Paper Crane Studio

Long Beach, United States

5

20 reviews

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Telephone:
+1 562-999-1454
Website:
www.papercranetattoo.com
Address:
530 E Broadway, Long Beach, CA, 90802
Nearby public transportation stops & stations:
0.2 mi1st Street
0.4 mi5th Street
0.4 miTransit Mall
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Today

Today –
Local time (Long Beach) 10:22 Tuesday, 24 June 2025

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Description

Specialties

Paper Crane Studio is a state of the art Long Beach tattoo shop and sanctuary for artistic expression. It is a tattoo shop where the history and spirit of tattooing is held sacred, yet the style is modern and unique. We have a very talented and customer service oriented staff capable of creating multiple styles of tattoo art. We specialize in producing original, tailored to fit, tattoos.

The atmosphere of our tattoo shop is relaxed, warm and personable. We tattoo in a semi-​private space, separate from the lobby and inaccessible to casual observers. If you are if you are searching for a great tattoo shop in Long Beach, look no further. The eclectic staff at Paper Crane Studio is ready to give you the greatest tattoo of experience of your life. Paper Crane Studio specializes in unique, customized tattoo art. From generating ideas during the first consultation to the final session of an epic multi-​session tattoo, great care is taken to plan, design and apply your tattoo with both patience and foresight. Five highly skilled artists are on staff. Each artist is skilled in multiple styles and posses both a focused specialty as well as rounded versatility. From full sleeves to tiny tattoos, we have an artist who can accommodate your specific desire. As the most modern tattoo shop in Long Beach, we do not reuse any of our contaminated equipment. Both needles and tubes are single-​use and disposable which eliminates the need for bio-​hazard processing, and is safest way to tattoo

History

Established in 2012.

Paper Crane Studio opened its doors in March 2012. It is the first tattoo shop to open in downtown Long B each since the decline of the Pike. The shop originatedwith only two artists on staff, this was owner Mikey Vigilante and his apprentice Tan Vo. With the help of Tan as well as a few local tradesmen and hundreds of hours of loving labor, Mikey’s dream of opening a world class tattooing sanctuary had come true. Since our opening, 5 additional artists were welcomed to join the team. We now have an exceptional crew of tattoo artists with a spectrum of talents on staff. We are ready to welcome you, listen to your ideas and design a beautiful piece of art for you. We continuously strive to create stunning new artwork and humbly serve our community.

Meet the Business Owner

Mikey V.

Business Owner

Mikey Vigilante, a practitioner of tattooing for 15 years has amassed a vast amount of experience by working in numerous studios throughout the USA as well as Canada. He has worked alongside some of the worlds most renowned artists and has a possesses a broad range of artistic ability. He specializes in large scale, colorful tattoos. His unique ability to listen to his clients and transform their ideas into a stunning image that is both conceptual and eye pleasing sets him apart from the crowd.

Paper Crane Studio also recommends

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Tapas/​Small Plates

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American (New)

Mikey V. says,

«The wine list is extensive and the food is unique and delicious.»

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20 reviews of Paper Crane Studio

