creating a business plan for a tattoo shop

Tattoo Shop Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Tattoo Shop Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your Tattoo Shop business plan.

We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their Tattoo Shops.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Tattoo Shop business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Wild Ink is a startup tattoo shop business located in Sturgis, North Dakota. The business was founded by Damien Harness, a tattoo artist who learned his craft over twenty years ago and has been employed as a tattoo artist by tattoo shop owners since his apprenticeship. During last year, he recognized that the way to build a sustainable business in the manner in which he believed would best benefit both the customer and a business would be to start a tattoo business himself. He spent the past six months recruiting others to join his staff after the launch of the business.

Wild Ink will provide a comprehensive and highly-detailed array of premier tattoo designs and styles from which to choose and the artists will assist customers in designing their own tattoos, if requested. The business utilizes premier inks and conforms to all hygiene requirements in order to provide customers with a stellar tattoo each time, all the time.

Product Offering

The following are the services that Wild Ink will provide:

• 100% guarantee of clean and safe environment, tools and all inking products used
• Customer satisfaction is a primary driver of the company; an unhappy customer receives a refund without any questions asked.
• Unique tattooing experience that includes amenities such as lotions, tattoo balm, wipes and other “care items.”
• Self-expression and personal transformation are encouraged and affirmed
• Exceptional artistry by our highly-experienced tattoo artists guarantees the “look” you want from your tattoo experience
• Serious tattoo enthusiasts may choose from specialty inks and styles
• Cover-ups, black and gray, color tattoos, traditional, and contemporary styles.
• Discount packages for couples and groups who choose to be tattooed at the same appointment

Customer Focus

Wild Ink will focus on all residents-of-age of Sturgis, North Dakota. They will also focus on visitors, particularly those during the yearly Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, where over 500,000 motorcycle riders spent weeks at the Sturgis location. This event creates the largest tattoo audience and customer base for the tattoo artists in Sturgis and the surrounding areas. Wild Ink will also target couples who are celebrating an event, such as a wedding or anniversary. Wild Ink will target event planners and party coordinators to include tattooing services at their next large event. Wild Ink will create tattoos as part of a business “team-building” activity, if called upon for that service, as well.

Management Team

Wild Ink Tattoo Shop will be owned and operated by Damien Harness. He recruited four of his associate tattoo artists to join him in this new venture and he recruited two administrative assistants to join the startup business, as well.

The business was founded by Damien Harness, a tattoo artist who learned his craft over twenty years ago and has been employed as a tattoo artist by tattoo shop owners since his apprenticeship. During last year, he recognized that the way to build a sustainable business in the manner in which he believed would best benefit both the customer and a business would be to start a tattoo business himself. He spent the past six months recruiting others to join his staff after the launch of the business.

Tomas Klinkhofer has been a tattoo artist associate of Damien’s for over ten years. During their years of working side-by-side, they’ve both improved their artistry because of the encouragement and solid advice of the other. Tomas will take on the role of Senior Tattoo Artist in the shop.

Three former tattoo artist associates, John Eisen, Tommy Parisi, and Duane Hofer, will join the Wild Ink Tattoo Shop team. Each has extensive experience working as tattoo artists for a variety of business owners, and each has cultivated a carefully curated cadre of styles and designs they prefer. The collective artistry group will be Tattoo Artists, overseen by Jill Arden, the Administrative Manager for the business.

Success Factors

Wild Ink will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Friendly, knowledgeable, and highly qualified team at Wild Ink Tattoo Shop
• Comprehensive menu of products and services to suit every taste
• Multiple ink platforms, none of which have metal or other chemical or foreign substances embedded in the ink.
• Custom-designed and personal design choices are premium prices; however, these designs consistently receive premium attention at the same time.
• The pricing structure of Wild Ink is the most effective and a handy monthly payment plan places tattoos into the lives of many potential customers as a result.

Financial Highlights

Wild Ink is seeking $200,000 in debt financing to launch its custom tattoo shop. The funding will be dedicated toward securing the office space and purchasing office equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated toward three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for the print ads and marketing costs. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Office space build-out: $20,000
• Office equipment, supplies, and materials: $10,000
• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $150,000
• Marketing costs: $10,000
• Working capital: $10,000

The following graph outlines the financial projections for Wild Ink.

Company Overview

Who is wild ink.

Wild Ink is a newly established, full-service tattoo shop in Sturgis, North Dakota. Wild Ink will be the most reliable, cost-effective, and totally hygienic tattoo shop for residents in Sturgis and the surrounding communities. Wild Ink will provide a comprehensive menu of tattoo products and services for any customer to utilize. Their full-service approach includes a comprehensive array of tattoo designs, styles and color palettes of ink choices.

  Wild Ink Tattoo Shop will be able to serve residents and visitors during the yearly Sturgis Motorcycle Rally by providing additional tattoo artists and expanding the shop into several pop-up stores throughout Sturgis. The team of professionals are highly qualified and experienced in custom tattoos, designs, styles and ink selections. Wild Ink removes all fears, headaches and concerns of the tattoo customer and ensures all questions are answered while delivering the best customer service.

Wild Ink History

Wild Ink is owned and operated by Damien Harness, a tattoo artist who learned his craft over twenty years ago and has been employed as a tattoo artist by tattoo shop owners since his apprenticeship. During last year, he recognized that the way to build a sustainable business in the manner in which he believed would best benefit both the customer and a business would be to start a tattoo business himself. He spent the past six months recruiting others to join his staff after the launch of the business.

Since incorporation, Wild Ink has achieved the following milestones:

• Registered Wild Ink, LLC to transact business in the state of North Dakota.
• Has a contract in place for a 10,000 tattoo shop and office at one of the buildings directly on the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally parade route.
• Reached out to numerous contacts and clients to move their business to Wild Ink.
• Began recruiting a staff of four tattoo artists and two office personnel to work at Wild Ink.

Wild Ink Services

The following will be the services Wild Ink will provide:

• Discount packages for couples and groups who choose to be tattooed during the same appointment.

Industry Analysis

The tattoo artistry industry is expected to grow over the next five years to over $69,582 million. The growth will be driven by individuals aged 18-40 who are looking for unique, personalized tattoos. The growth will also be driven by a niche market of tattoo enthusiasts seeking specific styles or themes. The growth will be driven by an increase in the size of the tattoo participants and the new varieties of tattoos that will become known through AI or other technological adaptations in the future. The growth will also be driven by an increase in custom designs, cover-ups, black and grey, color tattoos, traditional, and contemporary styles. The growth will also be driven by a steady increase in trends, techniques, and safety protocols for tattoos. Costs will likely be reduced as materials and natural resources for inks become more plentiful as a result of demand.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market, customer segmentation.

Wild Ink will primarily target the following customer profiles:

• Of-age residents within the Sturgis regional areas
• Visitors to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally (once yearly)
• Couples who are celebrating special events
• Party planners and event coordinators
• Business-related team building activities

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Wild Ink will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below.

Ink My Bod 4 Less

Ink My Bod 4 Less is a business concept built by Jim Ness and Turkey Jackson, two young tattoo artists from Beauregard, Georgia and put into business with the concept that tattoos can be “quickly and expertly applied” without long tattoo sessions or inconvenience. Ink My Bod 4 Less is a company that offers quick tattoos in sessions of 30 minutes or less. While customized tattoo designs, styles and special inks are unavailable, the reasonable time spent and the budget prices involved have captured the attention of the 16-25 aged demographic.

Jim Ness and Turkey Jackson believe they have the grounding to expand their business with their unique concept; within five years they now plan to franchise the tattoo business and concept throughout the U.S. and are currently offering the franchise opportunity to select associates. The costs for the franchise are as yet unknown and other details, such as the training of the tattoo artists and the hygienic establishment regulations, have not yet been revealed.

Indian Henna & Tattoo Boutique

Indian Mehndi, or “Henna” tattoo application is an ancient expression of certain rituals and events in a woman’s life. The Indian Henna & Tattoo Boutique located in Sturgis, North Dakota, caters to younger women between the ages of 18 and 35, with exceptions being large ceremonial events, where all women will receive henna tattoos. The art of henna is luxurious, complicated and meaningful in the lore of Indian culture, therefore the henna itself must be pure and applied with the oversight of a religious person.

The Indian Henna & Tattoo boutique was launched in 2020 by Tim and Diane White, two entrepreneurs who believed this ancient art would soon make its way into the mainstream market. Due to the meaning behind the henna application and the very small demographic target audience of Indian residents, the Indican Henna & Tattoo Boutique has not grown since the launch of the business. However, most young women have visited at least once to enjoy the soothing music and artful application of henna to one’s hands.

Striker’s Tattoo World

Striker’s Tattoo World was started in 2021 by Jake Robertson. Jake believed the best way to express oneself was through highly-stylized tattoos and he currently has over 70% of his body covered with secular and religious tattoos. Jake expressed his love for others in the community by offering free tattoo sessions and extended-time appointments, however, Jake’s interest in the company has waned since he began servicing and selling computers to area businesses, and the business has not grown since its inception some months ago. There are two buyers considering the purchase of Striker’s Tattoo World; however, Jake Robertson is holding firm for a better offer down the road. His largest demographic is the women, ages 18-40, who want cute designs, animals and icons that represent themselves.

Competitive Advantage

Wild Ink will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Wild Ink will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Highly-qualified team of skilled employees who are able to provide a comprehensive array of products and service for tattoo clients.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Wild Ink is as follows:

Word of Mouth/Referrals

Wild Ink has built up an extensive list of former clients and contacts over the years by providing exceptional service and premium inks for his clients. Customers will follow him to his new company and help spread the word of Wild Ink.

Social Media Marketing

Social media channels will be extensively used to display the custom tattoos of Wild Ink and to encourage customers who may be hesitant to give it a try with a money-back guarantee. Several designs and styles will be highlighted on social media channels and models will demonstrate in short reels the beauty and configurations that enhance body performance.

Website/SEO Marketing

Wild Ink will fully utilize their website. The website will be well organized, informative, and list all the products and services that Wild Ink provides. The website will also list their contact information and available reservation times so customers do not need to walk in and wait for service. Wild Ink’s website presence will utilize SEO marketing tactics so that anytime someone types in the Google or Bing search engine “Tattoo company” or “Tattoo near me”, Wild Ink will be listed at the top of the search results.

The pricing of Wild Ink will be moderate and on par with competitors so customers feel they receive excellent value when purchasing their services.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Wild Ink. Operation Functions:

• Damien Harness will be the Owner and President of the company. He will provide the vision for the company and encourage new client buyers. Damien has spent the past 6 months recruiting the following staff:
• Tomas Klinkhofer will be the Senior Tattoo Artist in the shop and will assist in management of the scheduling.
• John Eisen will join the Wild Ink team as a Tattoo Artist. He will concentrate on specilized inks
• Tommy Parisi will also take on the role of Tattoo Artist, and his focus will be on serving women with unique artwork
• Duane Hofer will be a Tattoo Artist and will focus on standard designs and styles for a more generic look and price point.
• Jill Arden, a former tattoo shop manager, will take on the role of Administrative Manager for the business.

Milestones:

Wild Ink will have the following milestones completed in the next six months.

• 5/1/202X – Finalize contract to lease shop and office space
• 5/15/202X – Finalize personnel contracts for the Wild Ink
• 6/1/202X – Finalize contracts for Wild Ink suppliers
• 6/15/202X – Begin networking at industry events
• 6/22/202X – Begin moving into Wild Ink shop and office
• 7/1/202X – Wild Ink opens its shop and office for business

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Wild Ink are the fees they will charge to customers for their tattoo products and services.

The cost drivers will be the overhead costs required in order to staff Wild Ink. The expenses will be the payroll cost, rent, utilities, office supplies, and marketing materials.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Wild Ink is seeking $200,000 in debt financing to launch its tattoo shop business. The funding will be dedicated toward securing the shop and office space and purchasing office equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated toward three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for the marketing and association memberships. The breakout of the funding is below:

Key Assumptions

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

• Number of Customers Per Month: 89
• Average Revenue per Month: $66,750
• Office Lease per Year: $100,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, tattoo shop business plan faqs, what is a tattoo shop business plan.

A tattoo shop business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your tattoo shop business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can easily complete your Tattoo Shop business plan using our Tattoo Shop Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Tattoo Shop Businesses? 

There are a number of different kinds of tattoo shop businesses , some examples include: Retail location tattoo shop, Neighborhood tattoo shop, and Traveling tattoo business.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Tattoo Shop Business Plan?

Tattoo Shop businesses are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

What are the Steps To Start a Tattoo Shop Business?

Starting a tattoo shop business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop A Tattoo Shop Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed tattoo shop business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast. 

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your tattoo shop business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your tattoo shop business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Tattoo Shop Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your tattoo shop business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws.

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your tattoo shop business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms.

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations.

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events.

7. Acquire Necessary Tattoo Shop Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your tattoo shop business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation.

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your tattoo shop business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

Learn more about how to start a successful tattoo shop business:

• How to Start a Tattoo Shop

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Tattoo Parlor Business Plan

Start your own tattoo parlor business plan

Tablature Tattoo

Executive summary executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan. it describes your business, the problem that it solves, your target market, and financial highlights.">.

Tablature Tattoo will open a small tattoo parlor in suburban Greenwood, NJ, where both tattoo newbies and collectors will be able to work with two established, talented artists. The business will provide small, introductory tattoos from existing designs, basic tattoos that can be executed in one hour, and full half-day sessions with the artists. The artists can offer extended consultations and custom design work with the customers as needed. The business will also sell a wide range of clothing items and posters featuring designs created by the two artists at the business. The founders, husband and wife Jake and Julie Hunt (a tattoo artist and retail administrator), seek a $10,000, three-year loan to launch the business.

The business needs only $22,200 to launch, due to the low capital requirements of the business and the intention to use low-cost marketing techniques and direct selling to find initial customers. This low startup cost and the high margins on tattoo work (around 75%) will lead to positive cash flow within 6 months and the ability to repay this loan easily, as well as provide impressive dividends to the owners and a generous salary to the additional freelance artist contracted by the business. Sales will exceed $300,000 by the third year based on the full-time work of these three individuals.

Tablature Tattoo will meet the following objectives over its first three years of operation:

• Reach annual revenues of approximately $330,000 in year three
• Successfully create 5446 tattoos over three years
• Earn net profits for the owners, for significant total compensation to the two owners including salaries and dividends

Tablature Tattoo will create safe, impressive tattoo art for customers in the Greenwood, NJ area both through tattoos and through other products featuring art by the shop’s tattoo artists. The business seeks to create a full-time livelihood for Jack and Julie Hunt, the owners, while sharing revenue generously with an additional employed artist who will help to build the business.

Keys to Success

Keys to success in the tattoo shop business include:

• Encouraging repeat customers (collectors) who return again and again for full sessions with artists they love
• Making the health and care of customers and tattoos a top priority to ensure the safety of the customers, employees, and business
• Working with talented artists and encouraging their expression and freedom

Company Summary company overview ) is an overview of the most important points about your company—your history, management team, location, mission statement and legal structure.">

Tablature Tattoo, to be located in Greenwood, New Jersey within a centrally-located major route strip mall, will be launched in 2010. The business will be founded and run by Jake Hunt, an experienced tattoo artist, and his wife, Julie Hunt, who has retail administrative experience. A second tattoo artist will be hired to expand the options for customers and to make better use of the company’s resources. The business will provide color tattoos both from original designs by the artists and basic public domain designs. Original designs which are considered the best by the artists and the customers will be printed onto t-shirts, posters, and other resale items and sold through the shop as well with Tablature Tattoo branding and signatures by the artists. Customers will include both those new to tattoos and tattoo collectors, all predominantly between the ages of 20 and 40.

Company Ownership

The business is established as a limited liability partnership between Jake and Julie Hunt with 51% ownership by Jake Hunt and 49% ownership by Julie Hunt.

Start-up Summary

Start-up expenses for Tablature Tattoo are limited. Licenses and permits include a building permit for renovation on the space, business licenses, health department permit, occupancy permit, and signage permit. Business cards and flyers include enough business cards for two years for the two tattoo artists and flyers advertising the grand opening to be distributed and posted in the area. Insurance will be secured from Tribal Ink-surance or another tattoo shop insurance provider. This offers liability of $500,000, property of $10,000, and additional insurance for the landlord. Rent is for one month for renovation of the location prior to opening. The location will be in a strip mall in Greenwood and will feature an open space for reception, waiting room and two tattoo stations, a sterilization room, a small office space, and a single bathroom. The owners will seek a space requiring minimal or no renovation to achieve this layout. 

Computer software includes a basic calendar/scheduling program, inventory program, and accounting software (basic QuickBooks). Website development is for the creation of a basic website and grand opening advertisements include small ads in local papers in the weeks preceding the opening. Tattoo supplies include chemicals (sterilizers, antiseptics, disinfectants, ointments and soap), paper products, linens, towels, gloves, and skin marking supplies (thermofax, stencil paper, pens, skin scribes).

Assets required include the cash needed to reach cash flow break-even. Start-up inventory includes the inks and dyes needed to stock the store for launch. Other current assets includes a security deposit for the shop location.

Long-term assets include signage for the exterior of the shop, reception area items (a reception desk, chair, laptop, credit card reader, cash register, phone), tattoo station equipment (two tattoo chairs, mirrors, lights, tool box, sharps container, covered trash bin), waiting area furniture (loveseat, coffee table, two binders for flash art), a sound system (speakers and iPod dock), a digital camera, office equipment (printer/scanner/copier, phone), and sterilization room equipment (ultrasonic unit, autoclave, sterilization pouches).

Products and Services

Tablature Tattoo will provide the following services to customers:

• Introductory/shop-minimum tattoos
• Basic tattoos (~1 hour session)
• Full sessions (2-6 hour sessions)

Introductory tattoos are for those who are new to tattoos. They are basic, small designs by the artists or standard public-domain designs. Custom designs cannot be provided as an introductory tattoo. These tattoos can generally be finished in 45 minutes and with a minimum amount of consultation with the client. For many customers who get a small tattoo, it may be the only tattoo they ever receive. Some do convert to get more tattoos in the future. Those who are more adventurous and who intend to collect tattoos will often choose the other services. The price for an introductory tattoo will be $60 at launch.

Basic tattoos offer some consultation with the client, a wider number of colors, and about an hour of work with an artist. These are not generally custom-designed tattoos, but may include some customization of existing designs. The price for this service will be $100 at launch.

Full sessions allow creative freedom for the artist to create customization of a design or an original design for a customer and freedom for the customer to know that there is a ceiling on the price he or she will pay. The price for these sessions will be $300 at launch.

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Tablature Tattoo will also sell branded products in the store with designs created by the shop’s tattoo artists. These include t-shirts, hoodies, bags, caps, posters, and potentially other items. The artists will choose their best and most popular designs four times a year and have runs of these items printed. Short runs will be printed, allowing the business to respond to customer preference based on what sells (both the types of items and the types of designs). The items will be sold for an average of $20, which will vary depending on the type of item. Each item will contain the Tablature Tattoo logo and can be signed by the tattoo artist if desired.

Market Analysis Summary how to do a market analysis for your business plan.">

Tattoos are no longer sought out only by fringes of the market. A fall 2006 survey by the Pew Research Center found that 36% of Americans aged 18 to 25, and 40% of those ages 26 to 40, have at least one tattoo. In a working-class town like Greenwood, NJ, these numbers may be higher.

Some other statistics about the market:

• The National Geographic News stated in April 2000 that 15% of all Americans were tattooed (or approximately 40 million people)
• Esquire Magazine estimated in March 2002 that 1 in 8 Americans (12%) was tattooed.
• A 2003 Harris Poll found that 16% of all adults have at least one tattoo.
• The highest incidence of tattoos was found among the gay, lesbian and bisexual population (31%) and among Americans ages 25 to 29 years (36%) and 30 to 39 years (28%). Regionally, people living in the West (20%) are more likely to have tattoos.
• Democrats are more likely to have tattoos (18%) than Republicans (14%) and Independents (12%) while nearly equal percentages of males (16%) and females (15%) have tattoos.

The market is segmented into:

• Tattoo newbies or dabblers (those who get one tattoo)
• Tattoo collectors (those who get numerous tattoos)

Market Segmentation

The market segments in the Greenwood, NJ area include residents of Greenwood and surrounding towns who may travel to Tablature Tattoo. Collectors who like the work of the artists featured at Tablature Tattoo are especially likely to do this, making this number 10,000 individuals.

Tattoo newbies: May seek out a tattoo for the experience of receiving it, to simply say they’ve done it, to commemorate a specific relationship or affiliation, or for the danger associated with it or with those who have tattoos. These individuals may become tattoo collectors, but most simply get one tattoo in their life, especially in their younger years (late teens or twenties). The popularity of tattoos among celebrities also further encourages this group to get tattoos.

Tattoo collectors: This group connects with the lifestyle associated with having tattoos. Many seek to cover large portions of their body with tattoos. This group will appreciate the work of specific artists and seek them out again. This group will seek custom designs, eschew standard, simple designs, and become used to the pain or discomfort involved.

Target Market Segment Strategy

Tablature Tattoo will seek to serve both of these key market segments in order to remain viable. Serving tattoo collectors alone may not yield a large enough market. Furthermore, it is difficult to inspire new tattoo collectors in the area without first serving tattoo newbies with introductory tattoos. The business will seek out both markets by advertising both its introductory designs and the elaborate design work they are capable of. The shop will be appropriate for tattoo collectors, with entertaining music playing and products available for sale.

Service Business Analysis

There are an estimated 20,000+ parlors operating in the United States, according to a U.S. News & World Report article, which said, on the average, an establishment is being added in the country every day. This translates into a tattoo parlor for at least every 10,000 adult Americans. The article ranked tattooing as the sixth fastest growing retail venture of the 1990s, right behind Internet, paging services, bagels, computer and cellular phone service.

Tattoo shops are generally independent ventures run by tattoo artists. Some feature just one artist and some feature a number of them (three or four is common). Generally, tattoo artists do not want to work for owners who are not artists themselves. The artists are generally freelance contractors working on 1099 and controlling their own hours and schedules, which is in keeping with the freedom they desire. However, tattoo studios are under increasing legal pressure from tax authorities to reclassify these artists as employees as most work primarily in one studio. $100 is a standard market rate for one hour with a tattoo artist and the artist generally makes 40-50% of that amount per hour. Customers are attracted through internet advertising and their websites, referrals and word-of-mouth.

In the Greenwood, NJ area, Tablature Tattoo will compete with:

• Target Tattoo: This shop is located in an area mall and focused on introductory tattoos and short sessions. It features a revolving door of artists, as artists generally have higher aspirations than working at a shop like this. However, its price of $50 for a basic tattoo is competitive.
• Rat-a-tat-tat: This shop features three successful artists focusing on tribal styles. This limitation of the store gives it a successful niche, but turns away customers who are interested in a wider range of styles.

Competition and Buying Patterns

In choosing between competitors, those seeking tattoos consider:

• The body of work of the artist – Beginning with the tattoos on the body of the artist (if a customer doesn’t like these designs and the taste of the artist, he or she may have second thoughts) and including the flash art created by the artist
• Comfort talking to the artist – Customers want to know that their wishes are understood and that the artist will work towards the goal they want and not their own ends.
• Price – Customers are often bargain hunters, and it is up to the tattoo artist to explain the safety precautions taken and experience he or she has which explains the price charged. When customers understand that a higher price sometimes means no shortcuts are being taken, they may feel more comfortable and price becomes less of a concern. Of these concerns, price is more of a concern for tattoo newbies than collectors.

Strategy and Implementation Summary

Tablature Tattoo seeks to follow a strategy of appealing to both new tattoo customers and tattoo collectors by creating an environment and products/services desirable to both groups. Through this strategy, the business intends to convert local customers who may only seek one tattoo initially to become repeat customers. The business will do this by:

• Offering competitively-priced introductory tattoos to encourage “tattoo newbies”
• Retaining high-quality artists to retain tattoo collectors
• Offering a wide range of custom designs in different styles to broaden appeal
• Selling additional products with designs by the tattoo artists to build an additional revenue stream

Competitive Edge

Marketing strategy.

The marketing strategy of the business involves marketing to a wide range of potential customers in the Greenwood area. The following tactics will be used prior to launch:

• Print 1,000 flyers advertising the grand opening of the business to post in the area of the shop, at local establishments and hand out at events and on the street in the preceding week.
• Create a basic website with contact information and directions, the prices for services, pages with galleries of art of the two artists, and images of products for sale in the shop and prices
• List the website on search engines, local business databases, tattoo shop databases and the Yellow Pages
• The principals and additional artist handing out business cards and wearing Tablature Tattoo shirts to promote the opening
• Running ads in the local papers about the grand opening
• The artists calling their rolodexes of previous clients (collectors) to tell them about the new business and encourage them to come back

The grand opening, a five-day event, will consist of a promotion giving introductory tattoos at 25% off ($45).

Ongoing marketing work will include:

• Continuing to hand out business cards
• Printing flyers periodically promoting discounts and new products and posting them in the area
• Maintaining the website with new products and art

Sales Strategy

Sales will be encouraged through word-of-mouth. Clients will be given a few business cards to hand out to friends when they talk about their new tattoo and client information will be retained. The artists will also remind customers about products featuring their designs which are being offered and can give these products for discounts or free to collectors who return for a number of tattoos.

Beyond in-store sales efforts, the artists will promote their work at parties, events, and while on the street, by wearing Tablature Tattoo shirts often and handing out business cards to people they meet.

Ensuring health and customer satisfaction will also be a sales strategy. Each customer will be called by the receptionist after a week to check in on how the tattoo is healing and to thank them again.

Sales Forecast

The cost of sales for the services offered is 8% for shop-minimum tattoos, 7% for basic tattoos, and 6% for full sessions, as ink and supplies becomes less of a cost as the longer sessions involve more preliminary design work and less “ink per hour.” Resale items are projected at 40% cost of sales on average. Cost of sales will also include a pamphlet on tattoo care given to each customer. This pamphlet will be purchased from an industry provider.

