Big Dreams Studio

Four artists share this open room and each occupied a corner. As I sat there waiting with only one wall and 2 corners of the room to look at, I spotted at least 5 building code violations. Multiple missing ceiling tiles showing exposed wiring. Open ceiling tiles with the leaking drain pipes right above my artist work station. 120v live outlets with no wall plate and devices plugged into them. NEC Electrical code 410.22“In a completed installation, each outlet box shall be provided with a cover unless covered by means of a luminaire canopy, lampholder, receptacle that covers the box or is provided with a faceplate, or similar device”. A junction box with exposed wires with no wall plate. Extension cords resting on an open radiator with no cover. An extension cord plugged into an outlet on the inside ran through the AC to plug something in outside.My artist was named Kaleb. Kaleb sat us down and immediately turned his back to us and began drawing. Kaleb took 2.5 hours to draw 2 lego figures that were already designed for him. I recognize that the artist needs to take the design and tweak it as well as transfer it to a tattoo-able design but 2.5 hours is much longer then I’ve ever waited for that process.When Kaleb was finally done with his masterpiece he swung around and stood up. Our small corner was filled with smell of Kaleb’s sweaty manhood seeping through his basketball shorts.Kaleb gets me set-up on the table and we get started. Kaleb is heavy handed. Pain does not have to be a part of the experience. It’s also probably why your lines are so blown out, blotchy and inconsistent. Kaleb also cannot spit and chew at the same time. When the artist across the room converses with him he stops tattooing and talks for 4 or 5 minutes at a time then goes back to tattooing. The phone rings and Kaleb jumps up to answer confirming he is available to take another client. Kaleb answers the phone with his gloves on, a smear of tattoo ointment on the back of one. Kaleb returns to tattoo me and proceeds business as usual without changing his gloves or washing his hands. I leave as fast as can.The right side pants outline is almost twice as thick as the left side. Also, both sides are not straight and clean due to them being blown out. The hands are two different sizes. That right hand man, talk about inconsistent lines. The inner circle of the left hand, woah. The two shoulders are in completely different places. What is on the top right of the jacket? The lapel? A strand of hair? It’s hard to tell. Left side of the jacket is a little wavy. I see you struggle to color in the lines on the top of the hair there.Kaleb, I had no intention of ever writing this review. You insisted on pursuing some weird ego driven confrontation with my wife instead of just literally saying nothing. Kaleb, instead of trying to address and rectify a bad review, you attack and blame the client. You also expressed how this is your career and a bad review will impact your life. You are so right, this is your career. The fact that you are willing to provide a service in a shop with health and safety violations everywhere is a negative reflection on you. Don’t blame me for your complacency.Also, Kaleb it looks to me like your tattoo license expired in 2021. So you tattooed both of us without having us sign a waiver with a lapsed license. Is that our fault too?To the business owner: It is shops like this that give a bad name to the tattoo community. Society has enough irrational reasons to not like tattoo shops, tattooers, and tatooees. Don’t add to the negative stigma. I truly understand how difficult operating a business can be. I know you can tattoo and be a business owner but you need to be a business owner first and right now your business needs some TLC.As I said before I had no intention of writing this review. I also had no intention of contacting the board of health nor the Stamford building inspector. Kaleb insisted on pursuing a confrontation so now I will be doing all of those things.

Love this place! Very friendly staff, nice environment and clean. Kaleb Edgar has done multiple pieces for me and all of them have been a great experience. Appreciate the work, will continue to do more with Kaleb. Very talented, Very Kind🙏🏼💯

