Electrum's tattoo culture blog
Electrum's Tattoo Culture Blog
The Business of Tattooing - Tattoo Less, Earn More: 3 Things Six-Figure Tattooers Do Differently
Let’s get one thing straight - just being good at tattooing isn’t enough anymore. The artists pulling in six figures aren’t necessarily the most talented, most followed, or most booked-out. But they are running their business like a business. They know their numbers. They don’t live in their DMs. And they’re making content that connects and converts.
Read more
What Actually Happens to Your Skin During a Tattoo?
Most people know a tattoo needle “goes into the skin,” but almost nobody knows how it actually works — or why the skin reacts the way it does. Understanding the process can calm nerves, set realistic expectations, and help you take care of your tattoo properly once you leave the studio. Here’s the real story of what your skin is doing during a tattoo. 1. Your Skin Isn’t Just One Layer — It’s Three A tattoo interacts with all three of your skin’s layers: • Epidermis – the top layer you can see• Dermis – the middle layer where tattoos live• Subcutaneous tissue – the deeper cushion of fat Your artist isn’t “drawing” on the surface — they’re depositing pigment into the dermis, the layer that doesn’t shed. That’s why tattoos stay permanent while the outer layer exfoliates every 28–40 days. 2. The Needle Moves Way Faster Than You Think Professional tattoo machines can move needles anywhere from 50 to 3,000 times per second, depending on the style, machine, and technique. The needles aren’t dragging across your skin. They’re: puncturing → depositing ink → retractingover and over and over in tiny, controlled micro-wounds. This is why even a small tattoo feels intense — your skin is processing thousands of micro-injuries in real time. 3. Your Immune System Immediately Jumps Into Action The moment the needle starts working, your body treats it like a controlled injury. Here’s what happens internally: • Blood flow increases• White blood cells rush in• Inflammation begins• The area warms up and may swell slightly This reaction is normal and healthy — it’s your body starting the healing process from the first few seconds of the tattoo. 4. Ink Settles Into the Dermis — and Stays There Once the needles pass through the epidermis, the pigment enters the dermis. Some ink particles get eaten by immune cells called macrophages, which is part of why tattoos stay put — those cells essentially “hug” the pigment particles. Other particles stay suspended in the dermal matrix. Together, they create the tattoo you see through the upper layer of skin. 5. The Top Layer of Skin Gets the Most Irritated Even though your tattoo heals in the dermis, the epidermis takes the immediate hit: • redness• swelling• a stinging or warm sensation• slight pinpoint bleeding• “weeping” (clear plasma) This is why your tattoo may look a little angry in the first hour or two — that outer layer has just been punctured thousands of times. This is also where a gentle cleanser comes in. Something like Electrum Cleanse, which is pH-balanced and alcohol-free, helps remove excess plasma and reduce surface irritation without stripping the skin, so your epidermis can calm down faster. (Not a hard sell — just the science. Harsh soaps make the irritation worse.) 6. The First 24 Hours Are Just Controlled Inflammation A lot of clients worry their tattoo looks “too red” or “too swollen.” In reality, the first day is simply your body doing its job. Typical reactions include: • redness around the lines• warmth in the area• some swelling• light oozing of plasma• sensitivity when touched This is not infection.This is not something going wrong.This is healing, exactly as expected. Using a gentle wash (again, something formulated for broken skin like Cleanse) helps keep the area free of bacteria and calm, but the real magic is happening under the surface. 7. The Epidermis Starts Repairing Within Hours Once the initial response settles, your skin begins rebuilding: • new epidermal cells form• the tattooed area starts to tighten• a thin layer of “sheen” or gloss appears• light scabbing or flaking begins This phase often lasts 3–7 days. Your tattoo may look dull or cloudy — that’s just the healing skin sitting on top. The real color will come back when the new epidermis fully forms. 8. Deep Layer Healing Takes Weeks Even when it looks healed, your tattoo is still stabilizing in the dermis for 4–8 weeks. Under the surface: • collagen reorganizes around the pigment• macrophages settle and hold pigment particles• internal swelling decreases• the ink becomes more clearly defined This is why touch-ups shouldn’t happen early — the skin needs time to rebuild its structure. 9. Why Knowing All This Helps You Heal Better When clients understand what their skin is doing, they: ✔ don’t panic during normal irritation✔ avoid overwashing or scrubbing✔ understand why gentle cleansing matters✔ follow aftercare more consistently✔ recognize when something is actually wrong And most importantly:They let their tattoo heal the way it was designed to.
