08/03/2026
*long post incoming*
Yesterday I put my machine down for the last time.
Seven years ago gave me an opportunity that set me on a path I never would have found on my own. He has been more than just a mentor - he took a chance on me, guided me, pushed me to be better, and believed in me when I was still finding my feet. He has unknowingly filled a role I’ve not had in my life for the longest time, more than just a friend or work colleague, and helped me and my family in more ways than he’ll probably know and I’ll always be grateful for that.
To everyone who ever sat in my chair and trusted me with something permanent on your skin, thank you. So many of you walked in as clients and over the years have became friends. Journeying with you through break ups, new relationships, births, deaths, new jobs and everything in between, and being trusted to mark these moments in time with a tattoo is part of what I’ve loved about this job all these years. The conversations, the laughs, and the stories are things I’ll genuinely miss.
Tattooing has given me more than just a job. It gave me purpose during a huge chapter of my life, introduced me to people I never would have met otherwise and has helped shape who I am today.
Closing this chapter isn’t easy, but without going too deep into it is just something I feel like I need to do and I’m looking forward to what comes next. I’m incredibly grateful for every single person who was part of the journey and Black Dog Tattoos will always hold a special place in my heart 🖤