I am honestly so appalled by my experience at Big Dreams Studio. It was more like a nightmare. The shop itself is a complete health code violation. There’s no better way to put it, it was dirty, unsanitary, uncomfortable, and hot with trash cans overflowing with garbage. I stood in a puddle of water from the leaking toilet and flicked the light switch with no faceplate that was held together by duct tape while in open toed shoes. Electrical cables were exposed, extension cords were resting on an open radiator, and multiple ceiling tiles were missing showing off what was likely leaking drain pipes. I understand you probably don’t own the property and maybe feel as if it is the property owner’s responsibility to take care of these things but as a business owner it is your responsibility to make sure your business is safe and your patrons are not put in harms way. A simple trip to Home Depot can easily fix these very apparent building code violations. Pack of ceiling tiles is 75$. Toilet flush handle is about 5$. Plates for all 5 or 6 of your unplated electrical outlets is about 5$. I think a shop with multiple signs boasting about its shop minimum and the need to tip can afford to create a clean, safe and comfortable environment for their patrons. The space was incredibly small and cluttered. There was no privacy. I have gotten tattooed at a cleaner shop in Mexico to really put it in perspective for you. Public bathrooms are cleaner than this tattoo shop. Just sweep the floors once a day and mop twice a week. It’s summer time, don’t leave trash cans that are overflowing just laying around. A fly landing on me while I’m getting tattooed is not cool. Please do better.After waiting almost three hours for the artist to draw up the design I was tempted to just walk out and I wish I did. If the work that was produced was exceptional then I could accept the negative experience but looking closer at the pictures of the tattoos I am so disappointed. I can take accountability for struggling to control my involuntary twitches due to the location of the tattoo. At first I attributed the inconsistent line work to my movements but after looking at my husband’s similar tattoo design in the same location and knowing he didn’t move nearly as much as I did, his tattoo doesn’t look much better than mine. Blown out with wonky lines. This was supposed to be a nice day spent together celebrating our two year wedding anniversary but instead I felt trapped and suffocated in a disgusting basement. The cherry on top of this whole situation is that it was wildly overpriced. I feel completely ripped off. If I only wasted my time and was out just 100$ then I wouldn’t be writing this but the amount of money I spent on these disappointing and mediocre tattoos is just absurd. If a partial refund could be issued I would deeply appreciate it. I am an avid tattoo getter and have been tattooed by people of all shapes and sizes, in different countries around the world, but never have I ever had such a horrible experience than I did today. It hurts me to speak so poorly of an artist and shop but I think the only way for me to get over this awful day was to write this review. I hope to save someone else from feeling the way I do right now. All of the good reviews blessing this business with 4.6 stars mention Jonny Metropolis. I don’t know who this person is but I can assure you I did not encounter him today and that the quality of this shop is no longer the same.

I have been going here for the last three years. And honestly I will tell you I will not get a tattoo anywhere else. My tattoo artist Chris in this establishment not only respects me but always makes sure I’m satisfied before and after my tattoo. I put all my trust in him. I even bring my children to get their work done by him. They already have tattoos lined up with him. ☺️☺️☺️

I had tattoo that was done by Kaleb and not only was he very professional he was very flexible with what I needed and wanted to get done. Highly recommend this tattoo shop. Kaleb did a Awesome Lotus tattoo for me and I am very very happy with it

Got a full sleeve done by jonny.Metropolis , takes his time & give his full attention on detail ... nobody else i would let do my tattoos & recommend his services to everyone i know ... I drive about 3 hrs just to get his tattoos . So anyone looking for great hands & straight clean lines jonny.Metropolis is your guy 💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽

Have had tattoos with multiple artists here, Dan the owner and Jae, everyone who works there is friendly and professional, and the work is top notch. Only person who every made myself and other clients feel uncomfortable was that unhinged Metropolis fella, glad to see he is no longer there. I watched him throw a candy bar across the shop because he didn’t like the flavor. Hope he’s getting the help he needs now.

I have been coming here for a leg sleeve start and continuation. I love working with Dan, who owns the shop and has done all the the artwork in the attached picture. The knee was done today so it is still healing. Couldn’t have better things to say and I love how it’s coming out.

One of the best I’ve been to. Darnell has done 2 big tatts of mine and always comes exactly how you want it, light handed and very precise. If you’re looking for a shop I would Recommend this one 10 out of 10 times!

To keep it simple, Dan was 10 minutes late to my appointment and I had to sit outside his shop in 90 degree heat because the doors were locked. I followed him in as he set everything up, including turning the AC on. I had 3 tattoos done. They aren’t bad, they aren’t great. Every single one is blown out which is so disappointing. I got one done in red and 2/3 of it is completely faded (meaning, it’s GONE. Parts of it are just gone). 2 weeks after my appointment I asked if he could touch it up and he said he’d have to charge me for it. I’d understand if I waited 6 months but it was literally 2 weeks later and we also discussed the probability of me needing to come back and he never mentioned a charge. Overall, not impressed and won’t be coming back or referring anyone.

