Electrum's tattoo culture blog
Electrum's Tattoo Culture Blog
The Business Of Tattooing - Try Doing ANYTHING Else Before Complaining About This Slow Season
Tattooing gets slow. It’s not personal. It’s cycles, spending patterns, weather patterns, and sometimes the universe is just a little hater. But here’s the part no one likes hearing: sitting in your shop mumbling about how “it’s dead” won’t magically summon clients. 1. Gather Client Info (You Know… Like A Business) Tattoo artists love saying “I don’t know how to get clients.” Baby, you had them. They literally sat in your chair. You just never… collected their info. What you need:• Name• Email• Phone• Birthday• Interests (tiny multiple-choice works)• Past tattoos done by you• What they want next What to do with it:• Email them a quarterly newsletter (offers, new designs, studio updates)• A “birthday treat” flash discount• A “Hey, it’s been 6 months, let’s touch up/finish that piece” message Ways to collect this without feeling like a mall kiosk:• Add an iPad at checkout with a form• QR code on your front desk• Link in your bio for “studio updates + first-to-know drops”• Run a “Giveaway only for my mailing list” every few months People want to be contacted when it’s relevant. Just don’t be weird about it. 2. Fix Your Bio, Link, Highlights, and Grid Clarity beats aesthetics. Bio checklist:• Your city• Your style• Your booking link• A reason to book you Highlights:• Healed work• Aftercare• Available flash• FAQ• Prices/start rates Grid:Mix of:• Tattoo photos• Videos• Behind the scenes• Your face• Healed pieces• Flash• Offers People can’t book you if they don’t understand you. 3. Make Something. Anything. Slow season is creation season. • Draw new flash• Design a print• Build a healed gallery• Reorganize your booking process• Shoot a “day in the life”• Try a new cartridge group (Fire will make you feel like a god, by the way)• Set up retail in your studio (aftercare, prints, merch)• Test new workflows (Electrum Cleanse instead of harsh soaps) Motion creates momentum.Momentum creates bookings. 4. Email People Back Like It's 2019 You know what clients complain about most?Artists not replying. Set aside 30 minutes a day.Answer your emails.Follow up with old inquiries.Send price ranges, next steps, and booking instructions. This isn’t rocket science.It’s basic professional behaviour. 5. Build Community Instead of Waiting for One • Collaborate with a piercer• Make a “flash Friday” event• Host a meet-and-draw night• Ask other local businesses if you can leave cards or stickers• Donate a gift certificate to a fundraiser• Ask clients to send healed photos• Repost every healed photo in a highlight called “Healed” The artists who stay busy are the ones who stay visible. 6. Make a Website (Really. 2026 is coming. Be serious.)** You do not need a masterpiece. You need something functional. Bare-minimum pages:• Portfolio• About you• Booking form• Prices or starting rates• Aftercare• Shop location + hours• FAQ Easy tools that won’t fry your brain:• Wix• Squarespace• Shopify (if you want to sell prints or merch too) Your Instagram is not your website.Your booking link is not your portfolio.Your clients are confused, even if they’re too polite to say it. 7. Make Clear Offers (‘I have flash’ tells me nothing)** Artists keep posting the same three phrases:• “Books open”• “I have flash”• “DM to book” It’s vague. It’s giving: “please fail me harder.” Clear, irresistible offers look like:• “Three palm-sized floral designs available this month, $250 each, colour or black.”• “One last-minute spot tomorrow 3pm. Pick from these designs.”• “$100 off multi-session projects booked before Sunday.”• “These four flash pieces are pre-sized, pre-priced, and ready to go.” Tell people what you want them to buy.Humans love being explicitly guided. 8. DM People (And Relax, This Isn’t Begging) Don’t send “hey do you wanna book?” like some desperate Craigslist ad. This is how you do it: Human messages that actually work:• “Hey, I saw you got your first tattoo recently. How’d it heal?”• “You liked my post about lettering yesterday. Are you planning something?”• “Saw your story about your birthday. If you ever want a birthday tattoo, I’d love to design something.”