Before opening up shop, make sure you have all the tattoo supplies you need.
The art of tattooing is becoming more and more socially acceptable. Consequently, tattoo artists and tattoo shops are in popular demand. If you're an experienced tattoo artist who knows what you need to open a tattoo shop, you may be able to start a thriving business.
Permits and Licensing
Although you won't need any type of college degree or formal education to open a tattoo shop --- you don't even have to be a tattoo artist --- you may need certain licenses, health permits or sanitation certifications to operate legally. Depending on your state, you may even be subject to an inspection of the shop before being issued a license or permit. Check with your local city, county or state government agencies to learn which local regulations you must follow.
Work and Office Space
You'll need a clean and sanitary workspace with enough room to accommodate several tattooing stations so your tattooists can work comfortably. For customers, your workspace will need reclining chairs (like dentist's chairs) and tables to lie on. There should be several mirrors mounted to the walls, a reception area with seating and a counter to make payments, sales and transactions. Generally, tattoo shops have a small office area somewhere on-site for making and receiving telephone calls, storing files and office supplies and conducting administrative tasks.
Equipment & Materials
Reclining chairs and flat tables are usually needed in a tattoo shop.
Essentials for opening a tattoo shop include the necessary equipment and materials. You'll need a high-quality color printer, an autoclave machine to sterilize equipment, tattoo machines (or "guns") and the corresponding foot pedals and power suppliers. Besides chairs and tables, required furnishings include a tracing table with a light underneath. Other supplies are individually wrapped and sterile tattoo needles in various sizes, black and colored inks, latex gloves, spray bottles and paper towels.
Artwork
Keep large selections of flash art handy for browsing clients.
Every tattoo shop needs a considerable amount of artwork for customers to browse. If you are the artist, keep a portfolio readily accessible to customers who are interested in your work. If you employ several artists, an ample compilation of their original artwork should also be kept on hand. Making several pages of "flash art" --- general tattoo designs --- available is also recommended, because it will give customers additional choices.
Qualified Staff Members
Check the professional backgrounds of potential employees before hiring.
To maintain a reputable tattoo shop, you'll need a professional staff. Whether your shop is a small or large operation, and even if you are the featured or primary artist, you'll probably need at least two artists to perform tattoos. Thoroughly investigate a tattoo artist's professional background before hiring, and review all past employment references and artwork portfolios. Photos of tattoos and letters of recommendation from satisfied customers may indicate good candidates. Meanwhile, an assistant or receptionist is often needed to answer phones, greet guests and prepare clients for procedures.
Marketing Plan
Like any other business, the success of a tattoo shop will rely on quality services and effective marketing. Whether you choose to advertise by TV and radio ads, Internet promotions, word-of-mouth or a combination of methods, a business and marketing plan is a must. No matter how great your tattoo shop and artists are, if no one knows about you, reaching your maximum profit potential is unlikely. A well-thought-out marketing strategy is crucial for success.
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