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.

1. Start With a Foundation of Respect and Understanding
Inclusivity begins with education and personal reflection. Being aware of the unique challenges, joys, and identity markers of different communities can help you approach your clients with greater empathy.

Make time to learn about terminology, pronoun usage, and the evolving language around sexual orientation, gender expression, and identity.

While it’s not necessary to be an expert, showing that you’re making an effort to understand is invaluable. Consider sharing community resources, including those offered by Electrum Tattoo Supply and other industry groups committed to equity and diversity, so your clients feel supported well beyond the tattoo chair.

Ensure your tattoo portfolio includes all body types and skin tones.

Don't be a creep, allow clients to remove as little clothing as necessary, to cover up when possible. Provide dividers and privacy screens in studios that are open concept. 

Don't take photos showcasing excessive extra skin or body parts. Don't take overly sexual photos of clients. If clients share photos after the tattoo that you want to share, then that's up to your judgement but don't be a weirdo.

2. Make Your Studio a Judgment-Free Zone
Your studio should be a place where clients feel comfortable being their authentic selves. One easy way to signal inclusivity is through visible symbols and messaging. Display inclusive signage—such as pride flags, stickers, or posters that highlight your commitment to safe, respectful service. Consider offering gender-neutral restrooms if possible, and make sure your staff and any apprentices are on the same page about welcoming clients of all genders and orientations.

Ensure that you don't comment on a persons body, don't suggest a different placement because it will simply look better on their body in your opinion, only suggest changes that will benefit the client (not putting in locations where it wont heal as well, not placing it upside down, placing a design on a flatter area so it doesn't warp etc)

Don't comment on the body of your clients. period. 

3. Use Inclusive Language and Pronouns
Words matter. Begin consultations by asking for your client’s name and pronouns, and make sure you and your staff use them consistently. If you make a mistake, simply apologize, correct yourself, and move forward—no need to draw extra attention to it. Adjusting your language to be more neutral and less assumptive can go a long way in making your clients feel understood. For instance, instead of saying, “Do you want to get a feminine design?” you might say, “Do you want a more soft lined illustrative style design?” This approach keeps the focus on the client’s artistic vision rather than implying any preconceived notions about their identity.

Another tip is put your pronouns on business cards, on your social pages in the bios, on your website, in your email signature etc. This helps normalize the use of pronouns.

4. Curate a Comfortable Consultation Process
The consultation sets the tone for the entire experience. Make sure your consultation forms are inclusive—offering clients room to describe their pronouns on consultation forms and waivers. Online booking systems and intake forms that offer them the choice to use their correct pronouns signal that you’ve thought about their comfort from the very start. Emphasize confidentiality and reassure clients that their personal information is safe. By making your consultation process intentional and respectful, you build trust right from the get-go. 

5. Collaborate With Community Organizations
Your work as a tattoo artist goes beyond the ink. Consider partnering with local organizations or charities, sponsoring community events, or offering discounts to clients seeking tattoos that celebrate their identities.

Not only does this support your local community, but it also strengthens your studio’s reputation as a genuinely inclusive and affirming space. Clients will notice your commitment and feel more secure coming to you for their body art. 

7. Regularly Reflect and Adapt
Creating a safe, inclusive space isn’t a “set it and forget it” initiative. It’s a continuous process of learning, evolving, and growing as both an artist and a professional. Ask for client feedback, listen to what they have to say, and be open to adjusting your practices. Through ongoing dialogue, you’ll stay current with the needs of your clients and the community you serve.

At the end of the day, the best tattoo experiences emerge from mutual respect, communication, and empathy. By proactively creating a studio environment that values inclusivity, you not only elevate your business but also help all your clients feel truly at home—comfortable, safe, and free to express themselves fully. Just as your art is a lifelong journey of exploration and skill-building, so too is your commitment to building a space where everyone is empowered to tell their story on their own skin.