• “Thanks for following. If you ever need inspo, I’ve got tons saved.” You’re not asking for a booking.You’re building rapport. People book tattoos with artists who feel like people, not robots holding machines. 9. Post Useful Stuff (Not Just Finished Tattoos) When it’s slow, educate. Teach. Share knowledge. Post things clients save because it’s useful. Ideas grounded in actual audience behaviour:• “Tattoo placement guide for first timers”• “What to wear for your tattoo appointment”• “How to choose reference photos”• “Tattoo pain chart”• “Healing week by week”• “Things I wish clients knew before their first big piece”• “Why good tattoos take time” If you’re constantly delivering value, people don’t forget you. 10. Talk on Camera (Quit Overthinking Your Face) Video performs better than photos. This isn’t a vibe; it’s every platform’s documented behaviour. But artists avoid video like it’s a hex. Stuff you can talk about without planning a TED Talk:• “Here’s a mistake beginners make in tattooing…”• “Designs I wish clients would ask for”• “Why artists charge what they charge”• “How to prep your skin before a tattoo”• “How lines heal vs how lines look day one”• “One thing I won’t tattoo anymore and why”• Time-lapse of a stencil• Your set-up (bonus points if you show Fire Cartridges, duh) The camera wants your voice, not your perfection. Slow seasons are inevitable.What you do during them is optional. This industry rewards the artists who act, build, talk, show up, and try.Not the ones sighing into their coffee. Now go do literally anything except complain. That’s the whole newsletter.
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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.
The Business of Tattooing - From Passion to Profit: Business Essentials for Tattoo Artists
Turning your passion for tattooing into a thriving business involves more than just creating amazing art—it requires a solid foundation in business strategy. Whether you're just starting out or looking to streamline your existing operations, understanding the business essentials is key to sustainable growth and profitability. Here’s how to transform your tattoo artistry into a successful enterprise.
The Business of Tattooing - Why “Exposure” Isn’t Payment, But Visibility Can Be Currency
Tattoo artists have been hearing it forever: “We can’t pay you, but think of the exposure.” Most of us know that’s BS. You can’t pay rent with exposure, and you can’t buy ink with Instagram likes. But here’s the twist: in the TikTok + IG era, visibility can translate into real bookings—if you treat it strategically. The difference between empty “exposure” and valuable visibility is how you leverage it.
The Business of Tattooing - Booked Out for 6 Months”: The Hidden Financial & Emotional Risks Behind the Flex
In today’s tattoo industry, being “booked out for months” is the ultimate flex. It signals demand, status, and credibility. But behind the humblebrag? There are hidden costs—financial, emotional, and cultural—that most artists don’t talk about.
How to Get a Tattoo Apprenticeship in 2025 (Without Selling Your Soul or Getting Scammed)
So you want to be a tattoo artist in 2025? That’s amazing.But let’s get one thing straight from the start: There is no official “Apply Here” button.Tattoo apprenticeships aren’t handed out like college acceptances. You can’t just DM your favorite artist and expect to be welcomed with open arms. You have to earn it.With your art. Your attitude. And your ability to show up and shut up (with respect). Here’s exactly how to do it.
The Business of Tattooing - How Tattoo Artists Can Create a Safer and More Inclusive Space for ALL Clients
In the world of body art, a tattoo isn’t just ink and skin—it’s a deeply personal expression of identity, culture, and history. As more clients seek tattoo artists who understand and respect their identities, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive environment for diverse clients has never been more important. By implementing a few thoughtful practices, you can help your clients feel seen, respected, and cared for. Here are some actionable steps you can take as a tattoo artist to help foster a positive experience for every individual who walks through your door.
