ELECTRUM'S TATTOO CULTURE BLOG

10 Things Every Tattoo Artist NEEDS in Their Station (That Aren’t a Machine)
10 Things Every Tattoo Artist NEEDS in Their Station (That Aren’t a Machine)
So you’ve got your dream machine. Congrats, hotshot. But your setup doesn’t stop there—and your clients (and their immune systems) are counting on you. A good tattoo station isn’t just about what puts ink in skin. It’s about what keeps your process clean, professional, and stress-free from start to finish. Here are 10 essentials every tattoo artist should have in their station—none of which plug in.
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10 Things Every Tattoo Artist NEEDS in Their Station (That Aren’t a Machine)
10 Things Every Tattoo Artist NEEDS in Their Station (That Aren’t a Machine)
So you’ve got your dream machine. Congrats, hotshot. But your setup doesn’t stop there—and your clients (and their immune systems) are counting on you. A good tattoo station isn’t just about what puts ink in skin. It’s about what keeps your process clean, professional, and stress-free from start to finish. Here are 10 essentials every tattoo artist should have in their station—none of which plug in.
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You’re Not Supposed to Be Good Yet: Apprentice Imposter Syndrome 101
You’re Not Supposed to Be Good Yet: Apprentice Imposter Syndrome 101
If you’re in an apprenticeship and feeling like a total fraud—you’re not alone. You might be staring at your shaky linework thinking, “Why am I even doing this?”“I’m never going to be as good as my mentor.”“They probably regret taking me on.” First of all: Breathe.Every artist you admire started here. And no—you’re not supposed to be good yet.
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The Business of Tattooing - 8 Good habits for better mental health as a tattoo artist
The Business of Tattooing - 8 Good habits for better mental health as a tattoo artist
Being a tattoo artist is incredibly rewarding, but it can also be mentally and physically demanding. Long hours, high-pressure creative expectations, and constant interaction with clients can take a toll on your mental health if you’re not careful. Prioritizing self-care and establishing healthy habits isn’t just about feeling good—it’s about ensuring you can continue creating amazing art while maintaining your well-being. Here are the best habits for tattoo artists to support mental health
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The Business of Tattooing - How branding can set you apart as a tattoo artist
The Business of Tattooing - How branding can set you apart as a tattoo artist
As a tattoo artist, creating a cohesive brand goes far beyond simply showcasing your tattoo style. Your brand is the unique, memorable experience clients associate with you, from the way you interact to your studio's atmosphere and even the aftercare you provide. In 2025, clients are seeking artists who not only create great tattoos but also deliver an experience that reflects their own personalities, values, and aesthetics. Here’s how to build a cohesive brand that makes your work unforgettable and helps you attract more clients.
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why some tattoo clients return and others don't
The Business of Tattooing - The Psychology of Repeat Clients: Why They Come Back (or Don’t)
Every tattooer knows the thrill of a getting a new client - but repeat clients?! They’re the backbone of a sustainable career, returning clients not only bring steady income, they also become your biggest advocates, sending you referrals and posting your work on social media. So why do some clients stay in a long term relationship with one artist for years while others bounce? The answer is partially customer service and the other part: psychology.
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10 Questions You Should Ask Before Starting a Tattoo Apprenticeship
10 Questions You Should Ask Before Starting a Tattoo Apprenticeship
So you want to be a tattoo artist? Sick. But before you say yes to an apprenticeship—or drop a few thousand bucks—you need to ask the right questions. Why?Because not all apprenticeships are created equal. Some are solid mentorships that launch great careers. Others are overpriced, abusive, or… let’s just say questionable. These ten questions will help you spot the difference before you're scrubbing tubes for two years and learning nothing.
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What Tattoo Suppies to Upgrade First When You Can’t Afford to Upgrade Everything
What Tattoo Suppies to Upgrade First When You Can’t Afford to Upgrade Everything
Every artist hits that point: your setup works… but barely. Your back hurts, your stencils slide off, your ink looks like it came from a gas station. You want to level up—but your bank account said, “be serious.” Here’s the realistic, not-sponsored, artist-approved guide to what you should actually upgrade first when money’s tight.Prioritized by: Client safety → Tattoo quality → Artist health.
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If Your Art Is a Trend, So Is Your Tattooing Career
If Your Art Is a Trend, So Is Your Tattooing Career
Tattoo trends are shaped by a mess of influences—everything from celebrity culture to the gravitational pull of social media algorithms. The problem? Trends move faster than ink heals. When artists hitch their entire business to the latest micro-style, they’re gambling with burnout, client regret, and financial instability. Let’s break down why.
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