I'm writing this not just about my own experience, but also about how this shop treated people I personally know who were loyal, repeat clients. After a situation involving a review, the shop chose to ban multiple regular customers--people who had nothing to do with the issue and had consistently supported them. Watching that happen made it clear how quickly they're willing to turn on their own clients. It felt petty, retaliatory, and completely unprofessional. On top of that, my own experience with Alex only reinforced those concerns. After taking my deposit, communication was slow and inconsistent. She confirmed an appointment date, but when I showed up, she claimed it was for a different day. I had the message proving otherwise, and she didn't even bother to look. I waited around for an hour just to be turned away. Getting my refund was just as frustrating. I was told I'd receive it on Tuesday--nothing came. I followed up and got excuses about being busy, then no response for days. I only heard back after contacting the shop owner, and even then it was more of the same. Between how my friends were treated and my own experience, it's clear there's a serious lack of accountability and respect for customers. Taking people's money, wasting their time, and banning loyal clients over something they didn't do isn't acceptable. The shop itself might seem fine at first glance, but based on what I've seen and experienced, I would strongly think twice before trusting them with your time or money. read more

I wasn't going to add a review but after seeing multiple complaints about the same artist I have decided to put my two cents in. I had been seeing Alex for tattoos for about a year, she is a very talented artist however her attitude and professionalism are extremely disappointing. I have gotten 8 tattoos done by her, only once was my appointment at the original time we had scheduled for. I had given her lots of grace in the beginning as she always seemed to have a great excuse for needing to reschedule, until it became every time I scheduled an appointment, she would not answer for weeks leading up to the appointment and then ask to reschedule the day before or more likely, the day of. There were many instances when I came into the shop at my appointment time and wasn't started on for a while after, in one instance I actually went home(after waiting in the shop for almost 45 minutes) and told her to let me know when she would be ready-- which ended up being two hours later, and almost 3 hours after my scheduled appointment. She is very quick to take a deposit and then not follow up after, and I have been told she is a bit hostile towards potential clients that mutuals have reccomended, for not sending a deposit as soon as she would like it. I have also heard through mutuals that have gotten tattoos done by Alex, that they have also had very similar issues to the ones I am describing in this review, but are afraid to confront her about her unprofessionalism as she gets extremely upset and unnecessarily defensive about it--even though they are easily fixable on her part, and is being given great advice. The last time she rescheduled she offered to send my deposit back, I asked to reschedule at first to which I did not get a reply for two days, so I asked for my deposit back. She told me it would be 3-5 days until I saw my money back, 7 days passed and I messaged her asking about my deposit because I had not received the money back, she still did not respond. I let another week pass and sent her a firm message to which she had an extremely snarky reply and expected me to know what is going on in her life through instagram stories. I then sent her a slightly more agitated but still kind message about how disappointing my experience with her has been, which she replied she's never been told or heard before(those 1 star reviews say different lol) and started going in on me for unrelated things that have nothing to do with what I brought up. She is clearly not emotionally stable for a job of this caliber which really sucks since she is a talented artist, her response was extremely unprofessional and really gives the shop a bad look. I would also like to note that one of my tattoos was done on the wrong stencil placement because it was poorly wiped off, very luckily for her I liked it and was okay with how it turned out, she didn't charge me for the mistake, but that could've ended extremely different for her. Just as a note to any potential future clients she might have. read more

I had a very unprofessional experience with Alex. After taking my deposit, communication was extremely slow and inconsistent. She eventually confirmed an appointment date, but when I showed up, she claimed it was actually scheduled for a different day. I showed her the message confirming the original date, and she didn't even bother to look at it. I waited in the shop for about an hour just to be told I wouldn't be seen. When I asked for a refund, she told me I'd receive it on Tuesday. Tuesday came and went--nothing. I followed up and was told she was busy and would send it later, but she didn't. The next day, no response. The day after that, still nothing. I only got a reply after contacting the shop owner, and even then the excuse was that she was "busy." Taking someone's deposit, wasting their time, and then ignoring them when it's time to return their money is completely unacceptable. The shop itself seems fine, but I strongly recommend avoiding Alex if you value your time and money. read more

