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.
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.
In the world of tattooing, technical skill is only part of the equation. Tattoos are deeply personal, often carrying stories, emotions, and meaning for the people who wear them. As a tattoo artist, your clients aren't just looking for a great piece of art—they’re looking for someone they can trust with their stories, their vision, and even their vulnerabilities. One of the most powerful ways to build that trust is by showing your human side. Letting your clients see who you are beyond the tattoo machine can make a world of difference in your career and client relationships.
You’re not a mess.You’re not bad at being organized.And babe, you don’t need to “just focus harder.”You need better systems that actually work with your brain.
Tattooing demands insane levels of mental load every day:✅ Hygiene and bloodborne safety✅ Design focus✅ Client conversations✅ Time management✅ Physical stamina
If you don’t have good systems in place, it’s not if you’ll burn out, it’s when.
YOUR ACCOUNT USERNAME, NAME AND BIO Your username should be your name or business name, as short as possible and if your name alone is not available; try adding a word for context "tattoo, tattoos, ink" for example if your name is Joey Smith, @joeysmith, @joeysmithtattoos, @inkbyjoey @joeytattoos etc. in your bio, your name should be your name or business name and then the city you work in and your profession. for example, Joey Smith | Tattoo Artist in Elkhart IN or Joey Smith Tattoos | Elkhart IN
A great consultation can turn a curious inquiry into a lifelong client. If you want to nail your next tattoo consultation, here are some tips to help you prepare and win over clients.
Join for weekly insights and articles about today's tattoo industry - written by shop owners and tattoo artists for shop owners and artists. Every article provides actionable tips and insight for today's tattoo economy.