No registration required
Place rating: 5
Norwalk, CA
If you’re anything like me, Paper Crane is pretty much the best place to go and you’ll agree — but if you’re uninitiated, I’ll tell you why:
* The staff on hand has got you covered for most styles of art that you wish to have placed on your skin for eternity. American traditional, Japanese traditional, realism, watercolor, and a touch of whimsy.
* The shop itself is extremely clean, and is the perfect mix of relaxing and open while also being comfortably cozy. You’ll see when you go in.
* The staff work really well together; it’s a bunch of a nice people with the same values and similar personalities working in the same place and gives the shop a very relaxed vibe. There is no tension at all and it makes for a great tattooing experience.
* Prices are very fair.
* The artists are very concerned with health and hygiene and safety.
They are all very easy to talk to even if you aren’t really chatty, like myself. Or somewhat awkward, like myself. Whether you’re timid or outgoing, you’re welcome here and will fit in, which is what I like about this shop. It attracts all different kinds of people and clientele which speaks volumes, as shops can have tendencies to be either overly pretentious or ‘clique-​y.‘
And truly, the overwhelming benefit of having artists that are easy to talk to is that you are going to be happy with the tattoo you are getting. If you’re comfortable communicating what you want, and you’re understanding each other, there’s no reason for you to walk away unhappy. The artists are understanding, and of course, while everything is ultimately your decision, they will be sure to advise in the right direction to ensure your tattoo will be looking great 5, 10, and 15 years from now.
Definitely inquire with Paper Crane if you’re looking to get inked! I have three pieces done by Kris and I love them all and they look great after 7 years, 3 years, and half a year.
Place rating: 5
Bellflower, CA
So, I came to check these guys out bc I wanted a traditional Ewok tattoo on my forearm. I had been recommended Tan Vo and it couldn’t have gone any better! They are super friendly and all are super talented artists! I went to Outer Limits (also has great artists) but they are super cold to talk to. Any who, Tan is AWESOME and super chill! I am loving my wicket tat! (: Thank you and will be coming again very soon!
Place rating: 5
Los Angeles, CA
Paper Crane studio is an phenomenal tattoo experience. Mikey and the artists at Paper Crane make you feel right at home from the moment you walk through the door. I got my second piece done here, the angel on the cover of «In Utero». I had emailed Mikey about it and he responded to me he very next morning. Before I knew it, I was coming in for a consultation. At Paper Crane, I really got the vibe that they want to collaborate with you and make your ideas work to your best vision.
Mikey pointed me in the direction of Adrian, who does stunning realism art, and we planned an appointment right then and there. Everyone who has seen my piece on my ribs is stunned. Adrian did a 10⁄10 perfect job. But what stands out above the phenomenal art work is really how friendly and cooperative the staff here is. I felt right at home here. I just planned another appointment but this time with Mikey, and our consultation appointment is fantastic. He was genuinely interested in the significance of the piece I wanted and we spent much time talking about its historical significance to better depict it as a tattoo.
If you are thinking about going here, do yourself a favor and set up a consultation. You won’t be disappointed. They seem to have an artist for every style and need. Thank you!
Place rating: 5
Manhattan Beach, CA
Highly recommend this tattoo studio! I came here with my sister and mom to get tattoos to tribute our grandma who recently passed. The three of us came in as walk ins and they gladly helped us! It was super clean and everyone was friendly. It was my first tattoo and it was everything I wanted. Thanks Kris for my first tattoo! Will be coming back for my next one :)
Place rating: 5
Long Beach, CA
So I got my first tattoo several months ago by Tan (along with a bunch of others during the course of last year & this year hehe) One of my close friends and I were shopping around for a tattoo place and we came across Paper Crane through Unilocal reviews and they had 5 stars. Initially, we had went to another shop but EVERY single artist they had was booked until later on that evening but nobody had time to wait all damn day lmao.
Anyway, we were greeted by Tan immediately! Super friendly and welcoming. My initial fears about getting my first tattoo disappeared while talking to Tan. He reassured me that it would be super quick and not too painful. He was right!
I have five other beautiful tattoos by Tan and I have another session with him soon as well! Super excited and he’s an excellent artist who takes pride in all his work!
Also, the shop in general is full of amazing artists with a variety of styles. They’re all really easy-​going and welcoming so it always feels pretty inviting when you make a visit there. :)
Place rating: 5
Long Beach, CA
I just finished up a thigh tattoo – my second overall – with Kris Notch at Paper Crane earlier, and I am beyond thrilled with the result. The entire team of Paper Crane are specialists in various styles of tattoo art – Japanese, American Traditional, realism – and Kris is a magician with watercolor. She’s also super fun to talk with, takes pains to ensure you’re comfortable (the pillow she provided and continued applications of numbing spray made 2.5 hours a cakewalk) so easy), is strict with hygiene (a must for me!), and – most importantly – created a beautiful tattoo with clean lines and bright watercolor that was exactly what I wanted. The studio itself is bright, airy, and absurdly clean, and makes for a nice quiet experience while getting tattooed. I couldn’t have asked for a better tattoo experience with a more perfect artist. Thank you so much!
Place rating: 5
Redondo Beach, CA
I’ve been coming here since September for a half sleeve. Tan does my sleeve, but everyone here is so friendly and nice to chat with. The studio itself is very clean and located in the heart of downtown long beach. The pricing is about average what you’d expect to pay for a well done tattoo. I’m so happy with all the work so far and can’t wait until it is finally complete. If you’re looking for incredible work, come to Paper Crane. You won’t be disappointed!
Place rating: 5
Long Beach, CA
Fucking rad! Simply opening the doors to the shop you’re instantly covered in good vibes!
They keep everything hella clean and it’s a lovely layout. I just got my first tattoo today and boy was I nervous. All artists and employees were very welcoming and kind. Not as painful as I thought for a first timer and totally in my price range. If I ever want more I’m totally going back for more.
Place rating: 5
Flatiron, Manhattan, NY