Resale items are not expected to sell until after tattoo business begins, as buyers will be those who have had tattoos from the artists and appreciate their designs. Full sessions will grow faster than other areas as the artists gain reputation in the community for more elaborate work.

The sales forecast represents an amount of work that is reasonable for two full-time artists, while allowing time for them to work on flash art, create designs for other resale items, and manage and market the business.

The milestones table details the marketing activities described in the marketing strategy summary. These activities are undertaken with a high focus on using low-cost or free marketing methods to promote the launch of the business. Julie Hunt will manage all marketing activities and Jake Hunt will promote the business directly by contacting clients, networking, and posting/handing out flyers and business cards.

Management Summary management summary will include information about who's on your team and why they're the right people for the job, as well as your future hiring plans.">

Jake Hunt will be CEO of Tablature Tattoo. He will be responsible for strategy, direct sales efforts, contracting and working with the employed second tattoo artist, and half of the tattoo services provided. He will be the final say on choosing designs for additional products.

Julie Hunt will be operations manager. She will be responsible for managing reception, purchasing supplies and managing inventory, answering phone and email inquiries, marketing efforts, bookkeeping and accounting, payroll, insurance, and other administrative requirements. She will order resale products from suppliers. She will work at the reception desk and in the office of the business as needed. Jake Hunt will fill in at reception when business is slow and Julie needs to work in the office, where the printer/copier is located.

Personnel Plan

Jake and Julie Hunt will both be compensated as employees for their work (Jake as tattoo artist and manager of products and Julie as administrator, financial officer, and head of marketing). Salaries shown for the principals include benefits.

The second tattoo artist brought into the company will start work at part-time hours and move quickly to full-time hours, but will have his or her pay tied directly to services rendered and received 40% commission on tattoos provided and designed products sold. Wages listed below for the second artist are based on an assumption of splitting the tattoo and design work equally between Jake and the second artist.

Jake Hunt will manage this artist and will seek an established artist with a body of work and clientele who values the ability to not have to deal with the overhead and business concerns which the Hunts will handle.

Financial Plan investor-ready personnel plan .">

The financial plan for Tablature Tattoo is to raise $27,000 from a combination of personal savings, a long-term loan, and short-term borrowing to launch the business. The business will achieve cash flow and profit break-even in the seventh month of operation and net profit will be achieved in the first year, allowing for dividends to be paid to the owners beyond their salaries starting in year two.

Start-up Funding

The start-up funding will be primarily from investment by the co-owners and founders, Julie and Jake Hunt, who will each contribute $7,500. They will borrow $2,000 on credit cards and seek a three-year loan of $10,000 for the remaining cash, with their home equity as collateral. This will cover the required $27,000 in funding needed to launch.

Important Assumptions

The table below presents assumptions used in the financial calculations of the business plan.

Break-even Analysis

The monthly break-even is shown below. The units break-even represents an average between the different business services and products and is not as helpful as a target.

Projected Profit and Loss

Gross margins will improve slightly as sales of full sessions increase relative to other services.

The marketing budget includes $150 per month to cover website hosting and maintenance and periodic runs of flyers or new business cards. Depreciation is for the long-term assets of the business over three years. Rent is $1,500 per month and utilities $150 per month (electricity, phone and internet). Insurance is not expected to rise significantly as the business will stay within its insurance bracket during this period. Payroll taxes of 15% and employee benefits of 10% (health insurance) are applied to payroll for the Hunts and the second artist’s wages. Tattoo supplies of $100 per month are anticipated to replenish items purchased before the launch. Inflationary increases are applied to most items and to prices charged to customers.

Projected Cash Flow

The business will reach cash flow break-even mid-year, and be able to pay dividends in year two while keeping a cash balance of around $20,000 for unexpected needs. The short-term debt will be paid off in the first year and the long-term loan will be paid off over the first three years of operation. Some additional long-term assets (replacements of equipment and additional tools) will be purchased over these years as well.

Projected Balance Sheet

The business will create a healthier position as it pays off its long-term and short-term debt, even while accounts payable will increase due to a greater volume of sales.

Business Ratios

The business ratios here are compared against “other personal care services,” NAICS 812199, which includes tattoo parlors.

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Opening a tattoo shop: 10 steps to launch your business

Key takeaways

• To open a tattoo studio, you must register your business in your state and meet local licensing requirements
• Claiming your online profiles and creating a marketing plan can help you build an engaged following 
• An expense plan is key to ensure you have enough capital to operate 

Once a sign of rebellion, tattoos are now part of the mainstream. Three in 10 Americans have at least one tattoo—including 40% of people under 35—and the numbers are increasing every year. Plus, the average American doesn’t stop at one: People with tattoos get an average of four in their lifetime. 

If you’re thinking of opening a tattoo shop, now is the perfect time to enter the industry and help create the permanent body art millions are seeking. Follow these important steps to bring your business idea to life.

1. Choose your business name

Your brand name can give you a competitive advantage in your local market. Strong business names clue shoppers in on what you do and what makes your brand experience different. 

First, identify your approach to the art form and business. Do you specialize in any kinds of tattoos, such as fine line or minimalist designs? Will you offer other services, such as piercings? If so, you can include these elements in your name. For example, a shop that specializes in delicate, fine-lined artwork could be named “The Razor’s Edge.”

Start brainstorming business names in a written list. Then, make sure your top choice is legally available using your state government’s name search tool—like the Florida Division of Corporations’ fictitious name search —and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s database before proceeding. If your top choice is taken, go down the list until you find one that’s available.

2. Select your business structure

Your business structure affects how your tattoo shop is taxed, what annual paperwork you file, and your level of personal liability when your business owes cash to lenders (or is sued). There are different legal structures you can choose from—including Limited Liability Companies (LLCs ), S corporations, and C corporations—and there’s no right or wrong answer:

• S corporations 
• C corporations

However, it’s generally not recommended to operate a tattoo shop as a sole proprietorship or partnership. Though these business entities can be easier to launch since there’s no required paperwork or costs in most states, they leave you with more personal liability in an industry that has its own inherent risks. Since your team is regularly working with clients using needles and permanent ink, there’s always potential for injury, blood-borne illnesses due to poor sanitation, and other issues with unhappy clients. If your business is sued or defaults on a loan, your personal assets could be at risk.

3. Find your business location

Next, you’ll need to find a location for your tattoo parlor. As you tour potential spaces for your tattoo business, consider the cost of any renovations and how much foot traffic the area gets.

Tattoo shop owners must also be mindful of local zoning requirements. Tattoo parlors in certain cities—like Myrtle Beach, FL and Ashland, KY —are sometimes barred from operating within a set distance from schools, churches, and parks. 

In other cases, a city might restrict the number of tattoo parlors that can operate in its limits. Historically, cities like North Chicago have regulated tattoo parlors with the same zoning requirements as adult entertainment businesses , citing health, safety, and community development concerns. 

4. Register your business

Registering your business with state and local governments is a key step that allows you to legally run your tattoo shop under your chosen business name. To begin, use the Small Business Association’s tool to identify the agency that regulates business formations in your state. Your state agency can provide the paperwork you need to file in person or online.

If you’re registering your business as an LLC or corporation, most states require you to have a physical address before you start the registration process. Due to zoning requirements, this typically can’t be your home address or a coworking space address. As a result, you’ll likely need to secure your tattoo shop before registering.

Many states also require tattoo shops to be licensed by their local health department. To get your business license, you might need to complete a bloodborne pathogen course and first aid training and provide proof of Hepatitis B vaccination. A few states, like Iowa and Kansas, also require tattoo artists and shop owners to have a high school diploma or GED.

Some tattoo shop owners—including those who plan to have employees or operate as a corporation or partnership—will also need to register with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to obtain an employer identification number (EIN), which is a type of tax identification. But even when it’s not legally required, getting an EIN can be a good idea, since they’re often requested by banks, investors, and lenders.

5. Set up your online profiles

Once you have a legal claim over your business name, establish your online presence to build brand awareness, engage with prospective clients, and promote your soft launch before your grand opening. This way, your new shop won’t be empty on your first day in business.

In addition to creating a website, create accounts on sites where your target market searches for local tattoo shops. For example, you can create a social media profile to showcase your tattoo portfolio or claim your Yelp Business Page up to a month ahead of your opening date. On Yelp, you can add information about your grand opening in the “From the Business” section of your page.

Once you’ve claimed your online profiles, spruce them up to attract more people to your small business. Add your business information—including your phone number, address, and store hours—along with images of your logo, shop, and tattoo designs. This is especially important for tattoo shops because most customers will search for examples of your work to see if you’re the right fit for them—whether that’s specific color work, custom designs, or portraits. Be sure to also include detailed photo captions with credit to the specific artists. 

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6. Open a business bank account

Keeping your personal life and business separate is always a good idea, especially when it comes to finances. Doing so makes your revenue and expenses easier to track, which can help you:

• Maintain accurate records: Monitor your business revenue and expenses without any risk of confusion so your financial statements can accurately reflect your business growth (or losses).
• Easily prepare your taxes: When you’re sorting out your documents during tax season and finding deductions to claim , your finances will be more neatly sorted and reduce the headache of filing with or without an accountant.
• Access more financing: Many lenders and creditors require you to have a business bank account to access business loans.
• Show off your professionalism: Clients will be able to make a check out to your business instead of writing your first and last name.

Separating your personal and business accounts is also a requirement for most business structures, with the exception of sole proprietors and partnerships.

Once you have your federal EIN, open a business bank account with a bank of your choice. Business checking and savings accounts are great places to start. You can always consider starting a cash management account, which offers higher interest than savings accounts, later on. 

When you’re first opening a tattoo shop, you can minimize risk by choosing free or low-fee accounts that offer basic services like money transfers. If you want to apply for funding from your bank or gain more financial guidance for your business, choose a traditional brick-and-mortar bank instead of a digital-only one to establish personal relationships. 

7. Create an expense plan

Preparing for the costs of opening a tattoo shop can help you maintain cash flow in your first year—one of the biggest challenges for new businesses . Start by listing all the startup expenses associated with launching your business, such as:

• Furniture, like reclining chairs and full-length mirrors
• Tattoo equipment, including tattoo machines, supply carts, needles, and ink
• Office equipment, such as a phone, printer, and credit card reader
• Autoclaves for sterilization
• Point-of-sale (POS) equipment and software

Next, outline the recurring costs of running your shop:

• Rent and utilities
• Commission for tattooists
• Salaries or wages for other tattoo shop employees
• Your business liability insurance policy
• Tattoo supplies like needles and ink
• Hygiene and cleaning supplies, like plastic gloves and cling film for chairs
• Appointment/booking software

Estimating your expenses will help you create a pricing strategy for your services so you can maintain a healthy cash flow. Plus, you’ll know how much capital you need to launch. If you need outside financing—such as credit cards, business loans, or lines of credit—a budget will help you start the application process early on.

8. Create a marketing plan

A solid marketing strategy will help you grow your small business . Brainstorm ways you can reach your target market, such as using social media to share your tattoo art and sales promotions or starting a referral marketing program to drive word of mouth . Check out the websites and social media profiles of other businesses like yours to see what they’re doing successfully (and what you might do differently to stand out).

Once you have a few ideas, compile them in a marketing plan , which will help you define your mission statement, audience, and objectives.

Make sure to include a digital advertising strategy in your marketing plan to drive faster growth. For instance, Yelp Ads , social media ads, and search engine ads can help you reach your target audience and attract clients within your budget.

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9. Plan out the client experience

A strong client management system will help you create a seamless customer experience, from booking to payment. The first step is deciding how to take appointments. You might use an online booking system, accept walk-ins, or offer phone bookings—or any combination of the three. If tattoo artists rent space in your shop, you might have clients go directly through them, via social media or a website.

You should also consider what waivers and consent forms you’ll need to provide when clients arrive.

Of course, the customer experience doesn’t end there. Consider creating guidelines for post-appointment client management as well—following up with clients to show you care. For example, you can send an email to see if clients have further questions about tattoo care or share images of their completed body art online and tag them with permission. You should also make responding to reviews on platforms like Yelp part of your process.

10. Write your tattoo shop business plan

To set yourself up for long-term success, create a five-year tattoo parlor business plan that compiles all the strategies you outlined above—and more. This document will help you and your team work toward unified goals and strategies. And if you need outside funding to get started, a strong business plan will help lenders decide if your tattoo business is worth the investment.

An effective business plan typically includes these core sections:

• Executive summary: A compelling, one-page intro to your tattoo shop and why it’ll succeed. (Write this last so you can gather highlights from the rest of your plan and avoid inconsistencies.)
• Business description : An in-depth description of what you do, who you serve, and what gives your business a competitive advantage.
• Business and management structure: Introducing your business structure, owner-operators, and management team, including your leadership team’s experience and artists’ licenses and certifications.
• Products and services: A complete list of what you sell, including pricing and descriptions of each service.
• Market analysis: Thorough research on market and industry trends and how you differ from the competition.
• Marketing plan: An overview of your primary marketing channels and the metrics you’ll track to ensure you meet your goals, including the strategies outlined in your tattoo shop marketing plan. 
• Financial plan: Include your expense plan with start-up and monthly operational costs, as well as realistic (and positive) financial projections for the next five years.

Opening a tattoo shop is easier when you have a plan

Opening a tattoo shop can be a lucrative opportunity—and a great way to create long-lasting relationships with people who value your skill and artistry. Many tattoo artists have used their platforms to connect with customers and make the industry a more welcoming and diverse place.  

Once you complete this process, you can begin building a client base and recognizable brand to help deliver on your small business goals. To generate excitement for your opening day and beyond, consider these low-cost ideas to promote your business .

The information above is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice and may not be suitable for your circumstances. Unless stated otherwise, references to third-party links, services, or products do not constitute endorsement by Yelp.

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Tattoo Shop Business Plan

Enjoy sharing your love of art through tattoos? Then starting your own tattoo studio could be a worthwhile career choice.

Your industry expertise and artistic skills may help you get started with a new tattoo business, but you need a detailed business plan to succeed.

Need help writing a business plan for your tattoo shop? You’re at the right place. Our tattoo shop business plan template will help you get started.

Free Business Plan Template

Download our free business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

• Fill in the blanks – Outline
• Financial Tables

How to Write a Tattoo Shop Business Plan?

Writing a tattoo shop business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section planned to offer an overview of the entire business plan. However, it is written after the entire business plan is ready and summarizes each section of your plan.

Here are a few key components to include in your executive summary:

Introduce your business:

• This section may include the name of your tattoo shop, its location, when it was founded, the type of tattoo business (E.g., custom tattoo shop, cosmetic tattooing, private studio.), etc.

Market opportunity:

Product and services:.

• For instance, a custom tattoo shop owner may provide customers with personalized tattoo designs.

Marketing & sales strategies:

Financial highlights:, call to action:.

Ensure your executive summary is clear, concise, easy to understand, and jargon-free.

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2. Business Overview

The business overview section of your business plan offers detailed information about your tattoo studio. The details you add will depend on how important they are to your business. Yet, business name, location, business history, and future goals are some of the foundational elements you must consider adding to this section:

Business description:

Describe your business in this section by providing all the basic information:

• Custom tattoo shop—known for its personalized and custom tattoo designs.
• Cosmetic tattooing shop—known for its permanent makeup and microblading services.
• Hybrid shop—provides a combination of services, such as piercing, tattooing, etc.
• Private studio—best known for providing one-on-one services in a private setting.
• Describe the legal structure of your tattoo parlor, whether it is a sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or others.
• Explain where your business is located and why you selected the place.

Mission statement:

Business history:, future goal:.

This section should provide a thorough understanding of your business, its history, and its future plans. Keep this section engaging, precise, and to the point.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan should offer a thorough understanding of the industry with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. You should include the following components in this section.

Target market:

• For instance, you may target young adults between 18 and 35 interested in tattoos and body art.

Market size and growth potential:

Competitive analysis:, market trends:.

• For instance, custom tattoo designs are gaining popularity in the market, so you might mention if you offer them or plan to.

Regulatory environment:

Here are a few tips for writing the market analysis section of your tattoo salon business plan:

• Conduct market research, industry reports, and surveys to gather data.
• Provide specific and detailed information whenever possible.
• Illustrate your points with charts and graphs.
• Write your business plan keeping your target audience in mind.

4. Products And Services

The product and services section should describe the specific services and products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

Tattooing services:

Mention the tattooing services your business will offer. This list may include services like,

• Custom tattoo designs
• Traditional styles
• Cover-up tattoos
• Flash tattoos, etc.

Aftercare products:

Quality measures:.

• This may include using disposable needles, maintaining a clean environment, properly sterilizing equipment, etc.

Additional products or services:

In short, this section of your tattoo shop plan must be informative, precise, and client-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Sales And Marketing Strategies

Writing the sales and marketing strategies section means a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your clients. Here are some key elements to include in your sales & marketing plan:

Unique selling proposition (USP):

• For example, advanced and safe equipment, creative and talented artists, and personalized experience could be great USPs for a professional tattoo studio.

Pricing strategy:

Marketing strategies:, sales strategies:, customer retention:.

Overall, this section of your tattoo parlor business plan should focus on customer acquisition and retention.

Have a specific, realistic, and data-driven approach while planning sales and marketing strategies for your tattoo shop, and be prepared to adapt or make strategic changes in your strategies based on feedback and results.

6. Operations Plan

The operations plan section of your business plan should outline the processes and procedures involved in your business operations, such as staffing requirements and operational processes. Here are a few components to add to your operations plan:

Staffing & training:

Operational process:, equipment & machinery:.

• Explain how these equipment and machinery help you maintain quality standards and improve the efficiency of your business operations.

Adding these components to your operations plan will help you lay out your business operations, which will eventually help you manage your business effectively.

7. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of your tattoo shop business’s management team. This section should provide a detailed description of each manager’s experience and qualifications, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

Founder/CEO:

Key managers:.

• It should include the store manager, head tattoo artist, and other managers (e.g., marketing manager, financial manager.) involved in the business operations, including their education, professional background, and any relevant experience in the tattooing industry.

Organizational structure:

Compensation plan:, advisors/consultants:.

• So, if you have any advisors or consultants, include them with their names and brief information consisting of roles and years of experience.

This section should describe the key personnel for your tattooing services, highlighting how you have the perfect team to succeed.

8. Financial Plan

Your financial plan section should provide a summary of your business’s financial projections for the first few years. Here are some key elements to include in your financial plan:

Profit & loss statement:

Cash flow statement:, balance sheet:, break-even point:.

• This exercise will help you understand how much revenue you need to generate to sustain or be profitable.

Financing needs:

Be realistic with your financial projections, and make sure you offer relevant information and evidence to support your estimates.

9. Appendix

The appendix section of your plan should include any additional information supporting your business plan’s main content, such as market research, legal documentation, financial statements, and other relevant information.

• Add a table of contents for the appendix section to help readers easily find specific information or sections.
• In addition to your financial statements, provide additional financial documents like tax returns, a list of assets within the business, credit history, and more. These statements must be the latest and offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.
• Provide data derived from market research, including stats about the industry, user demographics, and industry trends.
• Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
• Include any additional documentation related to your business plan, such as product brochures, marketing materials, operational procedures, etc.

Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the necessary information.

Remember, the appendix section of your tattoo studio business plan should only include relevant and important information supporting your plan’s main content.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

This sample tattoo shop business plan will provide an idea for writing a successful tattoo shop plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you still need clarification about writing an investment-ready business plan to impress your audience, download our tattoo shop business plan pdf .

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Frequently asked questions, why do you need a tattoo shop business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful tattoo shop. It helps to get clarity in your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your tattoo shop.

How to get funding for your tattoo shop?

There are several ways to get funding for your tattoo shop, but self-funding is one of the most efficient and speedy funding options. Other options for funding are:

Small Business Administration (SBA) loan

Crowdfunding, angel investors.

Apart from all these options, there are small business grants available, check for the same in your location and you can apply for it.

Where to find business plan writers for your tattoo shop business?

There are many business plan writers available, but no one knows your business and ideas better than you, so we recommend you write your tattoo shop business plan and outline your vision as you have in your mind.

What is the easiest way to write your tattoo shop business plan?

A lot of research is necessary for writing a business plan, but you can write your plan most efficiently with the help of any tattoo shop business plan example and edit it as per your need. You can also quickly finish your plan in just a few hours or less with the help of our business plan software.

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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Tattoo Business Plan – The Ultimate Guide With Example

Writing a convincing tattoo business plan requires careful consideration and a well-structured approach. Here’s a detailed guide on how to create a compelling tattoo business plan:

1. Executive Summary For Tattoo Business Plan

Begin with a concise overview of your tattoo business. Highlight your business name, location, mission statement, and the essence of your unique selling proposition.

Touch on key points like the types of tattoos you’ll specialize in, your target market, and your commitment to artistic excellence and customer satisfaction.

2. Business Description

Provide an in-depth explanation of your tattoo business.

Describe the services you’ll offer, the tattoo styles you specialize in, and your approach to creating customized and meaningful designs.

Explain your studio’s ambiance, setting it apart as a creative haven for clients seeking personalized body art.

3. Market Analysis For Your Tattoo Studio

Conduct thorough research to understand the tattoo industry and your local market.

Highlight industry trends, growth rates, and customer demographics. Identify the demand for different tattoo styles and sizes, and explore any gaps or opportunities you can capitalize on.

4. Target Market

Define your ideal clients. Outline the characteristics, preferences, and needs of your target audience.

Please explain how you’ll tailor your services to cater to their diverse tastes and motivations for getting tattoos.

5. Competitive Analysis In The Tattoo Industry

Analyze your competitors – both local tattoo studios and online platforms.

Identify their strengths and weaknesses.

Highlight how your studio will differentiate itself by offering unique tattoo styles, exceptional hygiene practices, customer-centric services, and an inviting studio environment.

6. Marketing and Sales

Detail your marketing strategies to attract clients to your tattoo business.

Discuss your online presence through a professional website and active social media engagement.

Outline promotional events, referral programs, and collaborations with local businesses to increase visibility.

Describe how you’ll use content marketing, such as blogs and videos, to educate and engage your audience.

7. Operations

Explain the day-to-day operations of your tattoo studio.

You have to describe how you’ll maintain a clean and safe environment, adhere to industry regulations, and ensure artists follow proper sterilization protocols.

D etail the tattooing process, from initial consultations to design creation and aftercare instructions.

8. Financial Projections

Provide a clear financial forecast for your tattoo business.

Please, for the financial projections, you need to provide detailed startup costs, including equipment, studio setup, licenses, and initial marketing expenses.

Project your revenue for the first few years, factoring in the growth trajectory of your client base.

Present estimated gross margins, net profit margins, and the expected break-even point.

9. Funding For Your Tattoo Business

Discuss how you plan to finance your tattoo business. Outline your initial investment, which could come from personal savings, small business loans, or potential investors.

Also, specify how the funding will be allocated to different aspects of your business setup and operation.

10. Future Growth

Highlight your long-term vision for the tattoo business.

Describe your plans for expanding the studio, introducing new services or merchandise, collaborating with other artists, or hosting tattoo-related events.

In addition to that, show how your tattoo studio will adapt to evolving industry trends and customer preferences.

11. Appendix

Include any supporting materials, such as artist portfolios, studio designs, legal documents, permits, licenses, and additional market research.

These materials can add credibility to your business plan.

Tips for Writing a Convincing Tattoo Business Plan

Below are some of the expert tips for writing an outstanding business plan for your tattoo enterprise:

• Be Specific:  Provide concrete details about your tattoo studio, including the types of tattoos you’ll offer, the artists on your team, and the equipment you’ll use.
• Show Passion:  Convey your enthusiasm for tattoo artistry and your commitment to creating a unique and welcoming experience for clients.
• Research Thoroughly:  Back up your claims with accurate market research, industry statistics, and local demographic information.
• Realistic Financial Projections:  Ensure your financial projections are based on realistic assumptions and industry benchmarks.
• Use Visuals:  Incorporate visuals, such as images of tattoo designs, artist portfolios, and studio layouts, to make your business plan engaging.
• Edit and Proofread:  Make sure your business plan is well-organized, free of grammatical errors, and easy to understand.

Remember, your tattoo business plan is not only a roadmap for your own success but also a tool to attract potential investors, lenders, and partners who share your vision for a thriving tattoo studio.

Now that you know how to design your tattoo business plan, let us show you an example by using a hypothetical business name: Tattoo Haven Studio .

A Plan For Your Tattoo Business

In a world where self-expression takes many forms, the art of tattooing stands as a remarkable testament to individuality.

Each inked stroke, every intricate design, and every chosen location on the body narrates a story, an emotion, or a memory.

Tattoos have evolved from being counterculture symbols to becoming mainstream avenues for artistic expression.

It’s within this vibrant tapestry that Tattoo Haven Studio finds its place, as both a guardian of tradition and a pioneer of creativity.

At Tattoo Haven Studio, we understand that a tattoo is more than just ink on skin – it’s an embodiment of a person’s identity, a wearable masterpiece, and an intimate connection to one’s past, present, and future.

This business plan delves into the core of our endeavor, detailing how we aim to bring a new dimension to the tattoo industry.

From the initial spark of inspiration to the intricate execution of designs, and from fostering a welcoming atmosphere to pushing the boundaries of artistry, every facet of Tattoo Haven Studio is explored here.

In the pages that follow, we’ll unfold our vision for a premium tattoo establishment that not only caters to the rising demand for body art but also elevates it to a realm where creativity knows no bounds.

Our studio will be more than a place to get a tattoo; it will be a haven where stories come alive on living canvases, where artists collaborate with clients to craft meaningful, personalized designs that resonate deep within.

Join us as we journey through the intricacies of our business plan, which outlines our mission, market analysis, competitive strategies, and financial projections.