I was recommended the artist, Alex, due to continuances of ignoring and not getting an answer and also being stood up. The only option was being refunded just the deposit. Even that was difficult to get since she was also ignoring text messages two days straight. Having to contact the shop numerous times for her to even respond. Even though she was recommended and I would've been a future client, she has proven to be very unprofessional and lacks communication. The shop itself did nothing wrong but unfortunately this was just a bad experience read more

Georgia is awesome. Very patient and detailed in her piercings. She walks you through what to expect and is great with after care as well. This is my new go-to spot and I would highly recommend them. read more

Carlos always does an amazing job! Super sanitary set up. Quick with replies. Found place through a friend, always recommend coming here now. read more

Stained In Pain Tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I love this place! It's my third tattoo here and Juan Carlos is the best tattoo artist. I definitely recommend this place & him! read more

Stained In Pain Tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I am beyond grateful and obsessed for the work Jackie did. I wanted a watercolor tree for a while now because I want a quarter sleeve, and her design delivered! It's absolutely gorgeous and the line work and colorwork both are flawless. My appointment took 4 hours, which didnt feel that long because she is super sociable and personable. Definitely will be returning! I met some of the other guys working in the shop, and they all seem very nice and cool, as well. This shop is super comfortable, and not overcrowded with shit all over the walls. They have custom work portfolios on the table right when you walk in, so you can see what other people have gotten in the past. read more

Stained In Pain Tattoos - Flawless watercolor tree by Jackie! - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

We went in on a Friday afternoon for family tattoos. There were three of us - we called ahead and were taken care of promptly when we arrived. The artists worked with us to ensure the designs were exactly what we wanted and advised us on size and colors. They were patient and talented. We'll definitely be back. read more

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I went in to get tattooed last minute and Mario was professional about the whole thing and also did a freaking amazing job. I would definitely recommend him. I like the vibe as you walk in they were playing Black Sabbath which is awesome because I like that type of music the staff are friendly and cool. read more

Stained In Pain Tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Great customer service, Rey was my tattoo artist and he was awesome. Super friendly and very interesting to talk to. Has amazing attention to detail. Thank you so much! Make sure you hit up Rey for sure for some quality work. read more

Stained In Pain Tattoos - Tiger Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Seriously you can't go wrong. When it comes to tattoos you need to be 100% and with the mindset of no regrets, ever. After all they are permanent works of art, if you have the right artist. Of course I've come to the same artist for over a year and have at least eight tattoos from him already! Bernie rocks! But his waiting list is long, good thing I'm a regular! I am never disappointed because he not only tweaks my vision with his twist, but he's actually a good hearted guy. Tattoo artist for me have come and gone, but with Berny, I am a loyal and returning customer. There is never a doubt with any of the artist! Stained in Pain is filled with some very unique artist that also have a certain artistic flair as individuals. None are alike, and I am sure that you can connect with one once you come in for a a consultation. Females and males almost guarantee you will be seen on the day you walk in so let them know you saw them on YELP! read more

I just recently had my last 3 tattoos done by Jaxie and I'm BLOWN AWAY! My first 2 were relatively basic, although one was a teeny-tiny ghost with swirls, that look perfect considering how small I had her make them. The newest tattoo is based off a famous painting by Kirchner (Streets, Berlin). She KILLED IT. It looks like it came straight off the canvas. She made smart tweaks to the artwork, but still made sure to keep it painterly like I had asked. I cannot say enough positive things about my tattoos and Jaxie's professionalism and talents. She's incredible! The studio itself is clean, and has several fun personalities in it, sitting around is pretty entertaining here. So thrilled that I have a new go-to artist and location for my future tattoos, and will continue to spread the word about this joint! read more

