Sorry Mama Tattoo Chicago

I went here for my first color tattoo recently and the experience was amazing. The shop is so cozy and welcoming. I could not have asked for a better shop for my first color piece. Both Leo and Raquel were super accommodating and made sure that my experience was the best it could possibly be. Both of them were very cool people and easy to talk to. They made sure that it was a personable tattoo for me and even got me a Dr. Pepper (my favorite) mid-tattoo. I'm so grateful they made it a very painless process and I can't wait to go back to get more work done with them!

All I did was search for the best watercolor tattoo artists in Chicago, and the next thing I knew I was meeting two of the most genuinely kind, talented, and welcoming people. It quickly became clear why Sorry Mama consistently comes up as the top watercolor tattoo studio in the city. Raquel is incredibly warm, professional, attentive, and so nice. She coordinated my appointment seamlessly, complete with great coffee and clear, thoughtful communication throughout. Being the first person you see when you walk in, she is a true asset to the studio—her friendly energy immediately made me feel at home, at ease, and genuinely cared for. Leo was my artist, and I have never met a tattoo artist so deeply passionate and excited about their craft. He is exceptionally professional, detail-oriented, and intentional. He truly cares about the meaning behind each piece, has an incredibly light hand, and a remarkable eye for balance, symmetry, and fine detail. I requested a watercolor chest piece to complete an older one, and Leo created the most beautiful large addition that required long hours, yet the entire session felt calm, respectful, and surprisingly relaxing. He made me feel comfortable, honored my body, and treated the process as a true collaboration and art form from start to finish. The tattoo finally felt completed thanks to him! I deeply appreciate the sense of ease, trust, and respect he created throughout the experience. It’s rare to meet someone so authentically connected to their work, and Leo embodies that fully—an outstanding artist with genuine care, vision, and integrity. I left not only with a beautiful piece of art, but also feeling like I had made real connections with people who were truly happy for me. The studio itself is spotless, beautifully curated, and meticulously organized; all equipment was clearly sanitized and handled with the highest level of care. Without question, this is the BEST watercolor tattoo studio in Chicago. If you’re considering a watercolor tattoo, this is absolutely where you should go.

From start to finish, my experience getting a tattoo with Leo Mayer was one filled with respect and care. He clearly loves what he does and puts his whole heart into his work. Both my husband and I will be back for more work in the future. Raquel is also great and makes sure you have snacks and whatever else you need during the process. Loved talking to her and she was very communicative over email.