I would not recommend this place if you have anything challenging in mind. Â I brought in a maze I drew that I wanted tattooed around my upper arm. Â Was basically laughed at, mocked, and told I would have to go to one of the coasts to get that sort of work done, that no one in Chicago would do it. Â
I knew my project would not be an easy one, but was very much surprised at how quickly I was turned away. Â I guess it would have been much easier if I wanted something typical, like a dragon or butterfly.
I came in today looking just to get a gold hoop and I got much more than a bargained for. Alison (the piercer) went through the whole process of what she was doing so that the hoop I was getting was a custom fit. She fit the hoop so that way it could look as if I had two hoop piercings instead of one when I wanted that look, but for work I would switch it around to one ring! Amazing!
Best part is that Alison didn't even pierce my nose to begin with, but still gave me a status on its healing process and what to do to keep it healthy. She also gave my a punch card with her to redeem points with her as the piercer. Sure wishing I went to her to get the work done in the first place. MUST see her- she's amazing.
This place is the bees' knees. I went to Dave (David McNair), who hums a little bit very quietly for about eight-and-a-half seconds at intervals of fifteen to twenty minutes and does gorgeous, precise detail and line work. Sometimes the humming can sound as though he is making like a quiet "uh oh" grunt -- don't be alarmed.
I sent in the image I wanted to work with the evening before I went in, and we did a quick consult the day of before getting down to business. Really comfortable waiting area. There were about four people working while I was there and they were all sassing each other which made for an open/warm/non-intimidating environment. (They also let my boyfriend come back with me and squeeze my hip the whole time because I'm a goddamn pansy even though this wasn't my first time. On that note, for any ladies or hairless gentlemen or otherwise-identified-folk out there, if you ARE thinking of getting your first tattoo and are worried about the pain level, I will say this: It is nothing, like absolutely nothing, compared to getting your business waxed. If you can handle getting the hair ripped out of your vagina, this will feel like a frickin' breezy ink tickle.)
Anyway, I am SO HAPPY with how my tattoo turned out -- even better than I'd imagined, thanks to Dave's experience and knowledge of what works and what doesn't when transforming a drawing on paper into something that will look great on your skin and stay looking great for as long as you both shall live and sag etc.
My tattoo (about five inches, inner bicep, bearded man with a bird on his head, tons of stippling) came out to $160, which might sound steep but honestly I believe is incredibly reasonable given the level of detail, the quality of the work, and the focus required. Also the fact that this place is clean and professional and probably won't give you AIDS. You're getting art, people! On your body! Forever! Performed live and on demand! Buck up!
Chicago Tattooing Company is great, Dave is great, tattoos are great, everything is great. Come to here.
No experience with getting tattoos here, so I can't help in that department...
I initially visited The Chicago Tattooing & Piercing Company (I'm abbreviating it as CTPC for simplicity from here on out) because I was 200+ miles away from campus and needed to have my newly pierced (and infected/swollen) cartilage piercing managed. Â Allison Minor patiently took the time to help me resolve the problem AND teach me a bit about jewelry quality at the same time. Â She was very professional yet personable at the same time, and was straightforward with her opinions and recommendations. Â She even cared enough about her work to ask me to stay in touch and update her on how the healing came along with the newly inserted (much higher quality) jewelry.
I ran into problems with another cartilage piercing when I came back to school and went to another piercing shop to have it checked out. Â When I asked that place if they'd be able to insert the same type of jewelry that Allison had placed in my other piercing, I was told "We don't carry that... that brand is like the BMW of body jewelry... we carry good stuff but not as good.. we have Cadillacs."
The point of this is: Â Yes, although the prices at CTPC may seem steeper than some other places you've visited, realize that you are actually getting a bargain. Â You are getting a piercing done by a fantastic professional with nearly a decade of piercing experience, who chooses to use only the top notch jewelry because she truly cares about quality work.
On a side note, Allison also took the time to help me find a reputable piercer in my area since I was just visiting Chicago when I first walked in to CTPC. Â You don't meet people like that every day!
Fast forward a few years...I've now got 18 tattoos and most all of them have been done here. The last few were all done by Josh Howard, whose work is so amazing I'm constantly stopped on the street (I live in NYC now) by people demanding to know who did my work.
Over the years, I was also pierced a few times and can confidently say that the best in Chicago is Rudy -- he really takes the time to make sure you're relaxed and as comfortable as possible before you willingly inflict a puncture wound upon yourself.
Even though I live in NYC now, I'll still get all my work done here. Once you find a good artist it's hard to give that up!
Not sure how the tattoo work is, but Rudy the piercer was amazing. I am so used to piercers being annoyed by questions and a feeling of rushed service, going here was quite refreshing. Rudy was super nice and took his time with me. I had a dermal removed and was a bit scared of the pain involved, he made it as comfortable as possible and even spent time explaining what will happen after the piercing is removed. I will def be coming here for all my piercing needs, as well as recommending them to everyone I know.
Review Source:I was in about a month ago getting my Daith pierced by Rudy, I was a walk-in and waited no more than 5 minutes to get pierced. The experience was quick, professional, friendly and (mostly) painless. The whole procedure was done in minutes and barely hurt or bled. Rudy is about a good at they come! He did a great job explaining the aftercare and was just really friendly and made my experience a five-star one!
A month later, I've had 0 problems with my piercing. No wanton bleeding or unexpected swelling, the ring sits where it should and I am really pleased with my experience start to finish.
Thanks Chicago Tattoo!
My two complaints are that the man in the front was rude. Â I asked him for a design and he printed it out but I didn't think it looked right so I showed him a different one. Â He argued with me saying they are the same. Â Not sure why he cared, just do the one I want. Â Also there was really no system for pricing, they just make it up and could be ripping you off. Â Not saying I was ripped off, I just had no idea if I was paying a fair price or not. Â The guy that did my tattoo was very nice, answered all my questions and did a great job. Â I am happy with the result.
Review Source:I get all my piercings here, and each time, I leave with a sad empty wallet, but I leave with a smile and new shinies. Allison is one of the regular piercers there and she is personable, sensible, and trustworthy. Putting holes in your body could be a scary thing, but Allison makes you feel okay. She's like the nurse you'd want to have when you're going through labor. I also love that she gives her clients her Facebook page to contact her easily.
They have top-quality jewelry that makes Claire's look like Barbie doll accessories. Sometimes they're out of stock on a lot of things, but Allison's Facebook will oftentimes let you know when new jewelry comes in store. They also tell you to use H2Ocean after-piercing spray that they sell (also on Amazon, probably cheaper) instead of the salt water rinse that other piercers recommend, but I guess that's up to you.
I have never personally gotten tattooed but I recommended this place to a friend after accompanying her to several tattoo parlors that gave her bad attitude instead of the design she wanted. She was under the needle for a little over two hours, but her tattoo artist, Joel, did a commendable artistic job. He quickly drew up a beautiful design and quietly started to work. Focused, neat, and steady. Weeks later, her tattoo looks incredible. If I ever decide to get inked, I'll come here too.
4 stars not 5 because I do think they are overpriced - but alas, I willingly pay for the quality of the service and of course, I am now attached to this brand.
This place may not know what they are sticking in your body; typically a bad sign in a tattoo shop. Then again, maybe they know and they just don't care.