Stained In Pain Tattoos - By Jaxie! Based off the painting "Streets, Berlin" by Kirchner - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Very friendly guy who make my tatoo, fast paper work, very good job, I definitely recomand this place, he also help us and discuss with us where exactly better is tattoo looking..... simply perfect place read more

Stained In Pain Tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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***Kevin Kniskern*** I used to never have a tattoo guy, would go anywhere for anything. Then when I started leaning towards getting a sleeve my husband said you have to go to Kevin. I will never let someone else tattoo me ever again. First off, super clean with his supplies and materials. Second, very thorough with his designs and makes sure that you are happy with them. Third, very light hand. Obviously, it's a tattoo it's going to hurt. But the light, steady hand helps. Fourth, he is very fair with his prices and doesn't dick you around. Worth the drive and won't go anywhere else. Lastly, he's pretty funny and tries to keep you preoccupied during the tattooing. Love you Kevin!! read more

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Neko is great. My boyfriend and I came in and Neko was able to take care of a cover up for him. He did amazing! We will absolutely be back.

Had my first tatto done today by Tay. He is just incredible! I was there just to support my friend and ended up getting a tattoo myself. I so so so recommend this guy. This was an excellent experience and my tattoo is absolutely perfect. Thanks Tay!!! read more

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Got an amazing tattoo from Nathan today. He's easy to work with and incredibly creative and helpful as I couldn't quite make up my mind about the colors. I absolutely love my tattoo!! read more

Stained In Pain Tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I had recently wanted a big forearm piece done. I met up with Carlos and he gave me a great price and he did amazing! When the tattoo was completed I was so happy with it. He went above and beyond and even added a gradient to make my tattoo pop even more!! read more

Stained In Pain Tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

My tattoo artist was Jon and he did a really great job. He made sure to truly understand what I wanted before putting the ink in me. I came in for a touchup of a tattoo that I had 13 years ago. He added some color and made it look nice and new again. I really like that from 6 PM to 11 PM they have walkins available. No need to make an appointment; just walk in and get your tat. It seems like all the artists at Stained in Pain Tattoo are gifted artists and have an eye for capturing incredible images. I don't plan on getting any more tattoos, but if I were I would definitely come back here. read more

Stained In Pain Tattoos - Got my tattoo from 13 years ago touched up! - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I went to get my first tattoo as a walk-in and although it hurt a bunch (which they have no control over) it was a great experience. Mario was great and really helped calm my nerves about getting the tattoo. read more

Stained In Pain Tattoos - A week after getting it - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

If you're looking for an awesome tattoo artist, Carlos at Stained in Pain is the BEST artist I have ever worked with (and I've worked with quite a few). His line work, color work, creativity, and attention to detail set him apart from any other artist I know. I definitely plan on being a life long customer of his. Whether you're looking for simple black line work or something more intense, he can do it ALL, and I can't recommend Carlos enough. Show him some love and visit him and Stained in Pain! He makes the tattoo process comfortable and fun. Never going anywhere else again, so CHECK HIM OUT!!!! read more

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So happy with my tatto! I wanted to add a small addition to my small ankle tattoo. Went to another unnamed tattoo shop and they clearly did not want to be bothered. John added a really creative 7 to my tattoo, which I now love. My brother died at the age of 36 and he loved the number 7. My tattoo is now a beautiful reminder of him. Thanks so much. read more

Stained In Pain Tattoos - Meaningful and creative 7 - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I love this place. The staff is cool, the art and decor is awesome, and the music is always on point. The artists are really good and they have a lot of regulars who come only to them for tattoos. They treat you with respect, and none of them act like pompous turds who think they're cooler than you because they work at a tattoo shop and can use swear words while working- you know what I'm talking about- the big name tattoo shops at Clark and Belmont, or in the suburbs, for example. Douches. Anyway, I got my brother to start coming here, and I continue to recommend this place to anyone who asks about my tattoos. If I had to change one thing about this shop, it would be the lack of diet pop in the vending machine. Diet Coke or Diet Dr. Pepper would be amaze. Oh, and I would change the name. Stained in Pain is kinda nerdy. read more

best place to get tattoos and piercings done. i love the energy in this place and everyone is so nice there. for tattoos i always go to jackie. jackie does great with detailing and fine lines. jackie is one of the most down to earth person and i always have great conversations with her. thank uu stained in pain tattoos read more