The Surprising Things That Fade Tattoos — and How to Prevent It
Most people think tattoos fade because they’re “old,” but fading is almost always the result of how you treat your skin. Some of the biggest tattoo-fading culprits are things people don’t even realize they’re doing. Here’s what actually makes tattoos blur or lose vibrancy — and how to keep your ink looking crisp for years. 1. UV Exposure (The #1 Enemy of Every Tattoo) The sun is the biggest reason tattoos fade. UV rays break down pigment molecules and weaken the dermis, causing colors to dull and lines to blur. How to prevent fading:• SPF 30–50 on healed tattoos• reapply every 2–3 hours outside• avoid tanning beds (they destroy ink) Black and color tattoos both fade — color just shows it faster. 2. Dry Skin Makes Tattoos Look Dull When the surface layer of skin is dehydrated, it turns: • flaky• tight• uneven Light scatters differently across dry skin, making tattoos appear washed out even if the pigment underneath is fine. Consistent moisturization keeps your tattoo clear and vibrant. 3. Over-Exfoliating or Using Harsh Products Retinol, exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA), scrubs, and strong soaps can fade tattoos over time because they increase cell turnover at the surface. This doesn’t “erase” the tattoo, but it makes the top layer thinner and disrupts how the ink appears through the skin. Prevention:• avoid exfoliants directly on tattoos• use gentle cleansers• don’t scrub healing ink A pH-balanced, non-stripping wash like Electrum Cleanse is ideal when a tattoo is fresh and vulnerable. 4. Picking, Scratching, or Over-Washing a Healing Tattoo A healing tattoo is basically an open wound. Anything that removes scabs or disrupts healing can pull pigment out with it. Common mistakes that cause fading in the first week: • scratching itchy tattoos• picking flakes• using hot water• overwashing with harsh soaps• “letting it dry out” Healing tattoos need a gentle routine, not aggressive cleaning. 5. Friction From Clothing Areas that constantly rub (ribs, ankles, hips, under bra straps, socks, waistbands) can fade faster simply because pigment gets irritated over time. What helps:• breathable fabrics• avoiding harsh seams• proper moisturization• giving fresh tattoos space to heal 6. Poor Aftercare in the First 72 Hours Most long-term fading begins in the first few days, not years later. If the barrier is damaged early by: • overwashing• harsh soaps• tight clothing• sleeping on your tattoo• dirty environments …it can permanently affect how well the ink holds. Gentle cleansing and protecting from friction are the biggest factors in this early window. 7. Natural Skin Aging Even the best tattoos soften slightly over time, because: • collagen breaks down• skin loses elasticity• lines aren’t as sharp• cell turnover slows This is normal human biology — but how well you treat your skin determines how fast it happens. Sunscreen, moisturization, and avoiding harsh products will keep tattoos looking fresh much longer. How to Keep Tattoos Looking Sharp for Life • Wear sunscreen, even in winter• Moisturize daily• Use gentle cleansers• Avoid excessive exfoliation• Don’t pick at healing tattoos• Minimize friction• Keep skin hydrated from the inside out Tattoos don’t fade because they’re doomed.They fade because life, environment, and habits affect the skin. Treat the skin well, and the ink stays vibrant for years.
