Gold Cross Tattoo Co.

I’m newer to the area and have been looking for a shop to get established with. I ended up landing on Gold Cross tattoo co after a lot of research, And decided to do a walk-in After work earlier this week. Super cool shop And super personable artists. Sometimes when you’re a walk-in at a tattoo shop the process can feel a bit rushed however I did not feel that way at all here. They really took their time and made sure everything was exactly how I would want it. I ended up getting tattooed by Hank, Who was super professional and made me feel really comfortable the whole time. We had a great conversation during the session, which always makes the Tattoo process easier. These are also some of the cleanest fine lines I’ve seen, and I couldn’t be happier with it. Overall it was a fantastic experience, I’m obsessed with my new piece and will definitely be returning for any future tattoos.

I cant say enough good things about Gold Cross! This is the most professional tattoo parlor Ive ever been in. It is clean and every artist is professional and most importantly they are passionate about their craft. So far Ive had three pieces done in this shop with Preston as my artist. I will be a lifelong customer here due to how amazing my pieces have turned out. I highly recommend Preston if you like traditional style tattoos, regardless of who your artist is, you will be in good hands.

I really really wanted to give a better review than this and it took me a long time debating on leaving one at all. I followed this shop for almost 2 years just building up excitement to get a tattoo once I was no longer pregnant and breastfeeding. But my expectations didnt meet reality. Sadly the lines on my tattoo are wonky and some small areas are blown out. The artist said they offered free touch ups, so when I was finally able to schedule one I did just that. Well it gets time for the touch up, and they switch locations so I had to reschedule. No biggie. But then this happened 3 more times, where they had to reschedule on their end, and even though Im being understanding and trying to work with them, after the 3rd time I get ghosted. So now Im left with a bad experience of having a tattoo I was really looking forward to being messed up, and also wasnt even really my original design. But thats my fault for not speaking up. And on top of that I never got my free touch up, and it seems the artist is back at that shop. On another note, I tried contacting the owner at least 4 times about scheduling a tattoo appointment with them, and never heard back. So now Im sadly on the hunt looking for a new shop. I just really wish this went differently, cause I really had high hopes.Edit! The owner reached out very quickly and we were able to come to with a resolution! Unfortunately things where going on under the radar, but they have been working on fixing it. Glad to get it worked out!

The tattoo artists at Gold Cross never fail to make getting tattooed an awesome experience! I have 10 tattoos all from Gold Cross and my boyfriend is working on his sleeve with Preston. Everybody is always kind when we come in to visit and their work is incredible. I definitely recommend visiting them if you’re planning to get tattooed. And remember, always tip your artist!

Was wandering around downtown Johnson City and came across this GEM!!! EVERYONE was so nice and accommodating! I got thee CUTEST tiger tattoo from Shane. They also had the coolest merch! I will definitely be back!!!! I’d give them 10 stars if I could!!!

Dave was extremely knowledgeable, precise, and detailed, ensuring that the tattoo that I received was the best it could possibly be. Extremely friendly and personable individual who took great care to ensure that the piece I received would be one that would last a lifetime and be one that I loved, 10/10 will definitely be back for all tattoos in the future. Cannot recommend strongly enough this shop and the wonderful and professional services provided, with spectacular work at a fair price.

If you want a great tattoo and great experience Gold Cross is where you want to go. Everyone is very welcoming and work with you to get the tattoo you want. Ive worked with Dave over the past few months on my sleeve and hes exceeded my expectations on every piece!

Shane from Akron, OH did a wonderful job bringing my vision to life, is very friendly and we talked the entire time. All of your artists are cool and fun. A sweet, young lady(cant remember her name)went to the store and got me something to drink. Your shop is huge, tastefully decorated, comfortable and CLEAN! Even the bathroom was spotless. The work I had done is in honor of my 82-year-old mom. She cried when she saw it and said the work is exceptional. Thank you all so very much!