Kurosumi black ink ("is doesn't outline well" -shop), as well as many others (Intenze, Waverley, Stable, Skin Candy) are vegan. Upon asking the person behind the counter at this shop if they had any inks that were vegan, her "I don't know/that doesn't outline well/we won't lie and say they are" quickly turned into "that doesn't exist" as one of the tattoo artists chimed in to speak over the woman at the counter.
I think she was struggling to have an answer, he was enjoying being obtuse (or he I was being a jerk and wanted me to go away?). She had at least spoke about looking into it, and apologized if the response seemed rude. I wanted to find out if any of the inks at all were vegan, aside from black (which even if vegan did poorly). The artist muttered something about organic inks, or something, and then it was time to go.
There is a review by a well-known vegan getting a piece done here, and that they used all vegan inks; sounds like they just don't know what they were using and either don't care or have no standards, or there was a person who did know but is longer there and they don't cultivate the kind of culture that would be able to answer this question thoughtfully.
I will say, the one artist said that none of the inks he had had tried to eat any animals, so they were probably all vegan, and that was funny. In all honesty, they may have even been trying to be helpful. It seems like they were just not adequately informed and asking what the ingredients of the inks were was too problematic to answer.
The truth is, if a shop doesn't know if they're inks aren't vegan or don't buy vegan -specific inks, it is appreciated if it is stated in exactly that fashion "we don't buy any specifically vegan inks." To deny the existence of said inks, or to lie and say the inks are vegan, and on top of it to be rude and mock a potential client and impose your opinion in a space it wasn't requested is asinine.
I appreciate that the clerk said "we won't lie and tell you the inks are vegan", but then she added "some other shops will tell you they are and they are liars". So, this means that the tattoo artist you got a vegan tattoo with, who was scrupulous, was actually a liar according to this place, and that by extension, you are an idiot who ate up a lie.
Maybe I am unwilling to see the world as it truly is, but after doing some simple research it doesn't seem the case.
I can't believe I haven't written a review for place.
I come in here from time to time  (more when I lived in the city) to buy jewelry for my piercings and stretched lobes (I've never been  in for a tattoo as I am scared to death of needles).
I remember the first time I came in I was looking for a very specific piece for my lobes. There was a huge line of people in the shop mainly 2 "girls" who couldn't decide what they wanted (shouldn't you know what you basically want before you arrive to a place where they are going to put something permanently on your body?) Â I was pretty patient that day and the woman who helped my apologized for the wait. I was a 4g at the time and the woman at the front desk just looked at my ears and she said I really don't think you are a 4g she was like I think you are at a 2g (she was crazy nice when she said it and I had a chuckle because I was like there is no way she would just know by looking at my ears) Â I was like really-They had stretched overtime with the heavy CR I had worn in my tunnels...And guess what she was right. She was really great with information and questions (I wish I could remember her name!)
After I purchased what I wanted she offered to have one of their people put in the jewelry.He was super nice (shorter in height and black hair) and we had a good giggle at my apprehension of someone else inflicting pain onto me. He was really gentle and quick! As he helped me remove my pain in the a#% stainless steel eyelet tunnels I had elected to be put in when I was in NYC.
The place is super clean and there is no cockiness or that über cool thing gong on. Â
The jewelry is good quality and they have a pretty good selection.
Come in for good friendly service in a clean environment.
By far the most positive, all-around piercing experience I've ever had. The store is clean, organized, and welcoming. Everyone was friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. I went in thinking I'd want a double tragus, but Ruth actually came up with a fantastic idea for something a little different-- and I love it!
Good prices, fantastic service, and a great experience! I'm going back here for all my future piercings.
I called this morning to see if there were openings to have two dermal anchors removed. They told me to just walk in, which I was weary of, but hey, they know their books! I did walk in a couple hours later and I believe I waited a whole six minutes, which was absolutely fine. I was asked a few simple questions before going back, just so the piercer knew what he was dealing with, which I also did not mind. Rudy was so friendly and relaxed, and I immediately knew I was in good hands. I've actually already emailed the shop to order new jewelry for my remaining anchors. I will also probably be going to get tattooed here whenever I'm ready next, as my last artist out of NYC recommended me to an artist here. The staff is very friendly and easy going, which I thoroughly enjoy when having people stab me with needles.
Review Source:So I stopped in on Monday with my friend who wanted to get her nose pierced, and we were blown away!
The place was beautiful. It was clean, had a nice big open floor plan, and it smelled nice. The room was basically a doctors office. Everything was clean, brand new, and sterile. You could probably lick the floor in the place, no joke.
The jewelry selection was top of the line. If a stone were to fall out of any piece, for example, it is 100% guaranteed to replace for free.
We were greeted first by the shop manager and then out came the woman who did the piercing. Allison. She was super cool and extremely professional!! She was very thorough and answered any question we had. She walked us though everything from jewelry selection and information to the exact piercing process to care and maintenance.
I would totally recommend her to anyone looking for a wonderful professional for their next peircing.
I know I will definitely be going back!!
All I can say is this place is amazing! I came in late on Monday for a tattoo and was greeted by Allison. She was so nice and took care of my right away. She had Matt draw up my design and we were off!
Matt did an amazing job on my tattoo. The place was clean as can be, organized, and to the point.
Ruth also was really nice in helping me with my piercing issue/questions. Unlike other places, she didn't make me feel dumb. Just proves again why this shop is at the top.
Just came in last Friday night to have my septum pierced (after not having been pierced for probably 10 years!).
Ruth was awesome - super accommodating. I had chosen a 12g captive, but the diameter was just too large, so she went and grabbed me a different one with a more appropriate diameter - then it was on with the show.
The shop is clean, Ruth is super friendly, and my piercing is super cute and perfectly placed! I will definitely come back to her for more.
I got my first tattoo here- it was SUCH a great experience! Everyone was so nice and helpful and made me feel very secure and comfortable. I recommend seeing David McNair.
My friend and I went in to Chicago Tattoo & Piercing Co. on a Saturday afternoon, soon after they opened for the day. It had been recommended to me by two friends who had each gotten work done there. I was going to get my first tattoo and my friend was going to get one of hers touched-up. Since we didn't have a specific artist we wanted to work with, we didn't need a reservation. I'm glad we got there right after Noon, because the place filled up pretty quickly.
After examining my friend's tattoo, one of the artist's told her that it wasn't actually faded and it wasn't worth getting it touched-up and recommended that she just get a new tattoo instead. He was nice in explaining why the tattoo wasn't worth a touch-up and was very honest about it.
I went first to get my tattoo. I was nervous, since it was my first time even inside a tattoo parlor, and didn't know what to expect. I HIGHLY recommend seeing David McNair! He was immediately reassuring once I told him this was my first tattoo and was so friendly and helpful through the whole process! According to his card, his hours are Saturday-Wednesday, Noon-6pm.
My tattoo is script about 4 inches long on my ribs. It took only about 10 minutes and wasn't nearly as painful as I expected. He talked me through the whole process and he never made me feel uncomfortable. My tattoo was $80 before tip. Don't forget to tip!!!
He worked on my friend next (she decided to get four small birds behind her ear). She was originally quoted $100 but after he finished with her, he told her that hers would only cost $80 as well. He obviously gave us a deal, so don't expect the same, depending on what you get, but I thought it was really nice of him! We had a great conversation with him and honestly had a lot of fun.