This plan encapsulates our commitment to excellence, safety, and innovation, ensuring that Tattoo Haven Studio becomes a beacon for those seeking a unique and unforgettable tattoo experience.

As the world changes and art continues to evolve, tattoos remain timeless imprints of personal stories, beliefs, and passions.

Tattoo Haven Studio is poised to be at the forefront of this transformative journey, shaping the way people perceive and experience tattooing.

We invite you to read on and explore how we intend to turn this vision into a vivid and vibrant reality.

Business Plan: Tattoo Haven Studio

Using Tattoo Haven Studio as our brand name, here is an example of a template for your tattoo studio:

1. Executive Summary

Tattoo Haven Studio is a premium tattoo establishment that aims to provide high-quality tattoo artistry in a safe, welcoming, and creative environment.

Located in a prime urban location, our studio will offer a wide range of tattoo styles, including traditional, neo-traditional, realism, geometric, and custom designs.

Our focus on artistic excellence, hygiene, and customer satisfaction will set us apart in the competitive tattoo industry.

Tattoo Haven Studio will operate as a boutique tattoo parlor, offering personalized tattoo experiences for clients seeking unique and meaningful body art.

Our skilled and experienced tattoo artists will collaborate closely with clients to design and execute custom tattoos that reflect their individual style, preferences, and stories.

We will maintain a portfolio of diverse tattoo artists with expertise in various styles to cater to a broad customer base.

3. Market Analysis

The tattoo industry has witnessed significant growth and mainstream acceptance in recent years.

People of all ages and backgrounds are seeking tattoos as a means of self-expression, making the market more lucrative than ever.

The increasing demand for customized, high-quality tattoos presents an opportunity for Tattoo Haven Studio to capture a share of this growing market.

Our target market includes the following:

• Young adults aged 18 to 35 who are looking for unique ways to express their identities.
• Professionals seeking discreet and tasteful tattoos that can be easily concealed.
• Tattoo enthusiasts looking to add to their existing collections.
• Tourists interested in commemorating their visit with local-themed tattoos.

5. Competitive Analysis

While there are several tattoo parlors in our area, Tattoo Haven Studio will differentiate itself through:

• Exceptional artistic talent and diverse styles offered by our experienced tattoo artists.
• Emphasis on cleanliness, hygiene, and safety, complying with industry standards.
• Strong customer focus with personalized consultations and aftercare guidance.
• Inviting and aesthetically pleasing studio environment that enhances the overall experience.
• Develop a professional and user-friendly website showcasing artist portfolios, studio ambiance, and online booking options.
• Leverage social media platforms to share tattoo art, engage with potential clients, and create buzz.
• Offer promotional events, loyalty programs, and referral incentives to attract and retain customers.
• Collaborate with local businesses for cross-promotions and sponsor community events.
• Secure a prime location with good visibility and accessibility.
• Invest in top-quality tattoo equipment, ensuring safety, precision, and comfort.
• Create a comfortable and inspiring studio ambiance that encourages creativity.
• Implement strict hygiene and sterilization protocols to maintain a safe environment.
• Initial investment: $150,000 (studio setup, equipment, licenses, marketing, and working capital).
• Projected revenue for Year 1: $250,000.
• Projected revenue for Year 2: $400,000.
• Gross margin: 60%.
• Break-even point: 8-10 months.
• Profitability forecast: Net profit margin of 15-20% by Year 2.

The initial investment will be funded through personal savings and a combination of small business loans and potential angel investors who share our passion for the tattoo artistry.

• Expand the studio space to accommodate more artists and clients.
• Launch an online store selling tattoo-related merchandise.
• Collaborate with local art galleries to host tattoo-themed art exhibitions.
• Explore partnerships with skincare and aftercare product brands to offer holistic tattoo care solutions.

Tattoo Haven Studio is committed to creating an exceptional tattoo experience that combines artistry, professionalism, and customer satisfaction.

With a focus on innovation, creativity, and hygiene, we aim to become a sought-after destination for individuals seeking meaningful and unique body art.

That is all you need to know about writing a convincing tattoo business plan.

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About The Author

How to Start a Tattoo Shop

Starting a tattoo shop can be very profitable. With proper planning, execution and hard work, you can enjoy great success. Below you will learn the keys to launching a successful tattoo shop.

Importantly, a critical step in starting a tattoo shop is to complete your business plan. To help you out, you should download Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template here .

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here

14 Steps To Start a Tattoo Shop :

• Choose the Name for Your Tattoo Shop
• Develop Your Tattoo Shop Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Tattoo Shop
• Secure Startup Funding for Your Tattoo Shop (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your Tattoo Shop with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Tattoo Shop
• Buy or Lease the Right Tattoo Shop Equipment
• Develop Your Tattoo Shop Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Tattoo Shop
• Open for Business

1. Choose the Name for Your Tattoo Shop

The first step to starting a tattoo shop is to choose your business’ name.  

This is a very important choice since your company name is your brand and will last for the lifetime of your business. Ideally you choose a name that is meaningful and memorable. Here are some tips for choosing a name for your tattoo shop:

• Make sure the name is available . Check your desired name against trademark databases and your state’s list of registered business names to see if it’s available. Also check to see if a suitable domain name is available.
• Keep it simple . The best names are usually ones that are easy to remember, pronounce and spell.
• Think about marketing . Come up with a name that reflects the desired brand and/or focus of your tattoo shop.

2. Develop Your Tattoo Shop Business Plan

One of the most important steps in starting a tattoo shop is to develop your tattoo shop business plan . The process of creating your plan ensures that you fully understand your market and your business strategy. The plan also provides you with a roadmap to follow and if needed, to present to funding sources to raise capital for your business.

The following are the components of a business plan :

• Executive Summary – this section should summarize your entire business plan so readers can quickly understand the key details of your tattoo shop.
• Company Overview – this section tells the reader about the history of your tattoo shop and what type of tattoo shop you operate. For example, are you a tattoo street shop, tattoo parlor business, or private tattoo studio?
• Industry Analysis – here you will document key information about the tattoo industry. Conduct market research and document how big the industry is and what trends are affecting it.
• Customer Analysis – in this section, you will document who your ideal or target customers are and their demographics. For example, how old are they? Where do they live? What do they find important when purchasing services like the ones you will offer?
• Competitive Analysis – here you will document the key direct and indirect competitors you will face and how you will build competitive advantage.
• Marketing Plan – your marketing plan should address the 4Ps: Product, Price, Promotions and Place.
• Product : Determine and document what products/services you will offer 
• Prices : Document the prices of your products/services
• Place : Where will your business be located and how will that location help you increase sales?
• Promotions : What promotional methods will you use to attract customers to your tattoo shop? For example, you might decide to use pay-per-click advertising, public relations, search engine optimization and/or social media marketing.
• Operations Plan – here you will determine the key processes you will need to run your day-to-day operations. You will also determine your staffing needs. Finally, in this section of your plan, you will create a projected growth timeline showing the milestones you hope to achieve in the coming years.
• Management Team – this section details the background of your company’s management team.
• Financial Plan – finally, the financial plan answers questions including the following:
• What startup costs will you incur?
• How will your tattoo shop make money?
• What are your projected sales and expenses for the next five years?
• Do you need to raise funding to launch your business?

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

3. choose the legal structure for your tattoo shop.

Next you need to choose a legal structure for your tattoo business and register it and your business name with the Secretary of State in each state where you operate your business.

Below are the five most common legal structures:

1) Sole proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is a business entity in which the owner of the tattoo shop and the business are the same legal person. The owner of a sole proprietorship is responsible for all debts and obligations of the business. There are no formalities required to establish a sole proprietorship, and it is easy to set up and operate. The main advantage of a sole proprietorship is that it is simple and inexpensive to establish. The main disadvantage is that the owner is liable for all debts and obligations of the business.

2) Partnerships

A partnership is a legal structure that is popular among other business owners. It is an agreement between two or more people who want to start a tattoo shop together. The partners share in the profits and losses of the business. 

The advantages of a partnership are that it is easy to set up, and the partners share in the profits and losses of the business. The disadvantages of a partnership are that the partners are jointly liable for the debts of the business, and disagreements between partners can be difficult to resolve.

3) Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A limited liability company, or LLC, is a type of business entity that provides limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners of an LLC are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The advantages of an LLC for a tattoo shop include flexibility in management, pass-through taxation (avoids double taxation as explained below), and limited personal liability. The disadvantages of an LLC include lack of availability in some states and self-employment taxes.

4) C Corporation

A C Corporation is a business entity that is separate from its owners. It has its own tax ID and can have shareholders. The main advantage of a C Corporation for a tattoo shop is that it offers limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The disadvantage is that C Corporations are subject to double taxation. This means that the corporation pays taxes on its profits, and the shareholders also pay taxes on their dividends.

5) S Corporation

An S Corporation is a type of corporation that provides its owners with limited liability protection and allows them to pass their business income through to their personal income tax returns, thus avoiding double taxation. There are several limitations on S Corporations including the number of shareholders they can have among others.

Once you register your  new tattoo shop, your state will send you your official “Articles of Incorporation.” You will need this among other documentation when establishing your banking account (see below). We recommend that you consult an attorney in determining which legal structure is best suited for your company.

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4. Secure Startup Funding for Your Tattoo Shop (If Needed)

In developing your tattoo shop business plan , you might have determined that you need to raise funding to launch your business. 

If so, the main sources of funding for a tattoo shop to consider are personal savings, family and friends, credit card financing, bank loans, crowdfunding and angel investors. Angel investors are individuals who provide capital to early-stage businesses. Angel investors typically will invest in a tattoo shop that they believe has high potential for growth.

5. Secure a Location for Your Business

When opening a tattoo shop, there are a few things you need to take into account:

• Look for a location that’s visible and accessible. You want your customers to be able to find your shop easily, so choose a spot that’s in a high-traffic area.
• Make sure the space is large enough to accommodate your equipment and workspace.
• Select a location that’s close to other businesses that cater to the same clientele as you do. This will help increase foot traffic and expose your shop to new customers.
• Look for a place with ample parking, especially if you plan on having customers come to your shop by car.
• Check the legalities of your potential location. Some localities require special permits or licenses before opening a tattoo shop in their area.

6. Register Your Tattoo Shop with the IRS

Next, you need to register your business with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) which will result in the IRS issuing you an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

Most banks will require you to have an EIN in order to open up an account. In addition, in order to hire employees, you will need an EIN since that is how the IRS tracks your payroll tax payments.

Note that if you are a sole proprietor without employees, you generally do not need to get an EIN. Rather, you would use your social security number (instead of your EIN) as your taxpayer identification number.

7. Open a Business Bank Account

It is important to establish a bank account in your tattoo shop’ name. This process is fairly simple and involves the following steps:

• Identify and contact the bank you want to use
• Gather and present the required documents (generally include your company’s Articles of Incorporation, driver’s license or passport, and proof of address)
• Complete the bank’s application form and provide all relevant information
• Meet with a banker to discuss your business needs and establish a relationship with them

8. Get a Business Credit Card

You should get a business credit card for your new shop to help you separate personal and business expenses.

You can either apply for a business credit card through your bank or apply for one through a credit card company.

When you’re applying for a business credit card, you’ll need to provide some information about your business. This includes the name of your business, the address of your business, and the type of business you’re running. You’ll also need to provide some information about yourself, including your name, Social Security number, and date of birth.

Once you’ve been approved for a business credit card, you’ll be able to use it to make purchases for your business. You can also use it to build your credit history which could be very important in securing loans and getting credit lines for your business in the future.

9. Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits

You will need to acquire a business license and a permit to operate a tattoo shop. You may also need to acquire other licenses and permits, depending on the jurisdiction in which you plan to operate your business.

In order to start a tattoo shop, you will need to obtain the following licenses and permits:

• Business license
• Tattoo artist license
• Tattoo parlor permit
• Health department permit

10. Get Business Insurance for Your Tattoo Shop

The type of insurance you need to operate a tattoo shop may vary by state.

Some business insurance policies you should consider for your tattoo shop include:

• General liability insurance : This covers accidents and injuries that occur on your property. It also covers damages caused by your employees or products.
• Workers’ compensation insurance : If you have employees, this type of policy works with your general liability policy to protect against workplace injuries and accidents. It also covers medical expenses and lost wages.
• Commercial property insurance : This covers damage to your property caused by fire, theft, or vandalism.
• Business interruption insurance : This covers lost income and expenses if your business is forced to close due to a covered event.
• Professional liability insurance : This protects your business against claims of professional negligence.

Find an insurance agent, tell them about your business and its needs, and they will recommend policies that fit those needs.

11. Buy or Lease the Right Tattoo Shop Equipment

To start your tattoo shop you will need a few essential pieces of equipment.

In order to run it successfully, you will need the following:

• Tattoo chair
• Tattoo station
• Tattoo gloves
• Ink paper towels
• Electrical outlets
• Cleaning supplies
• Tattooing machines
• Lighted tracing tables
• Tattoo machine power supply

Make sure to research different brands and models before making a purchase so that you can find the best equipment for your needs.

12. Develop Your Tattoo Shop Marketing Materials

Marketing materials will be required to attract and retain customers to your tattoo shop.

The key marketing materials you will need are as follows:

• Logo : Spend some time developing a good logo for your tattoo shop. Your logo will be printed on company stationery, business cards, marketing materials and so forth. The right logo can increase customer trust and awareness of your brand.
• Website : Likewise, a professional business website provides potential customers with information about the many services you offer, your company’s history, and contact information. Importantly, remember that the look and feel of your website will affect how customers perceive you.
• Social Media Accounts : establish social media accounts in your company’s name. Accounts on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and/or other social media platforms will help customers and others find and interact with your tattoo shop.

13. Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Tattoo Shop

The software programs you need to run a tattoo shop will vary depending on the specific needs of your business. 

However, some common software packages that a tattoo shop use include:

• Tattoo design software
• Accounting software
• Ink inventory management software
• Customer relationship management (CRM) software
• A custom-built software to manage the scheduling of tattoo artists and appointments
• Scheduling software (if using a PC instead of custom software)
• Point of sale (POS) system, including hardware and software

14. Open for Business

You are now ready to open your tattoo shop. If you followed the steps above, you should be in a great position to build a successful business. Below are answers to frequently asked questions that might further help you.

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How to Start a Tattoo Shop FAQs

Is it hard to start a tattoo shop.

Yes, it is easy to start a tattoo shop. There are many things to consider when starting a business, but with a bit of planning and research, you can be on your way to opening your tattoo shop. 

How can I start a tattoo shop with no experience?

There are a few things you can do to start a tattoo shop with no experience. You can start by doing some research on the industry and the different aspects of running a business. You can also reach out to other tattoo shop owners in your area for advice and mentorship. Finally, you can get involved in the tattoo community online or locally to learn more about the art form and the industry.

What type of tattoo shop is most profitable?

A tattoo shop that offers a wide variety of custom tattoos may be more profitable than a shop that only offers basic art designs. Custom tattoos require less salesmanship on the part of the artist and therefore tend to be more profitable for both artist and the store. Pre-made designs by comparison do not require as much artistic knowledge and may require more salesmanship on the part of the artist to sell.

How much does it cost to start a tattoo shop?

The cost s involved in starting a tattoo shop will vary depending on the business's specific needs and location. However, some ballpark figures to consider would be between $10,000 and $50,000 for startup costs.

What are the ongoing expenses for a tattoo shop?

A tattoo shop can have various ongoing expenses, such as the cost of ink, needles, and other supplies. The shop may also need to pay rent or lease a property, hire professionally trained tattoo artists , and purchase insurance.

How does a tattoo shop make money?

A tattoo shop makes money by charging for their services. They typically charge per hour, with a minimum set amount. Some shops also charge a percentage of the cost of the tattoo should it be requested to be covered by insurance.

Is owning a tattoo shop profitable?

Yes, a tattoo shop can be profitable because it is a relatively low-cost business to start. Another reason is tattoos are increasingly popular. In addition, many people view tattoos as a form of self-expression, so they are likely to continue to seek them out and pay higher prices for quality tattoos regardless of the economy.

Why do tattoo shops fail?

There are many reasons tattoo shops might fail, but one of the most common is a lack of business planning. A successful tattoo shop should have a comprehensive business plan that outlines its goals, strategies, and how it plans to achieve them. Other common reasons for failure include financial troubles, poor customer service, lack of marketing, and running out of supplies.

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

How To Write A Tattoo Shop Business Plan in 2024

If you’re getting ready to open a tattoo shop , then one of your first steps will be creating your tattoo shop business plan. This plan is a roadmap for your tattoo business’s present and future.

What You Will Learn

In this article, we’ll explore the basics of the tattoo parlor business, why business plans are necessary, what to include in yours, and provide a free tattoo studio business plan template.

Jump to the Section You Like

What type of business is a tattoo shop, why does your tattoo shop need a business plan, key elements of a good tattoo shop business plan, free tattoo shop business plan template.

Tattoo shops are often run by either experienced tattoo artists or a non-tattooing business owner.

In most states, they’re required to adhere to strict health and licensing standards as they use specialized, sterile equipment to apply permanent art to clients’ bodies. Many shops offer body piercing in addition to tattoo service, and have a trained piercer on staff.

These businesses can take many forms (each with its own marketing strategy and target customers). These include:

• Traditional Tattoo Studio: These often have multiple tattoo artists on staff and multiple rooms/ chairs, and often take a mixture of appointment bookings and walk-ins. Location is important when attracting customers here.
• Home-Based Tattoo Shops: Often run by one artist looking to save on additional rent expenses, but sometimes a talented artist will establish a home studio for an exclusive target audience.
• Mobile Tattoo Shop: These businesses are easy to spot at tattoo artist events or tattoo conventions, attracting potential customers by showcasing their art and portfolios. Sometimes, private groups will book them for special occasions.

A tattoo business isn’t the only business that needs a plan- in fact, all businesses need to track their progress and stay organized.

Documenting your tattoo business strategy, understanding market trends, having a plan to attract customers and getting a handle on your expenses and financial statements is crucial for any new business- it also makes it much easier to secure a loan and be taken seriously by potential investors.

Business plans are important documents that help organize your ideas, create and adjust your marketing plan, hold effective staff meetings, evaluate expenses, and check that your tattoo studio is heading in the right direction and in line with your values and target market.

They’re also not set in stone- a good business plan for tattoo shop owners can be revised and updated as needed.

We recommend you to check our our post on tattoo shop decor .

Every good tattoo studio business plan will have some things in common:

They’ll explain your objectives, identify your target customers, specific services and retail offerings, detail your projected revenue and expenses, give an overview of your marketing strategy and financial plan.

Remember, this is an analysis of where your business is now, and where you’d like it to be in the future, along with how you hope to get there.

Your tattoo studio business plan will contain:

Your Cover Page

This introduces your business and its tattoo services to everyone with a financial stake in its success- think managers, potential investors, and financial advisors. Make sure it includes your:

• Business Name and tattoo shop logo
• Your Name and Contact Information

Do not miss our post on tattoo shop names .

Table of Contents

This will make it much easier to find what you need quickly, especially if you add things at the end like market research, graphs, art portfolios or financial statements.

Executive Summary

This is your opportunity to make a solid, professional first impression. Be sure to include:

• Your Mission Statement (your business’s goals and how you plan to achieve them)
• Your Vision Statement (where do you want your tattoo shop to eventually be in the future)
• An Overview (of the business itself and a short summary of what the plan contains)
• Keys to Success (what you’ll need to start and run your tattoo shop successfully)

Business Description

This is a brief overview of your business and its primary service, specialties, and needs:

• Your location (or ideal location, if you’re still looking into your options)
• Your services
• Any staffing needs
• A general overview of the tattoo industry in your local area

Target Markets

Describe your prospective tattoo customers, and why you chose them:

• What’s their average age? Are your prospective customers mostly young people with disposable income (professional young adults are a fast-growing market in this industry), or are you aiming at older people with multiple tattoos?
• Does your target group live, study or work locally?
• What kinds of tattoos or services do they want?
• Why did you choose them, and how will this affect your sales strategy, marketing, branding etc.?
• What can you provide that sets you apart from the competition?

Competitive Analysis

This is the industry analysis section- you’ll need to do some research and explain the following things:

• Identify your local competitors (this includes indirect competitors)
• How does your business compare to other tattoo parlors?
• Will you be competing for the same clients?
• How do you foresee the market growth potential in your area?
• What sets your tattoo designs or services apart and gives you a competitive advantage? Some examples might be offering customized tattoos, tattoo maintenance, laser tattoo removal services (if you’re trained), cover-ups, or body-piercing services.

Management Plan

As the shop owner, you’ll need to explain the management structure, including:

• The company’s structure (in small business where it’s a sole proprietorship, this will often be fairly simple)
• Management strategy (major goals and milestones for the business- where should it be by its third year, for example, and what’s the plan to get there?)
• A staffing overview of team members and roles

For all your tattoo shop management needs, Zolmi Tattoo Shop Software is here to help. We can get you on the right track with appointment scheduling, customer data management, staff scheduling, online booking, mobile support and so much more. Sign up for a free trial today!

Products and Services

This is the fun part. You can show potential revenue sources here and help get an idea of your later expenses. Some of the products and services of a tattoo shop include:

• Standard tattoos
• Customized tattoos
• Tattoo removal or cover-up services
• Piercing services and jewelry
• Aftercare products
• Art and merchandise by talented artists (either local on onsite)

Marketing Plan

Explain how you’ll reach new clients and expand the business, along with approximate costs. This includes:

• Your marketing budget
• Information about market segmentation
• Your advertising plan- will you place ads in local papers, use email marketing and social media pages (a must-have for reaching younger generations), and make use of search engine optimization via articles and blog posts?
• How will you follow up on customer satisfaction?
• Explain your brand identity and why it’s marketable

This part covers both products and services. Explain the following:

• What are your sales goals?
• How will you present products and your service menu?
• Your projected income from each category
• If additional training is needed, how will you finance it?

Financial Plan

What are your expenses, and how do you plan to make the tattoo shop turn a profit as soon as possible? A tattoo shop financial plan should include:

• A detailed analysis of your expenses (both at startup and recurring ones)
• A breakdown of your projected cash flow (you can update this with a cash flow statement once you’ve been in operation for a few months)
• Profit and loss projections
• Your break even point
• Any loans and debts involved with the business

Pro tip: if you don’t have direct experience with finance and accounting, it’s a good idea to have a professional look at your plan and go over all of the details with you before you create the final copy.

Operating Plan

The basic details of running the business, including:

• Location information (if you have at least one tattoo shop already, you can describe each location)
• Management information (how you plan to run it, and whether you’ll employ other managers, for example)

Additional Information

In this section, you can attach and explain any addition, relevant documents and append things for reference.

Do not miss our post on Tattoo Business Cards .

Putting together your own business plan from scratch can be time consuming, but we know how important it is to have one in place. Using a premade tattoo shop business plan pdf is a great way to get started.

We’ve decided to help by creating a tattoo shop business plan sample template that you can save, use and adjust to fit your needs.

Getting started in the tattoo industry is an exciting journey to be on, and we’re here for it. We wish you the very best of luck!

Remember, just like most business ventures, a little bit of planning now will save you a ton of time and stress later on. Having a tattoo shop business plan is one of the best ways to be ready to make decisions, approach investors and handle the unexpected.

How to write a great business plan https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/iel3/46/14446/00660335.pdf

The successful business plan: secrets & strategies https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=hp

How to write a business plan https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=jFF

About the author Bartek Kulasza

Bartek Kulasza creates informative content that focuses on efficient business management. He covers salon software, marketing and sales, budgeting and reporting, salon design and equipment, inventory management, growing customer base, helping businesses optimize operations, enhancing customer experience, and increasing profitability.

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• How To Write A Tattoo Shop Business Plan

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Tattoo Studio

Back to All Business Ideas

How to Start a Tattoo Studio

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on April 20, 2022 Updated on May 8, 2024

Investment range

$9,050 - $19,100

Revenue potential

$104,000 -- $195,000 p.a.

Time to build

3 – 6 months

Profit potential

$62,000 - $78,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Seen any good tattoos lately? They seem to be taking over the world. The industry has more than doubled in the last decade, including 30% expansion in the past two years alone — despite the pandemic. If you have legit drawing skills, now is a great time to get in on the boom by starting your own tattoo studio. If you’re not already a tattoo artist, you can do the training and get there fast. It’ll take an investment to start your studio, but you can make fantastic money once you’re tattooing.  

But before all that, it’s important to learn what it takes to start a business. Lucky for you, this step-by-step guide details everything you need to know to get your tattoo studio off the ground. 

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Starting a tattoo studio has pros and cons to consider before deciding if it’s right for you.

• Hot Market – Demand for tattoos is growing steadily
• Good Money – Make hundreds per tattoo
• Creativity – Show off your art skills
• Strict Regulations – Need licensing and health compliance
• Crowded Market – Compete with many other tattoo studios

Tattoo industry trends

Industry size and growth.

• Industry size and past growth – The US tattoo artists industry is worth $1.4 billion in 2022 after expanding nearly 30% since 2020.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/tattoo-artists-united-states/ )) 
• Growth forecast – The US tattoo artists industry is projected to grow 5.4% in 2022. 
• Number of businesses –  In 2022, 31,196 tattoo artists businesses are operating in the US.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/tattoo-artists-united-states/ )) 
• Number of people employed – In 2022, the US tattoo artists industry employs 41,128 people.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/employment/tattoo-artists-united-states/ ))

Trends and challenges

Trends in the tattoo industry include:

• Millennials are most likely to get tattoos, with nearly half having at least one. 
• Trends in tattoo designs in 2022 lean toward the nostalgic and abstract.

Challenges in the tattoo industry include:

• Liability is always a concern, as mistakes or injuries can lead to lawsuits.
• The tattoo industry has drawn negative press from allegations of racism and sexual abuse, which may drive some away from getting a tattoo. 