Everyone here treats you like family, the best vibes & the best personalities! They root each other on while each artist is tattooing- and to me that’s the coolest thing ever!!!! I promise you’ll never want to go anywhere else. Hands down the best shop in East Tennessee. 10/10 would recommend to anyone & everyone!!!Happy to say I found my new shop & artist and only visited once…See y’all next month! Thank you guys again! 👊🏼

I’m newer to the area and did some research into what was the best tattoo parlor in the area, and everywhere I looked, it said Gold Cross Tattoo, and let me tell you, there’s a good reason why that is. GCT is the best parlor I’ve ever been in/interacted with. The environment is amazing, everything is very clean and organized, and the interaction between the artists left me with a perpetual smile on my face the whole time I was there. My artist was Preston Bishop, and he did a phenomenal job, both on the tattoo and on making the experience enjoyable. Prior to my actual session, Preston was in regular contact with me and was extremely helpful in answering any and all questions I had. I got a LOTR tattoo, and him and I ended nerding out about LOTR. He gave me very detailed instructions for aftercare, and his pricing was very fair. As for the tattoo itself, I could not be more happy with it! I can’t recommend GCT or Preston enough; I’ll definitely be returning in the future!

Stumbled on this place downtown while visiting , they had quick walk in service & friendly staff. Dave was super professional & efficient from start to finish. Overall a great first tattoo experience

This place was Amazing, Katyln did my Tattoo and exceeded my expectations. Highly recommend her to anyone. All of the staff were helpful and constantly were complementing each others work. Cant wait for my next Ink Therapy Session. Definitely will be coming back for more.

My son had been wanting a tattoo in memory of his dad. He decided on gold cross, Shane was the one doing his tattoo. This was his first tattoo, Shane was amazing with him. It is very simple but very detailed. I would highly recommend gold cross. Thanks again Shane!

Got my first tattoo today with Shane and it was a great experience. Highly recommend 👌 I got Roman Numerals (my kids birthdays) and its nice, clean work. I will be going back

Katlyn is nothing short of amazing. My husband wanted a unique portrait of his late dog and I wanted some small lettering. Both turned out amazing and exactly what we imagined. She did a thorough consultation and was on time for our appointment. She was very personable and chatted with us the entire appointment. Furthermore, the entire shop in her personal workstation were incredibly clean and organized. Cant wait for the next one!

Got my first tattoo by Dustin last Friday and my boyfriend got one as well. We were really happy with our tattoos. Dustin was super nice. Highly recommend Gold Cross. Thank you for the experience and we will probably be back.

I had katlyn shipplett do a rose with a cross on my forearm it turned out AMAZING her realism art is amazing and photos dont do the justice!!! I am so IN LOVE with my half sleeve. The best part was the tattoo shop was very clean , very homey feeling!!! And katlynn was killer at her work I ABSOLUTELY STAND ON MY WORDS THIS IS THE BEST TATTOO SHOP I HAVE EVER BEEN TO !🙌😌 I will most definitely be returning soon 10/10

I cannot recommend this shop enough; I’ve been tattooed here on multiple occasions and have always had a wonderful time with the artists. They are professional and so easy to work with on ideas/ getting your tattoo design just right. Enjoyable atmosphere and good hangs. I’d give 10 stars if I could.

I’ve been getting tattooed by James Benden for the last year or so finishing out my leg, The work and care i’ve received is insanely impressive and gives testament to how hard the artist work at Gold Cross Tattoo Co. This is the standard that every tattoo shop needs to be held too. No corners are cut here, these guys do hand designed tattoos to fit your needs or have a massive assortment of amazing flash for you to chose from. Bold will Hold!

Didn’t wrap up my tattoos. Nor did the area get shaved prior to starting. He assured me he could do these tattoos I sent pictures and he wanted a deposit. When I get there now he can’t do the fonts I sent in the pictures.Soo stupidly I agreed to continue because i already put $ down. Halfway through the service I could tell I was not satisfied with the line work quality so I asked for him to not complete the biggest piece we agreed upon. But he still charged me for it. Usually you wrap someone to prevent infection… the wrap was staring at me on his station. As well as razors & my original fonts I asked for. Overall as a tattoo artist I never go into a place unless it had great reviews. Nor do I tell artists I’m one as well because I expect everyone to follow the same procedures without expressing my knowledge. Now I have 2 blown out tattoos I was excited to get that I now need covered up or fixed. Do your research.