The place was clean, everyone was professional, friendly, and welcoming. They totally broke the mold of what I had in my mind of a dank, scary tattoo parlor. I will be going back to them when I decide to get another tattoo and will be making a reservation with David. Thanks Chicago Tattoo & Piercing Company!!!
I've had a couple of tattoos done here, and they've always turned out great. David (the artist) is friendly and helpful, and the prices and art are excellent.
The one thing stopping me from giving a higher rating is their front desk guy. I came in today with three friends to get very small tattoos of similar shapes, and the receptionist/cashier/whoever just could not shut up about what a dumb idea we had. He said our design was "impossible to execute as a tattoo," whatever that means--the artist didn't seem to have any trouble doing it. He muttered to another customer, under his breath but clearly meaning for us to hear him, "They want to get tattoos, but they don't want real ones." Worst of all, while my friend was deciding which direction her shape should face, the guy said "It's so small, does it even matter?" Yeah, Tattoo Cashier, it does matter, it's a permanent tattoo. If you hate it so much, feel free to NOT GET IT TATTOOED ON YOUR OWN SKIN. Sorry we're not hardcore enough to earn your approval.
I'm really glad David was so great, because being made fun of by the secretary for the entire two hours we were in there left a bad taste in our mouths. I'd still recommend the place, but I wish they'd tell their clerk to stop rolling his eyes at the customers (or fire him for being such an asshole).
My friend and I went in to get our ears pierced today (she got her cartilage pierced and I got a triple forward helix) and it was a great experience. Â I went in with what I thought was an absurd amount of questions, but everyone was incredibly helpful and knowledgeable. Â Rudy did both of our piercings and he was fabulous. Â He explained the procedures, how to take care of the piercings, and assured us that we could drop by whenever if we had questions or needed any help.
I would definitely recommend going here if you want to get something pierced. Â They are top notch!
Last night I got a monroe done and my friend a triple helix from Rudy.  He did an amazing job!  This is hands down the best place in Chicago for piercing and jewelry.  They are a little bit more expensive, but I would rather pay for quality than have to take  a piercing because of sub-par jewelry or piercing placement.
Review Source:Nick Colella did my first tattoo about 2 years ago and was very helpful - did not seem irritated regardless of the number of questions I asked. I've heard horror stories from friends about artists who come off snobby upon tattooing someone for the first time. Luckily I did not have this experience, as Nick seemed to really enjoy what he does. I'm still happy with the tattoo.
I went back a couple of times to be tattooed by either Nick or David. More or less, it's a tattoo shop and they're very standard in their approach. You get what you pay for. I think their shop minimum is $60, about average for shops in the area give or take $10. It's very clean inside.
4 stars because they don't really seem to care to build relationships with their clients, which was important to me when I was planning my sleeve. Unfortunately, I couldn't seem to get the results I wanted at Chicago Tattoo so I found an artist elsewhere who I'm very happy with and who has my complete business.
Regardless of where you go, tip your artist well!
I came here on my birthday to get a tragus piercing. I know their prices are higher than most tattoo shops in the area, but I decided to go because of the awesome reviews on here.
The girl at the front desk wasn't very friendly. She actually looked miserable. Maybe she was just being rude I couldn't tell. I believe Rudy was my piercer. He did his job. Told me about how to take care of it and what not to use, but what stood out was he told me if I had any questions about my new piercing feel free to call.
Well about a couple months later my piercing looked irritated. I am not sure if I was allergic to the jewerly or how I was taking care of it irritated it. I followed the directions so I am still not sure. Well I decided to call to ask what I could do to make sure the piercing heals properly so I wouldn't have to take it out. A guy picked up. I asked him who could I talk to about an irritated possibly infected tragus.. Right away he rudely tells me a doctor. Um, yes obviously I could talk to a doctor.. But I was told I would be able to call if I had questions or concerns. He put me on a hold for a minute then tells me I could come in and they would look at it. Now why would I want to come in after you were so rude on the phone? No thanks. My piercing is doing a lot better thanks to advice on how to care for it from another tattoo shop.
One of the best if not the best piercer in town his name is Rudy  ask for him
Hes a cool guy never rude at all very professional being knowing him for years everyone ive sent  never has been disappointed  took my girlfirend for a ear bar  a year ago took 5 minutes she loves it thank again rudy truly one of chicagos finest..
After browsing the portfolios of seemingly hundreds of traditional-style tattooists in Chicago (with maybe 10% of them actually being GOOD), I settled on Mario based on his website and the recommendations of some of my friends who are more into trad work. Â I emailed him a very basic idea of content and placement, and set up an appointment to come see him later that week. Â
I showed up at the shop to find he had already sketched out something that was exactly what I had in mind. Â Of course we're not talking super complex details here; I wanted something with his style of skulls, daggers,and spiders in bold color and solid lines to run the length of the back of my right forearm. Â People need to understand that you should seek out an artists whose strengths and style play to what you are looking for, and let THEM come up with a piece that satisfies you... not try to shoehorn your own immutable ideas into the style (or lack thereof) of the first tattooist you lay eyes on.
Anyway, stepping off my soapbox, Mario was a friendly dude, a consummate professional tattooist, and his piece is my current favorite on my body. Â I get compliments and questions about it all the time and I always direct people to CTC. Â I'll be back for more work, I want at least one more Mario piece and something from Nick as well. Â You cannot go wrong at CTC.
I have been getting tattooed for 38 years now, so I imagine I know a bit about what makes a decent tattoo and a decent tattoo parlor.
That said, Chicago Tattooing Company is the best in the city, and I would say among the best in the country.
Those complaining about the price of small tattoos, or the look of them, should realize that a large part of the cost is fixed. Â Disposable EVERYTHING, so whether you get a zit-on-a-stick or a full back-piece, the cost is the same. Â Also, if you pick something off the wall, you are going to pay more than you would for custom work.
Looking at all these reviews, I have to think that a chunk of them are bogus. Â Mario Desa "green"? Â Tattoos swelling and piercings getting infected??? Â No, I believe what you read here are comments from friends and/or employees of other, lesser shops.
I have about 80 hours of tattooing that has been done at this shop, and I am proud of every inch of it. Â There is none better around, period. Â
I would challenge anyone leaving a negative review to go back to the shop, ask for Dale or Nick, and clear-up whatever problem you feel you have. Â I have never known them to just shine someone on.
Rudy is a wonderful piercer, he totally saved the day. A week ago I got my monroe pierced in Boston. A week later it still hurt to smile, and was pressing against my gum in a really uncomfortable way. So today I stopped in to Chicago Tattooing and Piercing to have someone take a look at it. I couldn't go back to the place I got it done because I was on vacation when I got it.
The jewelry the original piercer used was too short and the ball was digging into my skin, which was why it hurt to smile. Rudy also told me that it should have been angled up more so that didn't catch. I decided to take it out, which he did for me. What neither of us counted on was how tight the jewelry was screwed on. It took about ten minutes and two different tools to finally get it unscrewed, but he always had a plan B and knew what to do. It hurt, but he was as gentle as could be and soooo nice about it. No one likes having little pliers anywhere near their face, but he really made me feel at ease and is an expert at his craft! I've never met a more friendly and obliging piercer. He didn't even charge me (though of course I tipped him). For all your piercing needs, Rudy is your guy: kind and knowledgeable!