Demand hotspots

• Most popular states – The most popular states for tattoo artists are New York, New Hampshire, and Indiana.(( https://www.zippia.com/tattoo-artist-jobs/best-states/#north-dakota ))  
• Least popular states – The least popular states for tattoo artists are Colorado, Montana, and Florida.

What kind of people work in tattoos?

• Gender –  25% of tattoo artists are female, while 71.3% are male.(( https://www.zippia.com/tattoo-artist-jobs/demographics/ ))
• Average level of education – The average tattoo artist is high school educated.
• Average age -The average tattoo artist in the US is 41.2 years old.

How much does it cost to start a tattoo business?

Startup costs for a tattoo business range from $9,000 to $19,000. The largest costs are studio space rental and preparation, and tattoo equipment.

Each state has its own training and licensing requirements for tattoo artists or body artists. You can take courses through IBMS for a few hundred dollars if they are an approved education provider in your state. If you’re new to tattooing, you might want to consider a tattoo apprenticeship before starting your own studio. 

You’ll need a handful of items to successfully launch your tattoo business, including: 

• Chairs and Beds
• Sanitary kit
• Tattoo machine
• Needles and needles sterilizer
• Chemical for skin sterilization
• Chemical for anesthetic
• Tattoo scanner and design computer

How much can you earn from a tattoo business?

While tattoo prices vary, the average is about $250. Your profit margin after rent and overhead should be about 60%.

In your first year or two, you might do eight tattoos a week, bringing in $104,000 in annual revenue. This would mean $62,000 in profit, assuming that 60% margin. As you begin to get referrals and repeat business, sales could climb to fifteen tattoos a week. At this stage, you’d hire staff, reducing your profit margin to around 40%. With annual revenue of $195,000, you’d make a healthy profit of $78,000.

What barriers to entry are there?

There are a few barriers to entry for a tattoo business. Your biggest challenges will be:

• Meeting training and licensing requirements
• Standing out from other tattoo studios

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a tattoo studio, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Research tattoo studios in your area to examine their services, price points, and customer reviews. You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a tattoo studio that offers tattoo design, or a cosmetic tattooing shop. 

You might consider targeting a niche market by specializing in a certain aspect of your industry, such as small body art or floral tattoos.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Determine your services

In addition to tattoos, you could also offer body piercing and sell jewelry and other items. 

How much should you charge for tattoos?

Tattoo prices will depend on the size and complexity of the tattoo, and how long it takes. The average price of a tattoo is $250. After the costs of rent and overhead, you should aim for a profit margin of about 60%.

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market will probably tend to be younger, particularly millennials. You can find them on sites like TikTok and Instagram.

Where? Choose your tattoo studio location

Finding the right location for your tattoo studio is crucial to attract and retain clients. Look for a spot with high visibility and easy accessibility, preferably in a commercial area or close to other complementary businesses.

Ensure that the studio is visually appealing, functional, and equipped with high-quality equipment and materials.

By carefully selecting the perfect spot for your tattoo studio, you can establish a thriving business that provides clients with exceptional artistry and a unique experience. You can find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Tattoo Studio Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “tattoo artist” or “body art studio”, boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “Eternal Ink Studios” over “Watercolor Ink Tattoo Studio”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Tattoo Studio Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary: Summarize your tattoo studio’s vision, highlighting its commitment to artistry, safety, and creating a unique experience for each client.
• Business Overview: Describe your studio’s focus on providing professional tattoo services, including custom designs, cover-ups, and touch-ups.
• Product and Services: Detail the various tattooing services offered, along with ancillary services like aftercare products or consultation sessions.
• Market Analysis: Assess the demand for tattoo services in your area, identifying target demographics and current industry trends.
• Competitive Analysis: Compare your studio to local competitors, emphasizing your unique strengths such as artist expertise, studio ambiance, or specialized tattoo styles.
• Sales and Marketing: Outline your strategy for attracting clients, using methods like social media presence, portfolio showcases, or community engagement.
• Management Team: Highlight the experience and qualifications of your team, focusing on their artistic skills and professionalism in customer service and studio management.
• Operations Plan: Describe the day-to-day operations of the studio, including appointment scheduling, health and safety protocols, and client management.
• Financial Plan: Provide an overview of financial aspects, including startup costs, pricing strategy, and projected revenue.
• Appendix: Include supplementary documents such as artist portfolios, health and safety certifications, or detailed market research to support your business plan.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you’re planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to tattoo studios. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your tattoo studio will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have. 

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2024

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you’re completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans: This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans: The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants: A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding: Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal: Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding a tattoo business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept. 

Step 8: Apply for Tattoo Studio Business Licenses and Permits

Starting a tattoo business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments. Each state has different training and licensing rules for tattoo artists. Check with your state for requirements. 

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your tattoo business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks. 

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as DaySmart , Vagaro , or TattooPro , to manage your appointments, customers, payments, and reports. 

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial. 

Develop your website

Developing a website for a tattoo studio is a vital step in showcasing your artistic work and reaching potential clients. You have two primary options: using a website builder or hiring a professional web developer. Website builders like Wix, Squarespace, or WordPress are user-friendly and cost-effective, making them ideal for those on a tight budget or with limited technical skills. On the other hand, hiring a professional developer allows for a more tailored and unique website.

Regardless of the method chosen, the website should be visually appealing and easy to navigate, with a strong emphasis on high-quality images of your work. Crucially, it should include clear call-to-actions (CTAs) such as booking appointments, contacting the studio, or following social media links, to engage visitors and convert their interest into action.

Starting a tattoo business requires a strategic approach to marketing to attract and retain clients. Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Optimize for Local SEO: Ensure your website is optimized for local search engine optimization (SEO). Use keywords relevant to your location and services, like “tattoo artist in [City Name]” or “best tattoos in [Area].” This helps your studio show up in search results when potential clients are looking for tattoo services in your area.
• Get Listed in Local Directories: Register your studio on local business directories and Google My Business. This increases your visibility in local search results and provides potential clients with essential information like your address, hours, and contact details.
• Showcase Your Portfolio: Utilize your website and social media platforms to showcase your best work. Regularly update your portfolio to keep it fresh and engaging.
• Engage on Social Media: Maintain an active presence on social media platforms, especially those with a strong visual focus like Instagram and Pinterest. Share your work, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and client testimonials to engage with your audience.
• Encourage Word-of-Mouth and Referrals: Word-of-mouth is particularly powerful in the tattoo industry. Encourage your satisfied clients to refer friends and family, and consider offering a referral discount.
• Host Events or Open Houses: Organize events or open houses in your studio to attract new clients. Use these events to showcase your artistry and the unique experience your studio offers.
• Collect and Showcase Reviews: Encourage your clients to leave reviews online. Positive reviews can significantly influence potential clients’ decisions.
• Engage in Local Community Activities: Participate in local events, festivals, or charity activities to raise your studio’s profile in the community.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that set it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your tattoo studio meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your tattoo business could be: 

• Professional body art to make your statement
• No-regret tattoos to add color to your life
• Precise and stunning – tattoos that speak for you

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a tattoo business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in tattoos for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in tattoos. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. 

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small from a home office, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a tattoo business include:

• Body Artists – do tattoos and piercings
• General Manager – scheduling, ordering, accounting
• Marketing Lead – SEO strategies, social media

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Tattoo Studio – Start Making Money!

The tattoo industry is booming! Millennials are leading the way, with nearly half of them sporting at least one tattoo. If you have artistic skills, you can grab a share of the market with your own studio. It will take a passion for your craft and hard work, but you can make your dream come true with a small investment that could deliver financial rewards and the gratification of sharing your art with the world. 

You’ve got the business knowledge under your belt now, so you’re ready to find a great space and open your successful tattoo studio!

• Tattoo Business FAQs

Tattoo studios can be very profitable, with high margins. The key is to be a great tattoo artist so that the word will spread, and you’ll get referrals and repeat business.

Tattoo prices will depend on the size and complexity of the tattoo, and how long it takes. The average price of a tattoo is $250. As you gain experience and a following, you can increase your rates.

Start by advertising the job opening through various channels, such as online job boards, social media, or industry-specific platforms. Review portfolios and assess the artistic style, technical proficiency, and overall quality of their work.

The time it takes to learn tattooing can vary depending on factors such as the individual’s dedication, learning style, mentorship availability, and the complexity of the tattooing techniques. Generally, it takes several years of consistent practice, apprenticeship, and ongoing learning to become a proficient and skilled tattoo artist.

While it is technically possible to self-teach tattooing, it is strongly advised against. Tattooing is a complex and potentially risky practice that requires a deep understanding of hygiene, equipment sterilization, skin anatomy, and tattooing techniques. Proper training through an apprenticeship under an experienced tattoo artist or attending a reputable tattoo school is crucial to ensure the safety of both the artist and the client.

Develop a strong online presence through a professional website and active social media accounts to showcase your artists’ portfolios and engage with potential clients. Encourage client reviews and testimonials to build trust and credibility. Collaborate with local businesses, artists, or influencers in related communities to cross-promote each other’s work. 

The choice of tattoo ink depends on personal preference, the desired tattoo style, and the client’s skin type. High-quality tattoo inks that are known for their safety and longevity are typically the preferred choice. Some reputable tattoo ink brands include Eternal Ink, Intenze Tattoo Ink, and World Famous Tattoo Ink. 

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Tattoo Studio Name
• Create a Tattoo Studio Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Tattoo Studio Business Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Tattoo Studio - Start Making Money!

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How To Write a Business Plan for Tattoo Shop in 9 Steps: Checklist

By henry sheykin, resources on tattoo shop.

• Financial Model
• Business Plan
• Value Proposition
• One-Page Business Plan
• SWOT Analysis
• Business Model
• Marketing Plan

Are you thinking of starting a tattoo shop? According to a recent survey, the tattoo industry has experienced steady growth over the past decade, with an estimated revenue of $1 billion in 2020.

But starting any business requires careful planning and execution. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create a business plan for a tattoo shop . From market research to marketing tactics, we'll cover everything you need to know to ensure your business is a success.

So, whether you're a seasoned tattoo artist looking to start your own shop or a first-time entrepreneur interested in the industry, let's dive in and take the first step towards building your own successful tattoo business.

Conduct Market Research

Before you open a tattoo shop, you need to conduct market research to ensure you understand your potential customers, their needs, and the competition. Market research is the foundation of a successful business plan and will help you make informed decisions about your business.

Start by assessing the local tattoo market. Analyze the demographics of the area to see if your target audience is present, and how many tattoo shops there are in the vicinity. This will help you decide on the right location for your tattoo shop.

Next, you should gather data about tattoo trends. Determine what types of tattoos are popular in your area and what styles are in high demand. This will help you form your initial pricing strategy and determine what types of tattoo artists you may need to hire.

Another important aspect to consider in market research is customer preferences and needs. Consider creating a survey that will help you understand what people are looking for in a tattoo shop, including the level of customer service they expect and the types of tattoos they would like to get.

Market Research Tips:

• Visit competitor tattoo shops to observe their processes and level of customer service.
• Use social media to gauge customer demand for certain types of tattoos.
• Engage with potential customers on social media to ask for their opinion on your business idea.

Conducting thorough market research takes time and effort, but it can help set your tattoo shop up for success in the long run. Analyzing the market and your competition will give you valuable insights and help you make informed decisions before you open the doors to your tattoo shop.

Define Target Audience

The second step in creating a business plan for a tattoo shop is to define your target audience. Your target audience is the group of people who are most likely to use your services. Understanding your target audience is crucial because it can help you make informed decisions about marketing, pricing, and more.

Before you start defining your target audience, it's important to first consider the type of tattoos you will offer. Will they be modern and trendy, or more classic and traditional? Do you plan on offering custom tattoos or pre-designed ones? Once you have answered these questions, you can start focusing on your target audience.

Demographics: One way to define your target audience is by looking at demographics. This includes age, gender, income, and education level. For a tattoo shop, your target audience could be young adults aged 18-25 with an average income of $40,000 per year. However, don't limit yourself to just one demographic. Consider the diversity of your potential customers and adjust your target audience accordingly.

Psychographics: Another way to define your target audience is through psychographics. This includes interests, values, personality traits, and lifestyle. For example, your target audience might be individuals who value self-expression and creativity, or those who enjoy attending music festivals and other similar events.

Tips for defining your target audience:

• Think about the types of tattoos you will offer and who would be most interested in them.
• Consider both demographics and psychographics when defining your audience.
• Look at market research and customer feedback to gain insight into your potential customer base.
• Do not limit yourself to just one demographic or psychographic group.

Analyze Competitors

Knowing your competitors is an essential part of any business plan. It allows you to identify how you can set yourself apart and gain a competitive edge.

Start by researching and identifying who your main competitors are within the area you plan to open your tattoo shop. Look at what they offer in terms of services, pricing, and customer experience. Determine their strengths and weaknesses, and see how you can use this information to improve upon your own business model.

• Gather information on their website, social media profiles, and online reviews.
• Visit their shop and observe their customers and staff.
• Consider offering complementary services that your competitors do not provide to differentiate yourself from the competition.

Another important aspect to consider is their marketing strategies. How are they promoting their business? Are they using social media, direct mail, or other forms of advertising? Analyzing their marketing tactics can give you ideas for how to market your own tattoo shop to reach your target audience.

Remember that competition can be a good thing. It means there is a demand for your services, and it pushes you to continue improving and providing better products and experiences for your customers.

By analyzing your competitors, you can create a business plan that takes into account the competition and positions your tattoo shop for success.

Determine Legal Requirements

Starting a tattoo shop requires you to comply with a set of legal requirements to operate legally. Ensure you are familiar with the laws and regulations that apply to your business to avoid any legal issues that could harm your business in the future.

• Licensing Requirements: You will need to obtain a permit or license to operate your tattoo shop in your state or city. Contact the relevant authorities to know the requirements and the procedures involved in obtaining a license. Keep in mind that each state might have different requirements, so research thoroughly.
• Health and Safety Standards: It is crucial to maintain a hygienic and safe environment in your tattoo shop . Make sure to comply with health and safety standards set by your local authority. You must have proper sterilization techniques, including procedures for equipment and needle safety, sanitation, and cross-contamination prevention.
• Insurance: As a tattoo shop owner, you will also need to purchase liability insurance for your business. This insurance policy includes coverage for any damages or legal issues arising from your business operations.
• Employee Laws: If you are planning to hire employees for your tattoo shop, make sure you comply with all the employee laws, including minimum wage, overtime pay, and leave policies set by the local and state government.
• Zoning Requirements: Before you rent or purchase a space for your tattoo shop, check with the local authorities to ensure that the area is zoned for commercial use. You might need a special permit, variances, or approvals from your local government.
• Consider hiring a legal professional to help you review and understand the legal requirements for your tattoo shop.
• Keep your licensing and permits up to date to avoid any legal issues.
• Train your employees on proper sterilization techniques and other safety measures and adhere to them strictly.

Ensuring you comply with all the legal requirements for your tattoo shop will establish a foundation for your business to succeed in the long term. By adhering to these requirements, you will foster a safe and healthy environment for your customers and employees, which will serve as a solid and reliable reputation for your business.

Plan Business Location

Choosing the right location is crucial to the success of your tattoo shop. The ideal location should have plenty of foot traffic, easy accessibility, and be in an area where your target audience resides. Here are some important factors to consider when choosing a location for your tattoo shop:

• Accessibility: Is the location easily accessible by public transportation? Is there ample parking space nearby?
• Demographics: Is the location in an area where your target audience resides or frequents? Who are the people in the area and what are their interests?
• Competition: How many tattoo shops are there in the area? How do their services differ from what you offer? Are there any gaps in the market?
• Rent and lease terms: What are the rental rates for the area? Are there any concessions to be gained from the landlord? What are the terms of the lease?
• Foot Traffic: What is the volume of foot traffic in the area? Are there any busy areas or intersections nearby?
• Research potential locations thoroughly and visit them at different times of the day to gauge foot traffic and activity in the area.
• Consider the safety and security of the location, especially if it is open late at night.
• Think about the amenities and features that would be beneficial to your tattoo shop, such as proximity to other businesses or a specific type of building layout.
• Consider an area that is up-and-coming, as it could bring in new customers and have potential for growth.

Once you have identified a few potential locations, it's crucial to conduct due diligence before making any commitments. This includes legal and regulatory requirements, zoning laws, and obtaining necessary permits. Make sure to engage a real estate agent or legal expert to help you with any legal formalities and negotiations with the landlord. Choose a location that aligns with your business goals, mission, and vision, and one that your customers can easily access and enjoy.

Develop Pricing Strategy

One of the most critical aspects of starting a new tattoo shop is to establish a competitive pricing strategy. You want to make sure that your pricing is reasonable enough to attract customers while also allowing you to make a profit. Therefore, it is important to take your time and develop a comprehensive pricing strategy that meets the needs of both your business and your clients.

First, you should consider the services your business will offer and the associated costs for each service. This includes the cost of materials and supplies, as well as the time and expertise of your tattoo artists. You should also factor in any other expenses, such as rent or utility costs, into your pricing structure.

• Tip 1: Consider the pricing structures of your direct competitors. This will give you a better idea of what price ranges are reasonable for the services you offer.
• Tip 2: Consider offering special deals for new customers, such as a discount on their first tattoo or a special promotion for repeat customers.
• Tip 3: Factor in the local market conditions. If there is high demand for your services, you may be able to charge a premium for your work.

It is also important to communicate your pricing strategy clearly to potential clients. This can be done through website content, advertising, or by providing a pricing menu on-site. Be transparent about your pricing and services to avoid misunderstandings or difficult conversations after the fact.

Lastly, revisit your pricing strategy periodically and adjust it as needed. As your business grows and evolves, you may need to consider new costs or competitive factors that require adjusting your pricing. Continually analyzing your pricing strategy will ensure that your business stays competitive and profitable in the face of market changes.

Estimate Startup Costs

Starting a tattoo shop involves significant financial investment. You will need to estimate your startup costs, including the expenses required to set up your business, equipment, and supplies. It can be challenging to determine the exact costs, but conducting thorough research ensures that you do not underestimate the expenses or miss anything essential.

Calculate Overhead Costs: Your overhead costs will include rent, utilities, insurance, legal fees, and other expenses that are not directly related to producing tattoo art. Rent can be a significant expense, and the location you choose can affect the amount you pay.

Equipment and Supplies Costs: To operate a tattoo shop, you will require various equipment and supplies, such as needles, ink, gloves, and a tattoo machine. Consider the amount of equipment you will require based on the number of tattoo artists you plan to employ and the scope of the services you offer.

Staffing Costs: You will need to consider the expenses of hiring and paying your tattoo artists and employees. You may need to provide employee benefits such as employee taxes, health insurance, retirement plans, and more.

Marketing and Advertising Costs: You will need to consider marketing and advertising expenses to promote your business. You can consider advertising on social media, the radio, television, print media, or through local business directories.

Legal and Miscellaneous Expenses: To start your business legally, you will need to consider registration fees, licensing, permits, professional fees, and other miscellaneous expenses. You may need to hire a lawyer, consultant, or accountant to ensure that you meet all legal requirements and regulations.

Estimating your business startup costs is essential to determine the amount of funding required to get started. Plan efficiently, measure costs accurately, and ensure that you have the financial resources required for the long haul.

Select Suppliers And Vendors

Now that you've planned the necessary steps for launching your tattoo shop business, it's time to select the suppliers and vendors to collaborate with. To ensure the success of your business, you need to find the right suppliers who can provide the materials and equipment required for your tattoo artists and the vendors who can supply the additional products and services you'll need to run the shop.

When selecting the suppliers and vendors for your tattoo shop, keep the following factors in mind:

• Quality: The quality of the materials, equipment, products, and services offered by each supplier and vendor is paramount.
• Reliability: You need to find suppliers and vendors who are reliable, punctual, and dedicated to providing you with the products and services you need when you need them.
• Price: While quality and reliability are crucial, the price of the products and services offered should also be taken into account. You need to ensure that the suppliers and vendors offer competitive rates without compromising on quality.
• Reach out to other tattoo shops in your area or elsewhere and inquire about their preferred suppliers and vendors. This information can help you identify the best suppliers and vendors in the industry.
• Attend trade shows and exhibitions related to the tattoo industry to network with suppliers and vendors and explore new products and services on the market.
• Choose suppliers and vendors who share your values and mission regarding customer service, sustainability, and social responsibility.

When selecting suppliers, consider the following:

• Ink Suppliers: Ensure that the ink supplier you work with produces high-quality, long-lasting, and safe ink. Determine whether they offer a wide range of colors, ink consistency, and different packaging sizes.
• Needle Suppliers: The needles used in tattoos determine the quality and safety of the tattoo. Work with a supplier that provides sterilized and single-use needles in different sizes and configurations.
• Equipment Suppliers: Your tattoo artists must work with the best equipment. Therefore, you need to partner with suppliers who offer high-quality machines, gloves, sleeves, and other equipment necessary to perform tattoos safely and comfortably.

When selecting vendors, consider the following:

• Aftercare Products Vendors: Your customers will need to take care of their fresh tattoos properly, so you need to stock high-quality aftercare products. Consider collaborating with vendors who offer tattoo soaps, lotions, ointments, and other products your customers need.
• Tattoo Art Prints Vendors: Your tattoo shop can also sell tattoo art prints. Partner with vendors who offer high-quality art prints on diverse materials, such as paper, canvas, or framed prints.
• Miscellaneous Vendors: You'll need vendors for other products and supplies, such as paper towels, trash bags, office supplies, cleaning materials, and other essentials for running your shop.

Once you've selected your suppliers and vendors, ensure that you maintain a good relationship with them by communicating efficiently, making timely payments, and providing feedback to enhance the collaboration. Remember, your suppliers and vendors contribute significantly to the success of your tattoo shop business, so choose them wisely.

Determine Marketing Tactics

Now that you have created your business plan for your tattoo shop, it’s time to determine the best marketing tactics to promote your services and attract customers.

One of the most important things to remember is to have a strong online presence. Your website should be easy to navigate and visually appealing. Make sure that it includes information about your services, prices, and contact information. It’s also a good idea to have a portfolio showcasing your artists’ work. This can be done through pictures or videos. Post photos of your work on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, using relevant hashtags to help people find your content.

A good way to promote your tattoo shop is by hosting events. You could organize a tattoo party where people can get small tattoos on-site. You could also host art shows or exhibits that showcase your artists’ work. By doing this, you are not only promoting your services but also building a community around your shop.

You can also offer promotions, like discounted tattoos during off-peak times or for first-time customers. This will attract new customers and encourage repeat customers. Many people are hesitant to get a tattoo on their own, so consider offering a discount for group bookings or parties.

Marketing Tips:

• Use SEO (Search Engine Optimization) to make sure your website ranks high in search engine results by optimizing your content with relevant keywords.
• Partner with local businesses and organizations to build a community reputation and support other small businesses.
• Consider creating merchandise such as T-shirts and stickers featuring your shop's logo to promote your business.

Creating a referral program where your existing customers refer new customers in exchange for discounts or special offers can be an effective way to grow your customer base. Word of mouth is a powerful promotion tool, so make sure you offer top-notch customer service to encourage people to recommend your shop to others.

Lastly, make sure you monitor your marketing performance. Track your website traffic, social media engagement, and the number of customers you attract through your promotions. Based on these metrics, make changes to your marketing plan and adjust your tactics where necessary.

Starting a tattoo shop is an exciting venture, but it requires careful planning and execution. By following the nine steps outlined in this checklist, you can ensure that your business has a strong foundation and is well-prepared to succeed in a competitive industry.

From conducting market research and analyzing competitors to determining legal requirements and selecting suppliers, each step is critical to the success of your tattoo shop. By taking the time to develop a comprehensive business plan, you can minimize risk and maximize your chances of success in the long term.

• Conduct market research
• Define target audience
• Analyze competitors
• Determine legal requirements
• Plan business location
• Develop pricing strategy
• Estimate startup costs
• Select suppliers and vendors
• Determine marketing tactics

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How to Start a Profitable Tattoo Business [11 Steps]

By Nick Cotter Updated Feb 02, 2024

Business Steps:

1. perform market analysis., 2. draft a tattoo business plan., 3. develop a tattoo brand., 4. formalize your business registration., 5. acquire necessary licenses and permits for tattoo., 6. open a business bank account and secure funding as needed., 7. set pricing for tattoo services., 8. acquire tattoo equipment and supplies., 9. obtain business insurance for tattoo, if required., 10. begin marketing your tattoo services., 11. expand your tattoo business..

Embarking on a tattoo business venture requires a thorough understanding of the market landscape. This initial step is crucial for identifying the demand for tattoo services, understanding the competition, and uncovering potential niches. Below is a guide to performing a comprehensive market analysis:

• Research your target demographic: Gather data on the age, interests, and spending habits of potential customers within the area you plan to operate.
• Analyze competitors: Identify existing tattoo parlors in the region, examine their services, pricing, and customer reviews to understand their strengths and weaknesses.
• Explore market trends: Stay informed about the latest trends in tattoo designs, techniques, and industry innovations to ensure your business stays relevant and attractive to clients.
• Assess demand and market saturation: Determine the demand for tattoos and the number of providers in your intended location to evaluate if there is a gap in the market you can fill.
• Examine legal requirements: Understand the licensing, health and safety regulations, and any other legalities specific to the tattoo industry in your area.
• Consider economic factors: Evaluate the economic climate, including disposable income levels and employment rates, as they can influence the frequency and type of tattoos customers might get.

Are Tattoo businesses profitable?

Yes, tattoo businesses can be profitable depending on the location, type of services offered, and other factors. Typically, tattoo businesses can generate a profit of anywhere from 10-30% of their total revenue. Many tattoo businesses also rely on repeat customers and referrals to help drive profits.