How to Protect Your Tattoo in Winter (When Everyone’s Skin Hates You)
Winter is the season your skin loves to betray you. Dry air outside, blasting heaters inside, hot showers, windburn — it’s all a recipe for flaky, irritated skin that can make your tattoo look dull, itchy, or even distorted while it heals. But winter doesn’t have to wreck your ink. With a few smart habits, you can keep your tattoos sharp, hydrated, and vibrant through even the worst February. 1. Moisture Is Everything — And Winter Steals It From You Cold air holds almost no moisture. Your skin loses hydration faster, which can cause: • flaking• dullness• tightness• irritation• raised or bumpy tattoos (especially older ones) During winter, moisturization isn’t optional. It’s survival. What clients should do:Use a gentle moisturizer consistently — not just when the tattoo feels dry. Hydrated skin stays flexible and preserves the clarity of your lines. 2. Hot Showers Are Winter’s Silent Tattoo Killer Everyone loves boiling showers when it’s freezing outside — but that hot water strips the skin’s barrier faster than anything. When the barrier breaks down, tattoos look faded, patchy, and irritated. Swap this:Scalding showers → warm showersLong soaks → quick rinsesFragranced soaps → gentle, pH-balanced washes 3. Healing Tattoos Hate Heavy Clothing Friction Winter = sweaters, wool, layering on layering. Healing tattoos = do not want that. Friction can cause: • premature scabbing• peeling• scuffing• ink loss in fresh tattoos If your tattoo is fresh, choose: • loose cotton• breathable layers• nothing abrasive• nothing that sticks• avoid tight leggings or heavy wool over fresh tattoos Think cozy, not suffocating. 4. Keep Your Skin From Freezing (Literally) It doesn’t take much wind for exposed skin to chap or crack. Fresh tattoos can get: • windburn• stinging• dryness• irritated flaking Cover your tattoo outside — but avoid airtight plastic or clingy materials. 5. Humidifiers Are Your Secret Weapon Indoor heating dries out skin faster than outdoor cold. Running a humidifier adds moisture back into the air and makes a massive difference for tattoo longevity. If someone’s tattoos get itchy or raised every winter, this is usually the fix. 6. Winter Sun Is Still Sun (Sneaky but Real) Winter has a false sense of security — but UV rays bounce off snow and hit your skin even harder. UV = the #1 cause of tattoo fading. Once healed, your tattoo still needs SPF, even in winter, even on cloudy days. Winter Tattoo Care Summary • moisturize regularly• avoid scalding showers• keep friction low• use gentle cleansers• consider a humidifier• cover tattoos from wind• SPF once healed If summer is about protection, winter is about prevention. Take care of the skin and the tattoo will take care of itself.
THE 72-HOUR CANCELLATION WAVE - How to Protect Yourself Legally, Financially & Emotionally When Clients Bail at the Worst Possible Time.
If you’re losing money to last-minute cancellations… you’re not alone. 2024–2025 brought the biggest spike in 72-hour cancellations the tattoo industry has ever seen. Weather.Inflation.Childcare shortages.Job instability.Mental health waves.Seasonal depression. It’s not personal — but it IS a financial nightmare. Here’s what most artists don’t know:The majority of cancellations happen between 72–24 hours before the appointment.NOT the same day.NOT the 48-hour mark.72 hours. And unless your policy is structured to protect you in that exact window… you’re bleeding income. Let’s fix that. 1. The Industry Stats Every Artist Should Know Recent data across the US, Canada, UK & EU shows: • 72-hour cancellations are up 18–30% Across all markets and specialties. • Sunday–Tuesday are the danger days People get anxious before the week starts and bail. • Larger pieces cancel at higher rates Fear of cost + fear of commitment = bye. • Evening appointments cancel more than mornings Decision fatigue plays a role. • Most last-minute cancellations can be prevented Clients often panic. Scripts + reminders stop it. 2. How to Prevent 72-Hour Cancellations (Scripts Included) A. The Confirmation Script That Actually Works Send 3–5 days before the tattoo: “Hey! Just confirming everything for your tattoo on [DAY]. If you have ANY questions, nerves, or need to check details — I’ve got you. Here’s what to bring + what to expect. See you soon!” Clients get nervous.Reassurance reduces bailouts. B. The Deposit Reminder Script (Not threatening. Just grounding.) “Your deposit is applied toward your final total, and the appointment is fully locked in. If you need anything before then (prep questions, design nerves, etc.) just message me!” This reduces flakey panic-confirmation spirals. C. The “No-Reschedule Roulette” Script For clients testing boundaries: “I can move your appointment once if needed, but inside 72 hours my cancellation policy kicks in because I can’t refill the spot on short notice. Let me know what works best for you.” Clear. Calm. Firm. 3. Legally-Safe Cancellation Fee Structures Every policy must include: ✔ Clear timeframe “Inside 72 hours…” ✔ Clear consequence “Deposit is forfeited” or “50% fee due” ✔ Delivery method Clients must see it BEFORE booking. ✔ Neutral language Policy should sound procedural, not emotional. ✔ Digital agreement Screenshots, booking forms, emailed confirmations = proof. Recommended Policy Templates Option 1 — Deposit Forfeit Model Inside 72 hours → deposit forfeitedSimple. Enforceable. Widely used. Option 2 — 50% Cancellation Fee For artists doing large pieces. Inside 72 hours → 50% of expected session cost due. Works best for:• Day sessions• Large-scale projects• Returning clients Option 3 — Hybrid Model Deposit is forfeit+a smaller additional fee for high-volume days (Fri-Sun) This balances fairness + revenue protection. 4. Conflict-Free Language to Enforce Your Policy This is the “gentle spine” approach: soft tone, solid boundary. Template 1: They cancel inside 72 hours “Thanks for letting me know. Since we’re inside the 72-hour window, my cancellation policy applies and the deposit is forfeited. If you’d like to rebook, I can send available dates.” Template 2: They want a refund “I totally understand where you’re coming from. My booking policy is the same for every client so it stays fair and consistent. Inside 72 hours, deposits are non-refundable because I can't refill the time slot on short notice.” Template 3: They try to push back “I hear you — and I appreciate you being upfront. My policies are in place to protect my time, prep work, and income. I’m happy to help you find a new date, but the cancellation fee still applies.” 5. The Gift Card Salvage Strategy (Turns Cancellations Into Sales) If someone cancels inside 72 hours and is mad about losing money?Offer this: “If you prefer, I can convert your deposit into a gift card for the studio. It’s non-refundable but it never expires and can be used for future tattoos.” You keep the money.They feel validated.Everyone wins. The 72-hour cancellation wave is real — and it’s not going away.But it also doesn’t have to drain your bank account, energy, or confidence. Policies protect you.Scripts guide clients.Systems keep you sane. Your time matters.Your boundaries matter.Your financial stability matters. This is how you protect all three.
