Get a traditional Japanese Tattoo by Ronaldo Grecco at Family Business Tattoo San Diego .

Getting a traditional Japanese tattoo by Ronaldo Grecco at Family Business Tattoo San Diego is an exciting journey that combines artistry, cultural heritage, and personal storytelling. Located at 4843 Voltaire St Suite B, San Diego, CA 92107, in the vibrant Ocean Beach neighborhood, this family-run studio is renowned for its expertise in traditional Japanese tattoos, also known as Irezumi. Ronaldo Grecco Neto, with over 20 years of tattooing experience and 18 years dedicated to Japanese culture, is a master of this intricate style. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your dream tattoo by Ronaldo at Family Business Tattoo, based on my research and insights from previous conversations about the shop.

Step 1: Research and Plan Your Tattoo

Traditional Japanese tattoos are known for their vibrant colors, bold designs, and deep symbolism, often featuring motifs like dragons (strength and wisdom), koi fish (perseverance and luck), cherry blossoms (transience of life), or samurai (honor and courage). Before reaching out, consider:

•  Your Design Idea: Think about the elements you want in your tattoo. Do you envision a sleeve, a back piece, or a full bodysuit? Common Irezumi designs include mythological creatures, flowers, or landscapes, each with cultural significance. For example, a dragon might symbolize protection, while a cherry blossom reflects life’s fleeting nature.

•  Placement and Size: Japanese tattoos often cover large areas like the arm, chest, or back for a cohesive, flowing composition. Decide where you want your tattoo and how much space you’re willing to commit.

•  Budget and Time: Large-scale Japanese tattoos, especially by an artist like Ronaldo, can require multiple sessions over weeks or months. Prices vary based on size, detail, and placement, with Family Business Tattoo’s shop minimum starting at $200. Be prepared for a significant investment for a custom piece.

Check out Ronaldo’s portfolio on Instagram (@ronaldogrecco) or the shop’s website (www.familybusinesstattoo.com) to get inspired by his vibrant, detailed Irezumi work, such as bodysuits featuring dragons or intricate floral designs.

Step 2: Contact Family Business Tattoo

To book a session with Ronaldo, follow these steps:

•  Schedule a Free Consultation: Family Business Tattoo offers free consultations to discuss your vision. Call the shop at (619) 997-9193 to set up an appointment or inquire about Ronaldo’s availability. You can also stop by the shop in Ocean Beach for a walk-in consultation if you’re local.

•  Email or DM: For a more detailed inquiry, email ronaldogreccosd@gmail.com or send a direct message to @familybusinesstattoosd on Instagram. Include specifics about your desired design, size, placement, and any reference images. Mention that you specifically want Ronaldo for his expertise in traditional Japanese tattoos.

•  Be Patient: Ronaldo is a highly sought-after artist with 20 years of experience, and his schedule may be busy, especially for large projects like sleeves or bodysuits. Booking in advance is recommended, and you may need to wait for an opening, similar to other top artists with waitlists.

Step 3: Prepare for Your Consultation

During your consultation, you’ll meet with Ronaldo to bring your vision to life. Here’s how to prepare:

•  Bring Ideas and References: Gather images, sketches, or examples of Japanese tattoo designs you love. Ronaldo specializes in authentic Irezumi, so he can guide you on elements like koi fish, tigers, or Hannya masks, which carry deep cultural meanings.

•  Discuss Your Story: Ronaldo excels at crafting story-driven designs. Share the personal significance behind your tattoo—whether it’s honoring a loved one, celebrating a milestone, or embracing Japanese mythology. For example, a client once shared how a tattoo at the shop felt like “a true blessing in disguise” for honoring a lost sibling.

•  Understand the Process: Ronaldo will explain the scope of your tattoo, including the number of sessions, estimated cost, and healing timeline. A sleeve or bodysuit can take multiple sessions, with each session lasting several hours. He may use a combination of modern machines and traditional tebori (hand-poking) techniques for authenticity.

Step 4: Book Your Appointment

Once you and Ronaldo finalize the design, you’ll need to secure your appointment:

•  Deposit: A non-refundable deposit is required to book, with the amount depending on the session length and Ronaldo’s rates. This deposit goes toward the final cost of your tattoo.

