From the moment I booked my tattoo to the end, the experience was just top of the line. Everything was smooth. My artist Marty was there right on time for my tattoo, went over the design and even made some suggestions for me, which for me is a plus. I've seen his work and this is why I chose him for the tattoo style that I wanted to get. Studio was very clean, the staff and artist made me feel welcome. They even have some of their own merch for you to buy as well. If I could I would give it a 10 Star rating. read more

It's hard to choose between which artist, because they are all amazing! Needed a good amount of work done and had to do my research. After reaching out and a consultation, I knew that Marty was one I could trust! Extremely talented!! Had a couple sessions so far, more to come and 10/10 recommend! Amazing, relaxed atmosphere. You can feel comfortable getting any questions answered and get what you're looking for. This is my new favorite spot! read more

I have gotten most of my tattoos at this shop and have also brought in many people throughout the years. Everyone including myself have been extremely happy with their work which is nothing less than perfect. Great people and amazing artists. They are so versatile that no matter what style you want they have someone there to meet your needs. Very professional, clean, and helpful. Marti is the artist that has done my tattoos and I can't see myself going to another shop once you find good people that do quality work you stick with them. read more

As my second tattoo there... Neil is absolutely fantastic. He's such a great artist and very welcoming.

Wanted to get a tattoo touched up but the atmosphere was so friendly and comfortable I ended up getting an additional tattoo. Alex is professional and efficient. I will definitely be back. read more

Marc was my artist and he's great. Marc is very knowledgeable about the methods of tattooing. The staff is friendly, hospitable, and entertaining. The wait for an appointment was not long and I got parking right outside the front door of the parlor. I would definitely recommend ILL State Ink and Marc as an artist. read more

World Class tattoo shop. This shop has tatted thousands of customers throughout the years with integrity and the upmost style. Local Chicago artists, well known and respected. Book your next art piece soon! Peace Love Tattoo, MPURE 2064 read more

THIS PLACE IS AMAZING!!!! Please give these guys all of your money because they are so good. After almost being scammed by another tattoo shop, we arrived here almost afraid the experience would be the same. We walked in and immediately get welcomed like we are friends. Good music, they do incredible work and the customer service is outstanding. Thank you to everyone there that night, you made it unforgettable. read more

I recently got a cover up tattoo by Neil also knows as Grey. He is hands down one of the best tattoo artists in Chicago. Super patient and and an excellent artist. You wouldn't even know that my new tattoo was a cover up. He did such a great job that there is no trace of my old one. He made me super comfortable during the painful process. It was like I was chatting with an old friend while I was there. The shop is great. Super clean. Music is on point. I was even offered a hot cup of coffee when I came in on a cold night. Ill State Ink is the place to go for your new tat. Ask for Grey. read more

I was back in the U.S over the summer and wanted to get some more work done. Neil over at IllState Ink was recommended to me by a friend. I called and made an appointment. A few days later I showed up a little late.. but wasn't a problem at all. Work was quality and exactly what I was looking for. Very professional and clean. My experience with tattoo shops is usually getting there then waiting around for a bit as they draw and re-draw. Neil had a few drawings ready to go, we talked about them a bit, he made some slight alterations then straight to hearing that smooth metallic drum sound a needle makes as it passes in and out of your skin. Neil was actually pretty cool to chat with too. Spent about 6 hours on his table and didn't get bored. Interesting guy. Neil had this doll pinned to his shirt, which I thought was kinda funny but he had a whole story behind it, so I guess a little more then fashion. Anyway I would completely go back. 100% recommend and endorse this place. Next time I'm in Chicago I'll be at Ill State Ink getting more work done, you can guarantee it. read more

I went into ILL State Ink today (as a walk-in) looking to get a tattoo. The shop is brightly lit, clean, and played some overall enjoyable music. Parking is pretty easy, too (either pay on the street out front or park for free around the corner). I was helped immediately by Marty and the rest of the staff picked their heads up to say hello as I walked in (a kind of welcome that I've never experienced at any other tattoo shop). I felt comfortable immediately. As for the process of getting the tattoo, Marty was great. I've actually never had such an enjoyable tattoo experience before. The artist was super friendly and his work looks great as well. I think I'll be coming back here in the future for all of my tattoos. read more

As a former New Yorker, I hated to leave my artist (Kevin at Black Fish). I did some research on Chicago shops like Metamorph and Deluxe--and no doubt they have great artists--but they charge $200 an hour, which I find totally ridiculous. Getting a tattoo is a really important decision and it's nice to have an artist that charges by the piece--something I'm used to. Drawing up a piece can take a few hours alone so....yeah. Prices are totally fair but I was really blown away by the great service. My artist, Marty, is a total rock star. He's got a light touch and a true eye for art--smooth shading, excellent portraits and a whole host of badass tattoos in both color and back and grey. I'm a black and grey girl myself but I would feel totally confident in either medium (Another detail--Marty's lettering is SICK. The best I've ever seen). Marty has a great eye for style. I'm super picky but I found myself constantly asking his opinion, which is a pretty big deal for what has become an awesome chest piece with a very recognizable image (from Smashing Pumpkins'd Mellon Collie vinyl). ILL State is relatively new and I think that's awesome. I was burned by Jade Dragon (who hasn't?) when I was much younger and was really scarred (literally). Marty made me totally comfortable, the music is chill, and I prefer night appointments because they're'really rad. The atmosphere is light-hearted, the artists are funny and there's no need for headphones--Marty's a cool guy to chat with. I learned a lot more about the tattoo process and machines (don't call 'em guns!) and he made sure I was comfortable 100% of the time by laying me back, taking breaks if needed and lots of laughs. I 100% recommend ILL State--these guys (and girl--don't forget Kola!) are totally ill...hence the name. Walk-ins welcome but make an appt--guaranteed good times and . My skin is pale and really sensitive and I healed in four days completely. Make it a Marty evenning--you won't be disappointed! read more