I came in late last year to talk to Katlyn about getting my first tattoo. I had never received a tattoo and really didn’t know where to start, but Gold Cross Tattoos had been recommended to me by my cousin so I took her advice. I wanted a Seahorse, because it has a special meaning for my wife and I, so after talking to her we made the appointment for January 5th. As I said, I wasn’t sure what to expect and was a little nervous when I came in but Katlyn was very nice and engaged me in conversation and helped me to relax. The tattoo turned out great and I was pleased with the job she did. I’ve recently started watching Ink Master and have been blown away. The judges have hammered 3 things more than anything: a line should end in a point, not a period; line quality whether it’s straight or curved; and shading. Well, Katlyn absolutely nailed all of those areas on my tattoo!!! I’m certainly not an expert on tattoos, but after watching this show and hearing the judges and seeing what other “artists” produce, I couldn’t have asked for anyone better in my opinion to do this! I’m extremely pleased and proud of what I had put on my arm, and I’ll probably be back to see her in the future. Thanks again for such an outstanding job!!!Dwight H

Cool shop, people are nice. I got a small tattoo which came out nice but the lines are a little shaky and a little bit inconsistent. Did not say a single word to me, but talked up my friend a bunch. Felt rushed, but maybe that’s just me. I’d probably have to get it touched up eventually which is fine. Make sure you doll yourself up before you go, so you can actually get a response. They have great artwork all around the shop. Like hundreds of flash work, which is super cool. They do walk ins which is nice too if you want one that day.

Absolutely in love with the tattoo I just got! Will definitely be back! Dustin did a wonderful job!

Called to get.a memorial tattoo for my deceased and was told come on in they can get it done so I drive an hour just to get there to be told they are not interested in doing the boring tattoo I want to honor him. Thanks for wasting my time and gas

Cant say enough Great things about GCT!! Very clean and unbelievable quality. The shop has an amazing feel to it. You can feel the good vibes permeating throughout. Great experience, Dave made me feel like part of the family. Its very uplifting to see a small business owner succeeding in downtown JC. Great things to come for the Calvelli family. Theres a reason theyre booked out so far..... theyre actually that good and well worth the wait. Looking forward to my next visit, no matter how long it takes to get in. Keep up the great work.

Preston Bishop did an awesome job on mine and my kids tattoos in memory of my mother I would recommend him for your tattoo

Pretty rad little shop that I arrived upon by horseback. To my surprise it was like a little leprechaun finally finding his pot of gold.. I’ll wait a second for you to get that. Expert level tattoos that you won’t find anywhere else with an atmosphere for everyone. Except if you don’t get tattooed her because then you’d be a square and that’s not cool. Best tattoo shop this side of the Mississippi and that’s just a fact Jack. Ask for Dave for fine line work! 10/10

Best tattoo shop around! Can’t wait to get more!

No piercings only tattoos, everyone rules.Tons of flash, get some.Custom work is also welcomed 👍🏼

I’d highly recommend Gold Cross to anyone wanting to get a tattoo! My tattoo done by Dave came out amazingly and everyone at the shop was super nice and friendly. I’ll be back for sure! ❤️‍🔥

Moved here not long ago from a bigger city; very particular about the artists I work with and work they do, cannot recommend Gold Cross highly enough. Only tattoo shop I trust in the region. Been on several occasions, will return again.

I was able to get a walk in tattoo for my birthday...Preston was AWESOME! So welcoming and a very calm presence. A great artist and helped me get exactly what I wanted! Reasonable pricing and was in and out! I will definitely be coming back. Great vibes and good people. Thank you!!

Went to Dave today to get my sternum tattooed! It was my first time at this shop and it was everything I could’ve wanted and more! Everyone was friendly and the general feeling was super relaxed, very clean shop. During my tattoo me and Dave were chopping it up, he was super easy to talk too and kept me as comfortable as possible throughout the experience. He also drew up exactly what I had in mind and did it some serious justice! I definitely 10/10 recommend to anyone thinking about coming here, you’ll get treated with tons of respect and leave with a lot of confidence!

This is the best shop I have ever been to! As a tattoo enthusiast, I appreciate an artist who is honest and works with integrity. Every person working there will not only give you a great tattoo, but they are knowledgeable and explain what will work best for design ideas based on experience. I am honored to have the privilege of wearing their art proudly!