What a top notch place! I came here a few years ago to get my tragus pierced and returned again recently for a tattoo. When it comes to tattoos, I'm pretty straightforward. I emailed the desired quote and font to the shop's email and was sized and priced within minutes. Before I knew it, I was under Erik's needle and then back out into the world with some fresh ink.
Most of the work posted on their website leans towards traditional tattoos, but through the power of creeping on acquaintances on Facebook, there's also a lot of more modern pieces floating around there too!
The employees here are incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and upbeat. I would definitely recommend this place to any of my friends!
Went in to get my first tattoo with Mike Dalton. It was a decently sized chest piece of a clown fish in sea anemone. He was quick, efficient and did excellent work, completing it in about an hour and fifteen minutes for just over $200. Afterwards, he suggested a great sushi place to celebrate the completion of the tattoo, which was pretty cool.
So long as you know what you want, where you want it and how you want it tattooed, the folks here will give you the best attention and service you can expect. I would highly recommend anyone getting their first tattoo to get it here.
What a great shop! Â Very very clean, cool artwork all over the walls... Â I paid $50 down for Mike to do a drawing for me after I gave him a roundabout description of what I wanted, a black and grey shading tattoo of skulls and a rose. Â He had me come back in a week, which I gladly did. Â
The drawing he came up with was exactly what I was looking for. Â He was very pleasant while working, which was just an added bonus, as impressive artistry is most important to me. Â
We struck nice, light conversation in the 2 hours that it took to finish working on my shoulder. Â Dale and the cool girl in front were very nice too! Â I guess we all had a common bond with cats :) Â The end result was an awesome piece of art. Â Absolutely BEAUTIFUL. I have received so many compliments on it. Â
I have read other reviews on here with people skeptic about pricing. Â You pay for what you get. Â Mike did my tattoo, and he is one hell of an artist! Â I've seen pics of his work doing portraits of pets and I plan on going back to have him do a picture of my cat who passed recently.... Â
Overall, I could not be happier with my experience! Â Thanks Chicago Tattooing Company!!!
As soon as I walked in, I was greeted right away. All three artists in the shop were rally receptive and helpful. I laid out my idea for them and i immediately Nick started working on drawing it up. I told him the style and placement and he actually recommended a better idea for me. Price was reasonable for being outside a large city like Chicago. I was even able to talk him down $10. Nick has been there since 1987 and knows his stuff. Has some great stories for you as well. The pictures and rustic atmosphere also make you feel like your actually at a tattoo shop. Parking can be an issue, try to go when they open so you can try to find a spot.
Review Source:It's been a long time since I got my tat here (1987) and I am certain I wouldn't even recognize the place. This is back in the day when Jon Bon Jovi was a rebel with his postage stamp Superman tat...laughable.
Chicago Tattooing was classic Americana! I was scared shitless going there and the artists at the time did nothing to reassure you, lol! That's the way it was.
The people here are really friendly. I have interacted with the girls at the front desk, Rudy for piercing, and Mario for tattoo.
I had my nose pierced almost a year ago by Rudy. He was friendly and quick, didn't hurt at all. He offered to always switch out piercings for me and to call him if i had any questions. I have never had any issues or infections and the piercing healed perfectly.
Went back about 9 months ago to get a tattoo of a patchwork heart on the left side of my chest, right over my heart. I'm a girl so this tattoo was a little close to my boob, but Mario was very professional and made sure to point out that he would be pretty much hovering over my boob while he did the tattoo. I knew this, and the tattoo worked out great. I gave him a couple references, he gave me some suggestions and fixed up my sketch in about 20 minutes and did the tattoo right then. He was friendly and talked to me the whole time, making sure i was comfortable and such. It had shading and everything and he was done in about 40 minutes. The tattoo healed beautifully and still looks great. The colors didn't bleed or fade or anything! I have more I want to add to it and plan to go back to Chicago Tattoo for a consultation.
When I got my tattoo here, I also bought a new nose ring, which Rudy offered to switch out for me while I was there for free. I also went back a couple months ago to ask about an additional nose piercing that i was considering. Rudy came out and gave me his opinion and a couple professional suggestions.
They're always friendly and wanting to help, from my experience, they've earned 5 stars!
I went here last night with the idea of getting an industrial, but I was unsure about whether or not it would fit on my ear because of my existing piercings. The girl at the front desk greeted us and immediately went to get the piercer (Ruth). Ruth came out and talked to me about where she could place it, but then gave me some other suggestions. I ended up going with a rook and an anti tragus. Ruth was really friendly and very personable. She was just a really cool person, so I'm glad she was the one doing my piercings, since the anti tragus was a little bit painful. Both piercings were quick and about as painless as they could be. The whole process took about 30 minutes, from the time I walked in to the time I walked out.
The shop was clean and very open in the front, so there was lots of waiting room, but it wasn't crowded at all on a Friday night (although it was around 8 pm). I highly recommend this place. The staff was pleasant and knowledgeable, and its in a very convenient location. One day I'll be back.
I was tattooed here over two years ago. Only because I've been talking about tats lately and I found that Mike Dalton's work came up more than once in these conversations, did I realize I should review the shop. I figured it was time that I indirectly thank him for his amazing work on my back.
I was in Chicago for the summer. I had been planning to get a tattoo of an elephant with jasmine flowers on its back for over a year and knew that I had to get it in my favorite city. BUT, I was a tattoo-newbie. So, not only was I in a different place, I had no idea what to look for and who to look for.
I checked out good ol' Yelp, found this shop and asked the lady who welcomed me about which artist she thought I could get my tattoo from. She handed me two business cards and one of them had an image of a circus elephant on it. It was my sign.
Let me be honest, Mike is not the most friendly or chipper fellow. But I preferred it (don't get me wrong, he wasn't a grumpster). I was terrified and -- other than his initial reassurance that it wouldn't hurt too bad and a few questions about why I wanted to get this tattoo -- I was glad that he didn't make me talk while he was tattooing me. It was a tattoo that had a lot of personal meaning ascribed to it and I appreciated his focus. He's a great artist and finished it in less than half an hour.
I still love the way that it turned out. They were swamped but fit me in since I had to catch a plane home the next day. The place is clean and the service great. It being my first tattoo, I never felt uncomfortable or amongst tat-snobs.
What did the tattoo end up looking like? <a href="/redir?url=http%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2FpZAAFZ&s=32128016bd69478f04a1c9514efa93095a2da2af6122e68f83c349e3da2a04fc" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://bit.ly/pZAAFZ</a>
If you are interested in seeing some of his work, visit: <a href="/redir?url=http%3A%2F%2Fartbrutist.com&s=9251709adfe5d66c413f4eaea9850e5d744c9abdee437a5a62568e7cc95e872e" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://artbrutist.com</a>
I love this shop, hands down.
The first time I went to get a microdermal wrist piercing, the piercer was  good, clean and knew everything head to toe (Sarvis I believe his name was). The woman in front is a HUGE sweetheart and completely adorable though more importantly warm and inviting. It made the experience less nerve racking and enjoyable.