Stained In Pain Tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Albert is absolutely amazing. Not only is he talented as all hell, but he can carry a great conversation and make you feel at ease while he is working long away. I have only had Albert work on me at the shop, but everyone that I have encountered that works there have been nothing but friendly, funny and just all around awesome! read more

Stained In Pain Tattoos - Both created by albert. - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I was a walk-in after 9pm on a weeknight. The guys who worked there were super nice & able to take me tight away. I love my tattoo and will definitely be back. read more

Definitely coming back here for another tattoo. After I turned 18, I got my first tattoo from Mike, and it came out exactly how I wanted it to. He had some great insight and there wasn't really a moment where he couldn't bring up some kinda conversation. Great time, great experience, great price. read more

Stained In Pain Tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I had a tattoo that I was not satisfied with. I went to several tattoo artist, and non could process what I wanted. They were just critical of how bad my current work was. After much searching I came across Albert. We had discussed my situation and the completing of a half sleeve. Albert was on point, a definite artist who understood what I wanted accomplished. In a little over 3 hours this guy handled his business! I was told by others that what I wanted would take as much as 7 hours. Albert, you're a star in my book man! read more

Went in to get my nose pierced with my friends by Richie and the experience was comfortable, clean and professional! He takes you through every step and makes sure your comfortable. Definitely recommend him for piercings! Great experience read more

We went to get out infant daughter's ears pierced with Richie. He did a great job! Very professional and clean. The whole thing took 15 minutes or so. Price was $40 with jewelry. read more

Unlike the rest of the people who've been here I had a subpar experience. I walked in for a simple outline tattoo and was introduced to a tattooist that I believe to be named Tay. He did not introduce himself and gave off a vibe like I was wasting his time. I should've just left but I really wanted a tattoo so I decided to stay. After sending him a picture of what I wanted and where I wanted it he came back with a stencil that was way too big that it was almost over lapping with my other tattoo and when I wanted it resized he seemed frustrated. After placing my stencil he said he'd be right back and left me in my seat. About 10-15 minutes later he comes back in letting in a blast weed smelling air and set down his cartridge box. I don't mind people smoking but I feel like he should've let me know what he was doing instead of leaving me sitting there not knowing what was going on. After waiting he's finally ready to start and I let him know that I just want it to be a simple outline with no color and not to color in the hair because I didn't want all that black to overpower the rest of the tattoo which also seemed to annoy him. All in all it was an awkward experience because he did not speak to me and also answered a call in the middle of my tattoo which did not seem professional at all. read more

Stained In Pain Tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I went to a different tattoo shop (tattoo cave) and I was told that there is no chance to cover up my tattoo with a daisy flower. I came to Stained in Pain and JACKIE (she's great) told me that there is no problem and right away she started working on a design. read more