.A hidden gem in long beach. If you are looking for talented artist look no further. I found this place though Unilocal read other reviews and informed my husband who was wanting another tattoo. We walked in and not only was Adrian able to take us right away, he is a fantastically talented artist with unreal ability in portraits. Defiantly check them out you will not be disappointed.
Place rating: 5
Long Beach, CA
I have been trying to decide on the perfect tattoo for my forearm for ages. I sat down with Tan Vo and discussed my ideas. After a couple of suggestions and drawings he designed the perfect tattoo for me. I let him have free rein on the colors. I absolutely love my tattoo. Thanks Tan!
Place rating: 5
Carson, CA
This review is long overdue. I got in contact with Mikey about 2 months before my appointment was to take place to shoot around ideas about a design I wanted after check his portofolio out. When I finally met him a month before Ink-​N-​Iron, he was so cool and down to earth and humble that I knew he was the right man for the job. His style was just what I was looking for, for my particular piece. The experience of getting my tattoo at the convention wa
Place rating: 5
Long Beach, CA
This studio is a special place. The artists were great. Friendly, warm and talented people. The studio was very comfortable. The energy there was refreshing. I felt like I was hanging out at a friend’s house. My artist was Tan. He did a great job and got me in for my appointment the next day. Just great service all around! I can not wait to go back!
Place rating: 5
Long Beach, CA
My favorite band is TOOL, and has been for over 15 years. I saw them once at KROQ Epicenter in 2009 when I was 19, and TOOL finally had a tour last year. I was first in line to buy tickets. I already have one TOOL tattoo, but I felt I needed another before the concert. Enter Chris from Paper Crane! I walked over on a Sunday, early afternoon, with the lyrics I wanted tattooed on me. She was able to draw them up quickly and efficiently and in a font I LOVED. No Microsoft Word fonts here! I was able to get my tattoo immediately after. Less than three hours (and less than $ 200) later, I was out with fresh ink that I’ve been in love with every since. Chris is a great artist. I have an appointment to go back and see her on Wednesday for my next piece (not TOOL related).
Place rating: 5
Orange, CA
First off, these guys & gals are fist class! Met Mikey in the Midwest at a tat-​convention and ironically moved back home and received an email that he was headed out west to Long Beach :)
Got my first from Mikey at the convention and it was an awesome experience. He is extremely passionate and knowledgeable in many cultures of art and other topics which makes his work more intense and unique; great conversational pieces!
Was there for another piece from Tan V. He is a perfect example of the type of artist to follow after Mikey’s footsteps. Very talented, pleasant and with huge potential to help grow this awesome shop! Got something personal and it came out excellent as always.
Thanks for all your hard-​work and passion, you make this a painless experience :) Back for more when the piggy bank is full again lol
Place rating: 5
Long Beach, CA
Chelsea has been my go-​to tattooist for some time. She has her own unique style, but what is cool about Paper Crane is that you have options of styles, given the breadth of talent there.
Long story short, you can’t go wrong here. Whether it’s a new piece or a cover up, there’s a style here for you. No hesitation in recommending everyone here at Paper Crane.
My advice to people that have never been tattooed before — if you want to get inked, go in and talk to the artists. Explain what you want, the colours, the style, the size, everything like that. Work with the artist and they will move mountains for you. Avoid calling the studio and saying, «I want a tattoo of a _​_​_​_​_​, how much will that be?» Just friendly advice!
Place rating: 5
Long Beach, CA
I’ve been getting tattooed by Chelsea for some time now. She has always been a great tattooer and I’m stoked with everything I’ve gotten from her and she gets better and better every time I go in for visit. I’m pretty sure she has mind reading powers, because she always knows what I want before I even get there.
Mikey Vigilante is and old friend and does beautiful work as well. I really have to applaud him for creating a relaxing space that doesn’t have all the machismo that typically is present in shops that take walk ins.
Tan is an up and coming tattooer with a heart of gold. I haven’t been tattooed by him, but he helps create a relaxing environment. I’ve recently been getting tattooed in a rough spot and when he’s not with his own clients he’ll bounce around and give words of encouragement.
Overall this shop is really clean and packed with great artist that welcome walk ins and take pride in their custom work. If it’s your first tattoo don’t forget to ask to ring the virgin gong.
Place rating: 5
La Mirada, CA
I started coming to Paper Crane after my favorite artist (Chelsea!) decided to move over here. I have only gotten two pieces done while she has been at Paper Crane but the atmosphere and vibe is very nice. All her fellow artists are friendly and last time we were all joking around while I waited. The time before that my buddy came along and while I got an anchor done he got a Star Wars piece done by… I forget his name but he did an amazing job.
I send quite a few people over to Paper Crane to check out the artists and the great work they do!
Place rating: 5
Washington, DC
Tan did two really great modifications to my best friend and I and fixed an old, faded tattoo for her.
We made appointments for both of us and the studio recommended that we book an hour for each. Tan did a great job of positioning the transfer and consulted with me on the size, which I thought was helpful. He was also thorough in preparing and sanitizing the area and the chair.
Prices were reasonable and the studio is clean and welcoming. We had a great time and we really enjoyed Tan’s style. We will be coming back for larger pieces in December.
Place rating: 5
Long Beach, CA
When you have searched and searched for an artist with true skills and passion… this is the place to go and see Kris Notch.
Had a consultation and happily started my 1st of many tattoos.
Thank you Kris for your great advice… I’ve already referred friends to you.
Nícole
Place rating: 5
Carroll Park, CA
I’ve had two tattoos done here now, and I’ll keep coming back!
My first was done by the artist vanhorton, simple text tattoo. Very nice professional and clean. But I’ve seen some of his other work and the mans stellar.
My second was done by the artist kris notch. It’s a water color of a California poppy. She took great care of finding the perfect color match and style. She was very fun to chat with during the session. Clean station and professional set up. All of the work I’ve seen of hers is top notch (get it) I’ll be calling her again for my third!
I love the atmosphere at paper crane. All the artists I’ve met are awesome. I can’t gush enough about this place!
Highly recommend!