Open since February 2015 at 1968 Garnet Ave in San Diego, CA 92109, Garnet Tattoo is a women-owned custom tattoo studio led by artist Shane Wallin. Shane specializes in all-custom work, taking each client through a free consultation before any ink touches skin. The shop operates by appointment only, Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and has built a perfect 5.0-star Google rating across 67 reviews. Bare Back Grill on Garnet Avenue occupies the same upper-Garnet corridor, just a few blocks east of the studio. What sets this studio apart is the deeply personal work Shane has become known for — multiple reviewers describe coming in for post-mastectomy nipple tattoos and remembrance pieces, praising both his sensitivity to the subject matter and his surgical-level attention to hygiene. Artist Julie Bolene has also drawn loyal clients to the shop, with one reviewer noting a 10-year relationship following Julie across different studios before she landed at Garnet Tattoo. The LGBTQ+-friendly space welcomes walk-in consultations and accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments. The studio's location on upper Garnet places it within the quieter stretch of the avenue, away from the bar-heavy blocks closer to the beach but still convenient to parking and transit. Tiki-inspired The Grass Skirt on lower Garnet has become a popular post-appointment destination for clients celebrating new ink. Whether the design is a large-scale custom piece or a small fine-line tattoo, reviewers consistently highlight Shane's ability to translate concepts into artwork that exceeds expectations.