Been tattooed by both James Bendon and Katlyn Shipplett, I’ll definitely be back to them! They’re the best!

So easy to work with & did amazing work! Would 10000% recommend them over other shops.

As soon as I came in I was greeted by Dave he is the owner. Very good guy he professional and take pride in his business. The tattoo parler is very clean and everyone is really nice. Preston was the artist doing my tattoo. He did a great job drawing up my vision of what I described to him. It actually looks better than I ever imagined. He was concerned with me to make sure I was comfortable and relaxed. Best experience I’ve had getting a tattoo. If anyone is up in the air of where to go to get a permanent piece of art this is the place. It’s all a lasting memory

Too many good things to say about this place. Dave and his wife and staff are amazing. They run a great shop. I’ve been to other shops in the local area and while they were good, this place is hands down the best. Well worth the trip no matter where you are located. They treat you with respect and are friendly no matter if you’ve been to the shop tons or if it’s your first time. They take pride in their work and will work with you to give you the best tattoo possible. To the staff at Gold Cross you’ve earned yourselves a lifetime customer.

Best tattoo shop around james benden 10/10. Very clean very nice. make you feel like family 😎

One of the nicest tattoo shops Ive been to. All the artists were very nice and seem to have a passion for tattooing. Shop has very old school vibe to it. Already booked my next appointment and cant wait.

Best shop around. Great artists, amazing shop. Tons of flash on the wall to choose from or bring in your own design. Will definitely be back. Dave was very professional in every way.

I have gotten a few pieces done by Dave and each one has been a great experience and the artwork is fantastic. I recently had an appointment with Dave and decided to change what I wanted at the last minute, he drew it up no problem and did a fantastic job. I will definitely be scheduling more appointments with him and would like to get some from the other artists there as well. The place is clean and has a great vibe, you can tell they all have a good time and love doing what they do. If you are thinking of getting some work from here, you should.

Best tattoo shop not only in Johnson city, but the ENTIRE tri cities, no lie. These guys are inviting, sweet, & hilarious! They will guide you in any way about your ideas of a tattoo, & will be honest about anything they put their work into so you get the best possible outcome. Worth every single penny! GOLD CROSS FOR LIFE!

Speaking strictly as a observer. I wanted to go with my husband as he went to get a memorial tattoo in honor of his mother passing unexpectedly. we didnt know what to expect just walking in but we were instantly greeted and the artists are approachable and actually got excited about the prospect of doing a cover-up on another tattoo for my husband. James did a great job that day and was super effecient.Shane did the cover-up work and to be honest the whole experience has been a ball. Shane is so knowledgeable about doing coverups I believe my husband has found his new favorite artist.

All the artists here are really chill, nice people who are easy to get along with. Alex did a small piece for me above my elbow, and Dave did a small piece for my brother, and we both had a really positive experience. The tattoos are well done and exactly what we wanted. The shop has a great vibe. Check them out!

The best shop around! Dave is my artist and does phenomenal work! These artists listen and create EXACTLY what you are looking for. Just finished up my second session of my full sleeve and I couldn’t be happier! I’d recommend him and the shop to anyone. If you want a clean and well done tattoo this is your shop.

I got tattooed by Dave and let me tell you.. I’d do it again! This man tattoos so light handed and is such a personal dude.The shop itself is a whole vibe with great music, lots of artwork, and amazing staff! 11/10 would recommend🤙🏼

GOLD CROSS IS THE BEST TATTOO SHOP IN JOHNSON CITY!I have gotten tattoos from shops all over the world and Dave is by far one of the best tattoo artist that I have been to. I highly recommend going to Gold Cross Tattoo Co. if you are looking to get a tattoo in Johnson City or the surrounding area.

This place gives you more than a tattoo, it gives you an experience. Tattoo shops have a sketchy feel sometimes, this one is not anything like that. Walking in is like coming home, friendly faces and the cleanest tattoos in town. I won’t get work done anywhere else. Professional and respectful. I recommend this to everyone in town, and out of it. Best work I’ve seen!

