Tough Love Studio Testimonials

Awesome experience and outstanding quality. Whether you are new to the world of tattoos and fine art or a long-time fan and practitioner, you’ll be impressed with the quality of work and studio atmosphere within your first step through the door. As far as tattoos go you cannot get a better method and quality of tattoo in this area than from Joel McClure.

To provide a brief history of my experience, I received two tattoos, both from Joel. The first tattoo is from a picture and the second (and much larger tattoo) is something I imagined and had nothing to provide the artist as to the idea, other than a couple of conversations. No sketches. No photos. The second was also done without a stencil… Understand I was basically rolling the dice when allowing the artist to custom design and FREEHAND most of the tattoo, but he came with great referral, great confidence, and I put my trust in his work ,and it paid off big time! It started as a medium sized tattoo on the inside of my arm, and grew into a half sleeve. Over 80% of the tattoo was freehand, and if you have the opportunity to visit the location and view his portfolio, you’ll be in disbelief he did this work freehand!

Austin M

St Louis, MO

I have sat down with Joel on over 10 tattoo sessions and have never experienced anything but good things. He explained everything clearly, was thorough, and his attention to detail was outstanding in my opinion.

Joel was the only tattoo artist that I could find that would do my hand tattoos. I checked out about 5 tattoo shops in the Minneapolis area. I have also gotten several compliments on my tattoos, even from people generally not interested in tattoos. Joel’s work, in my opinion, is excellent without a doubt. I wouldn’t spend the money, or more importantly, a permanent life mark, without trusting in him and his abilities. I would definitely recommend him to my friends.

Alex N

Minneapolis, MN

My tattoo is awesome, and more than I imagined it would be. It’s a very personal tribute to my mom and I think Joel was almost more excited about the tattoo than I was. And, he free-handed about 75 percent of it. I couldn’t be more impressed.

Meghan C

Minneapolis, MN

This is the real deal tattoo shop. If you’re looking to get a good tattoo that’s original, you need to go to Tough Love. I’ve gotten one tattoo there so far and I will never go to any other artist or shop. Most people go to a tattoo shop wanting to see the flash tattoos on the wall but this one is not like that. This one’s main focus is to please the customer by giving them an original tattoo that no one else will have, and that’s what I like.

Troy M

Burnsville, MN