Stained In Pain Tattoos - BY JACKIE - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Avoid the BS & Do Not Get Suckered Into Their $50 Friday the 13th DEALS! I really tried hard to like this shop, but they really have failed me on multiple incidences! After 3 strikes, I have decided that they no longer care about me as a customer and clearly don't want my money and have no intention of doing quality work. (On me) About a year ago I went to one of their Friday the 13th specials where you could get a 3x3 tattoo for $50 (color). So I went to a guy named Jon Isaac. This was my first tattoo so i was a tad nervous. He was quiet to me the whole time. Whatevs, so he's not a talker, that's fine. The tattoo looked fine at first but after a few weeks I noticed there was at least 3 misconnections where the lines didn't even meet. STRIKE 1. But again, whatevs, didnt bother me as i figured i would get a touch up in a few months anyways. Almost a year later i went back to him for a touch up and he charged me $10 for the touch up...ummm, really? (It lterally took him 10 minutes! And made me deel like he just wanted to get it do e and over with.) You won't even stand by your work? I should have posted a pic. STRIKE 2. I thought I'd give them 1 last chance as they were doing another Friday 13th special. However this time is ONLY BLACK tatts. Really? Skimping? Whatevs. I call and see if they are still talking people at 8pm and Jon said as long as i got there by 10, they should be able to get me in. I get there before 10 and the receptionist girl said they were taking no one else for tonight. Jon was sitting right there and I told him i was the one that he talked to but he still refused to do it that night. I was like, well, can i just make an appt. then for asap? Jon said Wednesday was best. I was like Great, we can do then. The receptionist gave me his card and told me to send the pic to his email so he knows what the pic is. She scribled my name on scrap paper (which was probably thrown away as i left) along with my phone number and the date for Wednesday. I emailed him the picture the next day (2 days before Wednesday) and a week later....still no reply. (And yes, I'm sure i got the email right). STRIKE 3! IM DONE! These people are flakey & don't follow through with anything and charge you for retouches! So clearly they wont stand by their work. Save yourself the misery, BS, and time and go somewhere that actually values you & your money! And you'll get a better tatt too! read more

Finally got my coverup done after two years of removing a nightmare tattoo on my arm. Got another side piece which isn't bad though but he careful who you go with as an artist bc laser treatment hurts ! read more

I am from LA but I love Chicago and wanted to have something to remember the city- chose this place because of it's 5 star reviews. Giving a big shout out to Carlos! I think I am the oldest customer he has had in a long time and he was so kind and gracious! In fact the entire staff there was wonderful. Please make sure to tip your tattoo artist - they deserve it! read more

I've been to several shops for piercings, and Richie is the best piercer in Chicago. I found him by trying to find someone to save a piercing I got at another shop. He's the only one who takes his time and feels your muscles and movements underneath the skin for the best spot. He explains to you the options. He's very patient to make sure you leave satisfied. You can always stop by to see him later if you are having problems with your piercing. Other piercers I've been to will just pierce you exactly where you point, even if it's a spot that will most likely reject, and not offer their expert advice and options. Now I only would come to Richie for any piercing. read more

Stained In Pain Tattoos - Freshly done surface bar piercing by Richie - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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A close friend of the family, Albert Smiles, works out of this shop. My family have been coming to him for 5+ years. One day I decided to get a tattoo last minute and went into shop. Albert was gone for the day but trusted any of these employees here. I went with Jon Isaac. Sickening tattoo artist!!! He did a huge piece for the best price and great time frame. I will be coming back because of his awesome personality. Thanks Jon. read more

Stained In Pain Tattoos - I went with Jon Isaac. Sickening tattoo artist!!! He did a huge piece for the best price and great time frame. - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Just had another AMAZING session with Albert Smart!! We spent about two hours working on traditional roses on my back tattoo piece and cover-up. It felt like it went by in 15 minutes. Besides being incredibly talented, Albert is so friendly, funny and personable! His detail and shading looks spot on and has great depth. Plus the color is even and bright. Albert has all the talent of the great Chicago tattoo artists... With ZERO of the Chicago tattoo artist diva arrogant attitude. It's going to be the best experience you can ask for all around. read more

i was lucky enough to have worked with rich to get my septum pierced. he answered all of my questions about types of metal, rings, etc. He even ordered me a septum ring that the shop didn't carry so that i could be pierced comfortably and without any allergic reactions (i have a nickel allergy). he worked with me over the phone to find exactly what size ring i needed and was so helpful. the piercing was also super easy. he explained every single step of the process, including the paperwork, as we were going through the motions. he made sure i was ok right before piercing me, and spoke in a gentle voice (i think he could tell i'm a nervous person) and told me what he was going to do right before doing it. he was great. one thing i had trouble with: the posters in his piercing room. some of them made me slightly uncomfortable - however, i do understand the aesthetic appeal. it did not, however, ruin my lovely experience. read more