I made the trip from North Carolina to get some new ink from these guys after I looked at their portfolios and WOW this tattoo shop is AMAZING! All of the artists were VERY respectful and professional. They are great at what they do! If you want a great tattoo piece THIS IS THE PLACE TO GO! I love Gold Cross Tattoo Co

Best shop in the area! I got tattooed by Dave and this is the most welcoming laid back shop! I always get nervous walking into tattoo shops to make appointments/get tattooed but everyone I met was the most friendly, easy going people! The piece Dave gave me is absolutely stunning, would recommend this place 1000%

They were really nice and honest and made sure I was prepared and could handle my first tattoo. Dave took his time and focused on the tattoo and did not take too long to finish it still.

If I could give Gold Cross Tattoo 10 stars I would. Hell, make it 11. Everyone in the shop was awesome - especially my guy Dustin. I absolutely love how my tattoo turned out. Thank you so much, Dustin guess it was my lucky day!!!!!!!!

Had an awesome experience, The owner Dave was super friendly and I love this work. He exceeded my expectations on my tattoo. I would never get a tattoo anywhere else!

Dave and Kaylee are the most kind and courteous people you will ever meet. They made me feel right at home and their work is astronomical. Youd be a fool to go anywhere else in the tri-cities to get a tattoo. Gold cross has set the bar high! Line work and detail unmatched by any other.

Where to start? This place is the cleanest place i think I’ve ever been tattooed at! The quality of work i received is impeccable! Every artist that works here is so talented! They make you feel so welcome, like a family. I will NEVER go anywhere else or trust anyone with my tattoos!

Got my Hands done here. Very professional, and great friendly atmosphere! Will be coming back for more work, and recommending friends and coworkers!

Great people! Great vibes! Great work!

I got a beautiful ladyhead done by Dave. I made the appointment a few weeks ago, and he answered any and all of my questions beforehand. This was the biggest piece I’ve ever had done and he made the process comfortable and fun. I will definitely be returning for more work. Thank you!! ☺️

I’ve always had a great experience with the folks at Gold Cross!

I was tattooed by Shane “Whiplash” Sehmer for my very first tattoo I ever received , Mr. Whiplash not only gave me a great, bright, and bold tattoo that I know will last for years and years to come, he also was very considerate of my needs and delicate with me since it was my first one. I highly recommend anyone to visit Gold Cross Tattoo Co and see Mr. Whiplash or any of the other fine fellowswhether it’s your first tatto or your 100th.

Shane did an amazing job!! I have had multiple tattoos done but the one he did for me was by far me favorite! I will definitely be coming back to him!

Best tattoo shop in Johnson City!! Went there to start my sleeve and I was not disappointed. They stayed after hours to make sure it was finished and took their time to make sure it was perfect! I won’t go anywhere else to get work done. Highly highly highly recommend this place!

My friend and I both got tattooed by Dave yesterday, and his work is immaculate. 10/10 do recommend and have recommended to all of our friends. Will definitely be back!

The only place you should be getting a tattoo in Johnson City! Very nice and extremely talented artists. They’ll go above and beyond to give you the best work you’ve ever received. This will be the only place I get my next ones done. Highly recommended.

I got a flash tattoo for a $50 tattoo event and it was great. My first tattoo and their shop was the tattoo aesthetic but not stressful like some places Ive been. Great place cant wait to go back for more!

What an experience. I can’t imagine ever trusting anyone to tattoo me after the work Dustin did. I’ve got several tattoos and was honestly moved to tears bc I was so happy with how his work turned out.

Cleanest and most professional I’ve ever seen/been to. Dave was a super nice guy, and the whole shop had a good energy to it. Will definitely be back!

How many stars are in the sky....that the amount of stars this place deserves! They are amazing artist and create a atmosphere customer friendly, for sure!! Kaylee, Dave, and Alex thanks for a awesome experience and all around great time!!!

This is the place you need to be. I have a tattoo by everyone at this shop and each one of them are so talented and accommodating. Forever will recommend gold cross tattoo. ♥️

Road in on the dusty road . My trusty stead pulled up to golden cross tattoo . Seemed like some city slickers to me , so I went it to check it out . First thing I noticed was the rich smell of some fine mahogany. I then noticed the old timey feel and artwork , but when I noticed the plants I knew this place was serious . I spoke to a young man resembling Dr.Wario . He seemed to really know his stuff I realized he had the old timey Americana feel i was looking for . We settled on a design and went to work . They even fed my horse and watered the ole girl . Wow the tattoo turned out hellacious. So pull our that old pocket watch because it’s time for you to check out Gold Cross Tattoo !