Starting a tattoo business requires careful planning and a clear vision. A well-crafted business plan lays out the roadmap for turning your artistic passion into a successful enterprise. Here's a concise guide to drafting your tattoo business plan:

• Executive Summary: Summarize your business concept, the market need it fills, your target clientele, and financial projections.
• Company Description: Outline the details of your business, including location, services offered, and what sets your tattoo studio apart.
• Market Analysis: Research the tattoo industry, identify your competition, understand your target market, and position your business to stand out.
• Organization and Management: Describe the structure of your business, your team, and how the business will be managed.
• Services Offered: Detail the types of tattoos you'll offer, any ancillary services, and how you plan to keep up with industry trends.
• Marketing Plan: Develop strategies for attracting and retaining customers, your brand identity, and advertising channels you'll use.
• Financial Projections: Present realistic revenue forecasts, a break-even analysis, and projected expenses. Include startup costs and ongoing operational costs.
• Funding Request: If seeking financing, specify the amount needed and how it will be used.

How does a Tattoo business make money?

A tattoo business typically makes money by charging customers for each tattoo they do. The cost of a tattoo will depend on the size, complexity, and location of the tattoo, as well as the artist’s skill and experience level. Many tattoo businesses also make money through the sale of additional products and services, such as aftercare products, custom-designed tattoo art, and body piercing services.

Developing a tattoo brand is a critical step in distinguishing your business in a competitive market. It's about creating a unique identity that resonates with your target audience and reflects the style and values of your artistry. Below are key points to guide you through the process of building a strong tattoo brand.

• Define Your Brand Identity: Establish the core principles, ethos, and aesthetic that will define your brand. Consider what makes your tattoo business unique and how you want it to be perceived.
• Design a Memorable Logo: Create a logo that encapsulates your brand's essence and is easily recognizable. This will be a visual representation of your brand across various mediums.
• Create a Consistent Image: Use consistent branding elements like colors, fonts, and style across all platforms, from your shop's interior design to your online presence.
• Engage with Your Audience: Build a brand voice and personality that connects with your clientele, whether through social media, community involvement, or customer service.
• Protect Your Brand: Trademark your brand name and logo to protect them from being used without your permission.

How to come up with a name for your Tattoo business?

When coming up with a name for your tattoo business, consider ideas that are creative and memorable. Think of words and phrases that represent your business’s values and mission. Brainstorm potential names and then narrow it down to a few that you really like. Finally, do some research to ensure that the name you choose isn’t already in use by another business.

Starting a tattoo business requires not only artistic skill but also adherence to legal formalities. Registering your business is a crucial step to ensure compliance with local laws and to establish your brand. Follow these guidelines to formalize your business registration:

• Choose a business structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation) that best suits your needs and understand the tax and liability implications of each.
• Register your business name with the appropriate state agency, ensuring it's unique and not already in use.
• Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax purposes, especially if you plan to hire employees.
• Apply for the necessary business licenses and permits. Tattoo businesses often require a specific health department permit due to the nature of the work.
• Check with your local city or county clerk's office about additional requirements, such as zoning permits and business operation licenses.
• Consider registering for state taxes, including sales tax if applicable, and understand the tax obligations for your business structure.
• Keep all registration documents and certificates in a safe place and display any required licenses prominently in your place of business.

Resources to help get you started:

Explore pivotal resources designed specifically for tattoo entrepreneurs, offering market trends, best practices in operations, and strategic business growth advice:

• Tattoo Artist Magazine : A publication delivering in-depth industry insights, artist interviews, and trends shaping the tattoo world. https://tattooartistmagazine.com/
• International Tattoo Suppliers Association : Provides reports and resources on supply chain best practices and innovative products in the tattoo sector. https://www.internationaltattoosuppliersassociation.com/
• Ink Inc. : A newsletter offering regular updates on market trends, business strategies, and operational tips for tattoo studios. Link unavailable
• The Tattoo Industry Report : Annual report detailing market analysis, consumer trends, and financial benchmarks for tattoo businesses. Link unavailable
• Tattoo Business Mastery : An online course and community hub giving strategic business advice and marketing strategies for tattoo shop owners. https://tattoobusinessmastery.com/

Starting a tattoo business requires careful compliance with local and state regulations. To legally operate your business and ensure the safety and trust of your clients, obtaining the necessary licenses and permits is crucial. Here's a guide to help you through Step 5 of the process:

• Research local and state regulations: Different states and municipalities have varying requirements for tattoo businesses. Contact your local health department or business licensing office to get the specific details for your area.
• Obtain a business license: Apply for a general business license through your city or county. This is a basic requirement for operating any business legally.
• Secure a tattoo artist license: Most places require individual tattoo artists to be licensed. This often involves age requirements, a background check, and proof of completed training or apprenticeship.
• Health department permits: Since tattooing involves skin penetration, a health department permit ensures your business meets health and safety standards. This may require an inspection of your premises.
• Other possible permits: Depending on your location, you might need additional permits, such as a sign permit, a sales tax permit, or waste disposal certification.

What licenses and permits are needed to run a tattoo business?

Depending on the state, licenses and permits may vary. Generally, tattoo establishments typically require a business license, as well as a statewide tattoo/body art establishment permit and a local health department permit. An artist may also need to have a bloodborne pathogens certification in order to work in the shop. Many establishments also require proof of insurance.

Starting a tattoo business involves careful financial planning, and two critical steps in this process are opening a business bank account and securing funding. A dedicated business account will help you manage your finances effectively and is essential for receiving payments and paying expenses. Here's how you can approach these two important steps:

• Research banks and credit unions that offer business banking services. Look for accounts with low fees, easy access to funds, and good customer service.
• Gather the necessary documents to open a business bank account, such as your business license, Employer Identification Number (EIN), and Articles of Organization if you have an LLC.
• Consider different funding options such as small business loans, lines of credit, or business credit cards. Crowdfunding or seeking investors may also be viable options for your tattoo business.
• Prepare a detailed business plan that outlines your financial projections and funding requirements, which will be essential when applying for loans or presenting to potential investors.
• Keep in mind that your personal credit score may affect your ability to secure funding, so maintain a positive credit history.
• Explore any grants or funding opportunities specifically available for artists or small business owners in the creative industry.

Establishing the right pricing for tattoo services is crucial for the success of your tattoo business. It balances customer satisfaction with your business's financial health. Consider the following guidelines when setting your prices:

• Cost Analysis: Calculate the cost of supplies, equipment, rent, utilities, and artist salaries to determine your baseline for service pricing.
• Experience and Skill: Set higher prices for experienced tattoo artists with advanced skills or specializations, reflecting the quality and intricacy of their work.
• Size and Complexity: Offer pricing tiers based on tattoo size and complexity, ensuring customers pay fairly for the time and artistry required.
• Custom Work: Charge a premium for custom designs, as they require additional time and creativity from your artists.
• Hourly vs. Flat Rates: Decide whether to charge by the hour or offer flat rates for certain pieces, considering the pros and cons of each approach.
• Market Rates: Research local market rates to ensure your pricing is competitive yet profitable.
• Discounts and Promotions: Consider implementing occasional discounts or promotions to attract new clients and retain existing ones, without undervaluing your services.
• Clear Communication: Always provide clear and upfront pricing to avoid misunderstandings and maintain trust with your clients.

What does it cost to start a Tattoo business?

Initiating a tattoo business can involve substantial financial commitment, the scale of which is significantly influenced by factors such as geographical location, market dynamics, and operational expenses, among others. Nonetheless, our extensive research and hands-on experience have revealed an estimated starting cost of approximately $11000 for launching such an business. Please note, not all of these costs may be necessary to start up your tattoo business.

Starting a tattoo business requires not only skill and creativity but also the right tools and equipment. It's essential to invest in high-quality supplies to ensure safety, hygiene, and the best results for your clients. Here's a list of the essential equipment and supplies you'll need:

• Tattoo Machines: Purchase both a liner and a shader to cover different aspects of tattooing.
• Power Supply and Foot Pedal: Reliable power sources and a foot pedal for controlling the tattoo machine.
• Needles: Various types and sizes for lining, shading, and coloring.
• Ink: High-quality tattoo inks in a variety of colors from reputable brands.
• Ink Caps: Small cups to hold your ink during the tattoo process.
• Disposable Gloves: Plenty of latex or nitrile gloves to maintain hygiene.
• Disposable Tubes or Autoclavable Grips: To hold the needle on the machine, choose between disposable options or ones that can be sterilized.
• Medical Supplies: Disinfectants, bandages, and aftercare ointments to ensure a clean work environment and proper healing.
• Stencil Products: Transfer paper and stencil solution for outlining tattoos.
• Ultrasonic Cleaner and Autoclave: If using reusable equipment, these are necessary for sterilization.
• Studio Furniture: An adjustable tattoo chair or table for clients, artist stool, and workstations.

List of Software, Tools and Supplies Needed to Start a Tattoo Business:

• Adobe Photoshop
• Inkjet printer and compatible inks
• Vector design software
• High-quality tattoo needles
• Transfer paper
• Disposable razors
• Latex gloves
• Sterilization equipment
• Tattoo stencils
• Tattoo chairs
• Cleaning and disinfecting supplies

Securing the right business insurance is a critical step in setting up a successful tattoo business. It not only helps protect your investment but also provides peace of mind for both the business owner and clients. Below are key steps to obtaining the necessary insurance for your tattoo studio:

• Research local regulations to determine the specific types of insurance required for tattoo businesses in your area, such as liability, property, and malpractice insurance.
• Consult with insurance agents who specialize in small businesses or specifically in the tattoo industry to get professional advice tailored to your needs.
• Compare quotes from several insurance providers to find comprehensive coverage at a competitive price, taking into account the unique risks associated with tattooing.
• Ensure that your policy covers all aspects of your business, including equipment, employees, and any additional services you offer, like piercing or permanent makeup.
• Consider adding a clause for guest artists if you plan on hosting visiting tattooists at your studio to guarantee coverage extends to all practitioners.
• Review and update your insurance policy regularly to keep up with changes in your business structure, services offered, and local legislation.

Successfully marketing your tattoo services is crucial to attract clients and build your brand. A comprehensive strategy that leverages both online and offline channels can help you reach your target audience effectively. Below are some key steps to kickstart your tattoo service's marketing efforts:

• Develop a strong brand identity: Create a memorable logo, choose a distinct color scheme, and develop a brand voice that resonates with your target market.
• Build a professional website: Showcase your portfolio, provide booking information, and include customer testimonials to build credibility.
• Utilize social media: Regularly post your work on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest, and engage with followers to grow your audience.
• Network in the community: Attend local events, participate in conventions, and collaborate with other local businesses to increase visibility.
• Offer promotions and discounts: Attract new customers with introductory offers, referral discounts, or loyalty programs.
• Collect and share customer reviews: Positive testimonials can be powerful; encourage satisfied clients to share their experiences online.
• Invest in local advertising: Consider flyers, local newspapers, or outdoor advertising in areas popular with your target demographic.
• Collaborate with influencers: Partner with local influencers or tattoo enthusiasts who can help promote your services to a broader audience.

Once your tattoo business is up and running, it's time to think about growth and reaching new heights. Expanding your business can take many forms, from broadening your services to scaling up your operations. Here are some strategies to consider:

• Open additional locations to serve a wider geographic area.
• Hire more skilled tattoo artists to increase appointment availability and introduce new styles.
• Offer apprenticeship programs to train new talent and build a loyal workforce.
• Expand your service offerings to include related services such as piercing or permanent makeup.
• Invest in marketing to reach a larger audience, both online with social media and locally through community events.
• Collaborate with other businesses to offer joint promotions and expand your customer base.
• Upgrade your equipment and technology to improve the quality of your services and customer experience.
• Develop a line of merchandise or aftercare products to generate additional revenue streams.
• Utilize customer feedback and data analytics to refine your business strategy and offerings.
• Stay on top of industry trends and continuously educate your team to remain competitive.

Tattoo Shop Business Plan Sample

You want to open a tattoo shop, but where do you start?  From finding a location, to hiring artists, to the day to day finances – there’s a lot to cover!  This sample business plan should provide you with insight on what a business plan for a tattoo company should look like.  Take a skim through, and as you’re reading begin generating ideas for your tattoo company.  If you need any help you can reach out for a business plan review or for our professional business plan writing services .

  The art of tattooing has evolved from simple body adornment to a powerful form of self-expression. Intention tattoos, in particular, have become increasingly popular as people seek to convey their beliefs or values through their body art. This growing trend has created a high demand for skilled tattoo artists, resulting in a significant increase in tattoo artist pay. With tattoo designs ranging from simple to intricate, tattoo proposal ideas are limited only by one’s imagination. As tattoos continue to gain acceptance in various industries, more talented tattoo artists are taking the leap and starting their own businesses. If you’re a skilled tattoo artist looking to make your mark in the industry, now is the perfect time to do so.

Are you a talented tattoo artist looking to start your own business? The booming tattoo industry presents a golden opportunity to turn your passion into a lucrative career. However, starting a tattoo shop requires careful planning and preparation, just like any other business. Fortunately, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to successfully establish and manage your own tattoo parlor, from creating a solid business plan to navigating legal requirements. Don’t miss out on this chance to turn your dreams into reality!

In the world of retail businesses, tattoo shops are a unique and fascinating addition. These establishments specialize in providing personalized tattoo services that deliver high-quality results. Whether you’re looking for a small independent studio or a larger, well-established tattoo design shop, tattoo shop ideas can come in many different sizes and styles. The possibilities for studio decoration ideas are endless, with some shops choosing a minimalist and industrial aesthetic while others opt for a more colorful and vibrant atmosphere. And with the rise of project tattoo studios, where artists collaborate on complex, multi-session pieces, there’s never been a more exciting time to be a part of this industry. Plus, for clients who can’t make it to a traditional shop, mobile tattoo businesses and parlor studios offer convenience and flexibility.

If you want to learn how to open a private tattoo studio, there are several factors to consider:

Research the industry: Before you create a tattoo studio, it’s important to research the industry thoroughly. You should learn about the different types of tattoos, the equipment needed,  and the tattoo shop set up. You should also research other tattoo shops in your area to see what they offer and how they operate.

Develop a business plan: A business plan is essential for any business, including a tattoo shop. Your business plan should include details such as your target market, your services and prices, your marketing plan, and your financial projections. You can find many tattoo planning templates online to help you create a comprehensive plan.

Secure financing: Starting a tattoo shop can be expensive, so you will likely need to secure financing. This may involve taking out a loan from a bank or finding investors. You should also create a budget to ensure that you have enough money to cover your expenses until your shop becomes profitable.

Obtain licenses and permits: Tattoo shops are heavily regulated, and you will need to obtain licenses and permits to operate legally. You will need to research the licensing requirements in your area and obtain any necessary permits, such as a health permit or a business license.

Set up your shop: Once you have secured financing and obtained the necessary licenses and permits, you can start setting up your shop. You will need to purchase equipment, such as tattoo machines and needles, and set up a sterile workspace. You will also need to create a tattoo shop layout that is both functional and visually appealing. 

Hire staff: When hiring staff for your tattoo shop, it’s essential to find talented tattoo artists who can deliver high-quality work. Additionally, you’ll need a receptionist or manager to handle administrative tasks, such as scheduling appointments and managing finances. To ensure smooth communication with your staff, it’s important to have their contact numbers readily available, so customers can easily text or message them.

Market your shop: Marketing is crucial for any business, and a tattoo shop is no exception. You can market your shop through social media, local advertising, and word of mouth. You can also sell your art to tattoo shops to increase your exposure and generate more business.

To run a successful tattoo shop, it’s important to have more than just tattooing skills. Staying updated with the latest developments in the constantly evolving tattoo industry is crucial. To keep up with the latest trends, attending industry events like tattoo conventions or seminars, following industry publications, websites, and social media accounts, and joining professional organizations and associations are effective ways. These methods provide access to new techniques, equipment, products, and resources, as well as opportunities to network and receive mentorship. By staying informed and connected, you can ensure that your tattoo shop business stays competitive and up to date with the latest advancements in the tattoo industry.

1.0 Executive Summary

“Sample Tattoo Shop Inc.” operating as “Sample Tattoo Shop” (the company) was incorporated on August 1, 2021 in the state of Florida by John O’Miley.  Sample Tattoo is based at 100 Allen St. Miami, Florida where customers receive small tattoos and customized tattoos by an experienced team of professional artists.

In recent years the tattoo industry has seen a surge in demand as tattoos become more commonplace in society.  Furthermore, with the rise of social media, more people are conscious of their physical appearance and are looking to express themselves and their individuality.

To meet this demand, Sample Tattoo Shop, led by Owner & Operator John O’Miley  will provide a clean, hygienic and comfortable experience to clientele.  Sample Tattoo will be a leader in providing not only the highest quality tattoos, but an unrivaled tattoo experience.

John O’Miley  brings 8 years of direct experience in custom tattooing.  He has worked at 6 shops across the US, and in doing so has developed an abundance of knowledge in client care and management.  Dean is focused on establishing the company on a commitment to customer-centrism.  By engaging in feedback from each client, the company plans to not only lead, but in fact evolve the tattoo industry standard.

Sample Tattoo Shop Inc. is seeking a $50,280 business loan through the Small Business Administration.   The funds will be used to purchase equipment, furniture and decor for the shop, to develop a state of the art website, and for six months of a marketing budget.

2.0 Business Overview

Sample Tattoo Shop is currently a one-shop studio that provides two overriding styles: small and customized tattoos.  The business is founded by John O’Miley , an experienced and respected tattoo artist in the Miami area.  Over the first year of operation a few artists will be hired to expand options for clients and increase gross revenues. The business will provide both basic and customized designs based on the client’s needs and requirements. Clients include individuals that are new to tattoos and tattoo enthusiasts.

2.1 Industry Overview

The global tattoo industry has an annual revenue of $3 billion per year, and is expected to grow nearly 8% annually. This near 8% increase can be attributed not only to the increasing popularity of tattoos but younger generations choosing expensive customized work instead of less expensive, pre-designed artwork. Once the client has been tattooed, the customer return rate increases substantially.

The tattoo industry has low barriers to entry and high profit margins. After a few years of establishing clientele, most tattoo artists earn at least $100,000 CAD per year.  Most tattoo shops have an average profit margin of 30% after expenses.

2.2 Mission & Vision Statement

Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide the greatest tattoo experience available in the state of Florida.

Vision Statement

Our vision is a tattoo industry where client care becomes just as important as the final result.

2.3 Goals and Objectives

Sample Tattoo Shop’s primary goal is to retain artists who are not only talented at tattooing but also have great personalities. Communication plays a key role in the tattoo industry, and thus an artist must understand what the client wants and deliver it accordingly. Sample Tattoo Shop recognizes that artists with great personalities tend to receive more loyal customers.

2.4 Key Success Factors

Working with talented artists with great personalities: Clients come in search of talented artists because they believe the artist will provide a heightened standard of service. So, it is important to have talented artists. There’s also another factor associated with success. That is Customer Retention. This is possible only when the artist is talented and professional, in other terms having a good personality. People always respect and prefer a person with a good attitude. A talented artist would bring business to the company but a talented artist with a good personality would bring new business and retain the clients which is essential for the growth of the company.

Creating a safe and comfortable environment for clients: It is important to make the client feel safe and comfortable. At Sample Tattoo, all equipment is cleaned and sterilized frequently. The shop plays music according to the client’s preference, and offers Netflix so the client can feel as comfortable as  possible. The more comfortable and connected the client feels, the greater a  chance the client will return for another positive experience.

Having more loyal customers: Sample Tattoo is focused on retaining loyal customers; which act as advocates, thus bringing more business to the company.

2.5 Staffing

John O’Miley  is currently the company’s main tattoo artist. He will be accompanied by another artist for basic tattoo work and a virtual assistant to book sessions and answer questions about tattoo maintenance. By the third year, the company will have the following professionals:

Tattoo Artists (3)

The tattoo artists will be involved in consultation, drawing, stenciling, tattooing and ordering of tattoo supplies.

Virtual Assistant (1)

The receptionist/manager’s work will involve booking, scheduling & rescheduling appointments, bank deposits, daily payroll management, and taking photographs of finished tattoos.

Tattoo Apprentice (3)

Tattoo apprentices will perform the following work: cleaning, setting up/taking down work areas, learning to draw/tattoo, stenciling, running errands for supplies, helping artists with tattooing.

2.6 Management Team   

John O’Miley

Owner & Operator

About John O’Miley

John O’Miley  is a well-spoken, likable, and personable artist with expert knowledge in the body modification industry specializing in custom tattooing. While most tattoo artists cannot draw, talent has always been present, making it easy, fast and efficient to produce an idea on paper or directly to the skin using traditional pencils, pencil crayons, and markers.

“Being able to put oneself in the shoes of the client and understanding even the most basic needs to make them feel welcome and safe is paramount to good business practices and productivity.”

– John O’Miley , Sample Tattoo Shop Inc.

Work Experience

Geronimo Tattoo and Piercing, Miami, Florida

Tattoo Artist

2021 – to present

• Consulted with clients to understand their idea, vision and desires for a tattoo
• Provided clients with a detailed outline of the process before applying the tattoo
• Used safe sterilized techniques and maintained safe and comfortable environment to the clients
• Gave the clients proper home care instructions after applying the tattoo
• Frequently sterilized tools and equipments
• Keeping in touch with the existing clientele
• Gaining knowledge on how to run a business
• Keenly observing and understanding current scenario of the tattoo industry
• Networking with other artists

Mobile Tattooing, Georgia

• Packing light (took a big business and shrunk it down to fit inside one tattoo case for easier transportation and travelling by air)
• During this time money was tight and I didn’t take on many tattoos. Raising my son was most important because he had Slight Torticollis which I needed to correct. He has a shortening of the muscle in his neck which I needed to physically stretch out several times a day to correct his neck. This process took many months.

Black Tattoo and Piercing, Georgia

Head Artist – 2016

• Achieved high customer satisfaction by doing quality work and creative tattoo work
• Identified key issues of the business and fixed it
• Increased the revenue of the studio and brought many new clients
• Held meetings with the team to improve the business
• Focused on developing a good work culture in the studio
• Responsible for hiring new artists as clientele increased (15 requests per hour for my service)
• Took responsibility of finance and paid the artists
• Dealt with the head of health department overseeing the body modification industry
• Did spore testing and delivered spore tests to labs
• Health board compliance and resolving issues by following recommendation by the health inspector
• Learned sales funnel with regards to converting conversations into deposits for appointment booking
• Built close relationships with clients by making myself reachable and personable
• Delegating tasks to artists
• Teaching client aftercare by sharing stories of past experiences where things went wrong and directing them to not make the same mistakes

Mobile tattoo artist, Manitoba

• Travelled to far places to provide a service to the client
• Responsibly ordered supplies without getting help from the shop
• Coordinated and maintained relationships with suppliers
• Started teaching one apprentice

Twisted Ink, Manitoba

Professional Tattoo Artist

• Worked on designing and applying bigger tattoos (sleeves, back pieces, etc)
• Responsible for conducting contests to promote the shop
• Complexity of tattoos were more gratifying
• Passed Georgia Health body modification competency test and certified as a body modification technician with permit to work
• Maintained a hygienic and neat work environment
• Responsible for setting up/taking down of work areas
• Worked closely with the team of tattoo professionals
• Handled Tattoo appointment booking process, Cash outs/payouts, Pay split agreements
• Learned how to deal with people experiencing shock and loss of consciousness
• Learned how to create a safe environment and culture

Skills/Training

• Computer and website development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Ethereum EVM, React, JSON, python, #C, XCODE, Linux, MAC OS, Microsoft, HTML5, 3D, etc.)
• Audio engineering (routing, mixing, processing, side chaining, compression, mastering, limiting, filtering, distortion, programming synths, setting up plug-ins, stabilization of music production software environment, Ableton live, FLStudio, etc.)
• Art apps (paint, photoshop, procreate)
• Website building apps (wix, shopify)

General Education

Mount Park College 2015

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3.0 Products & Services

Sample Tattoo will be involved only in tattooing where the artists will perform ordinary and customized tattoos based on the client’s needs and requirements. The pricing is based on a per hour basis. The pricing for tattoo service is provided below:

Consultation

$250 deposit (non-refundable)

Customized Tattoos

$180.00/hour + Tax

Small Tattoos

$100.00 / 30 min + Tax

$45.00/15mins + Tax (after first hour)

The deposit will be paid back after the last follow-up and photography.

4.0 Operations

The company is located at 100 Allen, Miami, Florida. The standard business hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m Monday – Saturday. Clients will schedule appointments with our virtual assistant and pay the deposit amount on our website.

4.1 Equipment

The company will use a variety of equipment including:

• (1 rotary, 2 coils, 1 pen) including many different needle cartridges
• tube tips, for different tattoo effects (sizes: 3rl, 5rl, 9rl, 11rl, 7rs, and 9ft)
• digital power supply and analogs
• two types of cords (RCA, Clip)
• 2 ultra-thin foot pedals.
• small tools to fix/replace parts
• Spare parts (coil springs, contacts, sprocket)

Artists are allowed to bring their own equipment provided they follow all standard safety and health processes.

4.2 Inventory

Stocking up inventory is important in the tattoo industry. Sample Tattoo Shop will have all the necessary items in inventory such as needles, and cleaning materials.

5.0 Market Overview

The tattoo business has low startup costs and above average profit margins. There is an 8% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for tattoo studios.  With the increase in people getting tattooed, the industry is flourishing in the Canadian market.

5.1 Market Trends

During the covid pandemic in 2020, all industries, including tattoo studios took a hit. Since the tattoo industry involves frequent interactions with the customer, tattoo studios too had to close down which resulted in a 9.5% revenue decline from the previous years. But currently, the industry is starting to rebound as many prospective customers are making frequent enquiries to have work completed.

