Welcome to Convicted Designs Tattoo & Piercing

Artists

Samson Akers

Samson Akers was born in Lemon, South Dakota, and was raised in Rapid City, South Dakota. I am a convicted felon. I have changed my life around and beat some crazy odds in my recovery. With that being said, I want to encourage other felons who have changed their lives around. Being a productive member in our society, I will offer a forever special, and I will give 20% off any tattoo. There is a catch, to qualify for the discount. You must show proof of completion of after care, treatment, parole, or probation. I would like to recognize those have changed their lives.

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April Akers

April Akers has been a part of Convicted Designs since 2015 earning the title Piercing Artist in 2016. April is focused on the best experiences for her clients and strives to offer affordable quality jewelry and aftercare.

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Josh Teeters

Piercing apprentice, Musician, Shop vibe management. In the words of Ricky Bobby, “I don’t know what to do with my hands.”

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Lynae

My name is Lynae, I’m new to the tattoo industry, I started here at Convicted Designs Tattoo and Piercing. Working under Samson Akers, I first met Sam at only 9 years old, when he was working for my father until he started on his tattoo journey. I’ve been interested in tattooing for many years, and drawing all my life. I really enjoy using bright pops of color, and bring vibrancy to the skin. If I had to pick a favorite I’d say black and grey fine line tattoos, however I hope to learn as many styles as I can. As I have not been in the industry long I look forward to learning something new everyday and meeting new people. My main focus is to work with clients imaginations, and bringing their ideas to life with a forever piece of art on their body. Overall shop life is thrilling and I look forward to meeting you.

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Jay Blevins

Jay Blevins has been tattooing since 1996.
Recently transplanted from Ohio Jay has brought his brand of grumpiness to the Black Hills. Jay likes dogs, eggs and short walks to the refrigerator. Jay digs bold, colorful tattoos but is capable of most anything a client would like. Come get some of his Ohio-style and be a grump with him!

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Requirements

We WILL NOT provide services to any individual under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone.
Valid State Issued Photo ID of ALL clients.
Tattoos for clients age 16 to 18 will need a parent/guardian present with Valid State Issued Photo ID.
Piercings for clients age 14-18 will need a parent/guardian present with Valid State Issued Photo ID.
Clients under the age of 18 piercing restrictions: CALL AHEAD FOR RESTRICTIONS: 605-716-5230
Deposits are required upon appointment booking.
Deposits are non- refundable and will be used towards the balance of total bill.
Forms of payment accepted: Cash and all Major Credit Cards.
We DO NOT accept checks.
Eating before ANY and ALL appointments is advisable.

FAQ

How do I set up an appointment?

First step would be to determine which artist you’d like to get tattooed by. Reviewing portfolios online or at the shop will help you make this decision. Once you’ve selected your tattoo artist, please call or stop in to set up a consultation. The artist will set time aside to hear your ideas and look over any references you may have (ie: photos or sketches). From there, you’ll schedule a tattoo appointment.

Can I bring a friend?

We encourage having a friend with you. Although, too many people can be distracting to you and, particularly, your tattoo artist. Please use discretion.

How do I prepare for a tattoo?

It’s important to be well rested before getting tattooed. Make sure that you have had something to eat and are wearing appropriate clothing for where you are getting tattooed. Feel free to bring a book, iPod or Walkman to listen to. Show up on time for your appointment. Don’t come in drunk or under the influence of any drugs.

Are the artists licensed?

Yes, Convicted Designs Tattoo & Piercing and its artists are all licensed professionals.

Is the ink new for each client?

Yes, all ink is poured into a single use container and disposed of after each tattoo.

Are the needles new?

Each needle is sterile and single use, with an expiration date. We dispose of every needle in a sharps container, just like hospitals do. All non-disposable equipment is sterilized with an autoclave on site.

How old do you have to be to get tattooed?

In the State of South Dakota, you must be 18 years old to get tattooed, and must have a valid photo ID (driver’s license, state issued ID, passports). If you have no ID, no tattoo.