The Business of Tattooing - Why You’re Not Booking — and How to Fix It Fast
So Your Books Aren’t Full - Now What?Here’s the truth: most tattoo artists aren’t struggling because of their art.They’re struggling because their systems, communication, and visibility are letting them down. If you’re feeling burnt out, under-booked, or just over chasing clients - here are 4 things you can start doing today to fix that.
Does Color Ink Hurt More? The Truth Behind Reds, Whites, and Blacks
A client-friendly guide to pain, pigment, and what’s actually happening under your skin. There’s a long-standing rumor in tattoo shops that color tattoos hurt more — especially reds and whites. Some people swear red ink “burns,” others say white ink is torture, and blackwork feels the smoothest. But is any of that actually true? Let’s break down what’s myth, what’s science, and what’s simply technique. 1. The Color Itself Doesn’t Cause Pain Here’s the biggest truth upfront: Ink color does not determine pain. Your nerves don’t react to pigment — they react to: • needle configuration• speed• pressure• how many passes an area needs• how irritated the skin already is If the same needle and technique were used in the same spot, color wouldn’t magically hurt more than black. So why do people feel like it does? Because of what comes next. 2. Color Work Usually Takes More Passes Black ink typically saturates quickly and smoothly. It’s dense and flows well, which means fewer passes over the same line or area. Color ink — especially bright reds, yellows, and whites — often needs more careful layering: • more passes over the same spot• slower speed for smooth saturation• more time on irritated skin More passes = more irritation = more pain. It’s not the pigment hurting you — it’s how long your skin has been worked for. 3. White Ink Feels Worse Because It’s Done at the End This is the biggest reason clients say: “White highlights hurt the most.” By the time an artist pulls out the white ink, the skin is already: • irritated• swollen• tender• inflamed from previous passes White is rarely painful because it’s “white.”It’s painful because your tattoo is nearly finished — and your nerves are over it. 4. Red Ink Has a “Burning” Reputation — But Not for the Reason You Think A lot of clients describe red ink as: • spicy• burny• itchy• intense But again, this isn’t the pigment color causing the sensation. Possible explanations: 1. More passes – Reds often need smooth layering to look even.2. Sensitive skin types – Some people’s skin just reacts more visibly to trauma in areas filled with red.3. The body sees irritation as “redness” – so clients associate the color red with the feeling. In rare cases, people have sensitivities to certain red pigment ingredients — but that’s not pain during tattooing, it’s how the skin heals afterward (itching, bumps, irritation). Modern inks use safer, more stable formulas, but sensitivities still exist in a small percentage of clients. 5. Blackwork Feels Smoother, and There’s a Reason Black ink tends to: • saturate quickly• move efficiently through the skin• require fewer passes• glide better in most needle groupings Because the process is faster and cleaner, clients often report blackwork as: “sharp but manageable”“less stingy”“easier than color” This isn’t psychological — it’s the physics of how smooth black pigment flows. 6. The Body Part Matters More Than the Color Color vs. black doesn’t matter nearly as much as where you’re being tattooed. Least sensitive areas:• outer arm• thigh• upper arm• calf Most sensitive areas:• ribs• inner arm• spine• kneecap• elbow ditch• ankle• sternum If you compare a red tattoo on the upper arm to a black tattoo on the ribs, the ribs will win the pain contest every time. 7. Skin Condition, Hydration, and Stress Change Pain Levels Your body’s state can dramatically change the experience: • dehydrated skin hurts more• dry skin hurts more• stressed or anxious clients feel pain more intensely• poor sleep amplifies sensitivity Clients who come in rested, hydrated, exfoliated, and moisturized usually report smoother sessions. 8. Technique Is the Biggest Variable Some artists pack color with soft, smooth passes. Others work quickly but more aggressively. Some machines are tuned for gentle saturation; others hit harder. Pain varies because artists vary — not because ink is colored. So, Does Color Hurt More? Here’s the Real Answer: Color doesn’t hurt more because it’s color.It hurts more because: • it often needs more passes• it’s placed later in the session• the skin is already irritated• certain pigments require extra layering• your nerves are tired by the time you get highlights Black tends to feel smoother simply because it saturates quickly. White tends to feel sharper because it’s used last.Red tends to feel “spicy” because it takes more smoothing to lay it in evenly. The pain is about process, not pigment.
