Gregory “Pabby” Watkins — The Art, The Legacy, The Name Behind the Needle

Over 35 years in tattooing.Thousands of clients. Countless miles, conventions, studios, and stories.

For more than three decades, Gregory “Pabby” Watkins — known simply in the tattoo world as Pabby Tattooist — has built his life around one thing: the craft and discipline of skin art done right.

The Beginning of a Lifetime Craft

Born in Houma, Louisiana, Pabby’s path to tattooing started the way all true artists begin — not by chance, but by obsession. Long before the industry was mainstream, Pabby was already traveling, learning, and tattooing in an era where respect had to be earned, not bought.

With raw machines, long nights, and no shortcuts, he learned every layer of the skin and the psychology of the person beneath it. Over time, he refined his skill across every major style — from American traditional to fine-line realism, from black & grey to color portraiture — mastering the art that connects precision with permanence.

Building a Reputation Coast to Coast

Throughout the years, Pabby worked in and with some of the most respected studios in the country, collaborating with artists, owners, and collectors who recognized his consistency, professionalism, and dedication to craft.

He became a regular face at major tattoo conventions nationwide, known for his versatility, smooth composition, and technical control. Whether the piece is a bold classic or a lifelike portrait, Pabby’s hand brings balance — the kind that can only come from decades of repetition, humility, and respect for the art form.

Beyond the Needle — The Mentor and Craftsman

Tattooing isn’t just what Pabby does — it’s his language.
Over the years, he’s trained and mentored numerous apprentices, passing down the knowledge that only time and experience can teach: machine tuning, needle theory, skin depth, composition, and professional ethics.

He has also specialized in paramedical and scar-repair tattooing, using his precision and understanding of skin recovery to restore confidence and identity for people overcoming injury or surgery.

The Innovator — Creator of Old Pro Tattoo Aftercare

Pabby’s pursuit of mastery didn’t stop at the needle. Decades of working directly with healing skin drove him to ask a simple question:

“If we can create better tattoos, why can’t we create better healing?”

That question led to the founding of Old Pro LLC and the development of the Old Pro Tattoo Aftercare system — a clean, FDA-aligned, medical-grade skin recovery line that’s now changing how artists and clients care for tattoos worldwide.

Old Pro was born not from theory, but from 35 years of working with real skin, real clients, and real results.

A Lifetime of Craft and Integrity

Today, Pabby continues to tattoo with the same drive that started it all — precision, patience, and pride in his work. His reputation is built on honesty, craftsmanship, and respect for both the art and the people wearing it.

Whether working from a private studio, traveling for guest spots, or appearing at conventions, Pabby Tattooist remains one of the few who truly represent the old-school foundation of tattooing while pushing its modern evolution.

“Tattooing isn’t just art. It’s connection, it’s discipline, and it’s legacy.
Every piece is a story — and I’ve spent my life making sure the story is told right.”
— Gregory “Pabby” Watkins