Very clean studio and the piercing process was quick and painless. Highly recommend!

DO NOT GET PIERCED HERE. I got my first piercings here (double lobes), and within a month my right ear swelled so severely that the skin completely grew over the piercing. I reached out for advice immediately but before they had gotten back, the skin had already grown over my earrings. As I am a student and can't afford to go to the ER, I had no choice but to rip the earring out of my ear through brute force. It was very traumatic, but I decided to give them the benefit of the doubt as someone did reply to my text two hours after I had ripped the piercing out and the piercer had not been in that day. However, a month later, the exact same thing happened to my right ear. This happened despite me cleaning my piercings twice a day and never changing the jewelry. This time, I removed the backing so that the front part of the earring could hang as far away from my skin as possible. The pain was so bad I couldn't sleep at night. The piercer must have made the earrings too tight which allowed my skin to heal over them instead of in between the front and the backing. I messaged them again asking for help, followed up multiple times, and have now gone over a week without any response. I understand that complications can happen with piercings, but completely ignoring a client who is experiencing a potentially serious issue is unacceptable. Proper aftercare includes being available to advise clients when problems arise. Based on my experience, I would strongly advise to steer clear of this shop. I have attached pictures of my piercings for reference and screenshots of our conversation. read more

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I came in for a very simple solid yellow 3/8" square tattoo. What I got was a square scar with barely even an outline in yellow. I've requested a refund via text and bank with no response. Spent $100 to have a nasty scar etched into my wrist. It also took many weeks to heel. The first pic is 4 weeks post getting the tattoo. The second is current, 6+ weeks post. read more

Tattoo Union - The "tattoo" at 6 weeks - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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My friend and I came through as a walk in. They took us really quickly- it is based on first come first serve basis. We also both ended up getting piercings. Helen was amazing and efficient when it came to the piercings. She such a fun person and was so happy to help us and gave her expertise opinion when we asked!! Ying was awesome! She worked meticulously to get us really beautiful matching tattoos. We came in with vibes and rough idea, she was able to hone in and put together a few options for us. 10/10 experience! We definitely will be back! read more

Tattoo Union - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

It's nice in appearance but the service was kinda of odd to me. Nevertheless the tattoo was great, thats what matters right? Go for the tattoos, not the atmosphere. I came here right off work, and I wasn't looking my best as far as appearances go which led to me being treated differently I feel like.... read more

I was a walk-in and they still took me pretty fast. I didn't get my artists name but he was super nice and funny and the tattoo came out perfect! Im in love with it. The shop was nice I like how decorative it was, next time I'm in Chicago I'll definitely be back! read more

Tattoo Union - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

came for a walk in on new years eye. everyone was very kind! The tattoos were exactly what i wanted. I will definitely be coming back

Crooked bellybutton piercing no refund. Didn't spend any time centering it, just made a dot, asked if it was straight which how am I supposed to know, and pierced. I went to a different piercer and they said the jewelry they used was likely from temu and not piercing grade. I tried calling them asking for a refund and they said the piercer was out, I sent pictures and they never answered. read more

Tattoo Union - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Went to get a tattoo from Ash and had an amazing experience. Super professional, beautiful work, and great communication. Ash listened to all my concerns and delivered exactly what I wanted and more! read more

LOL just go somewhere else. This was a Black Friday tattoo all healed and looking pristine. It was still the shop minimum $100. Considering other shops actually had deals for Black Friday and I doubt this tattoo could have been any worse, I'm much beyond disappointed. Big blowout right on the face. He's got angel wings, no arms, walking on bananas and blotches in the shading. I'll pass on the touch up, I'll need this covered asap. Thanks guys! read more

Tattoo Union - What I wanted - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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On Thursday, my friend and I realized we had both (separately) been thinking of getting tattoos for many years, but never made it happen. We knew what we wanted, but weren't sure of the process. On Saturday, we walked into tattoo union, and they helped us right away. We got designs squared away and they got right to work. Everything was clean, prompt, and professional. It only took maybe 30 min each, and we both left ecstatic. This experience left us both wanting more tattoos immediately, and we are already planning bigger pieces. Thanks for making the beginner experience a great one! read more

