Inkfluence

Inkfluence has been part of the Lubbock tattoo scene since 1995, and locals will tell you it holds the title of the city's oldest shop. Founder Mike Tweed runs the place with a team of five artists whose experience ranges from a couple of years to more than three decades, and the range of work they cover is wide. Traditional Americana and old-school, traditional Japanese irezumi, illustrative, realism, floral, geometric, black and grey, and full color are all in their wheelhouse. Ask anyone who's been inked here and they'll point to the artistry first. That's the thing people keep coming back for.

Lance Staggs comes up again and again as the person to see for traditional work. One regular has been getting tattooed by him for twelve years and put it plainly: great artist, better dude, and consistently solid work every single time. Another had their first three tattoos done by Lance back in their college days and returned years later, when the shop rearranged its schedule so their family could get a memorial piece together after a loss. That kind of loyalty says a lot about how people feel about him. The word around Lubbock is that Lance is patient, focused, and genuinely good company through a session.

Lily Allen has earned her own devoted following, especially among folks getting tattooed later in life or coming in for something meaningful. People mention how comfortable and relaxed she makes them feel, and how much care she puts into designing exactly what they picture. One pair of sisters had her create matching snowflakes in memory of their mother and left calling it a special memory. Tim gets the same kind of praise for being calm, patient, and thorough, the type who takes his time until everything looks right. The atmosphere here reads as professional and welcoming, and walk-ins are welcome if you want to stop in.

With a strong reputation built over the years and a genuinely respected roster of artists, Inkfluence is one of the more beloved tattoo shops in Lubbock. Respect the magic, as they put it.