If I could give less then a one star I would....did not say one word to me during the whole tattoo did not talk ,very heavy handed blood was dripping down my chest as I went home ...then after the tattoo is finished he informs me that I could have an allergic reaction to the red ink AFTER THE TATTOO WAS FINISHED!!! Probably something you should discuss before the tattoo begins..he wipes the tattoo down and sends me on my way not a thank you, not a word...then I get to a mirror as fast as I can and the tattoo looks unfinished there are three red dots on my chest that look look like they dont belong...it was an awful experience I will never go there again and I suggest you do the same -5 stars ....absolutely awful

New favorite tattoo shop! My friends and I came on a Sunday because it was the only place open, and it was sooo meant to be! Jonny Metropolis did all 3 of our tattoos and the pricing, quality, and skill that went into our art could not have been better. He is definitely talented, experienced, and well equipped for his job! He was a pleasure to be around, the aesthetic of his space was calming/relaxing, and I 100% plan on going back soon.

I was able to schedule a same day appointment. I walked in, told Johnny what I wanted and he created EXACTLY what I asked for! In the exact location I wanted it! I highly recommend him! Not just because he did an exceptional job on my tattoo, but because he is a real artist who is in love with his craft!! My first time here but definitely wont be my last.

Been there many times for myself & my sister! Chris is GREAT & he works pretty fast. They’re very knowledgeable and the whole staff is super cool. The tattoos are always dope whether stenciled or hand drawn. I definitely recommend! Will be back very soon.

I’ve had a few tattoos done here by Kaleb. There are several good artists here and they are professional and all about the ink. Highly recommend

I’ve never trusted anyone to do my first tattoo but Dan is an absolutely someone who made me relaxed and calm and his artwork really resonated. Nobody else I would ever work with in this city.

Had a tattoo done on my back and couldn’t be more pleased. The artist Johnny Metropolis was highly professional and seriously talented. He paid great attention to detail and the tattoo healed perfectly. Would give a 6 star if I could. Will definitely be back for another tattoo.

Found Kaleb through instagram. His use of color and skill with mini tattoos are amazing. He was very responsive through ig and I was even able to book my appointment that way. He worked with me on my design, drawing it by hand. He tweaked placement, size and coloring until I was happy. The result is amazing. The shop was clean, neat and welcoming. I drove 90+min to get there and would definitely drive there again.

I literally ONLY come here to get my tattoos. Dan, the owner, is awesome. The atmosphere is very chill and laid back, they make you feel welcomed and relaxed. Even though I’ve only gotten mine done by Dan, I would literally recommend all the artists there hands down.

Professional, clean shop. Johnny (Red Monster) is the best. I had been to different shops/artists before meeting him and now am loyal for life. His work is pristine. He’s a true artist. He takes the concepts that I have in my head and brings them to life with his own spin. A year and a half ago I had my first session with him, and now we’ve worked on 6 HUGE pieces and a few more small ones. I wouldn’t trust any other artist again after experiencing the quality of his work.

Got my first tattoo and everyone was so nice and friendly and did such a good job!! care for their customers so much and in love with my tattoo!! will def be coming back ! 10/10 recommend :)

Came here on a spur of the moment type thing. Went into the shop & was met with JonnyMetropolis. Tattoo overall went great, his professionalism needs lots of help but his work made up for it. Clean cut lines (freehand) and overall amazing work. For personal reasons “I messed up” and did not take care of my tattoo like I should have. I reached out to him via IG asking for help to fix it and he let me know where I messed up. How much it would cost and what to do until our next appt (respectfully). Come day of appt, He forgot we had an appt. He Came late, Talked down to me in front of other clients. Rudely told me he needed his space when I tried to pull a chair near his station. Argued with me & threatened not to do my tattoo. Unlike my normal self I needed this tattoo fixed so I responded with minimal words. I argued a bit trying to speak to this person but he kept cutting me off. We did the tattoo touch up in complete silence. After he was done he gave me care instructions. I paid him what he quoted me via IG (left it on the table) and walked out because I was still clearly upset about the confrontation.He messages me a video cursing that I disrespected him by not taking care of my tattoo and ripped up the $50 bill and threw it in the trash. (Also, he erases his voice messages quoting me the price of a touch ups not sure why)I am someone with a mental health past currently going through some medical issues. One of the tattoos he did for me was a cross with a semi colon and this confrontation was not appreciated nor needed.So sad that such a great artist has such an ugly personality. 10/10 DO NOT RECOMMEND!