Tattoo Union - Rib tattoo -- she said it wasn't as painful as everyone made it sound - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I walked in last night to get two earlobe piercings. There was no wait when I went (around 10 PM) and the entire process took 15 min maybe. The woman piercing my earlobes was super sweet and patient with me. She walked me through everything she was doing and kept talking the entire time which calmed my nerves (these were my first piercings ever hahaha). She also offered her recommendations based on her analysis of my ears which I found helpful lmao. Overall, super pleased! read more

Tattoo Union - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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My young adult daughter and I decided to get matching koi tattoos for very personal reasons. After a tremendous amount of research, we decided that Tattoo Union was the right shop for us and Horifong was our desired artist. Coordination for design and appointments was done through Helen and was a seamless easy process; we were lucky enough to get an opening with Horifong with only a month wait time - amazing since he is usually booked far in advance. Tattoo Union is on the western end of Chinatown with parking conveniently located right in front. The shop is immaculate with a hip urban vibe and very comfortable interior waiting area and separate private tattoo/piercing space. Horifong showed us the custom design he had drawn for us and we were blown away by his artistry. He took our mediocre ideas and made them into an incredible piece of art. The actual tattoo process was completely painless and all measures were taken to ensure that we were comfortable at all times. We truly could not be more pleased with our experience with Tattoo Union from start to finish. Helen and Horifong are consummate professionals and incredibly kind and humble people. Horifong greatly deserves the title of Master Tattoo Artist and I can't imagine ever going to another shop/artist in the future. Thank you, Helen and Horifong - we'll be back! read more

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There's so much talent in this establishment!! I stumbled across Tattoo Union accidentally, but once I found them I HAD to reach out. I was very fortunate to be a canvas for Danny. From his consultation to the final piece, he was respectful, listened, and took my very simple concept to a whole new level of art! The level of detail, the artistry, time and outcome was beyond my expectations. If you're looking for simplicity, quick and short, they may not be for you. But if you want a piece of art that tells a story you have to see the amazing talent for yourself. If you have the patience, time and $ to get it done, you won't be disappointed. Danny worked with the shop manager and me on pricing for each session, and I couldn't be happier to have a piece custom made by Danny! Thank you guys for all your hospitality and artistry that you bring into this world! read more

Tattoo Union - Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Just got an industrial piercing done here and such amazing service. Helen is the best! She was super kind and very professional. The only place I'm coming to get my piercings! read more

Tattoo Union - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

It would be difficult to find a more competent, knowledgeable, and ethical artist. It was my first tattoo. It's my pleasure to have Fong to do my first tattoo. It's nice to able to relax and know your skin is in the most capable of hands.  If you are considering getting something that's going to be with you for the rest of your life. You should better find someone talented just like Fong. He is the best of the best artists around. Helen and Fong are awesome! I love them so much! They will guide you through the entire process, begining with the design all the way through to helping make sure your new tattoo heals properly. Make the right choice and book a session with Tattoo Union! 这是我第一个纹身超级喜欢！谢谢Tattoo Union. read more

Tattoo Union - Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I have had two tattoos done at Tattoo Union and both times the experience has been not a pleasant one. I found them on instagram and booked my appointment with Master Fong after being impressed by his work. I paid my deposit and was told my appointment was held. Right before my appointment I was told that they double booked my spot and I was asked if I would be willing to change appointment slots. I agreed upon a different date and the first appointment went super well. The tattoo was looking great and I was excited to come back. Now my second appointment also had to be moved, and driving from Wisconsin, it was a little tough getting my appointments moved on me all of the time. Out of the 5 total appointments I had at least 4 of them moved once. Now onto the second appointment. I asked for a mainly black samurai with bits of color, and I was told originally it was going to be two appointments. 7 hours into this appointment I now have much of my arm colored. It looked awesome so I wasn't upset about it, but here's the kicker. We agreed on 2200 total, and I paid 1300 the first session, and now they were asking for another 1300. I told them that is much more than we agreed upon, and they said they made a mistake and thought that I didn't have a budget. Instead of saying "oh it's our fault we forgot you had a budget" they coerced me to agree to a new price and wouldn't honor our written agreement. They comped the last session, but then again, it wasn't really free because I had already paid 400-600 more dollars than we agreed upon. My second tattoo went much the same way except I was never shown a design beforehand and this time there were no pricing issues. However, I asked them to fill in my bicep to complete a half sleeve tattoo (first tattoo was shoulder and second one was bicep). After the first appointment, I noticed the placement was off and my bicep tattoo now extends beyond the original so it is not a coherent half sleeve. I mentioned this in the second appointment and asked if he could fill in the back of my arm to match it cause I was very clear I that I wanted a cohesive half sleeve. Once again, money became an issue and he was offended that I asked him to do that for free, even though it was what we agreed upon originally. Helen came over at this point and told me that he made it bigger so I could get extra detail, which is nice, but that is not what I requested. And when I have paid them a total of over 4000 dollars for just my upper arm, I figured they would have been nicer, especially after I decided to come back and give them another chance after my first experience. Overall, the only reason this is two stars and not one is because master fong is an insanely talented artist, but the service there is not great. Even though his work is incredible, I won't be returning just cause the process was stressful. Here are the tattoos I have that I am super happy with. read more