The Business of Tattooing - 4 tips for Dealing with Difficult Consultations
As a tattoo artist, consultations can either pave the way to amazing artwork or lead to frustrating dead ends. Difficult consultations often arise due to mismatched expectations, communication barriers, or clients unsure of what they truly want. Here's how you can expertly navigate these tricky interactions, ensuring your client leaves confident and your bookings stay full.
The Silent Killer of Bookings: Website + Bio Mistakes
If your bookings feel slower… your BIO might be the problem. Most tattoo artists think clients choose them based on skill. Nope. Clients choose based on clarity and trust, and your bio + website are the FIRST impression that creates both. In 2024–2025, attention spans are microscopic.If your bio doesn’t explain who you are, where you are, what you do, and how to book, clients bounce instantly. Here’s the hard truth: **Most artists unintentionally sabotage their bookings with tiny online mistakes. The good news? They’re all fixable in under an hour.** Let’s break down what’s actually hurting you — and how to run a high-converting online presence like a pro. 1. The 6 Bio Mistakes That Kill Trust These are industry-wide issues, and most artists are guilty of at least 3. ❌ Mistake 1 — No location in your bio Clients leave immediately if they can’t tell where you’re based. ❌ Mistake 2 — Style is vague or missing “Tattoo Artist” tells us nothing.Say the STYLE you specialize in. ❌ Mistake 3 — No CTA (Call to Action) A bio should lead to ONE clear step:“Book here.”“Submit a request.”“Flash drops weekly.” ❌ Mistake 4 — Portfolio is cluttered Old work, inconsistent work, different styles → lowers trust. ❌ Mistake 5 — No face, no vibe People book ARTISTS, not just tattoos.A photo of you builds huge trust. ❌ Mistake 6 — Link isn’t optimized for mobile 80% of potential clients click your link from a phone.If your link tree is messy or the form takes too long, they bail. 2. Website Issues That Ruin Conversions ❌ No “start here” button People panic when they don’t know where to go. ❌ Policies are hidden (or intimidating) Clients need clarity, not fear. ❌ Booking form takes too long If it takes more than 60–90 seconds → they leave. ❌ Prices aren’t explained clearly You don’t need to list your full prices.Just explain how pricing works. ❌ No studio environment photos Clean, safe studios convert better than the best portfolios. 3. The 12-Point Portfolio Conversion Audit (This is the part that artists screenshot, save, and share.) Run this checklist TODAY: Bio Location visible in first line Specializes in 1–2 styles Call-to-action included Link goes directly to booking Instagram Top 12 posts show your best style only Pinned posts: portfolio, flash, healed work No random selfie content cluttering Website Clear “Start Here” section Policies written in friendly tone Prices explained simply Fast, mobile-optimized form Studio photos included for trust Do these twelve things, and you’ll see an immediate change in your booking quality AND volume. 4. The Psychology Behind Fixing Your Bio Clients don’t book based on logic.They book based on certainty. Your portfolio shows talent.Your bio shows professionalism. When both are aligned?You become the safest, easiest yes. 5. Copy/Paste Bio Templates Blackwork Artist Example “Blackwork tattooer in Hamilton, ON ✖Floral • occult • femme-focused piecesBooking + flash → [link]” Fine Line Artist Example “Fine line + micro realism • TorontoHealed work + availability ↓Book here: [link]” Watercolor Artist Example “Watercolor + illustrative tattoos 🎨Studio in downtown MontrealFlash drops weekly. Book at link.” These convert. Consistently. 6. Final Reminder You can be the best artist in your city…but if your bio confuses people, they’ll never make it into your chair. Your art matters.Your presentation matters just as much. Fix your digital front door.Your bookings will follow.
