Lyle Tuttle began tattooing in 1949 in California. His hard work and dedication led him to be considered responsible for bringing tattooing into the mainstream.

Lyle's world-renowned fame led to his appearance on the Late Show with Johnny Carson as well as the cover of Rolling Stone Magazine (which was photographed by the infamous Annie Lebowitz.) As tattooing became increasingly popular, more celebrities took notice and went to Lyle for work. Some of these people include Cher, Janis Joplin, and Peter Fonda. Lyle also worked with the San Francisco Department of Health to create modern and standardized techniques for sterilizing tattooing equipment.

Lyle has been retired from tattooing for over 15 years, but will occasionally tattoo a lucky enthusiast with his signature. He continues to travel the world giving seminars on building tattoo machines and maintaining tattoo machines.