The Business Of Tattooing: The Client Experience Funnel

You’ve probably heard the word funnel tossed around in business and marketing. Here’s the simple version:

A funnel is the step-by-step journey your client takes from stranger → paying client → repeat client. When you map this journey and tighten it up, you book more clients, waste less time, and turn one-off tattoos into lifelong relationships.

The Funnel Breakdown

1. Awareness (They Find You)

• Where clients first discover you: IG, TikTok, referrals, Google.

• Strong branding + consistent posting gets them curious.
  👉 Action Step: Post at least 3x a week and always show your healed work.

2. Interest (They Reach Out)

• First DM/email sets the tone. Speed + clarity matter.

• Have an auto-reply or booking form to save time.
  👉 Action Step: Set up an IG auto-reply with booking info.

3. Conversion (They Book)

• Make it EASY: clear deposit info, calendar link, prep guide.

• Confusion kills sales—simplicity closes them.
  👉 Action Step: Use a templated “Thanks for booking” message with payment link.

4. Experience (They Get Tattooed)

• This is where you overdeliver: clean setup, warm vibe, professional demeanor.

• Sell aftercare on the spot (Dermor, Cleanse, barrier film) → increases income & ensures better healed work.
  👉 Action Step: Create a “client comfort checklist” (water, snacks, pillows, playlist).

5. Retention (Tattoo Heals & Beyond)

• Follow up after 2 weeks: ask about healing + request healed photos.

• This keeps you top-of-mind for their next tattoo.
  👉 Action Step: Save a DM template: “Hey [Name], just checking in—how’s the tattoo healing?”

Why It Works

A funnel removes guesswork. Clients never feel lost, you look pro, and your work heals better because you controlled the process. More trust = more rebooks.

And every step can be paired with upsells:

• Prep (Stencil Primer, Cleanse)

• Aftercare (Dermor Tattoo Barrier)

• Loyalty (merch, flash days, touch-up offers)

Artist Funnel Template (Copy & Use)

DM Response Template:
“Thanks for reaching out! I’d love to tattoo you. Here’s my booking link + deposit info: [insert]. Once you book, I’ll send prep info so you’re ready for the appointment.”

Booking Confirmation Template:
“Thanks for booking! Your deposit is locked in. Please bring valid ID, eat a good meal, and arrive on time. My studio is located at [address].”

Aftercare Template:
“Your tattoo is finished! Here’s your aftercare: [insert steps]. I recommend Dermor Tattoo Barrier—it makes healing so much smoother. You can grab some today or order online here: [link].”

Follow-Up Template:
“Hey [Name], just checking in—how’s your tattoo healing up? If you can, send me a healed pic. Can’t wait to see you again for your next piece!”

Want to build a funnel that prints repeat clients? Start with the essentials every stage depends on:
👉 Shop Electrum Stencil, Dermor, and Aftercare