The tattoo industry has grown quickly over the past years which is currently valued at $3 billion per year. The growth rate of this industry is on an upward trend with more people accepting tattoos in society. Even Canada’s current Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau has a tattoo on his upper left arm. The industry is expected to grow continuously as more people are coming forward to have a tattoo. 38% of the Canadian population have at least one tattoo on their body and this is expected to increase over the next few years.

5.2 Competition

Liquid Amber

Established in 2001 and located at Powell Street, Miami. Liquid Amber is a female owned and operated studio. They charge $120-$200 per hour. The charges vary from artist to artist.

Gastown Tattoo Parlour

It was established in 2011 and is located at West Cordova, Miami. The minimum rate is $120 per hour and the base rate of the business is $200 per hour.

Black Medicine Tattoo

It was established in 2015 and is located on E Place Street. Black work tattooing is their specialty and the minimum charge is $100 and it varies from one artist to another.

5.3 Competitive Advantage

Quality Tattoos: The biggest advantage Sample Tattoo Shop will have is that it will be known for its Quality tattoos.

Customer Service: Sample Tattoo Shop will provide an excellent service to its clients. The studio will have music, gaming systems, televisions to watch movies or shows on Netflix or cable. Wi-Fi passwords will be given to the client so that they won’t have to worry about their data usage. Music will be played based on the client’s preference.

5.4 Risk Analysis

Health and Safety

The major issue the tattoo industry faces is the risk of health and safety. Due to unhealthy practices like improper sterilization, cleanliness, people have been affected by infections.

• At Sample Tattoo, the client’s health and welfare are taken quite seriously
• Equipment is wrapped using a variety of disposable plastic wrap products supplied by tattoo suppliers such as pen bags for tattoo pens and tube grips, cord sleeve bags to protect cords from contamination, machine bags for use as machine contamination barrier, sharps container to discard needles, razors, galvinize to sanitize equipment and furniture after every use, plastic wrap for covering furniture, armrest and lamp grip, tape to secure plastic barriers to equipment, and furniture.
• All machines have spare parts and tools nearby to maintain good working order. Machines are inexpensive and easy to fix and or upgrade. In an emergency, there are Tattoo suppliers nearby which carry everything a tattoo shop would need to stay operational.
• Garbage cans have a step lever that opens the lid. Garbage is emptied regularly. All surfaces have barriers that are purchased in bulk and disposed of after each session.
• Ink is poured into clean ink cups only and handled by clean gloves, tongue depressors are used to scoop out Vaseline so as not to contaminate the whole jar.
• Paper towels are manually pulled from a clean roll with clean gloves and stacked in the set-up area which is covered by a dental bib that helps protect the desk or tray from contamination.
• Gloves are changed in between breaks and hands washed before and after taking gloves off every time.
• Floors are swept and mopped daily.
• Face masks are worn all the time. Needles, tube grips, and needle cartridges are changed every 4 hours (to maintain sharpness during full-day tattoos only). This ensures great color packing and saturation as well as less pain and irritation for the client’s skin. Otherwise, all needles, tube grips, and needle cartridges are discarded into the sharps bin after every client.
• Nothing is reused. Surgical green soap and water solution mix are used to wipe tattoos at all times during the procedure with the positive effect of reducing the chances of infections caused by airborne dust contamination.

Clients cancelling appointments: There are instances where the client would cancel the appointment and the time allotted for the artist goes to waste, which in turn is a loss to the business.

To mitigate this, clients will be required to pay a deposit of $100 at the time of making an appointment. The client needs to go through a follow up process where the tattoo will be examined if it is healed and a photograph of the finished work will be taken. If the client doesn’t come for a touch up and follow up session, they will be charged from the deposit made.

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6.0 sales & marketing plan.

Sample Tattoo intends to maintain frequent marketing campaigns online that will ensure maximum visibility to the target group. Some of the strategies planned are:

• Develop an online presence by having a website, showcase the designs and the portfolio
• Interviews with the client and tattoo artist about their experience and passion for tattooing
• Running Social Media contests for free tattoos, gifts certificates

Sample Tattoo will use digital channels to target the desired customer. John O’Miley  will register the company details and contact information in the online portals available so that the potential clients will be aware of the brand and reach out with ease. The company will have a website, social media pages to feature the artist’s portfolio, the company’s address & contact details.

6.1 Target Customer

Our target customers can be divided into 3 groups..

• 18-30 yrs. – This audience is often brand new to tattoos and is coming in for the first time.
• 30-40 yrs. – Often tattoo enthusiasts who already have multiple tattoos on them. They often get tattooed for sentimental value.
• 40+ yrs. – This audience is a mix of people who have never received a tattoo before, and tattoo enthusiasts.

The age group below 18 yrs. would require consent from their parents. The prospective clients will be ready to spend approximately $150 to $300 for each tattoo.

In order to run at maximum efficiency, Sample Tattoo will serve all these target customer groups. The business will advertise its basic designs and the customized design work they are capable of. The shop will be appropriate for both individuals brand new to tattoos and tattoo enthusiasts, with entertaining music playing and products available for sale.

6.2 Key Channels

Sample Tattoo will use a digital marketing strategy to reach the target audience.  These channels will include:

Company Website: The website will feature details about the company, its services, address, contact details, and artists’ portfolio.

Social Media: The company will focus on Instagram & Facebook and will post pictures of finished tattoo work. The company will also run social media contests to create more awareness about the Company and its services

Google Ads: Google Ads will play a primary role in reaching the target audience.  By geo targeting the Miami area, and appearing for relevant keywords, Sample Tattoo can take the front stage in the Miami tattoo market.

6.3 SWOT Analysis

7.0 financial plan.

7.1 Capital Requirements  

7.2 income statements – year 1  .

7.3 Cash Flow Statement  

7.4 Balance Sheet

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Tattoo Shop Business Plan Template

Trusted by 700+ Downloaders

What You Get

• A compelling & detailed pre-written Tattoo Shop business plan template in WORD
• A full & automatic Tattoo Shop financial plan spreadsheet in EXCEL you can easily customize
• Customized text tailored to the Tattoo & Piercing business
• The ability to paste advanced charts and tables within a click
• No accounting or specialized financial knowledge needed
• A truly low-cost solution saving you time and money

Tattoo Shop Business Plan Template Description

Our ready-made tattoo shop business plan package is your most cost-effective solution in case you need to write a business plan for your upcoming tattoo and piercing shop. It includes a pre-written business plan in Word and an automatic financial plan spreadsheet in Excel tailored to the tattoo and piercing service industry. You can easily customize these documents, no advanced financial or business expertise is required. In case you need to pitch your tattoo shop project to prospective investors, this business plan package is your ideal solution saving you tons of time and money. Check below the full description.  

Tattoo Shop Business Plan Document in Word

Our ready-made Tattoo Shop business plan template is in Word format and includes 23 pages. The document is divided into multiple sections. Each section contains the essential points that are necessary to effectively present your Tattoo Shop project. Each section and sub-section offers you a sample text that you can easily customize to make your business plan unique. Below is a small extract of your tattoo shop business plan in Word.

Tattoo Shop Financial Plan in Excel

Our pre-populated tattoo shop financial model is in Excel format and includes multiples worksheets. You can easily edit the spreadsheet’s inputs including changing costs and revenue assumptions to generate detailed pro-forma financial forecasts including P&L, Cash flows and Balance Sheets. Below is a small sample of your tattoo shop financial plan in Excel.

The Benefits of Creating a Business Plan for your Tattoo Shop

Defining your business goals: A well-written tattoo shop business plan can help you identify and articulate your long-term and short-term business goals, which can provide you with a clear direction and help you focus on achieving those goals.

Identifying your target market: By researching your target market, you can gain insight into your customers’ needs and preferences, which can help you create a marketing strategy that resonates with them.

Managing financial resources: A financial plan can help you identify your tattoo shop’s start-up costs, anticipated revenue, and other expenses. This allows you to understand your financial needs and helps you allocate resources appropriately.

Securing financing: A solid business plan and financial plan can increase your chances of securing financing from lenders or investors, who will want to see evidence that your tattoo shop has a sound business strategy and accurate financial projections.

Tracking progress: Thanks to a robust business plan, you can track your progress and make adjustments as necessary to ensure that your tattoo shop project remains on track to achieve its objectives.

Minimizing risk: Finally, by conducting research and analyzing your market and competition, you can identify potential risks and challenges and develop strategies to mitigate them.

This Ready-Made Tattoo Shop Business Plan is For

• Tattoo artists wishing to start their own tattoo shop
• Aspiring Tattoo shop owners who want to create a business plan fast and easy
• Tattoo and piercing artists who wish to pitch their project to investors
• Business people who wish to better understand the potential of the opportunity

Immediate Delivery by Email

• Once you complete the order, you will receive an email with links to download your documents
• Your order will contain the full pre-written business plan in Word
• Your order will contain the full customizable financial model in Excel

Your Tattoo Shop Business Plan Content

Executive Summary:  Our Tattoo Shop business plan template starts with a compelling Executive Summary. This key section is very important as it summarizes in 1 page your Tattoo Shop concept. It will introduce your business model, the key people behind the project as well as the unique selling proposition offered by your Tattoo Shop.

The Problem Opportunity:  Next, your ready-made Tattoo Shop business plan will list a number of problems experienced by your prospects in your target market and will show how this presents a unique opportunity for your Tattoo Shop business. These can include issues such as lack of a particular type of tattoo service providers in a certain location, low or average quality of service offered by existing players, undifferentiated offering by current actors in the market…etc.

The Solution:  This section explains how your Tattoo Shop will take advantage of the current problems in the market and will detail your unique solutions.

Mission & Vision:  Your mission will explain in a couple of sentences your Tattoo Shop’s value-adding objectives. In other words, it will summarize your unique value proposition and will explain how you are different than the competition. Your vision will explain the long-term plans for your Tattoo Shop concept. Are you planning to start with one branch today and expand to a multi-branch business model? Are you looking to transform your Tattoo Shop business into a franchise model?…etc.

Business Model:  This section details your Tattoo Shop concept using the business model canvas method. In a visually appealing table, we will detail your Tattoo Shop’s key partners, activities, resources, value proposition, customer segments, customer relationship plan, marketing channels, cost structure and revenue streams.

Products & Services:  Next, we will talk in detail about your various services. We will describe your tattooing, tattoo cover-up and removal, piercing and other services. We will also provide information about your pricing and average order values.

Market Analysis:  This important section describes the various market statistics and consumer trends in the Tattoo service industry and explains how they support your own tattoo shop concept. The purpose of this section is to show that the market conditions are favorable for launching your new Tattoo Shop.

Global Market Trends:  In this sub-section of the market analysis, we will discuss the latest global market trends in the Tattoo service industry. We will look at the global industry size, growth rate, growth diving factors and consumer trends.

Local Market Trends:  This sub-section explains the local market trends that are relevant to your specific Tattoo Shop business. It includes a market sizing section that estimates the total addressed market.

Target Customers:  In this section, we will describe your various customer profiles by providing information about their demographics, behavior and purchasing habits.

Competitive Analysis:  We will analyze key competitors active in your target market and provide insights about their strengths and weaknesses.

Competitive Advantages:  After looking at the competitive landscape, we will then show how your Tattoo Shop is differentiating itself from the competition through a number of key advantages.

SWOT Analysis:  This section features a 4-quadrant table with explanations about how your Tattoo Shop intends to leverage its key strengths, mitigate weaknesses, capture opportunities and thwart any future threats.

Marketing Plan : This chapter provides detailed information about your go-to-market strategy.

Branding & Awareness:  We will describe in this sub-section your choice of key marketing channels to build branding and awareness.

Customer Acquisition:  We will describe in this sub-section your choice of key marketing channels to acquire customers and increase sales.

Operating Plan:  This chapter provides information about your Tattoo Shop’s opening hours, internal processes and describes the interactions between various key departments and teams.

Management Team:  It is very important to present the key people behind your Tattoo Shop project and thus we have dedicated a section for this very purpose. It is also important to talk here about the founder’s vision, his past education and professional experience.

Hiring Plan:  No business can succeed without having on board the right team. This section lists all the key positions you plan to hire with information about their salaries and expected start dates.

Key Milestones:  To be able to launch and execute your Tattoo Shop project, you need to follow a set of actionable tasks with target deadlines. This section serves this purpose.

Financial Plan:  Without a robust financial plan, your Tattoo Shop business plan would be an incomplete document. This important section provides crucial information about your pro-forma financial projections and shows that you have really done your homework. The data mentioned in this section and the following sub-sections will be provided by the dynamic Excel financial model accompanying your Tattoo Shop business plan.

Projected Revenue:  This module shows your Tattoo Shop’s revenue projections over the next three years.

Projected Profit and Loss:  This module shows your Tattoo Shop’s income statement (also called profit and loss statement) over the next three years. Your income statement includes detailed projections about your sales and expenses and shows how your Tattoo Shop’s revenue is converted into a net profit.

Projected Cash Flows:  This module shows your Tattoo Shop’s cash flow projections over the next three years. The first year of operation is even detailed on a monthly basis. Your cash flow statement will detail the various cash inflows your Tattoo Shop will generate from its day-to-day operations and from funding sources, as well as the various cash outflows required to pay for operating expenses and business investments.

Projected Balance Sheet : This module shows your Tattoo Shop’s balance sheet projections over the next three years. The balance sheet will provide a summary of your Tattoo Shop’s short-term and long-term assets in addition to your short term and long term liabilities and capital.

Profitability Analysis:  In this section, we will provide information about your gross margin, net margin and discuss the profitability of your Tattoo Shop.

Funding Requirement:  This module states the amount of funding your need to be able to comfortably launch your Tattoo Shop. It also describes the planned allocation of the funds between Opex and Capex.

Conclusion : Finally, we will conclude your business plan by recapitulating the key points that make your Tattoo Shop project compelling and reiterate the rationale behind your business opportunity.

Why Use our Ready-Made Tattoo Shop Business Plan?

• Speed & Convenience:  Once you complete your order, you will receive the Tattoo Shop business plan directly in your mailbox. Since it is already pre-written with fully customizable financials, you will only need to spend a couple of hours to edit it and adapt it to your own tattoo shop project.
• High Quality:  Your Tattoo Shop business plan has been written by our professional team of business plan writers and experts from the tattoo and piercing industry. You will receive a professional Tattoo Shop business plan template ideal for presenting to potential investors or banks.
• Low-Cost:  Our pre-written business plan template is the most cost-effective solution in case you need to build a solid and professional Tattoo Shop business plan. We are confident you will save hundreds if not thousands of dollars by ordering our premium business plan compared to hiring a consultant or subscribing to complicated and expensive software.

If you have any question regarding our ready-made Tattoo Shop business plan package,  do not hesitate to contact us , we are here to help.

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Setting up a Tattoo Business

All you need to know about starting and running your business.

In this article

What is a Tattoo Business?

A tattoo artist is a type of professional artist who creates permanent images, words or symbols on a person’s skin.

Tattoos are one of the oldest art forms, with evidence of tattoos dating back more than 5,000 years. Tattoos can be done for decorative purposes, or in some cultures for religious purposes or as a symbol of a person’s status.

Tattoos are done by injecting ink under the surface of the skin using a small needle. Tattoos can range significantly in size, style, design and colour.

Many tattoo artists specialise in a specific style of tattooing, such as:

• Watercolour.
• Traditional.
• Text-based.
• New school.
• Japanese Irezumi.
• Portraiture.
• Stick and poke.
• Surrealism.
• Biomechanical.

Many tattoo businesses usually have a gallery of existing images and designs for customers to choose from. You could also offer custom tattoos or allow your customers to provide their own designs.

When creating your tattoos, you will usually first transfer an outline of the design onto your customer’s skin. This allows the customer to see the placement of the tattoo and gives you a guide from which to begin the tattooing process. You will begin with the outline of the tattoo before adding any shading, colouring or detail. You may need to use different sized needles for different parts of the tattoo.

Some of the daily duties you will likely need to fulfil as part of your tattoo business include:

• Creating new designs.
• Researching and keeping up to date with new tattoo styles and trends.
• Ordering and replenishing tattoo equipment.
• Cleaning and sterilising tattoo equipment, work areas and the tattoo studio.
• Meeting with customers.
• Handling appointments.
• Designing and applying tattoos.
• Cleaning, wrapping or covering tattoos, if necessary.
• Handling payments.
• Educating customers on correct tattoo aftercare.
• Ensuring health and safety procedures are followed at all times.
• Advertising and marketing.

There are several different ways you can set up a tattoo business; you can choose to:

• Open a tattoo studio with you as the sole tattoo artist.
• Open a tattoo studio and hire other tattoo artists.
• Work as a freelance tattoo artist in an already existing studio.
• Run a mobile or at-home tattoo business.

If you are thinking of starting up a tattoo business, there are some skills and traits you will need to have. You will need to be artistic with a flair for design and creativity. You will also need a steady hand, patience and great attention to detail.

To make your business succeed, you will also need to have a flair for business and good advertising and marketing strategies.

Types of Customers

Although tattoos are most often associated with younger people or bikers, in fact, people of all demographics visit tattoo studios.

Tattoo customers choose specific tattoo studios for different reasons.

Some of the factors that may influence the typical customers who attend your business include:

Your branding:

Your business name, logo and the aesthetic and design of your shop will all influence your customer base. Some customers will be attracted to studios that look dark, mysterious and edgy, whereas others would prefer a shop that looks bright, clean and stylish.

Your style of tattooing:

This will be one of the biggest influences on your typical customer base. Many potential customers will already have a tattoo idea in mind when they visit your business. The style of tattoos you specialise in will impact which customers choose your tattoo studio.

Your advertising and marketing strategy:

How you opt to advertise and market your business can impact the potential customers you reach. For example, you will reach different customers if you advertise on social media, compared to if you use flyers as your main form of advertising. To reach more customers, you could also attend tattoo conventions and other events in your area.

Equipment You Will Need

Equipment is an essential part of a tattoo business. You will need to purchase the equipment before your business begins operating and much of it will need to be replenished regularly.

Your equipment requirements will vary depending on the type of tattoo business you set up. For example, if you are a freelancer in an already existing tattoo studio, you will likely not need to purchase any furniture. You should therefore consider the type of business you will run and your business plan when determining which equipment you require.

Some of the equipment your tattoo business may need is listed below.

Tattooing equipment:

You will need multiple different types of equipment for tattooing including:

• Tattoo machines (sometimes called tattoo guns) – You may need a minimum of three machines: one for lines, one for colour, and one for black and grey shading. Machines can be made out of light materials, such as aluminium or steel, or heavy materials such as copper or iron.
• Needles and cartridges of different sizes – Different sized needles are required for different sizes and styles of tattoos. Finer lines require a thinner needle.
• Ink in a variety of different colours and shades.
• Tattoo grips – These provide extra cushioning and make it much easier for you to grip the needles and steady your hand, especially if you are tattooing intricate designs or for a long period of time.
• Tattoo tips – You will need round tips, diamond tips, flat tips and magnum tips depending on the types of lines you are tattooing: – Diamond tips are used for thin, straight lines. – Round tips are used for thicker lines. – Flat tips are ideal for shading or making neater lines. – Magnum tips are used for larger areas, blending and shading.
• A cover bag for your machine.
• Ink bottles and containers.
• Tattoo parts and power supplies , such as a power unit, a footswitch and a spring clipboard.

Medical and sterilisation equipment:

This type of equipment will help you keep your equipment and your tattoo studio sterilised and clean at all times. You will also need some of the equipment for cleaning the area before you begin tattooing and for tattoo aftercare.

Some of the medical and sterilisation equipment you may need includes:

• Disinfectant wipes.
• Antiseptic creams.
• Surface disinfectant.
• Cleaning brushes.
• Adhesive tapes and dressings.
• Paper towels.
• Ultrasonic cleaners and cleaning solutions.
• Tattoo aftercare creams.
• Sterile ointment.

Tattoo studio furnishings:

You will need to furnish your tattoo studio with all the appropriate furnishings and equipment to allow you to run your tattoo business. Your furnishings should be clean, in good working order and in fitting with your business’s aesthetic.

Some of the furniture you may require in your studio includes:

• Sinks with clean, running water.
• Tattoo beds and chairs.
• Magnifying lamps with attached lights.
• Stools or chairs for the tattooists.
• Sofa or chairs for the waiting area.
• A desk and chair for the reception area.
• A till and Point of Sale (POS) system.

Other equipment:

• Disposable razors (all hair will need to be removed from the area before tattooing).
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including latex gloves and aprons.
• Display pictures of previous work.
• Display folders of previous work.
• Needle trays.
• Medical waste bins.
• Cover sheets for the tattoo chair and bed and the headrest.
• Numbing cream.
• Tongue depressors.
• Medical scissors.
• Organisation trolleys – To keep all of your equipment together and organised.
• A vehicle (if you run a mobile business).
• A fully stocked first aid kit.

Typical Pricing

Being aware of the typical costs associated with setting up and running a tattoo business can help you to better plan your business and maximise your profits.

Some of the typical costs associated with a tattoo business include:

A full set of tattoo equipment usually costs between £500 and £3,000. The more equipment you require and the higher the specification of the equipment, the more money you can expect to pay. If you need to furnish your tattoo studio and purchase tattoo beds and chairs, you can expect to pay an additional £2,000–£10,000.

A tattoo studio

This will likely be your biggest expenditure. You will likely rent your studio on a monthly or annual basis. Rental prices will vary significantly, with city-centre locations typically having the highest prices. Prices will also vary depending on the size of the studio. Rental costs are often calculated per square metre. They can range significantly, from £500 to £15,000 per square metre annually.

Renovation and refurbishment

You will likely need to renovate or refurbish your premises to fit your business aesthetic and make it fit for purpose. Your studio should be attractive to your customers, easy to clean and have appropriate spacing for the tattooing areas. Renovation costs can vary, depending on the level and scale of work required.

Replenishing equipment and stock

Much of the equipment that you use such as the needles, latex gloves and disposable cleaning materials can only be used once, meaning these will need to be replenished regularly. You will also need to make sure you have enough ink and the other equipment you will need to conduct your business. You will likely need to make monthly orders to replenish your equipment.

Branding can help you to establish your tattoo business’s identity and help your business to stand out from any local competition. Branding could include creating your business’s visual identity, a logo, your business name, your business website and the design and aesthetic of your studio. You can hire a professional to help you with branding or do some of the work yourself. Branding can cost between £500 and £10,000, depending on the amount of branding you require.

Advertising and marketing

Advertising and marketing are essential ways to attract clients and grow your business. It is recommended that you spend between 1% and 3% of your annual turnover on marketing. For example, if your annual turnover is £100,000, it is recommended you spend between £1,000 and £3,000 per year on marketing. You may need to invest more money in advertising and marketing when you first set up your business, in order to ensure your business is well-known and potential clients are aware of you. You may be able to save on your advertising costs by advertising online via social media. This could include advertising on Instagram, Facebook or TikTok.

Running costs

These are the everyday costs associated with running your tattoo business. Most of these costs will be paid monthly, although some will be paid annually. Your running costs could include your overhead costs such as electricity, gas and water. If you keep the running costs as low as possible, this can help to maximise your profits.

You may initially operate your business independently and then hire staff as your business grows. You could hire staff as permanent employees or as independent freelancers. If you hire staff permanently, you will need to pay them at least the national minimum wage of £9.50 per hour and account for other expenses such as holiday pay, sick pay and maternity/paternity pay. Alternatively, you can hire them as freelance tattoo artists and take a cut of their profits or charge them a flat fee.

Business insurance

Some of the insurance you may need for your tattoo business includes:

• Employers’ Liability Insurance
• Professional Liability Insurance
• Treatment Risk Insurance
• Contents Coverage
• Income Protection Insurance
• Design and Copyright Infringement

Insurance prices start at £10 per month, depending on your insurance provider and the level of coverage you need.

Once you have determined the costs associated with your tattoo business, you can then determine your pricing policy. You can choose whether to charge customers per tattoo or per hour.

Your pricing policy will depend on several factors:

• Your experience.
• Your location.
• The style and design of the tattoos.
• Your reputation.

Tattoo artists in the UK tend to charge between £50 and £150 per hour, although in-demand tattoo artists tend to charge higher rates.

Safely Running a Tattoo Business

A tattoo business can be a high-risk business with the potential for injury, unsafe practices or even the transmission of infections or diseases.

Ensuring safe practices is therefore essential. Some ways you can safely run your tattoo business include:

Protect against diseases and infections

As you will be dealing with blood, it is important you protect yourself and all of your customers from potentially dangerous pathogens and diseases that can be transferred through blood and other bodily fluids. This includes discarding needles after every customer and sterilising all tattooing equipment thoroughly.

Educate clients in proper tattoo aftercare

Ensuring proper tattoo aftercare is a great way of ensuring the health and safety of your customers. Before beginning the tattoo and during the tattoo process you will need to ensure the area remains clean. You should also educate your customers on the importance of cleaning the tattoo regularly to prevent infection and encourage healing, and keeping it moisturised. Ensure you recommend the correct moisturiser or ointment depending on the type of ink you use and where the tattoo is located.

Ensure furnishings and flooring is easy to clean

All furnishings and flooring should be made of a wipe-clean material. Ensuring they are resistant to liquid, such as bodily fluid, can make them much easier to clean and result in better hygienic practices. You should also cover the tattoo beds and chairs with a disposable covering that is changed between clients.

Implement cleaning policies and procedures

Strict cleaning procedures must be in place in your tattoo studio. This includes cleaning, disinfecting and sanitising all equipment and surfaces and employing ultrasonication cleaning techniques. You should clean between every customer and then perform an intensive clean at regular intervals, such as every day. If you hire any other tattoo artists or other members of staff, you must also ensure they are following your cleaning procedures.

Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Some of the PPE you may require include latex gloves, arm coverings, face masks, protective aprons, protective footwear and eye protection. Some PPE, such as your gloves, will need to be changed between every customer.

Employ an air-filtration system

A good filtration system can reduce the number of airborne microorganisms and germs in your studio. It can reduce the spread of infection and keep your tattoo studio safe.