Just as in the past with Danny, another excellent experience with Tattoo Union. Called into the shop to schedule an appointment for a standard double lobe piercing. COVID precautions were thoroughly met and I was greeted kindly by Helen. She listened to my request and explained the process well and concisely. Taking my feedback into mind, we were able to pick suitable jewelry together and we went down to business. The whole process including piercing was roughly 30-45 minutes. She was pleasant and courteous throughout, professional in sterile technique, and professional in the best sense possible. I felt reassured with her aftercare advice, and while offering solution in-shop she also offered options outside of the store as well. I would absolutely return to this shop for more ink and body mods, and would recommend them for their courteous and experienced artists. read more

Tattoo Union - double earlobe piercing - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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HELEN! You were so absolutely incredible and I would recommend you to anyone who asked! This woman not only handled my request with kindness and patience, she also walked me through both piercings what she was doing and what the expected outcome would be. She also came on her own personal off time to pierce me with no appointment. The fact that she stopped what she was doing and came in to pierce me made my entire day. I'm not one to leave a review but this calls for 5 stars and then some. Thank you so much for a wonderful experience Helen! read more

Came here for a nose piercing and it was done by Helen. She's great! She led me to the room and that's when she went over the sterile equipment with me so I felt safe. The nose piercing was fast and done professionally. She was so patient and so comforting and made the whole experience wonderful! Will be coming again for future piercings! read more

Tattoo Union - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Just stopped in today for a quick piercing! Now, when I say quick.. I don't mean 5 mins and less. Helen (the name of the kind woman who pierced my ear) did an amazing, outstanding, and wonderful job with my cartilage piercing. She let me choose the earring I wanted.. talked me through all the designs and the process. Then she went back to set up for the procedure. You can't go back there while she's setting up because shes sterilizing everything!!!! (That's a HUGE plus!) She made sure everything was clean ( my ear and the materials) before we began. The actually piercing took 20 seconds but the aftercare took 5 mins. It was def worth my money since we were in the chinatown area and all northside tattoo shop charged twice as much. I WILL STOP BY AGAIN IN THE FUTURE! Highly recommend this place! read more

Tattoo Union - Got my cartilage pierced by Helen. - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Make sure to check their hours and the day they are open before going! They aren't the MOST typical or convenient. I came here to get a cartilage piercing, walk-in with no appointment. The piercing + the earring together was only $40!!! Super cheap. Keep in mind it will be maybe $3 more or something like that if you pay with card. She gives you the option of a stud or horseshoe. The stud costs slightly more but again not much. The lady was super nice and informative; while other piercing places I have gone to sold a saltwater spray to me for an additional $20, she had just told me I could get it from a local pharmacy or CVS. When you get the piercing, she seats you on a chair and cleans your ear. She uses a needle as well. The whole process was very sterile and clean despite the low price. I would suggest coming here for piercings over anywhere else in Chicago. read more

Tattoo Union - Lower cartilage piercing with a horseshoe earring - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

A thousand percent recommend this shop!! I texted randomly on a Monday and Helen was able to get me into an appointment the next day with Diamond! Not only was Helen incredibly easy to talk to but she also was so sweet, patient, and kind with all my questions. She was so so quick in her response time and so pleasant to talk to. Now Diamond is probably one of my favorite tattoo artists I've ever been to and I've been to many. When I first got there a few folks dropped in for questions and she was so graceful in the conversation even when there was a language barrier with them. She was so patient and kind talking to them. And she really made sure she gave them the best suggestions and advice as possible. She and I hit it off so quickly when I came to check in. She is just full of so much passion and dedication to her work. She was so easy to talk to and really made this experience one of my best tattoo experiences ever. She made sure to check in on me and had so much excitement for the piece I brought to her that my sister designed. She talked to me throughout the whole tattooing process and it was really nice to learn more about her and see her passion for art. She also has such a light touch I could have taken a whole nap while she tattooed me but I enjoyed talking to her so much. At the end she gave me really detailed tattoo care and advice. I definitely would come back to get another piece by her and this tattoo parlor! I had an amazing experience!!! Thanks Diamond you're the best!! read more

Diamond was such an amazing help! Took me through getting my eyebrow done and it came out perfect!