I ended up being so happy with the turnout that I showed my sister and we went in to get her three microdermals in her chest which turned out beautifully (these were done by Rudy). I had gotten my piercing caught on a door ledge a couple days prior and Rudy was actually also able to fix the placement and salvaged my piercing.
I now pledge my allegiance to this shop and though I can't say the same for the tattoo artists since I've never really gotten a significantly intricate tattoo done. I HIGHLY recommend Rudy for microdermals!
I got my second tattoo here - the Rebel Alliance symbol (Star Wars) between my shoulder blades. My artist was friendly and quick, making sure I was ok with everything every step of the way. Still waiting to be able to take the bandage off... can't wait!
I'd recommend this place wholeheartedly.
I came here to get my second tattoo sort of impulsively one day but had a pretty solid idea of what I wanted. Â It's right off the Belmont stop and lots of people had told me that it was a reliable place to go in the city. Â Everyone there was friendly and I got in and out pretty quickly. Â The lobby is filled with lots of cool designed to look at while waiting.
My only complaint is that I was definitely over charged. Â I got a pretty small piece (about the size of a credit card), only in one color and no shading and it cost me $110 plus tip. Â It may have been my mistake to choose such a popular shop, but I doubt I'll be coming back here. Â That being said, if you're willing to pay up it's obviously a very clean place with nice people and atmosphere.
I walked past The Chicago Tattooing Company for a decade fascinated by the staff and clientele in there from my Lakeview neighborhood. Â When I finally decided to get both nipples pierced, I did my research and chose them for their many years in business and great customer reviews. Â
They  explained everything to me and made me feel comfortable.  It didn't hurt that Alex, who did my piercings, was amazingly attractive.  The room was private, everything was new from its packaging, and everything else smelled extremely hygenic.  Alex talked me through it and pierced me with expert, steady hands.  I also got a long lecture about cleaning and care. Â
I've heard people complain about their body jewelry being expensive, but do you really want something cheap inside your body? Â My nipple rings have been on for 7 years, have never caused me any problems, and I've only needed one retightened once.
I am the last one in my family to get a tattoo. Â Yes this includes my dad, mom and sister and after all this time I finally decided to get one. Â My sister and friend came with me and they also got tattoos. The woman at the desk was extremely friendly and helpful in pulling up a font website so we could see how the text would look. I was going for a latin phrase on the back of my neck and I knew I wanted a script but was still undecided. I finally settled on a font and she was able to shrink the phrase down to a size that would fit on my neck and the tattoo artist agreed it was a good size without curving around my neck too much.
I was first up in getting mine done since it was my first one I was a bit nervous. Â It went extremely fast and I was done within 10 minutes. I am really happy with how it turned out and couldn't have asked for a better experience. Â The staff was professional and I have no regrets about doing this.
As if the in-shop service and work wasn't amazing already, within a few hours of writing my first Yelp! review (which auto-posts to my Twitter account - @KristinLaj - hit me up!) Chicago Tattooing thanked me (via Twitter - @ChicagoTattoo - hit them up!) for my Yelp! review. Oh and they told me that the awesome woman who helped me, her name is Kelly. Thanks for being awesome, Kelly!!
Contact me - to thank me and answer my question - via twitter: they deserve excellent use of social media points! Â I'm inclined to only ever go to Chicago Tattoo should I want more tattoos in the future.
Chicago Tattooing Company is one of the better shops in the area. I have 8 tattoos and 2 (used to be three, more below) piercings. Chicago Tattooing company has done 1 tattoo and 1 piercing.
I got the industrial piercing here and the piercer was very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful with answering all the questions I had. Of course the piercing hurt, but he did it cleanly, quickly and talked me through everything he was about to do before doing it (unlike at Jade, where the piercer just shoved the needle through and sent me on my way with a little pamphlet.)
That said, I no longer have the industrial in my ear due to a New Years Eve party - I am not sure quite what happened that night, or why I woke up with empty holes in my ears. I am sure it wasn't the tattooing company's fault as much as the vodka's fault but I felt the fact that I no longer actually HAVE the piercing was worth mentioning.
Just yesterday I got my 8th tattoo (first from them) and I am really pleased with it. I went in at around 11:30 on a Friday night with a picture of what I wanted, no appointment or anything. They drew up the image fairly quickly and had no problem adjusting things as needed (size, ect.) They were all friendly, helpful, light handed and it was really inexpensive ($100 for a 3in tattoo of a black bird on the back of my neck) especially compared to what some other shops have quoted for tattoos that side (hello $180 at Jade?)
All in all I've never had a bad experience at this shop. I can't think of anything that puts it over the top (beside the moderate pricing) but I have no issues at all and will absolutely go back if I'm ever in the area and in need of a tattoo.
I'm a tattoo snob. It's a fact. I only like a certain type of tattoo, and now having 11 on my body, I don't want to just go "anywhere".
In the spring I was ready for my next tattoo, and looking for a traditional tattoo shop in the city began my search. I tweeted asking friends for suggestions and got a whole bunch of "my friend does tattoos..." @ replies. Useless.
Chicago Tattoo actually tweeted at ME and linked me to their website. After browsing the work I contacted Nick Colella, an artist in the shop. We e-mailed back and forth and finally I stopped by the shop where I fell in love.
Amazing decor. So much traditional flash I think I caught myself drooling. I looked to get two traditional anchor tattoos on the back of my legs and brought in a book for reference. Nick modified my examples and drew up the most perfect, beautiful tattoos I could imagine. He finished them both in about an hour, all the while being an incredibly friendly and chatty (but not overly chatty) artist.
The color in my tattoos is AMAZING and I haven't lost a bit of it. I returned earlier this month to him for matching tattoos with my brother and also had him draw up a tattoo for my boyfriend for his birthday. My communication to him was kind of spotty since I sort of knew what my boyfriend wanted...but not completely. When we stopped by the night before our appointment, Dustin made some adjustments to Nick's initial drawing (under my instruction) and it turned out perfectly.
Amazing, quick work. I'll never go to another shop in the city.
I walked into The Chicago Tattooing & Piercing Company twice with the intention of getting a tattoo, but walked out each time because of how I was treated.
It seems a few girls serve as gatekeepers and they are mostly unfriendly. I've never gotten a tattoo, so naturally, I had questions and in return, I received condescension, I don't knows, and was told if I didn't know what I wanted, I couldn't be helped. I got the feeling I wasn't "edgy" enough to be taken seriously.
I pass by this place almost everyday and I finally got the chance to venture inside recently when I decided to get my first tattoo after years of deliberation.
First and foremost, the girl working at the desk was incredibly helpful. Â My friend and I both came in without artwork in hand, but with ideas of what we wanted, and she helped us scour the interwebs to find what we needed.
I only had to wait about 15 minutes for Mike to draw it up and be all set for me. Â And I mean, it's not simple, or small. Â And I was amazed at how fast it went.
Besides the tattoo being rendered gorgeously, Mike was amazingly good at distracting me from what he was doing on the front of my right arm.
No complaints and a great first tattoo experience.
I just moved back to Chicago from Atlanta, and went and checked out this shop based on a recommendation by my tattoo artist in Atlanta. The first tattoo I got there, I called up spoke with the artist (Mario Desa), came in that night got it drawn up and tattooed on me. I have been back since and have brought my sister with me, we both got work done by Mario again and we are both super happy with our tattoos from here, and it is a really cool, and clean shop. Everyone is friendly and if you have a tattoo that an artist thinks someone else at the shop would do better they will straight up tell you, because they want the best for you.