Implement handwashing policies

Germs and bacteria spread very easily on hands. Even if you wear gloves, correct handwashing procedures can help protect the health and safety of everyone who visits your tattoo business.

Appoint trained first-aiders

All tattoo businesses must have an appointed first-aider on the premises at all times. In the event of an accident or injury, you will then be able to administer the necessary first aid. Although a first aid qualification or certificate is not legally required, it is the easiest way to demonstrate your first aid training.

Pay attention to use-by dates

Many people think that use-by and best before dates only apply to food. However, inks, creams, ointments and other products all have dates that you must pay attention to. Check the date before using any products and never use products that are out of date.

Ensure good lighting

Poor lighting can be potentially hazardous when tattooing. If you do not have complete and clear vision of the area and a good view of the tattoo and your machine, you may nick the skin, do the tattoo incorrectly or cause an injury. Ideally, you should aim for a good mix of natural and artificial light. If this is not possible, ensure the artificial light gives you a good enough view.

Protect staff from abusive or threatening behaviour

As the business owner, it is your responsibility to protect your staff from threats or abuse. Implement procedures for dealing with threatening behaviour, record any incidents and ensure you support your staff as much as possible.

Keep dangerous objects away from customers

This includes tattoo equipment, needles and cleaning products. Any potentially dangerous objects should be kept out of the reach of customers, and where possible in separate rooms.

Implement security measures

Security measures can help protect your business from potential break-ins or protect you if a customer accuses you of causing an injury or not protecting their safety. Install a CCTV system and ensure your studio is properly secured when you are not on site.

Carry out risk assessments

You should identify any potential hazards and risks in your business and how these can be reduced or eliminated.

As part of your risk assessment, you should:

• Identify hazards.
• Determine who could be at risk.
• Evaluate any potential risks.
• Implement relevant safety measures.
• Record the results of the risk assessment.
• Review the risk assessment regularly.

Legal Requirements

Complying with all legal requirements is essential when setting up and running your tattoo business.

Some legal requirements you should be aware of include:

Register with your local Environmental Health department

All tattoo artists in the UK must register with the Environmental Health department of their local authority. As part of your registration, you will need to undergo an inspection. Once your registration has been approved, you must display your registration certificate visibly on your premises. You will then undergo regular inspections in order to maintain your registration.

Comply with the Tattooing of Minors Act (1969)

Tattoos are prohibited in people below 18 years of age in the UK. Ensure your business is complying with this Act by asking for a form of photo ID before agreeing to give a tattoo.

Comply with the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998

These regulations apply to you and any other employees or freelance tattoo artists who use tattooing equipment. You must ensure the equipment is fit for purpose, is maintained and inspected regularly, that health and safety risks are minimised to an acceptable level, that you have the correct knowledge and training to use the equipment, and that protective measures are put into place. You must also ensure the equipment is used under appropriate conditions.

Comply with the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations (1992)

Under these regulations , if your business has five or more employees you must ensure you conduct appropriate risk assessments, minimise any risks and maintain all equipment. Under the regulations, you (the business owner) must ensure correct ventilation, room temperature and lighting are maintained in your studio at all times. You must also make sure high levels of cleanliness are maintained and you have appropriate spacing.

Comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations

The COSHH regulations state that you must control any substances that are potentially hazardous. You should also assess, control and reduce any risks or potential hazards and protect people from harm. This could include chemicals in the ink, sterilising materials and any other substances you use as part of your business.

Comply with the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) 2013

RIDDOR states that you must report all injuries, diseases and dangerous events that occur when your business is operating. Reports must be made to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) using an appropriate recording document.

Comply with the Manual Handling Operations Regulations (1992)

Manual handling is an inevitable part of tattooing. The strain on your fingers, hands, wrists and arm could result in pain or injury. Following manual handling regulations can help to protect you and your employees from sustaining an injury or illness as a result of manual handling tasks.

Comply with the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act (DPA)

You must comply with both pieces of legislation when storing or sharing personal information, such as your customers’ contact details. You must also apply for a Notification to Process Personal Data Licence. If you use a CCTV system or process personal information such as payroll information or customer accounts and records, you will need to apply for a licence with the Information Commissioner’s Office and renew your registration every year.

Be aware of copyright infringement laws

If you copy another artist’s design or work, you could be infringing on copyright laws. Ensure you do not knowingly copy anyone’s work and register your own work with the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) to prevent it from being copied by another tattoo artist.

Dispose of waste appropriately

Some of your business’s waste will be classified as clinical or hazardous waste. This includes needles, materials containing blood or other bodily fluid and disposable gloves. This waste must be disposed of by a registered, authorised waste carrier. Contact your local Environmental Health department for more details.

Implement health and safety policies and fire safety procedures

All businesses should have health and safety policies that help to manage health and safety in your business. They protect the health and safety of you, your customers and your business. You are also responsible for fire safety on your premises (if relevant). This could include conducting fire risk assessments and implementing fire safety measures and emergency procedures.

Register your business

You must register your business with HMRC before you begin operating. You can register as a sole trader or as a limited company. You will need to register your business name and any other relevant information.

Register for self-assessment tax

This allows you to calculate and pay your own taxes each year. You will need to track your finances every month and submit any expenses as part of your tax assessment.

Positives of Owning a Tattoo Business

Owning a tattoo business can be extremely rewarding in many ways.

Some of the main pros associated with this type of business are:

Be part of a great community

The tattoo community is very close-knit and can be a great community to be part of. You will likely create connections with other studios, tattoo artists and even tattoo lovers. People within the tattoo community frequently inspire each other and teach each other new techniques and styles.

Do what you love

Tattoo artists are usually passionate artists and love their work. You can create beautiful artwork and design your own art and apply it to your customers’ bodies forever. If you love being artistic and tattoos, running a tattoo business is a great career choice.

Create your own schedule

As the business owner, you can choose which days of the week to work, your working hours and when you are going to take holiday. You will have the complete freedom to design your schedule. You can choose how little or often to work.

Rewarding work

Seeing your artwork on other people’s skin and seeing your customers’ satisfaction can be extremely rewarding. Doing what you love for a profit is extremely rewarding. Many tattoo artists consider tattooing a vocation.

Design your dream business

Regardless of what type of tattoo business you choose to open, you can design your perfect business. This includes the style of tattoos you offer, your pricing, your business aesthetic, and your branding.

A positive work environment

A tattoo studio can be a great place to work. You will likely be working with other tattoo artists who will all bring something different to the studio. You will also be sitting with your customers for hours at a time, giving you the chance to chat and really get to know them.

Repeat business

Once people find a tattoo artist that they like, they usually use the same artist or studio every time. This repeat business is not only flattering but is also great for your business growth. Satisfied customers may also recommend you to friends and family or to people online.

Few start-up costs

Compared to many other businesses; a tattoo business is a relatively low-cost enterprise. You can increase the amount of equipment you have as your profits grow and start with just the basic equipment. You could even begin by operating a mobile or at-home business and then open a tattoo studio once your business has grown and you have more expendable income.

No qualifications required

You won’t need any specific qualifications to set up a tattoo business. What is most important is your creativity and a steady hand, although previous experience will also be beneficial.

Pick and choose your clientele

You will have the power to accept or decline any potential customers. If a potential customer seems difficult, or you don’t think the type of tattoo they want plays to your strengths, you can decline to work with them and recommend them another artist instead.

You can offer a personalised customer experience

You can offer customer consultations where you discuss what your customer wants and offer advice and insight. Your customer will receive a personalised experience and the possibility for you to design them an individual tattoo. With a personalised experience, the customer is more likely to be more satisfied with your service and recommend you to their family and friends.

Gain exposure

Gaining exposure as a tattoo artist is relatively easy, especially with the rise of social media. You can post your designs online and utilise platforms such as Instagram and TikTok to reach more people. Your customers may also tag your business in photos of their tattoos that they post online. Attending tattoo conventions is another great way to gain exposure.

Unlimited income potential

The more experience and exposure you gain, the higher prices you will be able to charge. If you find yourself consistently busy and have a waitlist, you can begin to charge premium prices. You can also increase your income by expanding your studio, hiring more staff or partnering with freelancers and opening other studios. A tattoo business can be extremely lucrative.

Face-to-face interaction

If you enjoy being around other people and connecting with new people, running a tattoo business can be extremely rewarding. Most of your day, every day, will be spent with other people and you can meet lots of people in your local community.

Negatives of Owning a Tattoo Business

However, there are some negative aspects of owning a tattoo business that you should be aware of:

Building your clientele can be difficult

Successful tattoo artists often spend years building up their client base. This could mean you initially receive less custom and earn a lower income. If you have invested a lot of money into your business and can’t initially make a profit, this could result in your business failing.

Your income can be inconsistent

Particularly in your first few years of operation, your business can have periods with less custom and you can experience a drop in your profits. The instability that can exist in the tattoo industry can have a detrimental impact on your finances, especially if you have consistent outgoings, such as rent and overhead costs to pay.

Working weekends

Most tattoo artists are busier at the weekend when most of their customers aren’t at work. Although this can mean more business at the weekend, it does mean you are working less sociable hours and miss out on important family and social events.

Physical strain

You may think you’ll get to sit down for a lot of the day but don’t underestimate the physical strain on your fingers, hands and wrists. You will need to keep the tattoo machine completely steady at all times to ensure you don’t make any mistakes and this can cause a lot of strain and even result in pain or injury. You may also experience neck and back pain or strain from leaning forward so much.

The possibility of making a mistake

No matter how skilled a tattoo artist you are, mistakes can always happen. Whether the mistake is through your error, the customer moving or something out of your control, mistakes will be on the customer’s skin forever and can have a negative impact on your business.

Competitive

Tattooing can be a competitive industry, with there already being many established tattoo studios in the UK. If you have an already established, successful tattoo studio in your area, this can make it more difficult for your business to succeed.

It can be stressful

Not only is there a lot of pressure to get every tattoo perfect, but as the business owner, you will face the additional pressure of trying to make your business succeed. You will have a lot of important responsibilities, such as ensuring health and safety. As the business owner, you will also need to make sure the other tattoo artists are happy and that your customers are satisfied.

High liability

A tattoo business has many potential risks that could result in liability issues for you and your business. This could include employee accidents or injuries, the risks associated with using certain products and equipment, incorrect tattoos or mistakes and the risks of causing injury to your clients. Not only can this be stressful, but it can also be detrimental to your business.

High time commitment

Tattoo businesses are often more popular in the evening and on weekends. This could result in you working unsociable hours. You also need to factor in the time you will need to spend on administrative duties, ordering equipment, cleaning, and advertising and marketing. Running your tattoo business can be time-consuming.

High risk of your business failing

Starting up a tattoo business can be risky. Many new businesses fail which could result in you losing money or getting into debt. Your business could fail for several reasons, such as high local competition, an ineffective business plan or if the UK encounters another recession or period of financial difficulty.

No benefits

As you are self-employed, you won’t receive benefits such as pension contributions. You will also be responsible for doing your own taxes and organising your National Insurance contributions.

Planning Your Tattoo Business

An effective and well-designed business plan is an essential tool when setting up your tattoo business.

Your business plan should include data such as:

• Your company information.
• Your company description.
• The services you will provide.
• Your branding, marketing and advertising plan.
• The structure of your business.
• The operational plan for your business.
• The financial plan for your business.

When creating your business plan, you will need to make the following considerations:

Decide what style of tattoos to specialise in:

Consider your artistic strengths and your local competition when deciding what style of tattoos you will specialise in. Many people look for a specific style of tattoo when searching for a tattoo artist so the style of tattoos you offer can impact your customer base. If you prefer not to specialise, you can offer a variety of styles.

Decide what type of tattoo business you will set up:

Are you going to set up your own studio, work as a freelancer in an already established studio or work as a mobile or at-home tattooist? You can set up one type of business initially and change your business as your profits grow.

Determine your typical customer base:

Determining the types of customers you are likely to have can help you to plan your branding and your marketing and advertising strategies. Your typical customers can also influence your price points.

Consider your local competition:

What other tattoo businesses operate in your local area? Are there any businesses specialising in the same tattoo style as you? If so, consider their pricing, the services they offer, their branding, marketing and advertising strategies and what they do well.

Determine your equipment requirements:

Consult the list above to determine your equipment requirements. The equipment you require will depend on the type of tattoo business you run. The types of needles, ink and other equipment you purchase will also depend on the tattoo style you use. Once you have determined your equipment requirements, you can then calculate the initial costs of purchasing the equipment and the monthly replenishment costs.

Calculate your start-up costs and running costs:

Consult the list above to help you calculate the approximate costs of setting up and running your tattoo business. Estimate how much initial investment you require and when you are likely to start turning a profit. Calculating your start-up costs can help you determine whether you can finance the business yourself or whether you need to source outside investment. Creating your budget is an important step in your business plan.

Calculate your pricing policy:

There are several considerations you need to make in relation to pricing, such as:

• Will you charge by the hour or by piece?
• Will you charge different prices for black and colour tattoos?
• Will different styles of tattoos have different prices?
• Will you offer a discount if someone books multiple tattoos with you?

Determine your business objectives:

Your business objectives are crucial for creating a successful business plan. Your business objectives highlight the targets and goals of your tattoo business and help you to create a one-year, three-year and five-year business plan to help you grow your business.

Your business objectives should be SMART:

• S = Specific
• M = Measurable
• A = Achievable
• R = Realistic
• T = Time-bound

Check you have complied with all legal requirements:

Consult the list of legal requirements above to check you have complied with all requirements and regulations and that all your paperwork is accurate. Failure to comply with legal requirements could have a detrimental effect on your business or could result in a fine, the forced closure of your business or, in serious cases, prosecution.

Download our business plan

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15 Steps To Growing Your Tattooing Business in 2021

Ever wondered how to get a steady stream of clients rolling through your door? Relying on walk ins (especially in quiet shops) or trying to build up a presence from scratch is hard! That's why our team at Tattooing 101 is here to help

“Growing” a tattooing business simply means making your business more profitable. There are three ways to do this:

• Getting more clients
• Increase the size of your clients’ transactions with your business
• Get your clients to buy from you more often

All three of these factors can be influenced through marketing.

• Marketing: Showing Customers Why You’re the Right Choice

Letting your business grow passively through word of mouth is slow and it leaves success to chance. Taking action to grow through marketing grows your business much faster. This gives you complete control of the outcome, and it leads to repeat clients because you’ll be constantly proving why they should get tattooed by you instead of anyone else. 

To make that happen, we’ve put together a list of marketing tactics you can use as a tattoo artist to get more clients for your tattoo shop.

The 15 Steps To Market & Grow Your Tattoo Business

To be a successful tattoo shop, you need potential clients to trust you in two ways:

First, they need to trust your skill. The work of both you and the artists in your shop should speak for itself and their ability to create great tattoos.

Secondly, customers need to feel cared for. While this might not have been the case a few decades ago when tattooing was more underground, nowadays tattooing is more mainstream. And a more mainstream audience is going to look for a place that looks clean and sanitary and promises to treat them well.

These 15 marketing and growth strategies will help you prove to customers that they can trust your tattoo shop to not only deliver a great tattoo, but to offer a great customer experience as well.

Unless you or one of your shop’s artists has a huge following, the clients you’re going to see on a regular basis are locals. Let them know you’re invested in their community, and that you’re here to stay.

Promote other local businesses.

Displaying posters, business cards, and coupons for nearby local businesses shows customers that you’re an active member in the local area and makes them more interested in your work. Additionally, if you can get other businesses to promote you as well, you can share customers and both grow.

Host a flash day.

Get new customers in the door by doing simple flash designs for a fixed price. This lets you build relationships with new clients in the community. If they spend time in your shop and see your skill in a flash design, they’re much more likely to pick you when they want to get a larger piece done. 

Build Your Website

Being on social media isn’t enough. To really make sure you have a presence online, you need to have a website where potential customers can get all the information they need from you. Remember, a professional website is yourname.com. Do not use the “free” version where the website builder’s name has to appear in the url. 

Photo Gallery

The #1 thing potential customers want to see is pictures of your past work! Make sure you display work from all your artists so customers can see each of their styles . The background of every picture should show a plain, sanitary environment or a uniform background that gives your gallery a cohesive feel.

If you don’t have a branded background yet, getting pictures of each finished tattoo against a plain wall before the client leaves is a great way to build up this gallery.

These pictures should be well lit and unedited.

The only part you can edit is the background, like the image to the right. However, you’ll lose credibility fast if someone figures out you’ve Photoshopped your tattoos.

Contact Form

Very few clients will want to drive to the shop just to set up an appointment. Make sure your phone number is listed on the site and that you have a way for them to chat online with someone immediately, whether it’s through your site, Instagram, or Facebook. Having live chat on your site through a software called ManyChat allows clients to send your shop a Facebook message from your website.

Online Booking

Letting a customer book their consultation online makes it easier to get them in the shop and takes pressure off your artists to constantly message back and forth with clients to find a time to meet. Calendly is a free scheduling tool clients can easily use to book a consultation.

Testimonials

Social proof is powerful. Having as many glowing reviews as possible builds trust in potential clients. It also relieves the anxiety of clients who think “ I hope this artist doesn’t mess up my tattoo .” 

Plus, it reassures people that you know what you’re doing. Having someone else say that you are the best is far more convincing than when you say it.

Not all testimonials are created equal. Video testimonials are the most convincing to potential clients. An image with the client’s written testimonial is second-best. Text-only reviews are less effective, but still helpful.

Build an Email List

An email list allows you to reach out to existing and future customers without paying for ads. Once you have someone's email, you’re able to establish a relationship with that person and get them to feel like they know you well. 

Consistently sending interesting tattoo stories, tips on tattoo care take care, etc. will establish you as an authority they can trust. No one likes to get spammed, but occasionally mentioning a special you have going on or that you’re open for appointments will encourage them to get more tattoos from you. 

Whenever someone gets a tattoo at your shop, they should be added to your email list.

Create a “Lead Magnet”

In the digital marketing industry, the term “lead magnet” refers to something valuable (preferably digital so it doesn't cost you anything) that you can give away for free in exchange for someone's email address. Having a lead magnet on your site is much more effective than a plain newsletter sign up because the person is actually getting something in return for signing up. 

For example, you could put together a PDF of “100 Free Tattoo Design Ideas.” For the person visiting your site to get access to that content, they would need to enter their name and email address. They get the designs they want, and you get to add a new person to your mailing list.

At Tattooing 101, we offer our Linework Secrets Guide for free. This lets us help future tattoo artists perfect their linework and gives us the opportunity to keep in contact with people who share our passion for tattooing. 

(Psst! If you want to get the guide and get free tattooing tips to your inbox, you can do that here .)

Ask for Testimonials and Resolve Any Bad Reviews

While testimonials should be on your website, they’re getting their entire section in this article. Why? Because you can post as many testimonials as you’d like on your own website, but most clients will be looking for reviews outside of your shop’s online presence.

Although you will be posting honest reviews, not every customer is going to believe that they’re authentic. Plenty of businesses buy reviews or write reviews for themselves, and no business is going to post bad reviews on their site’s Testimonials page.

This is why Yelp and Google Reviews can make or break you. It’s where customers say what they really think - both good and bad. 

If someone writes a review about how clean the shop is and how great their tattoo turned out - you are instantly proven to be professional and an authority in tattooing. But if someone bashes your shop or your work, that’s all most people need to turn them off booking an appointment.

That’s why, if you do receive a bad review, you should try to resolve the issue as soon as possible. 

First, make sure the customer is talking about your shop. Some people might review the wrong place or have a personal problem with an artist and decide to badmouth the shop for revenge. Verifying that they did come in for a tattoo and that their complaint is valid is important.

If they do have a genuine complaint, do your best to reconcile. You can privately offer to touch up a tattoo or discuss a discount. If the problem is fixed this way, ask the client to change their review or add an edit noting that the problem they had was fixed. Publicly showing that you took action right away to fix the problem for the client will help future customers trust your shop. 

How to Get Google Reviews

If you ask someone to review you on Google when they get home, they will say that they will (and then immediately forget the second they step into the parking lot). 

To increase your chances of someone leaving a review:

• Make it easy for them: Have a QR code in the shop that links directly to Google Reviews and ask them to review your shop immediately after their tattoo.
• Use an email autoresponder like Active Campaign to set up an automation where customers get an email asking for a review automatically 1-2 weeks after their appointment. (You can use Zapier to connect your Google Calendar and Active Campaign together to do this.)

Interact on Instagram

Instagram is highly visual, making it a great place for tattoo shops to post pictures. Posting your artists’ best work and curating an online how to start a tattoo business that regularly pops up in your followers’ feeds keeps your shop in their minds. 

Instagram page also allows you to easily interact with your followers. Creating interactive Instagram stories with polls and open-ended questions gives customers an easy way to get involved without asking for much of their time. 

Local Hashtags

Having a big audience is great, but if none of your followers live nearby, it defeats the purpose. Using local hashtags will help you build a local audience. 

IGTV and Reels

Video marketing is the best way to get engagement from future clients and extend your reach. Ideas for IGTV videos and Reels can include:

• Stencil reveals
• Time lapse tattoos
• Time lapse of the design process
• Documenting the tattoo process

Additionally, going live on Instagram and Facebook lets customers get an inside look at the tattooing process and feel like they have a more personal relationship with the shop. 

Use Facebook to Advertise Directly to Customers

Using Facebook Ad funnels can help your potential customer get to know more about your shop and make them ready to book in for a tattoo. 

You can also run competitions on Facebook posts and use viral bots to message anyone who engages with them in their Facebook Messenger app. This turns them into “subscribers” that you can message in the future. 

Get Noticed with Google Ads

It’s rare for small tattoo shops to invest in Google Ads, but lots of people are searching for “tattoo shops near me.” By paying for a Google Ad to put your shop as the top-ranking search, you’ll get way more eyes on your shop. 

For example, in Denver, Colorado nearly 6600* people searched for that keyword in a single month. If a Denver tattoo shop wanted their shop to be listed at the top of Google, they’d only need to pay between $0.64-$3.79 per click on their ad. (Google places the ad at the top of the page when you agree to pay that amount every time that exposure causes someone to click on your shop.)

*According to Google Ads

Bonus Google Tip: 

Registering a Google My Business (GMB) account boosts your local business presence online for keyword search terms like "tattoo shop near me" or “tattoo studios near me”.

Sell Gift Vouchers

Selling gift vouchers makes it easier to give tattoos away as gifts. It also acts as advance pay: you get the money for the tattoo before they’ve made up their mind on what they want done. 

Sell Merch In-Store

If your customers are spending a lot of time in the shop getting tattooed, there’s a chance they’ll want a souvenir from the shop besides the tattoo they’re getting. Merch is fairly easy and cheap to make, can generate extra income for the shop, and gets your logo (and some good word-of-mouth reviews) to new potential customers. 

You can use previous tattoo designs as graphics for T-shirts, sweatshirts, stickers, etc. This will let you advertise while also showing off your particular tattooing style. 

Using a platform like printful.com lets you test to see if a merch item will sell before you invest money in a bunch of inventory.

Popular merch items include:

• Sweatshirts
• Bumper stickers
• Phone cases

Offer Multiple Services

It’s not uncommon for tattoo shops to offer more than one service at their location. The most popular second service at tattoo shops is piercing. However, there are lots of other services tattoo customers might be interested in. If you already offer what they’re looking for, they’ll appreciate not having to waste time looking elsewhere. 

Potential services include:

• Selling tattoo aftercare products
• Laser tattoo removal
• Cosmetic tattooing
• Selling local artwork for commission

Getting reviews on Google and creating content (YouTube videos, articles, etc.) about tattooing and your other services will get you more attention online, letting more potential customers find you.

Increase the Value of your offer with a Free Addition

Offering clients something for free (if they buy a certain amount first) encourages them to spend more at your tattoo shop. For example:

• Book an 8-hour session and get one hour free
• Buy a 1-hour gift voucher and get free aftercare/shirt/digital sketchbook/etc.
• Get a tattoo and receive a lottery ticket for a free tattoo at the end of the year.

Avoid Discounts:

After you offer one discount, people come to expect it. Not to mention, if you lower your price, the next tattooer will go lower until it’s a race to the bottom and everyone goes out of business.

However, people never get used to having something for free added to their experience. Reducing your prices can make your work seem cheap. Throwing in a freebie to increase the value of your offer is more effective than reducing your prices.

Loyalty Cards

Loyalty cards encourage people to return to your shop instead of try out other tattoo artists nearby.

Ask for a Referral

Also, if you know a client enjoyed their experience, you can ask them for their recommendation and offer a referral bonus (For example, a free shirt or free aftercare with their next tattoo). This encourages them to get another tattoo and bring a new client to your shop.

Follow Up With Customers

When you follow up with a client, it shows them you care and that you’re concerned with their satisfaction, not just the money they paid for the tattoo. However, messaging every client takes up a lot of time.

Luckily, there are tools you can use to automate these follow-ups and review requests. Get great reviews by automating follow-up emails using Google Calendar, Zapier, and Active Campaign. 

Zapier can connect Active Campaign to Google Calendar so that customers automatically receive an email a week after the date of their tattoo. asking if they’re happy with the shop’s work or if they have any questions or concerns. 

If the customer responds to the email, then there’s a good chance they’ll leave a review if you ask for one. Preparing a template email will save you time during this process, and programs like Active Campaign have settings you can use to auto-fill the customer’s first name. 

Find New Traffic Via Influencers

This one is a bit hit or miss because it depends entirely on who your shop caters to. However, if you find an influencer that fits well with your shop, it can be like having a glowing Google Review...times ten. 

An influencer is a person with a hefty social media following (usually 10,000+ followers) who actively hypes up your shop to their followers. Your shop might give them a free tattoo. In exchange, the influencer will make several Instagram stories about their tattoo experience and then post the finished tattoo on their page and tag your shop. 