Helen was AMAZING. The eyebrow piercing I got today was quick and easy (attached a pic of it) Helen did awesome and explained the aftercare really well. She was also incredibly helpful when I got lightheaded afterward. Thank you! read more

Tattoo Union - eyebrow piercing - a bit swollen because it's brand new - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I was on a trip to Chicago and on a whim, considered getting a tattoo. I checked out a few other tattoo places and Tattoo Union definitely stood out. Danny had samples of his art all over the walls and it was clear that this is his passion. After looking at the amazing pieces Danny had done in the past, I could not resist getting a tattoo before I had to leave to go home. I showed Danny a simple picture of an origami crane and asked tor China blue flowers and he came up with the amazing masterpiece! Even though it was last minute, Danny took his time working on the design and it never felt rushed even though the session went well past typical closing time. Best souvenir I could've asked for! read more

Tattoo Union - Crane with China blue flowers - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I got a matching tattoo with my little sis at the Halsted location by her artist Danny, and for my first-ever tattoo experience I couldn't ask for more. I truly appreciate the amount of time and effort that Danny took to work with us on our designs and placements, which added to the significance of the experience. I respect the time and training that every tattoo artist devotes to their career, and wish I'd only been more rich to leave a tip, too :) Beside the professionalism and passion, Danny made the experience worth while with intellectually-stimulating conversations that distracted me from the pain. I felt safe and comfortable and that's all I could ask for. Oh and I LOVE my first tat. Thank you Dan! read more

Tattoo Union - Fresh tat - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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My mom took me here for my first tattoo. Kevin did my tattoo with Hori's guidance. It turned out amazing. Every day i look at it i love it even more. It's been 2 years and i've gotten every other tattoo here. Very kind and understanding people. Kevin is such an amazing artist who puts high value in his art. read more

Tattoo Union - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Viewed Kevin's Instagram page accidentally, and truly loved his style since I'm a huge fan of fine art tattoo. From making the appointment to the tattoo healed, the whole process was comfortable and satisfying. I was a little bit worried about how the tattoo is going to turn out since I didn't know any sort of tattoo knowledge. But I feel relived after talking to Kevin due to his patience and professionalism. He modified several versions of the tattoo design based on my needs. I really appreciate his patience since I know I've always been a picky person. The final work was even better than I expected, and it was definitely worth the money. Overall it's was an amazing experience with Kevin and Tattoo Union!! Definitely will recommend this place to my friends! read more

Went in for a piercing and it was a total waste of money. Piercer did not show me the marks where she was piercing otherwise I would've never agreed to have it placed where it was. I removed the piercing and went to another piercer and was satisfied with their work. Moral of the story: go elsewhere. Update after receiving comment from Helen questioning the validity of my review: I, in fact, was pierced without a mark being made and shown the piercing. My original review was deleted (I believe it was actually reported) and the reason in the email stated that it was deleted because I had posted it to the Tips section and not the review section for this business, which is why I am reposting my review. I have been to this business only once and my review is about MY EXPERIENCE with the business and is nothing more than that. I've attached a picture I took on the day I went in of a cool decoration on the ceiling which proves I was definitely there. Helen, let me know what other issues I should address. Thank you! read more

Tattoo Union - Cool decoration on the ceiling - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Had to post on both yelp and google cause of how much I loved the service ! Thankyou tattoo Union for my piercing !