About Us

Convicted Designs Tattoo and Piercing opened their doors December 2015. Samson Akers , Dan Nobles and April Akers accomplished the impossible. They overcame their pasts, overcame adversity, and made their dream come alive. Together, they supported each other to open the doors of their dream and never looked back.

Samson Akers was born in Lemon, South Dakota, and was raised in Rapid City, South Dakota. April Akers is originally from Custer,Their journeys started separately and ended together. Together, they became stronger and started to develop the dream of Convicted Designs Tattoo and Piercing. A place meant to bring others hope of an amazing future.

In the early stages of their lives they made choices that many in society would frown upon. Some would say that they are social misfits. Every choice has a consequence. Due to their poor choices they had larger consequences to face. Instead of running from their consequences, they faced the consequences of their choices head on. Owning the mistakes made them who they are today. It is not about the fall in life that we focus on, everyone falls, it is about the rise after the fall that counts.

The only business in South Dakota which offers a 20%discount to felons who have changed their lives for the better any tattoo, with proof of after care treatment, parole, probation, and for sobriety anniversaries. We also offer 20% discounts for military, retired military, students with a student I.D.

Testimonials

Karrie N.

I have got all my tattoo there. all the people are very friendly people!! alson great work.

Jillian S.

Friendly Welcoming Professional Talented Patient Comfortable. I loved every second of my experience. Samson was my artist - but everyone was friendly and fantastic. Samson did an AMAZING job, was so professional, friendly, and a joy to be around. I will definitely be returning. I couldn't imagine going to anyone/anywhere else. Give these guys a call!

Makayla R.

Took my 16yr old twins to Sam today for their first tatoo. He did a great job, was very patient and took breaks as needed. I will definitely be back again for some more work myself and for them!!!

Maggie S.

I got my first tattoo on my wrist from Josh while on vacation to the Hills. Highly recommend him & will be back in the future!

Ali S.

I had mine done by the owner he was very very professional clean and he went over my tattoo with me before he started working on it. He was quick and did and excellent job. He even offered a discount for when I come back to finish it... Great place Great experience!!!

Sarah C.

Sam was amazing!!! Love how this thigh piece turned out. I debated on this for 2 years and so glad I chose him to do it for me!! Very professional! Highly recommended. Found my man. Sorry April! Lol. Great place with amazing staff!

Sarah W.

Such an amazing experience! My work was BEAUTIFUL!! I could not have asked for better!!

Aleasha J.

Great experience, Clean shop and friendly artist. Got us in quick and took care of us no problem.

Karrissa T.

I was a walk in during my vacation. Dan was super helpful with my tattoo design and knew exactly what I wanted. He was very professional buy very easy to talk to and the whole appointment was very enjoyable. The shop was very clean and everyone was very friendly. We wore masks, per the note on the door, which was fine. My tattoo looks awesome and I will definitely go back!!!

Amanda R.

My husband and I highly recommend Dan. He was great to work with, very professional, and did a great job!

Ashely B.

These Guys Did An Amazing Job On Both My Husband And My Tattoos. They Were Accommodating, Very Friendly, And Made The Entire Experience Fantastic. Would Definitely Recommend For Any Tattooing.

Anneka A.

Awesome place with friendly artists. I booked an appointment with Josh and last minute changed how I wanted my design to look and he was super accommodating and changed it! The tattoo process itself was painless and relaxing and normally I get anxious before a session. Next time I get a tattoo I will definitely go back to Convicted Designs! 100% recommend to anybody! The shop is very clean and the staff is very friendly and warm!

Contact Us

Address: 116 East Blvd. North Rapid City, SD 57701

Phone: (605) 716-5230

Hours:

SUNDAY: 12PM – 6PM

MONDAY: 11AM – 7PM

TUESDAY: 11AM – 7PM

WEDNESDAY: CLOSED

THURSDAY: 11AM – 7PM

FRIDAY: 12PM – 8PM

SATURDAY: CLOSED