Need Local Followers

In this situation, the person would need to have lots of local followers. Working with an influencer will only be helpful if they are directly connected to your target audience and their followers are active and engaged. (For example, an influencer who has a lot of under-18 followers worldwide won’t help you find many clients in your state.)

Before you reach out, make sure to look at their past posts and behavior. Make sure you’re comfortable being associated with them. And if the exchange is for a tattoo, create a contract stating exactly what you expect from them and determining what design they want before you agree. One mention from them on their Instagram is probably not worth a 10-hour tattoo.

Take a Deposit and Offer Multiple Payment Methods

A particular problem tattoo shops have seen post-pandemic is clients booking appointments online and then not showing up. 

Taking a deposit (either online or in person) when customers book an appointment not only makes sure the artist gets paid for their design work, but also ensures the client has some skin in the game, too. They’ll be much more likely to show up for an appointment if they know they’ll lose money for skipping.

It’s easier to get more deposits - and more clients - if you offer multiple payment methods. Some shops will stick with a cash-only policy, but this can really deter walk-ins not carrying cash and frustrate customers who would rather not make an extra stop at the ATM before going to the shop. 

Accepting online payments and all major credit cards makes you more accessible than the next shop - something that might just be the determining factor for a customer trying to choose where to get their next tattoo. 

Add a QR Code to Your Business Card

There are two ways you can use a QR code on your business card:

• The QR code links to a messenger bot. (We recommend ManyChat. When they scan the QR code, it will open a Facebook messenger conversation with your shop.)
• The QR code adds your business details into the client’s phone when scanned.

This is a tiny detail, but it makes a big difference with customers. Giving clients an easy way to contact you and get an immediate response goes a long way in establishing trust. 

Discover More With the Artist Accelerator Program

Your marketing efforts should show potential customers that you are different from the competition and they should get as many people as possible to like, know, and trust you for the lowest possible cost . At the end of the day, tattoos are a luxury service. No one needs to come get a tattoo, it’s your job to make them want to come get a tattoo from you, and proper marketing is the best way to do that and grow as a business. 

In Tattooing 101’s flagship program, the Artist Accelerator, students get a taste of what shops are like all over the globe through our interviews with top-notch tattoo artists worldwide. They learn from master tattoo artists and sharpen their skills so they can take on any tattoo that walks through the door...a surefire way to rake in more clients (and more money).

When you buy the Artist Accelerator Program, you also get full access to our full library, which includes accounting advice for tattoo artists and additional growth strategies. 

Interested in becoming a tattoo artist ? Visit the Artist Accelerator Program today.

Looking for a tattoo apprenticeship?

Tattooing 101's Artist Accelerator 90 day program is the closest thing to a real apprenticeship

• 500 video modules
• Professional tattoo artist coaches
• Private mastermind community

Nathan is a licensed professional tattoo artist with over 8 years’ experience working at studios across the globe, including Celebrity Ink, the world's largest tattoo studio chain. When he's not tattooing, he spends his free time sharing his experience and knowledge with aspiring artists who dream of pursuing a career in the tattooing industry.

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Great stuff. Informational for days.

It's slow season atm so I'm working extra hard at marketing just to keep a steady flow of clients coming through. This was super helpful and gave me some ideas on where I can improve with my marketing. As always, stellar job and much appreciated! Thank you!

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5 Steps for Creating a Tattoo Shop Business Plan

Creating a business plan for your tattoo shop is an important step that helps guide your planning, growth, strategy, and tactics. It’s a powerful tool that gives you clarity on your market, competition, products, services and marketing strategy.

Think of it as a tattoo mission statement — a document that states what your business does, why and for whom.

Creating a business plan for a tattoo shop is critical for other reasons. Many banks and other lenders require a business plan to secure funding. It helps you define and hone in on the target market for tattoo shops and develop tattoo shop marketing strategies .

Here are 5 steps to creating a business plan for your tattoo shop.

Table of Contents

Step 1: Understand What a Business Plan Is

A business plan is a set of documents that define your business purpose, structure, and strategies. While there are several formats you can use to create your business plan, it typically includes the following components:

• An executive summary
• An overview of your company
• Information about your products and services
• A marketing plan
• Information on company management
• Your company’s financial plan

Together, these elements provide a well-rounded perspective on what your business is and how it will succeed.

Step 2: Create an Executive Summary

What do you want? That’s the gist of the executive summary. This short statement, usually no more than half a page to a full page. Key elements in this section include:

• Business Concept : What’s the business, what products and services will be sold, what market will it serve and what is its competitive advantage?
• Financial Components : This portion lists key financial elements such as projected sales, cash flow, profits and returns on investment.
• Financial Requirements : What capital is needed to start or expand your business and how will it be used?
• Business Position : This section lists the business structure, when it was created and key personnel.

Essentially, the executive summary is a short summary of the other sections, which go into more detail.

Step 3: Detail Your Products and Services

No two tattoo shops are exactly alike. This section helps you detail the products and services of a tattoo shop you want to market. This section goes into detail about those products and services, pricing and why your tattoo shop is uniquely positioned for success when selling these products and/or services.

Step 4: Define Your Market

This is where research is going to come into play. Think of it as the opportunity and possibilities for your tattoo shop business. It’s where you can detail the following:

• Target Market : Who are the customers to whom you are seeking to sell? What are the wants and needs that your business can fulfill for them?
• Market Trends : This section illustrates unique opportunities, shifts or changes in the market, changes to your customers’ demographics or preferences, trending products or services and other insights that will influence business success.
• Market Growth : Is the market for your tattoo business growing or shrinking? Why? This section shows how your business is positioned to adapt.
• Competition : Who are your competitors? This section demonstrates who else can meet your potential customers’ needs and what you’ll do to differentiate.

Step 5: Develop a Marketing Plan

What is it going to take to get customers in the door of your tattoo shop? Defining your market is an important first step. But next comes the approach you’ll use to draw customers in. This strategy will depend on several factors — your location, the products and services you offer, and the customers you’re looking to attract.

Next, you’ll want to develop the marketing messages that will compel new and returning business. What media will you use — social media, radio, television, newspaper, sponsorships, special events, leaflets?

Creating a business plan helps get your ideas on paper and a clear vision of what your tattoo shop is all about. Your business plan should include the following:

• A clear executive summary
• Well-defined products and services
• Market analysis
• A solid marketing plan

You’ll want to protect your tattoo shop from the unexpected, too. That’s where Marine Agency Insurance comes in. Contact us today to learn how to ensure your tattoo shop has the insurance coverage it needs to protect your hard work.

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The financial plan for a tattoo shop business.

Running a successful tattoo shop is about more than just artistic talent; it's also about making smart financial decisions.

In this post, we'll explore the essentials of crafting a financial plan that can help your tattoo shop prosper.

From understanding your startup costs to managing daily expenses and projecting future growth, we're here to guide you through each step.

So, let's embark on the journey to turning your passion for ink into a financial masterpiece!

And if you need to get a full 3-year financial analysis of your tattoo shop without having to crunch the numbers yourself, please download our financial plan tailored for tattoo shops.

What is a financial plan and how to make one for your tattoo shop business?

A financial plan for a tattoo shop is a detailed roadmap that steers the fiscal aspects of your tattooing enterprise.

Think of it as sketching a tattoo design: You need to identify the resources at your disposal, your artistic goals, and the expenses involved in creating your unique body art. This plan is crucial when starting a new tattoo shop as it converts your artistic passion into a sustainable, organized business.

So, why create a financial plan?

Envision setting up a trendy tattoo studio. Your financial plan will help you comprehend the costs involved - such as renting your studio space, purchasing tattoo equipment and supplies, initial licensing fees, hiring skilled artists, and marketing your services. It's like checking your art supplies and budget before embarking on a significant tattoo project.

But it's more than just adding up expenses.

A financial plan can reveal insights similar to perfecting a signature tattoo technique. For instance, it might show that importing exotic inks is too costly, leading you to find high-quality local options. Or, you may discover that having a large team of tattoo artists isn't necessary at the onset of your business.

These insights prevent overspending and overstaffing.

Financial plans also serve as a predictive tool to spot potential risks. Suppose your plan suggests that achieving your break-even point – where your income equals your expenses – is achievable only if a certain number of tattoos are inked weekly. This realization highlights a risk: What if the number of clients is lower than expected? It prompts you to consider backup plans, like offering piercing services or selling custom tattoo designs, to augment revenue.

Now, how does this differ for tattoo shops compared to other businesses? The main distinction lies in the nature of the costs and the revenue patterns.

That’s why the financial plan our team has crafted is specifically designed for tattoo shops . It cannot be broadly applied to different types of businesses.

Tattoo shops have unique expenses like high-quality inks, sterilization equipment, and meeting stringent health and safety regulations. Their income can also be more variable – think about how trends in tattoo styles might increase business, while at other times it might wane. This contrasts with, say, a tech store, where products don't expire and sales trends might be more consistent.

Naturally, our financial plan takes into account all these specific considerations. This enables you to easily create tailored financial forecasts for your new tattoo shop venture.

What financial tables and metrics include in the financial plan for a tattoo shop business?

Creating a financial plan for a new tattoo shop is a critical step in securing the success and sustainability of your business.

Understand that the financial plan for your upcoming tattoo shop is more than mere figures on a spreadsheet; it's a strategic guide that navigates you through the early stages and supports the business's longevity.

Firstly, we address the most crucial element: the startup costs. This encompasses everything required to open your tattoo shop.

Consider the expenses of leasing or purchasing a space, tattoo equipment, initial stock of inks and supplies, furniture, decor, and even the signage outside your shop. These costs present a transparent view of the initial investment needed. We have comprehensively listed them in our financial plan , saving you the effort of compiling them independently.

Next, factor in your operating expenses. These are the recurring costs such as salaries for your artists and staff, utility bills, tattoo supplies, and other daily expenses. Having a precise estimate of these expenses is vital to gauge how much your shop needs to earn to turn a profit.

In our financial plan, we've pre-filled these values, offering a clear perspective of what these might amount to for a tattoo shop. You can adjust these as needed in the 'assumptions' tab of our financial plan.

A key table in your financial plan is the cash flow statement (included in our plan). This table illustrates the expected cash movements in and out of your business.

It provides a monthly (and annual) breakdown that includes your projected income (the revenue you anticipate from tattooing services) and your projected expenses (the operational costs of the shop). This statement is crucial for foreseeing periods when additional cash reserves might be needed or when you can plan for expansions or upgrades.

Another essential table is the profit and loss statement, also known as the income statement, which is also part of our financial plan.

This formal financial document offers insight into your shop's profitability over a certain period. It lists your revenues and deducts the expenses, showing whether your business is operating at a profit or a loss. This statement is particularly important for understanding your tattoo shop's financial health over time.

Also, do not overlook the break-even analysis (also included, of course). This calculation indicates the revenue your tattoo shop needs to generate to cover all its costs, both initial and ongoing. Knowing your break-even point is crucial as it provides a concrete sales target.

Additionally, our financial plan includes other financial tables and metrics (provisional balance sheet, financing plan, working capital requirement, ratios, charts, etc.), offering a complete and detailed financial analysis of your future tattoo shop.

Can you make a financial plan for your tattoo shop business by yourself?

Yes, you certainly can!

As highlighted earlier, we have crafted a user-friendly financial plan specifically designed for tattoo shop business models .

This plan provides financial projections for the first three years of your tattoo shop's operations.

Within the plan, you'll discover an 'Assumptions' tab that features pre-populated data. This includes revenue projections, an extensive list of potential expenses pertinent to tattoo shops, and a staffing plan. You can easily tailor these numbers to suit the unique needs of your tattoo business.

Our all-encompassing financial plan covers all vital financial tables and ratios, such as the income statement, cash flow statement, break-even analysis, and a provisional balance sheet. It's fully optimized for loan applications and is accessible to entrepreneurs at all levels, including novices, with no previous financial knowledge required.

The process is streamlined to avoid manual calculations or intricate Excel operations. Simply enter your data into the designated areas and choose from the available options. We've made the process straightforward and user-friendly, even for those who are new to financial planning tools.

If you run into any challenges, don't hesitate to contact our team. We ensure a response within 24 hours to resolve any issues you may face. Additionally, we provide a complimentary review and adjustment service for your financial plan after you've completed all your assumptions.

What are the most important financial metrics for a tattoo shop business?

Succeeding in the tattoo shop business requires a sharp understanding of both the artistry of tattooing and the science of financial management.

For a tattoo shop, certain financial metrics are especially critical. These include your revenue, cost of goods sold (COGS), gross profit margin, and net profit margin.

Your revenue encompasses all the income from tattoo services and related sales, providing a clear view of how the market responds to your offerings. COGS, which includes the cost of tattoo supplies and direct labor, aids in understanding the direct costs tied to your services.

The gross profit margin, calculated as (Revenue - COGS) / Revenue, indicates the efficiency of your service process, while the net profit margin, representing the percentage of revenue left after all expenses, shows your overall financial health.

Projecting sales, costs, and profits for the first year requires an in-depth analysis of various factors. Begin by analyzing the local market and your target clientele. Estimate your sales based on elements like location visibility, local competition, and pricing strategy.

Costs can be divided into fixed costs (such as rent and utilities) and variable costs (like tattoo supplies and hourly wages for artists). It's important to be conservative in these estimates and consider fluctuations in sales and costs throughout the year.

Developing a realistic budget for a new tattoo shop is essential.

This budget should cover all anticipated expenses, including rent, utilities, equipment, initial inventory of supplies, labor, marketing, and a contingency fund. Allocating funds for unforeseen expenses is also crucial. Keep your budget adaptable and review it consistently, making adjustments based on real performance.

In financial planning for a tattoo shop, key metrics include your break-even point, cash flow, and supply turnover rate.

The break-even point informs you of the sales volume needed to cover your costs. A positive cash flow is vital for daily operations, while a good supply turnover rate suggests efficient management of your tattoo materials.

Financial planning can vary greatly between different types of tattoo shops.

For instance, a high-volume, walk-in-focused shop might prioritize quick service turnover and cost-effective supplies, aiming for a high number of clients. In contrast, a boutique tattoo studio might have higher costs for unique inks and skilled artists, focusing on custom designs and a personalized client experience.

Recognizing signs that your financial plan may be off-base or unrealistic is crucial. We have detailed all these indicators in the “Checks” tab of our financial model. This offers guidelines to swiftly correct and tweak your financial plan to obtain relevant metrics.

Warning signs include consistently falling short of sales targets, rapidly diminishing cash reserves, or supplies that either run out too fast or accumulate unused. If your actual figures are regularly much different from your projections, it signals that your financial plan needs revision.

Finally, the key indicators of financial health in a tattoo shop's financial plan include a stable or increasing profit margin, a healthy cash flow enabling you to effortlessly cover all expenses, and a consistent achievement or surpassing of sales goals.

No worries, all these indicators are “checked” in our financial plan , and you will be able to adjust them accordingly.

You can also read our articles about: - the business plan for a tattoo shop business - the profitability of a a tattoo shop business

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10 Best Tattoo Promotion Ideas for Artists and Studios in 2024

• May 9, 2024

Table of Contents

We know how frustrating can be a thought of promoting your tattoo services when you not only have to create the best tattoos but also learn how to handle a bunch of social media. In this guide, we’ll cover the basics of marketing in simple terms so you can focus on what you do best — creating amazing designs. 

We’ll explore a variety of creative and effective tattoo promotion ideas to help you stand out in the competitive tattoo industry. Additionally, we’ll share unique insights on how a tattoo artist can maximize the benefits of an InkMatch profile and learn about the main building blocks of a successful brand . So let’s get started!

A Quick Guide to Marketing for the Realm of Tattoos

As a tattooist, you’re not just an artist — you’re also a business owner . Like any other business, you need to grow it, but how do you do it? That’s where marketing comes in. But don’t worry if you’re not a marketing guru — we’re here to help!

Marketing is all about promoting your tattoo art to attract more customers. It involves strategies to promote your designs, connect with potential clients, and grow your reputation in the tattoo community. Think of it as telling people why they should choose you over other tattoo artists.

“To become a truly successful tattoo artist, you need to use all the tools available. If we compare it to the construction of a building, the technique makes up the foundation, while social media and marketing strategies make up the middle part. Finally, at the very top, there are your designs and ideas. Just like building a solid house, mastering all these elements is crucial to success in the tattoo industry.”

— Firstjing in an interview with InkMatch

There are many ways to promote tattoos, and they can all be categorized into two main groups — traditional and digital. These include social media presence, participation in tattoo conventions, and more, which we’ll talk about next. But the main promoters of your tattoos are happy customers.

Best Tattoo Promotion Ideas: Traditional and Digital 

Let’s take a look at some tattoo promotion ideas that are suitable for both individual tattoo artists and tattoo shop owners. Consider combining traditional and digital promotion strategies to boost your tattoo business and gain a foothold in the industry. 

Experiment with different approaches to find what works best for you, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your tattoo promotion. With these ideas and your dedication, you’ll build a thriving tattoo business. Let’s get started!

Tattoo Artist Promotion Ideas

Ideas for promoting tattoo artists mainly focus on developing social media and websites, but we have prepared some more useful tips. It’s also important to remember that the best advertising for your tattoos is your technique, designs, and customer-oriented approach.

• Social media

In the modern world, social media is the ultimate tool for promoting a tattoo artist. We recommend creating an account on Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest, as these are the main platforms where the tattoo enthusiast category is widely adhered to. Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube can also be used. 

Of course, no one can handle all these social media at once without a team, so it’s worth choosing 1 to 2 resources that are the most convenient for you. Instagram is the best social media for tattoos, and all top tattoo artists actively use it for their promotion. On Pinterest , people look for inspiration and thus can find a tattoo artist with their preferred style.

TikTok and Twitter can be additional ways to promote, as they are more focused on promoting your personal brand rather than designs.

To promote on social media, it is firstly important to gain followers on Instagram. There is no universal recipe, but we can give you some tips. Publish content regularly and organize stories in highlights; besides, choosing the right hashtags is an important part of the process. Promotion experts also recommend including the most important information in the first line of the account description, as it is always used by search services.

Actively engage with your audience on social media by responding to comments, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of your work, and posting Q&A posts. But remember, the real star of the show is your art. Consistently share fresh, high-quality designs to keep your audience hooked.

One of the main problems with social media is the difficulty of finding local followers, and they are the ones who can later become your customers. You can try several strategies to solve this problem — using local hashtags, [su_tooltip style=”bootstrap” position=”west” size=”3″ content=”SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization, it is the process of optimizing a website or content for example with keywords, so that its pages become popular for users search queries and search engines rank them better.”] SEO [/su_tooltip] optimization of texts, and the help of your customers. Let’s go through them.

The first option is very popular but is not the most effective, the second will help local users to find your posts through Google Search. There are many keyword research resources available to help you find the right ones for your site. It’s also a great idea to consult an expert when creating a website to maximize results.

The third way is very effective in gaining local followers. Offer your clients to post healed tattoos with your account tagged in exchange for a small discount for the next session. This way you will get a triple benefit — an additional photo of your design, promotion among your clients’ friends, and a chance of client return.

Maintaining so many social media accounts can be exhausting, so you can focus on Instagram and create an online portfolio on the InkMatch platform, for example. Such an account could passively attract clients, so let’s talk about this service.

• InkMatch portfolio

Join tattoo platforms like InkMatch where clients can browse portfolios of tattoo artists and find a style that matches their preferences. There is a huge catalog of tattoo artists out there, and tattoo seekers are actively using this platform.

InkMatch has many benefits, one of which is the handy filters to search by style and city. This means that with this platform, you may get more local clients interested in your style. This will be a great addition to your social media.

InkMatch portfolio example on different devices

When building your portfolio, pay special attention to styles, as they help you to get noticed in the search engine. It’s also worth filling out the bio in detail and adding a couple of lines about your hobbies. This will help the client see your character and build trust faster.

Another option might be to create a professional website to showcase your portfolio, bio, pricing, and contact information. Ensure that your website is visually appealing, mobile-friendly, and easy to navigate to leave a lasting impression on visitors. But keep in mind that building your own website takes a lot of time and resources, and only pays for itself over time.

• Tattoo conventions

Tattoo fans love tattoo conventions because it’s a chance to see live work by your favorite artists and interact with them. This is a great opportunity to showcase your skills and share your experience with other tattoo artists. These events attract a diverse audience and provide an excellent chance to gain exposure and attract new clients.

• Flash tattoos for a holiday sale

The power of limited-time offers works wonders, and knowing how to use it will help you promote tattoos better. Offer special flash tattoos at discounted prices on holidays such as Halloween or Valentine’s Day. 

Promote this offer on your social media to attract more people, and after having a pleasant experience, they may come back or recommend you to their friends or relatives. 

Tattoo Shop Promotion Ideas

While walk-in customers are always welcome, relying solely on curiosity won’t guarantee a steady flow of business. To truly thrive in the competitive tattoo industry, you need a strategic promotion plan in place.

In addition to the tips below, remember that cultivating a strong social media presence is as crucial for tattoo studio owners as it is for artists.

Google My Business

Google Maps are a reliable source of clients, as many people still use them to find tattoo shops. For best results, it’s worth detailing your contact information, location, and hours of operation to improve your visibility in local search. We also recommend creating similar profiles for Yelp, Bing Places, and other search engines as they are gaining popularity lately.

Customer service

Provide exceptional customer service to create a positive experience for every client. Train your staff to be friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive to client needs, ensuring they feel valued and satisfied with their tattoo experience. After such an amazing visit, they will want to leave a positive review and recommend your tattoo parlor to their friends.

Events outside your standard hours

Host special events outside your regular business hours, such as art shows featuring local artists or tattoo-themed exhibitions. This allows you to engage with your community, attract new visitors to your tattoo shop, and showcase your shop’s unique atmosphere. So, the next time they think about getting a tattoo, they will definitely think of your tattoo parlor.

Gift certificates

Offer gift certificates that can be redeemed for tattoo sessions or merchandise at your shop. These make great gifts for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions, and they also help promote your brand to new potential clients.

Website and online booking system

Maintain a user-friendly website with an integrated online booking system that allows clients to schedule appointments conveniently. Ensure that your website is optimized for search engines and provides essential information about your shop, artists, services, and pricing. This helps streamline the booking process and attracts clients who prefer to book appointments online. 

How to Build a Successful Brand?

Building a brand is an important part of promoting a tattoo artist or tattoo studio. It’s how your social media followers see you, connecting with your audience and building trust and loyalty. Let’s look at the basic building blocks for a strong personal brand in the tattoo industry.

Creative name and slogan

The name of your tattoo parlor should be catchy and reflect the style of the tattoo artists working with you. If your shop offers a variety of tattoo styles, it may be best to go with a more neutral name. 

The slogan should also reflect what sets your salon apart from the competition and resonates with your target audience. If you are a tattoo artist, you may consider taking a memorable pseudonym, but most artists keep their real names.

Visualization (logo, business card, website design)

Invest in professional branding materials such as a distinctive logo, stylish business cards, and a visually appealing website design. Consistent branding across all platforms will help create a strong identity for your tattoo parlor and build brand recognition.

There are many universal ideas for tattoo artist business cards and studio logos, but it is better if you come up with an idea or even a design reflecting your uniqueness yourself.

Authenticity and building trust

Be sincere and transparent in communication with clients to build trust and loyalty. Demonstrate your experience, passion for tattooing, and commitment to quality craftsmanship to reassure clients that they are in good hands. Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews and testimonials to build your reputation and credibility.

How Do You Know You’re Doing Everything Right?

Now that you’ve put so much effort into promoting your tattoo business, it’s important to know how to track your results. Of course, the number of customers is first and foremost. Are more of them coming in? Are they coming back for a new tattoo? Do they recommend you to their friends? Don’t be afraid to ask your clients to leave feedback on their experience. Use their comments to identify areas for improvement.

The second important metric is social media. Keep an eye on follower engagement, website traffic, and customer reviews. Are people liking and sharing your posts? Are they booking appointments through your website? Pay attention to what works and what doesn’t. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different promotional strategies to see what resonates best with your audience. 

By regularly evaluating your promotional efforts, you’ll be able to make sure you’re on the right track. Define clear promotion goals, this could be: increasing your social media followers, booking an appointment, or expanding your customer base. Break your goals down into smaller, achievable tasks, and monitor your progress regularly.

To summarize, promoting your tattoos requires a multi-faceted approach that combines both traditional and digital marketing strategies in combination with building a strong brand . We explored the best tattoo promotion ideas from the artists’ and tattoo parlor owners’ perspectives.

By being proactive, creative, and not afraid to try new things, you’re sure to attract more clients, build a loyal customer base, and establish a reputation as a top-notch tattoo artist or salon in your city and then across the country.

The InkMatch team wishes you the best of luck!

💎 What Social Media Is Best for Tattoos?

Instagram is the leading social media for tattoo artists, as it is easy to share your designs there. In addition, you can also create your portfolio on the InkMatch platform to attract more new clients.

📢 How Do Tattoo Artists Advertise?

Tattoo artists often advertise on social media like Instagram and Facebook, where they showcase their work and connect with potential clients. They may also use their own websites or online portfolios like InkMatch.

📈 How Do I Get More Clients for My Tattoo?

To attract more clients for your tattoo business, focus on building a strong online presence, engage with your audience, and strive to provide the best customer service. And most importantly, improve your tattooing skills.

🤩 Who Is the Target Audience for Tattoo Content?

They are usually young people who value self-expression, creativity, and individuality and are often passionate about music. They may also be people who are facing a midlife crisis and are looking for a change in their lives. But in general now that tattoos are no longer stigmatized anyone can want to get inked.

🤔 How Do People Find Tattoo Ideas?

People mostly find tattoo ideas on visual-oriented social media sites such as Instagram and Pinterest, where they can browse through the designs of different tattoo artists. Our gallery of designs is also a handy resource for finding tattoo ideas.

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