Built on nearly two decades of ink.
From a first tattoo done on the strength of friends' trust to two of the highest-rated studios in Illinois.
Tough It Out Tattoo was founded on 17 years of unwavering dedication, relentless hard work, and a deep-rooted passion for tattooing. Our journey began with a simple vision: to create a space where artistic expression meets technical excellence, where every client’s story is honored through ink. Over nearly two decades, we’ve built a reputation as one of Illinois’ premier custom tattoo studios, proudly serving the Carpentersville and Waukegan communities with exceptional artistry and professionalism.
Our talented team of skilled artists and eager in-house apprentices collaborate to transform unique ideas into stunning, custom tattoos. Each artist brings specialized expertise, from photorealistic portraits to traditional American designs, delicate fine-line work to bold tribal pieces. We believe every tattoo should be as individual as the person wearing it, which is why we invest time understanding your vision, refining designs, and ensuring the final result exceeds expectations. Whether you’re getting your first tattoo or adding to an extensive collection, our artists work closely with you to create meaningful, lasting artwork.
We pride ourselves on maintaining a clean and professional environment, following industry best practices for safety and hygiene. Our studio follows strict health and safety protocols, including the use of professional-grade sterilization equipment, single-use needles, and proper sanitization procedures. All staff members maintain current bloodborne pathogen training. We understand getting a tattoo is a significant decision, and we’re committed to making your experience not only artistically satisfying but also safe and comfortable.
Ribbon cutting with the City of Waukegan
Mayor Sam Cunningham and Building Commissioner Steve Lenzi joined Julio Gomez for the grand opening at 3016 Belvidere Rd.
See the city's post →Come have a real look around.
The shop floor, the work in progress, and the standard we hold both rooms to — clean, professional, and worth trusting with skin.
What you're looking at
The Waukegan floor — stations set up the way health inspectors and nervous first-timers both like to see: professional-grade sterilization equipment, single-use needles, and artists with current bloodborne pathogen training.
Want the moving version? The crew posts work-in-progress and finished pieces most weeks:
- Watch: on the floor at Waukegan — a piece coming together start to finish.
- Watch: shop life — the atmosphere you're walking into.
From idea to healed piece.
1 · Bring the idea
A sentence is enough. Placement and rough size help, and a reference picture helps more, but nobody needs it worked out before they get in touch.
2 · Match the artist
Realism, black and grey, fine line, traditional, cover-ups — the team specialises differently, and the piece goes to whoever does it best.
3 · Design & book
You talk it through with the artist, agree the design and the sitting, and put a deposit down to hold the chair.
4 · Get tattooed
Come fed, hydrated and with ID. You'll leave wrapped, with aftercare instructions for your specific piece.
Tell us the idea.
We'll do it justice.
You don't need every detail figured out. A strong idea, a few references and an open conversation are enough to get going.