Dave was awesome!!! Great first tattoo experience. Will definitely come back for more.

I got a tattoo there probably two months ago. I waited for it to heal before I wrote this review. The tattoo I got had so many blown out lines, I feel like it ruined my tattoo. There was major a lack of experience by the artist, as once he thought he was done, the owner had to suggest adding more details to the tattoo.

First time getting a tattoo and I couldn’t have chose a better place to go. Everyone there is super friendly and funny. And there tattoos come out suuuper clean

I got my first tattoo here and I will be back there for more in the future for sure my tattoo healed perfect in July it will have been a year and it looks like I got it two weeks ago still

Got my first tattoo here from James and it has healed up nicely. The line work and detail is amazing! Highly recommend :^)

Good tattoos, friendly staff. Friends and I got tattoos there. Had fun conversations. Great art on walls. Great music selection. Great prices.

Got a tattoo by Alex and I absolutely love it. The shop was very clean and professional. I’ll definitely be making another appointment soon!

This place is amazing! James took care of me and did incredible work! Great shop, clean and laid back vibe. 10 out of 10 recommend and I will be back!!!

Super cool dudes and amazing artists. My tattoo came out dope AF and it was quick too! I’ll be back to get more.

Total professionals. Dave, Shane, and the whole crew are top tier artists and excellent at what they do. Everything is worth the wait and price.

Just so impressed. These guys are truly tattoo artist. Very talented, there work is hands down the best. Highly recommend gold Cross.

Loved the experience and the work. Hard to find a good tattoo studio anywhere, love this place and the work was amazing. Thank you!

ABSOLUTELY LOVED THE EXPERIENCE MY FIANCE & I HAD WHILE GETTING TATTOOED BY DAVE CALVELLI ❤ ABSOLUTELY LOVE HIS WORK. HES NOT HEAVY-HANDED & THE PRICES ARE REASONABLE!! & ANYONE THAT HE HIRES KNOWS WHAT THEY ARE DOING!! I WOULD DEFINITELY RECOMMEND GOLD CROSS TATTOO CO. TO ANYONE!! DAVE & HIS WIFE BOTH ARE TRUE ARTISTS!

Have had 2 tattoos done by 2 different artists and both were a great experience

Best place for tattoos by far. Always leave with a perfect tattoo! James does amazing work!

I have several friends that have got tattoos here and it is some of the most beautifulest artwork youve ever seen point blank. Have a blessed day everyone

Dave did an amazing job and was beyond nice.

Great place to get your work done. Had everything done by James who has been awesome to work with and does a fantastic job. Will definitely be back

This place is great! Friendly environment. Excellent tattoo artist. Thanks for the service you provided it was fanominal!

If you want a good clean tattoo. This is the place to come. Best in Johnson City by far.

Preston did an awesome job!! Quick, easy, and fun!!! Def will be back again.

A great experience and quality work. I travel the country with work and seriously thinking about getting more ink from here. Good people, quality work and just an all around great experience.

Cool shop, cool people. Dave is friendly and does amazing work. Thank you for taking us as walk in!

Reasonable pricing for great work. Alex is awesome. Cool folks. Good environment. Nice clean shop.

Had a great time getting tattooed will definitely come back for my next piece!!

Very clean shop, great first tattoo experience, James is awesome!

10/10 recommend these guys! The atmosphere was great! They do amazing work!

Best atmosphere in downtown area. Family owned and operated...Jar Heads welcomed.... 🙏 🤲 🕍

Killer shop, killer tattoos, and most importantly killer people! Best hospitality around!

Awesome shop! Dave and Kaylee both do such amazing work!

Super chill place. Feels like family, they are super knowledgable and do great work.

Amazing clean shop. Owners are amazing artist and very friendly.

Nowhere else I would go in town. This shop is killing it and putting out the best work around. Clean and professional

The one and only GCT. Look no further. The best tattooers around.

Best tattoo shop in East Tennessee

Very awesome experience.

The best of the best!