I will continue to go here, I dig it!
I've wanted a tattoo for years, and I finally went through with it this last week. Â I went in on Tuesday to talk to an artist, and I went back on Friday to get the tattoo.
I had a clear idea about what I wanted, but I didn't have it drawn up. Â I showed my artist some ideas, and explained what I had in mind. Â Fifty minutes later, he had drawn exactly what I had envisioned! Â
I got a huge Celtic cross: Â it stretches from the base of my neck to mid-back, and from shoulder blade to should blade.
This was my first tattoo, so I had no idea what to expect. Â Of course, there were some parts that were really painful (like the base of my neck and my shoulder blades); but all in all, it wasn't really that painful. Â
I only had the time to get the outline finished, so I'll have the shading done once that's healed. Â I love the tattoo -- I look at it every chance I get. Â I couldn't be happier with the results.
This shop is pricey, but with something as permanent as a tattoo, there's no way I'd want to compromise quality for a cheap price. Â I like every artist's work, and this is the only shop I can say that about.
Hands down, this was an awesome experience. Â I already want to get another tattoo, and Chicago Tattooing Company is where I'll be going.
So I've been to Chicago Tattoo with a couple friends before, only as a spectator, never a customer. Last night, that all changed! My cousin and I went to Chicago Tattoo for tats and had a great time!
I got a small treble clef on the inside of my wrist & my cousin got small tat on the top of wrist to match her husbands. Mike did both of us and they turned out great!
Everyone, including other customers, were very friendly. Sooo happy with my results! I'd definitely go back!
This place is awesome. They have a very clean facility and have some pretty awesome artists. My friends and I have been helped by 4 different artists there and they've all been very pleasant and talented. They do not take appointments so it is a bit of a gamble of what artist is there when you first walk in. The receptionists are helpful and can help you out if you're looking for a specific artist for either work or an estimate.
Their prices are very fair compared to Tatu Tattoo or Jade Dragon, but again I guess it depends on what kind of work you're getting. All in all, this is my choice shop for tattoos.
When I just moved to Chicago, I came here with a good friend to get matching tattoos. We were walk-ins, so I didn't really know what to expect. Mario was available and he seemed to be the guy. He came up with a good design- it was a simple line drawing. Perhaps I offended him with my "simple line drawing" proposal (I later learned he is most efficient in traditional work) because I felt like I was wasting his time.
Not only were the vibes from the artist negative, but my tattoo turned out pretty wonky. The lines didn't meet and weren't straight (I understand there are no straight lines on the body, but this was just blatantly crooked). Luckily, I don't mind a few bad tattoos, as I have many, but I actually went to an established shop for this one.
From what I have heard, you really should only see Mario if you want some original traditional work (which is actually great from what I have seen), otherwise he will blow you off.
I'd recommend Deluxe Tattoo for anyone looking to get some quality work done in an environment that is totally friendly, and see Chris Smith!
I have indeed experienced better. I wrote my original review over two years ago, and its true that I just did not have much to compare this place with.
Since then, I have broadened my horizons in the way of tattoo shops and artists.
I still have one of the tattoos that I had done here, but am in the process of covering up one as well. Over the years the pieces I had done here have faded quite a bit, not like other work I have that is older and often more visible to the sun.
It could just be that this shop was not for me.
Quite some time ago, before I started seeing the person I do now for piercings- I had Rudy look at/and fix some questionable piercings I had. He seemed like a pretty good guy, and if he still works there- I would recommend him to people.
I don't have a lot of allegiance to any tattoo shop or another, but perhaps because of the location, the people, and the quality of the work, I have been back to Chicago Tattoo more than anywhere else.
I have gotten 7 out of 16 of tattoos here, and they are all beautiful, and exactly what I wanted. Â
Today, I went in to get something covered up that I had gotten somewhere else, and at first was told it was impossible, but then I was looked at by Mike, and he made my day, and gave me exactly what I wanted. Â That original tattoo was faded, and uneven, and an eyesore for me, but the work Mike did was really great.
I have always been treated very kindly by all of the staff that I have encountered, and I am surprised that people say they've gotten poor service.
I have been tattooed by almost everyone in the shop, and never once had a bad experience. Â I get compliments on the tattoos I have gotten here all the time. Â This is the first place I recommend to anyone getting a tattoo.
I was in on a Sunday night to have a tattoo I had done the moment I turned 18 covered up. Let's just say, I neither speak nor read the Chinese language, and I've never visited the country of China, so I was very excited to have the Chinese character on my upper back replaced with something that made me look like less of an idiot.
I was a walk in around 8pm. I came prepared with a few print outs of the design that I wanted, not even knowing if it would be possible as a cover up. The girl who was at the front counter was super friendly and helpful, and Josh was able to draw my design on the spot.
Now, just so you know, I'm terrified of needles. TERRIFIED! Â I once passed out when I tried to give blood, but I didn't even make it to the blood giving part. I fainted over a cart of tubes and clamps when they pricked my finger to check my iron. Josh was SUPER pleasant and understanding when I fainted a little bit during the first five minutes and had to sit on the floor near the bathroom soaking my paper hospital shirt in sweat before I could continue.
I ended up surviving and getting an amazing tattoo that I actually really love with no evidence of the one that was covered.
Thanks to Josh, never again will I feel like a total asshole walking into a Chinese restaurant while wearing a tank top!
Josh Howard has done a big piece on my arm, as well as a medium piece for my boyfriend. I recommend him. He is personable, knowledgeable, and even though I know his style doesn't match up with mine, he's really positive about the ideas.
Down side is that he cost a little more than I find acceptable. I know that minimum for a tattoo is $50, but I think he runs up his profit a little too high on bigger stuff. Next time I might try bargaining....
Nice shop though. Always super crowded on Saturday nights with people getting random piercings and spur of the moment flash-art-tattoos.
Chicago Tattooing & Piercing Company is what I look for in a tattoo place - somewhere that is clean and comfortable where they don't act too cool for skool (and make me feel like a dork because I don't have a whole sleeve's worth of ink) and also does solid work.
I came in with a fairly easy request - a small block of text for my wrist and they were very accomodating - gave me the pros and cons of size and font - what would work over time, etc. I recieved my tat last April and people continue to ask me  if its real because it is so crisp - I only wish I could say the same about my other tattoos.
I forget the name of the guy I had - but he recognized my text request from Depeche Mode and although he didn't really seem to be into that band - asked me about why that tattoo, placement and made good small talk while he had a needle in my arm.
I don't know anyone who has gotten any serious work done here - so understand my five stars is based on my fairly simple run of the mill tattoo request but I would go back to meet with them to discuss options in the future for more ink.
After a Cubs game, my bestie and I went looking for things to do. Â We got bored taking pictures on the police ATVs, so I decided we should just go get my nose pierced. Â I did a quick Google search on the ol' iPhone and picked the closest place (which so goes against all of my Yelp morals). Â
After a free cab ride (driver said he didn't take credit cards and I told him it's in the Bill of Rights!), we ended up at The Chicago Tattooing & Piercing Company. Â The whole space was so respectable and clean. Â I had gotten my nose pierced at some shoddy place when I was 18, so to me this was the Buckingham Palace of piercing shops. Â
A lovely lady named Ruth took me in the back and explained everything to me. Â It was all so quick and painless. Â I bought some badass saline spray, and Ruth sent me on my way. Â
The whole experience was A++.
