Dovetail Tattoo East

Best shop in all of Austin. Clean, lots of cool decor, and good tunes always playing.

Wendi is a true artist with the vision and unmatched expertise to turn an idea into a masterpiece. If she's not available, though, don't fret because all of the artists at Dovetail are uniquely talented. Whatever style you prefer, they can take care of your tattoo.

I got my first tattoo ever here from Catherine. She made the entire process really comfortable, her work was phenomenal, she was extremely professional and attentive even during the healing process after the tattoo was done, and to top it off she’s great fun to chat with while she’s tattooing you. Overall, could not have asked for a better first tattoo experience.

Hands down, the best tattoo experience I've ever had! I remember seeing my friend's tattoo that she had done (at Dovetail) and I was blown away. I said to myself, "I need something like that!" So, I scrolled through their Instagram page and fell in love with Catherine's artwork! I knew Catherine would be able to create something that I would love for life! I wanted a memorial portrait of my dog with some flowers. I then wanted a coverup of another tattoo that was done at another shop. Without any hesitation, Catherine was able to draw up some ideas for me. Needless to say, I was blown away. She was able to create an image of my dog, named Ringo, that was incredibly realistic! Dare I say, she made him even look more handsome than he really was!

The experience of the tattoo was the best I've ever had - she was so kind and was always making sure that I felt comfortable. She made sure to give me instructions to take care of my tattoo at home. Catherine even checked up on my via email.

With all that said, I urge you to check out Catherine's artwork. She is so kind, sweet, accommodating, and talented. You will not be disappointed!

I found Dovetail through Erika Leal on Instagram, and I came to her with some ideas for this piece. She worked on it and came up with a more beautiful concept than I ever could have! The shop is beautiful and friendly inside, and all of the artists seem like great people. Erika did an amazing job on my piece over the course of four session. The shop is clean, everyone uses new, disposable tools and opens them where you can see. I absolutely loved my experience and I will 100% be back!!

I have only seen Carlos here, but this place is amazing. Welcoming and amazing artists.

I went to Dovetail today for my very first tattoo with Nika! My experience far exceeded my expectations. Being it was my first time, I was nervous abs not sure what to expect but Nika was so kind and helpful. She made sure my tattoo was exactly what I wanted and how I wanted. She was very involved and reassuring. She was kind, warm and so friendly that made the whole process a breeze! I will be referring Nika and Dovetail to all my friends!

I’ve gotten two tattoos from Catherine and I plan to keep going back. I’ve never felt more comfortable with a tattoo artist! Plus, her flash designs are fantastic. Getting work done with her is always a lovely time.

Got some absolutely phenomenal ink from Catherine over the past few months! She's catherine_alice_ on Instagram and I highly encourage you to check out her work. I'd been working on my tattoo designs for three years by the time I stumbled across Catherine's portfolio and instantly knew her style was perfect for what I had in mind (an awesome mix of illustrative and realistic work). I was worried any artist I chose would be turned off by my super specific vision for my pieces, but she was awesome to work with every step of the way: super excited about the work I wanted done, willing to tweak things if I asked but not hesitant to make suggestions that would improve the tattoos as she brought the designs to life. She was kind, accommodating, and super fun to chat with while actually getting the tattoo done as well, and eager to answer questions about aftercare once the pieces were completed. I'm over the moon with these pieces and would highly recommend her to others (especially if you want any kind of animal tattoo)! For those who might be nervous or intimidated to get a first piece, she'd also be great to work with, since she's super sweet and never makes you feel dumb for asking questions. :)

As for the shop itself, Dovetail looks cool as hell inside, and it's clean and tidy, with a couple good options for pre-tattoo food right nearby. Plus it's a woman-owned business, which I was personally really stoked to support.

I have gone here with friendsfor their tattoos, and have had tattoos done by Catherine Fontenot as well. This place is pretty damn swell. Relaxed, clean and interesting to look at, with amazing artists. Highly recommend as a shop in general! Cat is a wonderful human and a great artist. Whimsy, cute, fantasy, dark she is talented in many areas, and always comes up with pleasing designs. Much love to her and this shop!

Got an amazing tattoo from Rey, he was happy to answer my questions and make adjustments to my piece. The place is comfortable and clean and I wouldn't hesitate to come back in the future. I couldn't be happier with my tattoo