Getting a tattoo is almost an indescribable sensation. Having a piece of art forever implemented into your body perfectly at the hand of a master craftsman is just so– satisfying. However, being in the hands of someone that is not quite up to par can bring your euphoric mood down very quickly– I know.
Choosing a capable shop and artist is potentially even more important than choosing your design. Fortunately, we have congregated with tattooed gents and lasses from around the city to compile a ‘No Fear’ list. These are some of the best tattoo shops in Chicago– satisfaction seems to come standard.
All of these shops may contain very capable tattoo artists, but you should do your research before committing. Some artists excel in new Skool, while others may be perfectionists at portraits or cartoons.
These tattoo shops in Chicago are all towards the top of the spectrum in health and talent. Get an idea, do some research, book your appointment.
Tattoo Shops In Chicago:
The Code of Conduct
The Code of Conduct may claim to specialize in traditional tattoo styles, but they keep their mind open to tailor to your visions. They are more than capable to handle basically any idea. I have seen some amazing pieces come out of here.
South Loop
14 E 11th St, Chicago, IL 60605
(312) 929-2073
Deluxe
Deluxe has a reputation, due to being featured on Playboy’s website, and having Hannah Aitchison of L.A. Ink on their team now. Their artists are pretty well rounded– whatever type of design that you would like, they should be able to excel with it.
Lakeview
1459 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60613
(773) 549-1594
Family Tattoo
Family Tattoos kills it when it comes to new Skool styling (traditional). Bold black lines and vibrant colors is what helps them to get out of bed everyday. I have seen some on-point portraits emerge from Family Tattoo as well.
Roscoe Village
2125 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 281-6392
Insight Studios
Insight Studios instantly sets itself apart when you step through the door. Their modern studio is unlike most shops. Their team is well-rounded enough to tackle any design. They encourage you to use your imagination by keeping flash work to a very minimum. They want to make your vision a reality.
Noble Square
1062 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(773) 342-4444
Native Rituals
Native Rituals is a shop of rowdy artistic masters. Their designs boast vibrant colors, as well as impeccable gray-scales. They seem to have a thing for script.. and beer.
15105 S Cicero Ave, Oak Forest, IL 60452
(708) 687-7633
Shred’s Inferno
Shred’s Inferno has a reputation behind them– they are the longest running of the Southside tattoo shops. For the past sixteen-years Shed’s Inferno has been flowing with bold colors, life-like portraits, and soft gray-scale pieces. Come with a vision in mind, they will make it art.
West Lawn
4304 W 63rd St, Chicago, IL 60629
(773) 585-2653
Speakeasy Custom Tattoo
Speakeasy Custom Tattoo evokes the atmosphere of a traditional speakeasy. The heavy use of wood emits a calming atmosphere, which is perfect for this type of work. Complimenting the vibe of the venue, these artists have a thing for traditional styling, as well as phenomenal gray-scales. I will say, there have been some amazing portraits and cartoon styles that have been lain down by Speakeasy though.
Wicker Park
1935 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 645-1703
Tatu Tattoo
Tatu Tattoo literally promotes all forms of tattoo styles– tribal to realism, and everything in between. They have a large selection of artists’ designs to choose from, but they will be more than stoked if you bring in your own custom idea.
Wicker Park
1754 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 772-8288
Taylor Street
Taylor Street could be nicknamed Sailor Street. Their work is made up of primarily traditional style tattoos that boast the beauty of simplicity. Bold lines and simple, vibrant coloring dominate their work. If you are not into that style, their extensive portfolio may change your mind.
University Village
1150 W Taylor St, Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 455-8288
West Town Tattoo
West Town Tattoo is made up of established talent from around the Chicago area– the owner alone has over twenty-four years of experience. Their storefront has only been around since 2012, but their craft was formed at the former Tomato Tattoo. Their attention to detail is top-notch, and they are more than capable of taking on any idea that you have in mind. Their shop is stock with well-rounded talent.
Ukrainian Village
1907 W Chicago Ave Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 226-6668
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