I've been getting my tattoos from Neil for about 4 years now (even before ILL State) and there are reasons why I always come to him: Neil is very professional, easy-going, easy to talk to, loves and cares about his craft, and most importantly - cares about his customers and the art he does on their bodies. He's track record and portfolio speak for themselves. I've always felt comfortable sharing my ideas with him because he listens and gives his honest opinion and expert advice. The shop itself is nice, clean, and laid back with a lot of open space and seating and art everywhere. Everyone is chill and it's always a good time there with people coming in and out and tunes in the background. The location is also very accessible with plenty of street parking. i highly recommend ILL State and all of there artists. Swing by the shop and see for yourself. read more

Best tattoo shop hands down!! The work that comes out of this shop is so amazing!! I highly recommend them. 2tone has been my tattoo artist for 12 years and my tattoos are as fresh in color as day one! read more

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Safe, Clean, Friendly and FUN environment even before COVID. Great artists!! I have been going to 2Tone for years now but everyone at this shop is very talented. read more

Great shop! Owner and staff are amazing! Clean, friendly, and high quality work! Wouldn't go to any other shop in the city!

I had my first tattoo done by Neil and I absolutely love it!! I had an anklet done with roses and a charm. The tattoo is special to me because at 46 yrs young, it was done in MEMORY OF MY MOTHER, MY GRANDMOTHER AND MY 1st SON who are no longer with us. Neil, thank you for an amazing experience. I'm looking forward to having more work done by you. read more

ILL State Ink - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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This is a great shop that's clean, inviting and has a lot of personality. I'm a hip hop fan so it was a plus to have them playing local artists as well as having some of their music for sale. Two of the artists I've known for over a decade. They are local from the area that are a part of the culture. And not transplants from the suburbs. They are a true Chicago representation of the art form. Their work only continues to get better. Several of my friends have had their work done here. A+! read more

Since, my update I have gone back for 3 more tattoos. This place is simply amazing and I will continue to go here and refer all my friends and family. Neil Carter is simply the best. read more

What a group of lovable and talented artists.! The shop is extremely clean with a very welcoming atmosphere. I'm currently looking forward to having some more work done by Neil. My first piece by Neil was done over a year ago and still looks fresh! The shop is organized, and I must mention it again, very CLEAN. When you look at each artist's work you can tell that they put in the time and passion that is needed for high quality tattoos. I would highly recommend ILL STATE INK for your tattooing needs!!!! read more

Very pleased with my tatt by marty bcardy great comfortable atmosphere allready thinking of new tatts for the future most def worth cecking out prices are on point also not overpriced like most shops in the city read more

Best place to get tatted! Marty has been tattooing me since 2013. Great customer service and amazing atmosphere!

Neil is kind of a big deal; however, all the artists rock. The artists are extremely talented and super friendly. I have never gotten a tattoo from there that I disliked. It has been and will continue to be my go-to shop. read more

I recently had some work done by Marty BCardy and couldn't be more excited about the finished product. As this was the first tattoo I've gotten in Chicago, I shopped around for the shop and artist I felt would be the right fit for me. ILL State Ink was at the Chicago Tattoo Arts Convention back in March and that is when I first saw the artists in action. I was impressed from the start. Marty was a real treat to work with. I knew what I wanted to incorporate into my piece but was not quite sure how to go about it. Marty came up with a great concept that really emcompassed everything I wanted and more. All of the artists I saw were super friendly and they really make their clients feel at home. Their prices are also extremely reasonable for the excellent quality of work that is done. I will continue to be a customer of ILL State Ink and you should too! read more

This place is awesome. I'm getting my fourth piece today and I'm nothing but excited. Each time it's been done by Julius and he's a great artist. Everyone is super friendly and the place is clean as they come, and it's well priced. Take the leap and come here. read more

My experience there was exceptional! Marty was my guy and he was so professional and sick on his detail work. I highly recommend him but overall the whole shop is well worth your money.... Great shop! read more

Love this spot! Waited about a year after moving back before choosing a place to go... Already have two tattoos done by Neil! I recommended this place to a lot of my friends when they ask me where I got my work done. Really chill atmosphere- love you guys! read more

I have to say, this is the only shop I can actually feel comfortable in, reason being is because there isn't any type of hostility when entering the doors. I have had three great pieces done by Marty and each time he surprises me on how talented he is. What I personally look for in an artist is someone who you can tell an idea of what you want to get done, and them wanting to throw in a couple of their own ideas to try to make your piece even better, and if you don't like it they do not get offended in any way or even want to pressure you. Both instances in which I've came to this shop, Marty and the rest of the artist at Ill State Ink have been nothing but nice and actually try to have a conversation with their clients. This is just a great shop with great talented artist. read more

A great place to get your tattoo(s) at! The talented staff at Ill State Ink is professional, personable, passionate, and they all have a great sense of humor. Most importantly, this place is CLEAN! Many tattoo shops throughout Chicago are disgusting and questionable; this is not one of those places--trust me. Ill State Ink provides you with a number of creative ideas, and are willing to take the time to hear you out in terms of what you're looking for in a tattoo. I highly recommend checking this place out! read more

the best tattoo shop around.. Marty did a fantastic job, talented for sure... the shop is very clean, sanitary and professional. I will not go anywhere else in chicago read more