Mindful Tattoo Collective

I received my first tattoo from Wren on Saturday. I have been a big fan of her work for a while but wasn't quite sure what I wanted. I sent her some things I liked, told her the general vibe I was going for and gave her creative freedom to design me something. Let me tell you, it is incredibly nerve-wracking showing up for a tattoo not knowing what you are going to get, but I was completely blown away by how perfect the design she came up with was. I couldn’t have thought of something so perfect if I tried. On top of her being incredible at listening and understanding what I wanted exactly, she was the sweetest and kindest person. At no point in the process did I feel overwhelmed or anxious. Wren walked me through everything, and I was completely at ease the whole time. The few questions I did have Wren answered clearly and kindly, even after our appointment when I had additional after care questions she was fast to respond and incredibly helpful.

As for the shop itself everything was clean, everyone was friendly and it was a great environment. I cannot recommend Mindful enough!

I have been tattooed by both Justin and Barbie at mindful tattoo. I have also been tattooed at a handful of other shops. Some shops I have straight up walked out of due to unprofessionalism, cleanliness, or just poor people skills. As far as mindful tattoo goes I put them at the top of the list. They communicate well, Establishment is clean, and they have no issues changing drawings to meet your needs and desires.
Prices, in my opinion, are more than fair considering the fact Justin absorbs some of his profits by using Biodegradable materials and packaging and also gave me the option for a state of the art skin covering (which i opted for, and in my opinion is a game changer) initially invented by a doctor for surgeries, that you basically leave on for 3 to 4 days during which protects the art from infection and scabbing. This means almost no maintenance. I’m headed back there in a month for another piece of work to be done.

Justin your work is outstanding. Everyone at Mindful Tattoo is wonderful. I have and always will recommend Mindful Tattoo Collective.

Thank you and appreciate your work

Heidi

This review is not of the Tattoo shop. Instead it is a review of what dwells or dwelled in the apartments right above.
If you go east to 639 1/2 there is a staircase to the apartment flats above these shops. The flats are old. They have a sink and maybe a small fridge and stove. There is a shared shower and bathroom that serves most the residents.
A number of years ago a friend of mine lived in the above flat, at least I think it was that one, but honestly it probably doesn't matter.
I had moved away from DeKalb and my wife and I decided to visit this friend. We came up the steps, knocked at his door, and met him.
I was taken by how unique his place was. There was a sort of second floor, like a deck, above the bed where he stored various items. I remember my eyes being drawn to a Bible he had tossed up on that deck. The walls were red brick, and the windows were large and overlooked Lincoln Hwy.
We were headed out to an old pizza place that's long gone. Before we all left, he excused himself to use the bathroom leaving me and my wife.
That's when we had the most fearsome and paranormal experience of our lives. Within seconds of my friend shutting the door something unseen charged at us, seemingly coming through the bricks, and stopped short right in front of our faces. I'd have sworn that that a wind even hit my face and rustled my hair.
I figured I was hallucinating but my wife then grabbed my hand and in a small panicked voice said "let's go, let's leave!"
I took a deep breath, staring in the direction of whatever was in front of me, only seeing the brick wall. I decided to get mad at "it", and said firmly "No, we're not going anywhere."
I feel like the standoff between us and that evil force lasted forever. As soon as my friend returned it left us.
This memory, this encounter, has haunted me for years. I'll never go into that building again. Whatever it was, it wanted to harm us.
I'm posting this because maybe others know what I'm talking about. Maybe others encountered it too. If so, do share.
It was real. I swear that it was. It's the only "ghost" encounter I've been party to. And I don't want to ever repeat it.

Justin and Barbie are both very nice. I have only been tattooed by Justin but he amazing work. Very clean, kind, courteous, and professional. I always make an appointment via email. I will be going back and I recommend them both to everyone I talk to!

The best tattoo shop in Dekalb IL. Family own. Highly recommended. Been going to them for years.

I have had barbie do almost my whole sleeve. she is absolutely amazing!I tell her what I want and what my budget is and tell her to have fun with it. I give her creative freedom because in the end I know it will be a better tattoo if she's having fun with it and I have never been dissatisfied one bit. I look forward to getting my next tattoo with her. Justin is also an amazing artist. I have a few friends that have been tattooed by him and its just so amazing. if I could give 10 stars I wouldn't hesitate one bit! thank you barbie! your amazing!

Barbie is amazing!!!! Just got inked today. And already can't wait to go back.

Justin has done several tattoos for me and I love them all. The tattoo artists at Mindful Tattoo are friendly & professional. The shop is always super clean and comfortable to be in. Tattoo prices are fair as well. The customer service is always outstanding. Wish I could give you guys more than 5 stars.

The artist are very talented. And respectful. Shop is very clean. Great communication with their customers. Awesome work with a reasonable price. Can't go wrong by getting some ink done there.