About a year ago I got my first with Mario Desa...
I immortalize my favorite band on my back and it looks so good!
Well, I say it looks so good because when I showed it to my momma (and thought she would smack me for it) I got from her a cry:
"Why didn't you do it where you could see it!? Like on your arm...."
And I was like whoa wait... why can't we have important talks before I mess up...
Oh I did love it.
Visit you guys soon!
I like the new shop...the old one was just that, old. Â The new location is as fancy as a tattoo shop should be and certainly more than clean enough.
I've only ever had work done there by Nick Colella. Â And when I go back I will only have more work done by Nick. Â His artistry is amazing, and is always more than willing to work with your suggestions. Â
When people see the work that he's done - I always praise his talents and the shop itself.
If you are looking to invest some money in some quality artwork this is the place for you. Â I have been going to Matt at Chicago for over 6 months now. Â When i moved to Chicago i had a hard time leaving my tattoo guy back home. Â I didn't think i would find someone that i trusted to finish my arm. Â Matt has done the last 6 of my tattoos, getting me close to finishing my sleeve. Â My tattoo guy from home now lives up here and i still choose to go to Matt. Â Perfect traditional style tattoos everytime, super nice guy, and always willing to give suggestions on what might be a better idea.
If you want a traditional tattoos guy, Matt at Chicago is your guy!
Overpriced, especially for very, very small tattoos.
I got a small eighth note tattoo that probably should have cost $20 - it's all black, about 1cm wide/tall and it literally took about five minutes to do ALL the work, from positioning it on my collarbone to actually filling the pattern with ink.
However, very nice service and pretty quick, even when it's busy. Â I left my name and they conveniently called me when my artist was ready, so I was able to go across the street and have two beers with friends. Â
I would probably go back to get some bigger work done, but I'm sort of afraid the prices will be outrageous.
The first time I came here, it was in the middle of a weekday and the shop was empty and the artist (Dave?) relaxed and friendly. He took his time and gave me a perfect tattoo that strangers still talk to me about.
The second time I came here, it was on a weekday evening and a different artist (Mario?) did a rush job that was not up to my standards and I was grateful that it was at least in a place not visible to the general public. This guy seemed super green and actually asked me what I thought could be done to get the design to look a certain way. A tattoo artist should be like a hair stylist. You give them an idea of what you want, and they use their skill and creativity to make magic happen. I shouldn't be the one holding their hand every step of the way. Unfortunately, there was also a big mess up that occurred in this piece but luckily, the guy was cool enough to fix it for free. It's still a little messed up, but lessons are learned and I know not to come here again.
I can only speak for their piercing artist Rudy who helped a girl out in a rut-my left nipple ring got pulled out and since I don't like being lopsided, I went in the next day to get fixed.
You walk into their newer location which isn't as stereotypically neon glaring and florescent as before and the reception area is welcoming and chill. Their selection isn't as big as the Alleys piercing studio but the people who work here totally make up for it. Before I discovered my shop until in Milwaukee, (see Gothic Tattoo) I used to go to The Alley all the time just to be told there was no one available that day, or the wait was going to be over an hour 'cause hordes of suburban teenagers went there. But I digress.
The girl behind the counter was extremely helpful picking out a new piece of jewelry and the quality of the jewelry is top notch. She asks the right questions and scheduled a time for me to come and see Rudy.
*propping myself on table*
"So you're interested in getting your nipple pierced?"
"Oh, it's already pierced. I need it re-pierced."
"Re-pierced? What happened?"
"It got ripped out yesterday. So I need a patch job."
*uncomfortable look on his face that I just can't put words to*
"Looks like it already healed up-how long have you had this for?"
"About 6 months. So looks like I have to start all over again with the healing."
"Okay, I'm going to try to make it a little higher so as not to go through too much scar tissue and we're going to mark it right here and here."
"Okay. I'm ready when you are."
"Breathe in and when you breathe out, we'll start."
(Breathing in and OOOOH GOD ALMIGHTY it didn't hurt like this before.)
"Okay, looks like I'm caught on some scar tissue."
(YA THINK?????)
"One more deep breath and I'm sorry about this."
(OH MY F*@%!NG LORD)
"And we're done. Just putting the ball now."
Honestly, I think I actually sweated for that one. Imagine hanging from just that one nipple with 140 lbs. pulling it down. It just doesn't compare.
Rudy however kind of understood what I was going through and recommended foods and after care that went above and beyond what a piercing artist normally does. Extremely professional and courteous-if I was ever in need of another one while I was in town, I'd check him out again.
I recently got a tattoo here and while the art is great and I have little to complain about that, the costumer service left something to be desired. Â
This was my first tattoo and that being said, I had a few questions once it was all finished. Â Unfortunately, once everything was said and done, the people at the register and front counter had little to say in regards to my questions. Â The questions were about tattoo care. Â I guess I could have asked these questions prior to the tattoo, but seeing as I was a paying customer, it would have been nice to receive some thought out answers to my questions after I had gotten the tattoo as well.
Artists are great but don't expect too much in ways of costumer service.
Based solely on MY past experiences there....5 stars is more appropriate. HOWEVER-I would not go there TODAY to get pierced or tattooed, so my ultimate vote is 4 stars.
I've never been tattooed there....but I got my tongue pierced there twice (first time by Alex, second time by Brycee *his apprentice*) I got my conch and both my nipples done there (by Brycee).
But the thing is that Brycee and Alex are no longer there. They have a decently high turnover at CTPC. Would I be pierced by Alex or Brycee again? YES! But I cannot stress enough that just like hair stylists, etc. it's the person and their skill more so than the shop they work in. And for the record I'm not familiar with any of the current piercers/tattoo artists at CTPC.
That all being said....the prices on piercings seemed decent (including jewelry most were $40-60) and mine healed EXCELLENTLY. The shop seemed clean and professionally run (for the most part). The only tattoo I was quoted a price for seemed really overpriced (hence not getting it done there).
I went here today to get a new nostril screw. It was a little daunting at first, the doorway flanked with a beefy Chicago cop and a similarly beefy man with an anxious beefy dog. I looked at their selection - they have yellow and white gold, stainless steel and platinum, with diamonds, CZ, etc. The prices ranged from about $20 for a simple stainless stud with a stone on top to $100-some odd dollars for the platinum/diamond combo deals. The ones I really liked were out of my price range at the moment, but I was pleased with their selection. There were 2 girls already there waiting to be pierced, so I picked out my pretty gold star and then took a walk for the recommended 20 minutes until the piercer was ready.
When I came back, Rudy took me to his room and fitted me and bent the piece and even bent my L-shaped piece so it wouldn't stick out and look like a silver booger anymore. Top-notch! He even helped out with suggesting a hot green tea and sea salt soak every night. Says it makes everything all nice n happy.
And I too was nice n happy when I left. The gal up front was attentive and pleasant, without being overbearing or snobby. I liked it - good experience!
