to expect, developed a great design and then created a beautiful tattoo. Adam has since added to my collection and I couldn't be happier. Read Less

This place is amazing, i got my first tattoo here and continued to go to them for my next 5 tattoos! Marcelo is an artistic genius who takes my ideas and draws them up to be everything i intended and more. Highly recommend this place. Read Less

Great experience at The Forge Tattoo. I was a bit nervous about getting my first tattoo, but Nate was friendly and made me feel at ease. He's also a talented artist. I am really, really happy with the result. Read Less

Wonderful experience at The Forge, from the first call, to the consultation, to the tattoo. I don't tattoo lightly! I've been imagining this one for four years and wanted a place that would really listen. Nate was my artist. Healing has been easy and pain-free. I'm almost fifty and felt totally comfortable with the guys. Get yourself and your design to The Forge! Read Less

In the process of getting a lower leg sleeve done in black and grey. Couldn't be happier with the work. Top notch artistry by good hearted, genuine people. Love the vibe and lack of pretentiousness at the shop. Definitely  NOT your stereotypical tattoo shop. Much more of a zen, chilled out vibe happenening. The entire staff is courteous and attentive. Check em out! Read Less

Amazing addition to the Fairfax community! From my first phone call with Josh, my consult with Adam, to my stellar tattoo experience with Nate....Great guys, great space, great work! Got my first two tattoos (ever) yesterday from Nate. We immediately hit it off and helped me feel at ease. He gave me exactly what I wanted, nice detail, clean lines, perfect size & fast. The vibe is easy, 0 pretense, space is clean, bright light, Led Zeppelin playin' it loud, large windows to look out and people watch or be people-watched from outside. Big love for this place! thanks y'all! Read Less

About the shop:The Forge! Aside from being new and clean, this place is STUNNING. Unlike most tattoo shops, The Forge has some major character. The design aesthetics feature amazing artwork on the walls, plush tables, industrial details, and wait until you see the bathroom ceiling! Not even joking.Aside from being the most tastefully designed shop I've ever stepped into, The Forge is also well equipped with some seriously talented folks.About "The Man" :Nate is a talented man, beautiful soul, and amazing artist!It's been an honor to work with Nate for the last 8 years, and I cannot imagine my life without him. I have a very large and intricate back-piece, and step by step, Nate has designed every detail. He sketched and re-sketched the artwork until we both agreed on the vision. He's been thoughtful about EVERY aspect, from the tattoo's placement to the color selections. He understands so many different styles of tattooing, and truly knows how to breath life into his work. Nate is passionate about his craft, and it shows! Every time I see him, he's genuinely happy to work on me, and always makes me feel so comfortable. No matter what you envision, Nate will always deliver quality work. Thank you Nate for your dedication! Read Less

This place is an absolute treasure.Located in the adorable downtown Fairfax, The Forge is bright, clean, and carries a stylish, subtle masculinity. You can tell the men who built, opened, and run this place put their love into the place. The waiting area is comfortable with an insanely awesome chess set to pass the time.The guys who run the establishment keep it a friendly, comfortable place with pleasant conversation and jazzy lounge music (a la Tom Waits). The barber is an excellent and unique addition. His chair is beautiful, and he's hilarious and very fun to speak with. Having watched him work, his skill with shaving is wonderful and he clearly enjoys what he does.The tattoo artists are the best I've ever worked with. Charming, funny, extremely talented and dedicated to their craft, I would never go anywhere else.Adam is my main guy, his detail in his work is phenomenal, and he can easily take your difficult-to-describe ideas and turn them into works of art. But I certainly wouldn't turn down Marcelo or Nate, they are very skilled.The front desk woman is friendly and clearly enjoys her work.It's very rare to find an insanely awesome tattoo parlor that isn't filled to the brim with smug assholes, but here it is! These guys couldn't be more opposite from assholes, and I will certainly continue bringing my business to them. You should too! Read Less

Adam is THE best!! He has done 2 of my tattoos & done some work on my daughters that is absolutely beautiful!! The Marilyn tatt he did on my youngest daughter's shoulder is spot on & beautiful! The half sleeve of Alice In Wonderland characters he did on my girl's BFF is AMAZING! If you're looking for someone to do your ink, The Forge is the place! :) Read Less

Can't say enough good things about these guys! Friendly vibe, clean and professional approach, hugely talented artists, great location in the middle of town.I went on opening day and got a tattoo from Marcelo, who was the fastest, most sure-handed artist I've had the pleasure of working with, which made the whole experience as pain-free as possible.Adam, Nate, Marcelo and I are already designing my next piece, and they have been very helpful in guiding me toward a design that will remain clear and vibrant over the coming years.BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE! They also have a proper, old-school, straight razor slingin' barber giving out hair cuts and shaves. I just got the full treatment this morning and I was very impressed.TL;DR - everyone here kicks ass at everything they do. Six stars. Read Less

Adam Roach is one of the most talented artists I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. The most beautiful piece on my body is the shoulder tattoo that Adam created. I still get comments all the time about how gorgeous it is and how vibrant the colors are, and it's been well over a year since it's been finished! Adam is a blast to be around! He made the process a breeze and I felt super comfortable with him. The new shop is conveniently located in downtown Fairfax right across the street from a large parking lot and it's beautiful, welcoming, and super clean.I can't say enough great things about Adam and The Forge Tattoo shop. Definitely worth checking out if you are looking for a quality tattoo. Read Less