How to Build a Tattoo Flash Book (That Doesn’t Suck)
So you’ve got a few designs, a sketchbook full of half-finished ideas, and a burning desire to be taken seriously.Time to build a flash book, right? Yes—but let’s make it one that doesn’t suck. Whether you’re an apprentice or a new artist, your flash book is more than just “cool art”—it’s your handshake, your pitch, your silent sales rep sitting on the counter waiting to get picked. Here’s how to make one that clients actually want to pick from. 1. Know the Purpose of Your Flash Book Your flash isn’t just for show.It should: Help clients choose something from your style Show off your linework and saturation skills Give you consistent practice with designs you love Make it easy to say “No customs, flash only this month” A good flash book = fewer chaotic last-minute redesigns + more tattoos you actually want to do. 2. Pick a Style and Stick to It Flash isn’t where you show off your range.It’s where you define your voice. If your flash book has: A cute kawaii frog A biomech skull A photorealistic lion A fine line flowerYou don’t look versatile—you look like you’re still figuring out who you are. Pick a vibe. Commit. Build around that. 3. Design for Skin, Not Just Aesthetics Tattoo flash has to be tattooable. Not just pretty. When designing: Use bold, clean linework Avoid excessive tiny detail that won’t heal well Think about placement—arm, thigh, ankle—does it fit? Use black to create depth and contrast, even in color pieces If it wouldn’t hold up in five years, it doesn’t belong in your book. 4. Organize It Logically Nobody wants to flip through chaos. Try organizing your book by: Theme (flowers, critters, daggers, spooky babes) Size or pricing tiers Color vs. black and grey Label clearly. Include dimensions, prices (if applicable), and whether designs are repeatable or one-and-done. 5. Print It Professionally (or Neatly AF) Yes, you can use an iPad or a nice binder, but don’t make it look like a high school art project. Options: Laminated printouts in a sleek portfolio binder A branded iPad flash book for easy browsing Printed zines you hand out or sell at events Use consistent formatting. Add your name/handle on each page. Sign your flash. 6. Update It Regularly Your style evolves. Your skill improves.That flash sheet you loved 6 months ago? Might not hit the same now. Schedule time every month or so to: Retire old pieces Redraw or tweak old designs Add new ones you’re excited about Make seasonal or themed sheets (Halloween flash, Pride flash, etc.) 7. Make It Easy to Choose from The best flash books don’t intimidate people.They spark joy and say: “Pick me. I’m gonna look hot on your leg.” Don’t overload your pages. Keep the layout clean.Highlight your favorite pieces.And make sure someone who knows nothing about tattoos could flip through and fall in love. Bonus: What to Avoid Sloppy linework (clients notice) Unclear pricing or sizing Ripping other artists’ flash (you will get called out) Adding customs into the flash book (keep them separate) TL;DR: Flash That Sells = Art You’d Want Tattooed on Your Best Friend Because if you’re going to spend hours drawing it, printing it, and showing it off—you deserve to actually tattoo it. Start small. Stay consistent. Keep refining.
The Business of Tattooing - The Ultimate Guide for Tattoo Artists: Creating Viral Content for Instagram Reels & TikTok
Creating engaging, professional-grade content is essential for tattoo artists looking to boost their visibility and attract more clients. Here’s your ultimate guide, complete with gear recommendations and specific filming techniques.
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.
The Business of Tattooing - Stop Letting Instagram Control Your Income
Instagram is a great tool—but it should never be your only one. If every time the algorithm shifts your bookings slow down, your business is too dependent on a platform that you don’t own.
The Business of Tattooing - Affiliate Marketing Isn’t Selling Out — It’s Buying In (to Your Worth)
If you flinched a little when you heard “affiliate marketing,” you’re not alone. Tattoo artists have been taught that making money outside of sessions is "cringe" or "selling out." Like if you’re not dying behind the chair 60 hours a week, you’re not legit. Babe, that’s a lie. Affiliate marketing done right isn’t about being fake, pushing junk, or selling your soul. It’s about getting paid for the influence, trust, and expertise you already share, every single day.
The Business of Tattooing - Beyond Instagram: Using TikTok and Twitch to Build Your Tattoo Business
Instagram has long been a go-to platform for tattoo artists showcasing their portfolios, but if you're looking to grow your client base further and stand out from the crowd, it's time to explore less conventional, yet highly engaging platforms like TikTok and Twitch. Here's how artists are successfully expanding their businesses through these innovative channels.
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.