I got two tattoos from CTPC, one years ago at the old location and one last year. Â Unfortunately, both were spur-of-the-moment decisions (and the most recent was of the DRUNKEN spur-of-the-moment variety) and I had little money, so they aren't terribly spectacular. Â In particular, the most recent involved script and I didn't realize until I got home how the needle had dragged in spots making it a little less clean than a sober version of myself would've liked. Â But whatever. Â I have two stupid tattoos and they both make me laugh at my poor planning, so that's cool.
Review Source:I admit it, I am a wuss and a total crybaby with a very low pain threshold. Â So I am sure I am not the easiest person to deal with anywhere needles are present. Â But the staff at CTPC was very helpful. Â First, the woman at the front was patient with me when it took me a while to decide what kind of earring I was going to get, and when at the last minute I changed my mind. Â Then Rudy took me to the back room (which was very clean) where the piercing was to be done. Â He showed me the sterile packaging for all the equipment and carefully explained everything he was going to do and then how I needed to care for it. Â He drew 3 holes on my ear and placed the ring on all 3 so I could decide where to place it, and he was very patient with my indecision. Â He was also very calming when we were going through the procedure, and I felt so silly afterwards, because he was great and it didn't hurt at all! On an area that is supposed to be painful, it actually hurt less than the normal earlobe piercings I have. Â The place was clean and the staff were friendly. Â They also had some really beautiful body jewelry.
Only problem? Now I want more! If I decide to get more, I would go back there, no hesitation.
Everyone I've met at this place is really nice. They're very accommodating and it's a very clean and nice looking place.
I got my belly button pierced here about 6 months ago by Abby. Not the most professional person I've come across, but she seemed to know what she was doing. SEEMED is the keyword, because now that the piercing is healed and I've lost a bit of weight, it's obvious my piercing is crooked. She told me that the way she pierced it, it would like fine once it healed. Well, that was a lie. I'm sure it's only noticeable to me because it's my tummy, but still, I'd like a straight piercing.
I don't think I'd ever get inked here, either. I shop around and try new places whenever I get something new done. They never fail to give me the highest price quote. Not even a year ago, I asked for a quote on a very small piece and was told it'd be 200 dollars. It was an outline of a star, no more than two inches high.
Sorry, but that's ridiculous. I don't care how good it is, something so small shouldn't be so expensive.
They do good work from what I've seen, but you can get good work done somewhere else for less.
Their old location wasn't as appealing, but every single piercing I have had done here has become infected, I have 10 total and had 3 done here, so I know how to care for them and clean them before you get to assuming. I haven't been to their new location yet.
The prices for piercings were a lot cheaper than Jade Dragon and some of the other shops I have had work done in, so if you are looking to poke holes in your body, their prices are pretty decent and they have diamond body jewelry - something you don't see too often.
I went here to get my first tattoo last night and I woud have to say that my first tattoo experience was definitely a pleasant one. Â I wanted a design that was sort of like a native eskimo whale type of thing. Â I was pretty nervous because i'm not a big fan of blood or needles but Matt, my artist, was very friendly and accomodating. Â He saw that I was a little nervous and made some friendly conversation while tattooing me. Â The tattoo turned out great and I thought the price was fair. Â
Chicago Tattoo is clean and the staff is courteous and they do their best to make sure that you are comfortable. Â I have a second tattoo idea in mind and I will definitely go back here when I decide to get it done.
I have been to this shop TWICE, had two separate tattoos, from two separate artists. Â
My first experience was dreadful. Â In the beginning of the tattoo, the artist did not lock in the arm rest tight enough, and to every tattooee's fear, the pressure released the rest, and the needle dragged across my skin! Â He tried to remedy this by offering me hot pink glow-in the-dark ink (which did NOT glow in the dark) and he still charged me $60 for it! Â As large as a mistake as it was, that tattoo should have been finished, for FREE. Â Not only that, but after it has healed, I realized (probably because he became nervous) he had pressed too hard into my skin, and now, the tattoo is raised because the scar is too deep. Â
Now, I should have learned the first time, but I lived close to the shop so I went. Â I would have given this review one star but the second time I went the tattoo turned out quite nicely. Â The shading was beautiful and the script was 90% perfect. Â However, I was charged $120 for it. Â This tattoo was 5 words and a 1x1 colored apple. Â
Maybe I look like I am naive when it comes to how much i should be charged, but both of the tattoos I had were EXTREMELY overpriced. Â I have had other work done in Minnesota and it costs HALF as much at my shop there as it does here.
I would really recommend researching a different place due to the lack of  customer service.
I just got my first tattoo at the CT&BP Co., and my experience couldn't have been better. Â
I have been considering getting a tattoo for around 5 years now, and wanted to make sure that I was mature enough to make the right decision. Â Im 26, and something told me now was the time. Â I had an original drawing that encompasses alot of personal emotion, so I wanted to make sure that the artist that did it was truly taking the time to get to know what I wanted.
I went into two different parlors last night, CT&BP Co. being the second. Â I went to Tatu first and felt that the staff was very "blah" about what I wanted, as if they really didn't care. Â Getting your first tattoo can be an overwhelming and intimidating experience, and it doesn't help when you can't ask questions for fear of being looked at as an idiot. Â That's how I felt after leaving Tatu. Â
As those of you reading can imagine, I was pretty bummed out. Â I was ready to get the ink done, and I had been wisked out the door like my idea was stupid or didn't matter. Â All of this after a number of recommendations from others on how great of a place Tatu was. Â Maybe I just hit it on the wrong night...
I strolled up Damen to Belmont and decided to stop in at CT&BP Co. Â The woman who greeted me was curtious and receptive to my questions and ideas, and best of all, I felt like I belonged. Â Nick, my artist, came over and sat down with me to conceptualize my tattoo from my sketch, and literally NAILED what I wanted in his drawing. Â He was a good guy to talk too, made me feel at ease, and best of all, made my body more beautiful. Â
I am the new proud owner of an original design from Nick. Â I couldn't be happier about it, and would highly recommend his services. Â I look forward to my next visit!
Clean, informative, and non pretencious. Â Thanks CT&BP Co.!
<a href="/redir?url=http%3A%2F%2Fmariodesa.com%2F&s=457f0183e5f8fd1b12fe52a5644008c5e0edacc414abfc0806b340a2b8df16a8" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://mariodesa.com/</a>
Mario did my first tattoo here. Â Truly an artist. Â I gave him an idea of what I wanted, which I wasn't sure I could convey easily, and he drew out something that came pretty damn near what I was envisioning!
Mario was really helpful and nice, explained everything to me in detail, and worked around my schedule. Â All this for like $160, with full color! Â It's about 3 x 3 inches, too, so it was a good deal. Â Definitely go here if you plan on getting any kind of old-school Americana design.
I had both my tattoos done here, once in 2000 and the other last year. My experience both times was nothing short of fantastic.
 My first tattoo, a Darwin Fish was done perfectly and still grabs people's eyes when I'm wearing shorts. My second, a symbol from a nerdy card game was done by an outstanding artist whose name escapes me but I do remember they stayed almost an hour and a half late when my retarded ass walked in just before closing to get inked before Gencon, the premier gaming convention down in the midwest. Mind you I didn't know it was closing time but being the professionals they are, they said word zero about it and welcomed me in with open, inked arms.
Both times I never felt like they were rushed or amateurs, I am definitely heading back to get my third and fourth pieces done in the near future.
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