Clients Are Spending Differently This Year — Here’s How to Pivot
If your books feel slower, your DMs feel quieter, or clients seem hesitant to commit… you’re not imagining it. North America, the UK, and much of Europe are experiencing a tattoo recession — not because tattoos are less popular, but because consumer spending is changing. People still want tattoos.They’re just spending money differently.
The Business of Tattooing - Creating a Tattoo Studio Culture That Retains Top Talent
As a seasoned tattoo artist and studio owner, I've seen firsthand how the right culture transforms a tattoo studio from merely a workplace into a thriving creative community. Attracting skilled artists is one thing; retaining them long-term is another challenge altogether. Here's how you can build an environment that motivates your artists to stay and grow alongside your business.
☀️❄️ How Do I Take Care of a Tattoo in Summer and Winter?
Your skin changes with the seasons — your tattoo care should too. Tattoos are forever, but your skin isn’t.Dry air, sun, heat, cold, sweat — every season can mess with your ink if you’re not careful. Whether you’re dripping in SPF or bundled in hoodies, here’s how to keep your tattoos bright, healthy, and aging gracefully all year round. ☀️ SUMMER: Protect the Ink, Not Just the Vibe 1. Sunscreen Is Non-Negotiable UV rays are your tattoo’s worst enemy. They break down pigment and make your tattoo look faded and dull.Rule: Any tattoo that’s healed (6+ weeks) needs SPF 30 or higher every day it’s exposed.Choose a mineral-based, fragrance-free sunscreen — your skin (and ink) will thank you. 2. Keep It Clean and Cool Sweat and bacteria can cause irritation on healing tattoos.If you’re newly inked, avoid the beach, pools, and lakes for at least 2 weeks — they’re full of bacteria that can lead to infection. 💚 Pro tip: Artists trust Electrum Cleanse to gently clean and refresh tattooed skin without harsh chemicals. It’s safe for fresh tattoos and perfect post-session. 3. Hydration = Glow Dehydrated skin looks dull, and so do your tattoos.Drink plenty of water, moisturize daily, and use lightweight, non-comedogenic lotions during hot weather to keep your tattoo supple and smooth. WINTER: Combat Dryness & Cracking 1. Moisturize Like It’s a Job Cold air and indoor heat = dry skin disaster.When your skin’s dry, it tightens and flakes — not cute, and not great for your tattoos.Use a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer twice a day to keep your tattoos looking sharp and your skin barrier happy. 2. Avoid Scalding Showers Hot water feels amazing, but it strips your skin’s natural oils.Opt for warm showers and pat (don’t rub) your tattoo dry afterward. Apply lotion while your skin is still slightly damp to lock in moisture. 3. Watch the Fabric Friction Winter clothing = layers = friction.Tight sleeves and scratchy fabrics can cause premature fading or irritation on healing tattoos.Stick to breathable layers and soft fabrics until you’re fully healed. 💚 Pro tip: New tattoos heal faster and stay protected with Dermor Tattoo Barrier Film. It keeps your tattoo safe from dry air, friction, and bacteria without suffocating your skin. All-Season Tattoo Care Rules Don’t pick or scratch your tattoo — ever. Keep it clean and lightly moisturized during healing. Use SPF every single day, no matter the season. Schedule touch-ups if your ink starts to fade — that’s normal over time. The Bottom Line Your tattoos deserve the same energy you give your skincare routine.Whether it’s blazing hot or freezing cold, taking a few extra steps each season keeps your art looking as fresh as the day it was done. Because good tattoos don’t fade — they’re protected.
The Business of Tattooing - How to price your tattoos without undervaluing your art and time
As a tattoo artist, pricing your work can be one of the most challenging aspects of the job. Setting rates that reflect your skill, experience, and time is essential—not just for your income but for establishing your value in the industry. Undervaluing your art can lead to burnout, frustration, and financial instability. Here’s how to price your tattoos confidently and fairly without selling yourself short.
About the Electrum Blog:
From tattooing's past to the future, the team of artists and shop owners at Electrum share their perspectives and knowledge on everything tattoo industry.
A few of the things you'll find in our blog posts:
- Business and Industry Insights: advice and ideas for tattoo business growth, current industry trends and strategies for attracting clients, whilst managing a full schedule.
- Compliance and Safety: Information regarding regulatory compliance and our mission to produce safe, compliant inks.
- Product Information: Details about our specific products.
- Interviews and Events: Discussions and recaps from industry events.