Recently got a piece done by Dan on my rib/sternum area. I am so in love with not only the work but the entire experience. Tattoos hurt, theres no getting around that. However the process shouldnt be painful. From start to finish Dan walked me through every step and allowed me to be a part of the whole creative process. We didnt go with my original idea ( as he explained it wouldnt look great and or realistic) but I am so glad we didnt ! He drew my scorpion right onto my body and went from there. His work is amazing and the shop had a chill vibe. All in all great experience and excited to finally have a shop in Stamford that I can go to !

Johnny and Kaleb are great guys who have always picked up the phone and have been able to work with me. If you’re looking for a place to get tatted on a Sunday...this will be one of the only shops loyal enough to be open. Great work by both guys! Fun time in the studio.

This place is absolutely disgusting 🤮I went a couple times to a couple different artist wasn’t impressed at all.I felt very uncomfortable and unsafe!I had a roach crawl on my leg as I was tattooed. Not recommend!There was a toilet pipe on the ceiling leaking on me 🤢🤢🤢

Got my tattoo done last week with Jonny and was absolutely everything I envisioned and more! 10/10 recommend! Jonny was super attentive and patient to make sure I got exactly what I wanted without rushing through the process at all! Whole staff is super nice and welcoming as too!

My first time getting a tattoo was May of last year by Kaleb and a year later I currently have 17! All done by him! He’s a great artist and knows what he is doing. He always makes sure his customers’ wants and needs are fulfilled!

Found this shop by luck about 4 years ago, I walked in to get simple tattoo and now my whole leg is covered in amazing horror/slasher icons. 7 amazing tattoos later and I honestly dont think Ill ever go to another artistJohnny is literally the best.-A perfectionist who wants nothing but the best for you. Wither youre going for beautiful roses, anime tattoos or simple words/quotes.. Hes your guy!!Go visit. Totally worth it!

I had my tattoo done by Jon. Real cool guy and gave great suggestions on placement and what would look good. I did a black and grey piece and I love it. He killed it! Did an awesome job. Will def be back for him to do my future pieces.

Johnny did three tattoos on me . The tattoos came out fireeee just the way I wanted them. Very detailed. He was very professional, talkative made me feel comfortable. I can’t wait to go back and get more tattoos by him. I’m recommending him to all my friends and family. I’m definitely coming back 💯💯

Jonny Metropolis did an amazing job on my tattoo he was very light handed throughout the wholeprocess and kept making sure it was okay. his skills really show throughout the whole process as he makes sure you know everything about your tattoo as well as the aftercare

I read a few yelp reviews about dan being condescending & rude ....theyre all true. My tattoo came out fine but he seemed like it was an inconvenience to tatt me. He didnt make me sign a waiver (like every other tattoo studio ive ever been to) and he didnt give aftercare instructions... I would not reccomend coming here go somewhere legit where they take their business serious & treat paying clients with respect

I’ve been getting tattooed here by Johnny for a long time. His work is phenomenal, he’s incredibly clean and professional and all around a fantastic artist !! Couldn’t recommend him more! 🙏🏻🙏🏻

This place is great if you want a high quality tattoo. Their minimum price is $100 but it’s worth the cost. Went with my bf yesterday to get his first tattoo and the artist there did a phenomenal job! He’s gotten so many compliments on it already :)

Be clear about your expectations with the artists here. Don’t be shy, ask them if they’re sure they can deliver the detail that you want.I didn’t do this and ended up disappointed with what I thought was a simple tattoo. It’s my 4th tattoo and I wouldn’t trust them to fix it. Going somewhere else to fix it or cover it up.

Studio is very laid back, and everyone is so welcoming and friendly! I got a tattoo done with Jonny Metropolis and he’s very professional, not to mention hilarious. 10/10 recommend!

Kaleb did a great job with my tattoo to commemorate my partner on the 4th anniversary of his death. It was my first tattoo and I expected it to hurt but it was fine. He took time to understand exactly what I wanted. Thanks, Kaleb!

They did a phenomenal job on both of my tattoos and all of my friends and family who have gone there. Definitely recommend it to anyone. Affordable pricing, great spot. I know I’ll definitely be back soon!

Love this place! Very high quality tattoo work and great company. Really enjoy the environment and professionalism by all. Great tips for keeping a tattoo clean and healthy after as well. 10/10 would recommend!

If I could leave 10 stars I WOULD! Talented, kind, patient, clean. Kaleb fit me in the same day I contacted him! I didn’t feel rushed whatsoever. He took his time and designed my piece perfectly- and it’s better than I imagined! I cannot wait to get more work done by him.10/10 WOULD ABSOLUTELY RECOMMEND!