Made an appointment for a very simple design a few days before my appointment. I arrived on time and was told it would be a 20 minute wait. I ended up waiting 90 minutes and I ended up having to leave because I had plans after. I did receive a refund on my deposit but just felt like the whole situation was a waste of my time. read more

Got mine done by master fong. Came in with the basic idea drawn own and he was able to make it his own with his own sketch. HE was super fast and light handed I didn't feel it much and I have a super low pain tolerance. I'm glad I was able to get him to do my piece as a walk in since an appointment finished up earlier than expected. The full piece took about 40/45 minutes. Pricing seemed a bit expensive but the overall work and quality was super worth the price read more

Tattoo Union - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Fong is an awesome artist! Came in on recommendations from several friends who have had work done by him, when I asked them about tattoo artists who were good with more traditional Chinese designs. Facebooked in the area on where my cover-up would be going along with some general info. The next week my outline session was set and Fong had basically pulled my tattoo out if ny brain! When he tattoos you, he is good about making sure you're okay. Can get dry during the process, so if you are ticklish, BEWARE! Usually I don't notice anything until the end of my session nears (5-6 hours). Fong has a lot of patience for all my stretch wiggles, book dropping, and bagel chumping as he tattoos me, which is FAR more than what i can say about some previous artists. One more session and my tattoo will be complete! So far it is stunning and everyone has gone from the "omg! That had to hurt" face to the amazed face. I have already told them they need to head here and see him, let's hope they listen! Very clean shop, very friendly, good work, and EXCELLENT prices! Anyone who would say otherwise, clearly should head north for the more expensive and less friendly shops! Best to find the shop on facebook and send in a heads up so when you go in to talk he will have some ideas for you. DON'T BE A NEWB! If you come in all confused, chances are, if I am tthere, I might be laughing at you in my head. Tattoos are forever (unless you go through more pain to remove) so get the tattoo you KNOW for sure that you want to live with. ...oh and bring snacks if you're in for a long session! Never get inked hungry or on pain killers, while drunk or stoned! You just make your artist's life difficult. :D read more

I tried to set an appointment through Yelp for a nose piercing, the owner Helen contacted me to let me know I could come right in. She was very personable and just so happen to be outside when I arrived. Greeted me, told me the process and what not. I was nervous, but she jokingly said no worries I got you I do this all day every day She was just cool! It took all of about 10 minutes from ID, payment and piercing. Everything was sterile. Environment professional. No people just hanging out. Next is a cover up tattoo I'll definitely be back! read more

Tattoo Union - Nose Piercing - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I got my helix pierced by Helen and everything went very smoothly. She did a great job of making sure I liked the placement and recommending what she thought looked best. The piercing was very quick and painless. The entire process was done in about 10 minutes but it did not feel rushed at all. Helen took her time to explain all the aftercare and make sure that I felt comfortable during the piercing process. I felt the entire process was very clean, especially during COVID. The price for piercing was extremely fair as well - I got both ears done for $100 which is way less than other studios. I would definitely recommend! read more

Tattoo Union - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Another excellent experience at Tattoo Union. Alex created the design perfectly to honor my grandmother and adjusted the shape and placement so it fit my arm just how I wanted. His use of detail, highlights and shading is incredible. Once again, highly recommend!! read more

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My husband and I have been customers of here several times. We really like here！First of all, Helen is so nice and generous. After I finished the eyeliner here，she took care of my follow-up care very professionally and Fong is very professional as well since my husband is very afraid of pain, but he said he won't feel any painful after a few tattoos. I have to say the technology of Fong is the BEST! and the other employees in it are very enthusiastic, in short, every time we are not disappointed and had fun here every time because the store style and environment is very COOL! Highly recommend!! I HAVE NO IDEA why my review was hidden by Yelp!? Do you need me to upload my consumer invoice to proof it? Or is my account less active than the newly registered person who only wrote a comment? Or is it because I am Chinese and those accounts with only one comment are American? Yelp you disappointed me too much! I seriously doubt your fairness to all the customers!!! read more

Tattoo Union - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Nothing too unique here, it seems to be a pretty average shop located near a sketchy tunnel and sketchy area. They lock their doors probably for safety and did not answer call when I tried to enter a few days ago. Perhaps stereotyped me and chose not to open the door, which is not surprising nowadays. read more

Super professional and affordable! Chill vibes for sure, they really make you feel at ease and make great art here! My friends and I walked in for a septum piercing, nose piercing, and tattoo, and we all left super happy with the experience. They answered all of our questions and guided us through the piercing/tattoo procedure and after care. AND they offer cheaper prices than the vast majority of places in Chicago. Best place in Chicago for a tattoo or piercing, can't recommend these guys enough! read more

Tattoo Union - Tattoo Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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