•  Confirm Dates: Large Japanese tattoos often require multiple sessions, so work with Ronaldo to schedule your appointments. Be flexible, as his expertise in Irezumi draws clients from across San Diego and beyond.

•  Age and ID: You must be 18 or older to get tattooed in California, and you’ll need to show a valid state or federal ID at the shop.

Step 5: The Tattooing Process

On the day of your session, here’s what to expect at Family Business Tattoo:

•  Welcoming Atmosphere: The shop’s Ocean Beach location exudes a laid-back, bohemian charm, with a “familial embrace” that makes you feel at home. Ronaldo’s warm hospitality ensures a comfortable experience.

•  Design Finalization: Ronaldo will apply a stencil of your custom design and make any last-minute adjustments. His 18 years of dedication to Japanese culture ensure every detail aligns with Irezumi traditions.

•  Tattooing: Ronaldo’s process is meticulous, using bold outlines, vibrant colors (red, blue, green, and gold), and intricate shading to create a dynamic, flowing piece. Sessions for a sleeve or larger design can last 3–6 hours, so come prepared with snacks, water, and a relaxed mindset.

•  Pain Management: Japanese tattoos cover large areas, so expect some discomfort, especially in sensitive areas like the inner arm or chest. Ronaldo and the team will check in to ensure you’re comfortable throughout.

Step 6: Aftercare and Follow-Up

Proper aftercare is crucial for a vibrant, long-lasting Japanese tattoo:

•  Follow Instructions: Ronaldo will provide detailed aftercare guidance, typically recommending unscented Dial soap, Aquaphor, and unscented Lubriderm lotion. Keep your tattoo clean, avoid picking at it, and stay out of pools, jacuzzis, or the ocean for at least two weeks.

•  Touch-Ups: Family Business Tattoo offers complimentary touch-ups within three months for most tattoos (excluding hands and feet). If needed, schedule a follow-up to keep your Irezumi looking pristine.

•  Healing Timeline: A large tattoo like a sleeve may take 2–4 weeks to heal per session. Be patient and follow Ronaldo’s advice to ensure the colors and details pop.

Step 7: Enjoy Your Masterpiece

Once your tattoo is complete, you’ll have a stunning piece of Irezumi by Ronaldo Grecco, a testament to his 20 years of expertise and passion for Japanese culture. Whether it’s a sleeve of cherry blossoms or a dragon wrapping around your arm, your tattoo will carry the rich symbolism and artistry of this ancient tradition. Share your experience on Instagram with hashtags like #FamilyBusinessTattooSD, #RonaldoGrecco, and #Irezumi to join the shop’s vibrant community.

Why Choose Ronaldo at Family Business Tattoo?

•  Expertise in Irezumi: Ronaldo’s 18 years of focus on Japanese culture and tattooing make him a leading artist for authentic, vibrant designs.

•  Personalized Approach: He collaborates closely with clients to create story-driven tattoos, ensuring your piece is as meaningful as it is beautiful.

•  Family-Like Vibe: The shop’s warm, Ocean Beach atmosphere and Ronaldo’s hospitality make the process enjoyable, even for a multi-session project.

•  Top-Tier Studio: With over 100 years of combined artist experience, Family Business Tattoo is a trusted name in San Diego, voted one of the city’s best.

Additional Tips

•  Check Availability: Ronaldo’s expertise draws a wide clientele, so book early, especially for large projects like sleeves or bodysuits. Follow @familybusinesstattoosd on Instagram for updates on his schedule.

•  Explore Ocean Beach: Make a day of your visit by exploring OB’s surf shops, cafés, or the nearby beach after your session.

•  Be Respectful of the Art: Traditional Japanese tattoos carry cultural weight. Ronaldo’s deep respect for Irezumi ensures your design honors its heritage, so approach the process with openness to his guidance.

To start your journey, contact Family Business Tattoo at (619) 997-9193, email ronaldogreccosd@gmail.com, or visit www.familybusinesstattoo.com. Stop by the shop at 4843 Voltaire St Suite B, San Diego, CA 92107, to meet Ronaldo and begin crafting your traditional Japanese tattoo. With his skill and the shop’s welcoming spirit, you’ll walk away with a masterpiece that tells your story for a lifetime.