Went there to get a tattoo artist Jessie. The tattoo was very Bland and no life you have to see close to see what the tattoo is.Said he would fix it. Made several appointments canceled never return phone calls. Talk to another artist another tattoo parlor that could fix it so dont waste your money go somewhere else

Got tattooed by Johnny at the wectchester tattoo con and he knocked it out of the park. also great conversation, professionalism and great talent all in one. -(got a highway sign for route 28 in new york) line work was perfect, placement was perfect, Im very happy with the art. -Jay

Kaleb is the man. My go-to artist. I have 5 pieces done by him. Professional and friendly. If you’re looking for a reputable spot in lower fairfield county this is it!

Do a great job, super professional, everyone in there knows what they’re doing. Have gotten 4 tattoos from there and have referred 2 friends and all peices have come out great. Definitely get what you pay for.

I came in today for my very first tattoo. I was referred to Chris a while back and we discussed what i wanted and how I wanted. in the end I left it all for Chris to put his own twist with his artistic skills. Chris knew this was my first tattoo ever, so he knew to make sure I was comfortable the entire time and kept checking on me to make sure I was okay. This is an experience Ill never want to forget. Everyone says Ill get addicted and you know what? Ill be back for sure.

Got a tat done by Jonny metropolis vibes were great and the tattoo came out amazing 👏 TIP YOUR ARTIST 🎨 👌🏻

Wouldn’t go anywhere else! Great work and always good vibes have been recommending all my friends and family here when they complement my tattoos

Kaleb is my tattoo artist, and he is a extremely talented and friendly. I highly recommend Big Dreams to anybody looking to get dope art.

Super professional Made me feel at home and comfortable cant wait to get my tattoo in a couple of days And I will keep you guys posted but Im sure its going to be amazing

I’ve gotten two tattoos done here. Dan is the best!! Always satisfied when I’m here. All very talented.

Kalwb is one of the most talented tattoo artists i have ever had the pleasure to be worked on by...he listens and his input is paramount......return customer for sure

Dan has the best line work and cleanest shop I have ever been to. Friendly and willing to work with you.

Got my first tattoo here by Johnny , atmosphere was great, very welcoming as well . Got exactly what I wanted I’m definitely going to be coming back

My experience there at Big Dreams Tatto shop was perfect.i had two of my tattoos done by johnny and both of them came out beautiful

They attended me really fast! amazing vibes here 100% recommend getting a piercing here !!

Clean, easy location to find with plenty of parking, and a wonderful set of artists that are very talented. Ive seen exceptionall work done and will make this my go too place for ink

Im a stickler when it comes to tattoo shops and Im so happy that this one is just down the road from me! Amy is amazing and I cant wait to go back!!!!!

Feels good to have a great tattoo shop here in stamford . I have gotten 3 tattoos from Jess and more to come . Great place , Great people

Amy did a great job. If I want another tattoo I would definitely come back. Thanks Amy!!!

Very happy got my first tattoo there by ChrisGreat staff clean and professional loved it great experience!

Got my first tattoo here By Jonny Metropolis! Hes the man! Definitely coming back for my second here!

The best tattoo shop I ever been to theyre great artists at doing there job I want them to do a tattoo for me again

My watercolor tat is amazing. Exactly what i wanted. Will definitely get more work done by this place.

Excellent artist, they work with you for best quality finish. Worth it if you want your art done right.

Dan was awesome. So precise with his work! Friendly and chill environment too.

Amazing work very professional. Felt very relaxed when getting inked. Super clean shop!

Amazing staff and the artist was accommodating and freindly. He answered any questions and changed to better accomidate my needs

Great customer service and great atmosphere. Price is worth the quality of the tattoo.

I had my fist tattoo and the vibe everything else was incredible I love it

Great place Kaleb is awesome got my first tattoo yesterday on my birthday

Awesome place, if your even thinking about getting a tat, go see Dan.

Best shop in stamford, very professional, and all the artists are great

Great atmosphere. The artists do a lot of custom work so they work with your ideas.

My tattoo Artist was great. Thank you Johnny

Best artists from CT, best of the best all with art backgrounds. Worth the $$$$$$$

Cool staff good atmosphere straight to the point I got taken care of asap

Great tattoo artist Dan!

Best tattoo place around. Luv it