Inside Tattoo Shops: What to Really Expect

Social media and TV often paint a picture of Tattoo Shops that’s far from reality, exaggerating some aspects while downplaying others. This distorted image can make it hard for aspiring tattoo artists to truly understand what working in tattoo shops is like before diving into the industry.

To give you a clearer perspective, I’ll share my decade-long experience working in various tattoo shops, offering an honest look at the good, the bad, and even the occasionally unpleasant aspects of this profession.

The Culture of Tattoo Shops: More Than Just Ink

Throughout my years in the industry, I’ve observed that most tattoo shops share a similar physical setup. You’ll consistently find the same types of equipment and comparable layouts for waiting areas, tattooing spaces, and artist zones, where essential supplies like autoclaves and stencil machines are kept.

However, what truly shapes the atmosphere of tattoo shops isn’t the equipment or layout, but the people and the relationships forged within them.

Tattoo Artists: Collaboration or Competition in Tattoo Studios?

Television often portrays tattoo artists in tattoo studios as fierce rivals, constantly battling for dominance. While dramatic for TV, this isn’t the typical reality. In my experience, strong friendships are common among artists. We often socialize outside of work because a positive work environment is crucial when you spend so much time together. It’s normal to see artists in a shop chatting, observing each other’s work, and sharing techniques.

However, honesty compels me to admit that with larger teams of five or six artists, occasional personality clashes can occur. Sometimes, an individual might struggle to integrate, perhaps trying to assert dominance or create drama. These situations rarely last; such individuals usually leave, either voluntarily or otherwise.

Interestingly, ego-driven issues tend to be more pronounced in tattoo shops where the overall skill level is lower. When talented artists work together, the focus shifts to mutual learning and professional growth. But if you have a shop of mediocre artists and a genuinely skilled apprentice joins, it can unfortunately breed jealousy and tension.

In less successful tattoo shops, where walk-in clients are scarce, competition for customers can escalate existing insecurities and lead to bitterness and drama among artists.

Tattoo Shop Hierarchy: The Pecking Order Explained

A clear hierarchy undeniably exists within tattoo shops. Understanding this structure is key to navigating the professional landscape.

Shop Owner: The Top of the Tattoo Shop Food Chain

At the apex of the tattoo shop hierarchy is the owner. Their decisions are final, and ultimately, the artists are there to generate revenue for the shop. Owner approachability varies greatly. In my career, I’ve encountered two primary types of owners: those who are also tattooers and those who are purely business-oriented.

Owners who actively tattoo, often occupying the prime booth in the studio, can be less approachable. There’s often an unspoken dynamic where they subtly assert their position as the top artist within their own shop, which can create some tension.

Conversely, owners who are solely businesspeople tend to be more approachable. Their primary focus is maximizing profit, and they understand that artist satisfaction directly contributes to that goal. They are invested in maintaining a positive environment to retain talent and ensure smooth operations within their tattoo studios.

Lead Artists/Veteran Artists: The Power Players in Tattoo Shops

Veteran artists, or lead artists, are seasoned professionals who have been in the industry for a significant time. They are usually the top earners in the tattoo shop, second only to a tattooing owner, if applicable. They enjoy preferential treatment in many aspects of shop operations. Owners prioritize their happiness because they are major revenue drivers and significantly influence the shop’s financial success. They also have the luxury of choosing clients and can pass on less appealing or smaller walk-in tattoos to newer artists.

New Artists: Starting at the Bottom in Tattoo Studios

Newly licensed tattoo artists typically start at the lower rungs of the tattoo studio ladder. While they can delegate tasks to apprentices, they are expected to respect the seniority of lead and veteran artists. They are in a phase of building their clientele and reputation within the tattoo shop environment.

Apprentices: The Shop Slaves of Tattoo Shops?

The treatment of apprentices varies across tattoo shops. It’s common for apprentices to initially take on the role of “shop slave,” spending their first year cleaning, sterilizing equipment, running errands, and managing the front desk. Often, they don’t even handle tattoo machines in their first year.

Essentially, apprentices handle the less desirable tasks within the shop. I personally disagree with this extreme approach because apprentices are the future of the tattoo shop. If they are treated poorly during their initial years, they are likely to leave once they become skilled artists, negating the owner’s investment in their training. Tattoo studio owners often regret high turnover rates resulting from mistreating apprentices.

Navigating Issues in Tattoo Shops: A Guide to Conflict Resolution

Here’s a quick guide on how to address common issues in tattoo shops:

Client Issues:

Generally, I prefer to handle client issues directly to ensure customer satisfaction. However, for significant problems, informing the tattoo shop owner is necessary as it’s their business. For design-related disagreements, seeking input from other artists in the shop can be beneficial.

Artist Issues:

Direct communication with the artist is usually the best first step. Going to the owner immediately can be seen as unprofessional. If the issue is serious and unresolved, involve the owner, keeping in mind they may prioritize the higher-earning artist.

Equipment/Material Issues:

Artists are typically responsible for their own equipment. Minor issues during a tattoo session can be resolved by asking a nearby artist for help. Shop owners should only be involved for building-related problems like HVAC failures. Purchasing new tattoo machines or personal equipment is generally the artist’s responsibility.

Note: If you are an apprentice and feel unsafe or uncomfortable, it is important to report this to the tattoo shop owner immediately.

Pay and Hours: The Business Side of Tattoo Shops

While hours and payment might seem separate from shop culture, they are intrinsically linked. Tattoo shops with exploitative payment structures and unreasonable hours often indicate a toxic work environment. Most tattoo studios classify artists as independent contractors.

Fair compensation is essential, but new artists are sometimes misled about commission structures. Here’s a breakdown of common revenue shares:

Revenue Share:

60/40 (Artist’s way): The artist receives 60%, common for experienced artists responsible for their own supplies and marketing. This is the standard I personally operate under in tattoo studios.
50/50 (Even split): A 50/50 split is fair if the tattoo shop provides some disposable supplies and actively markets to attract clients for the artists. This is also common for apprenticeships.
40/60 (Shop’s way): A 40/60 split, favoring the shop, is generally unfavorable for the artist unless in exceptional circumstances, such as apprenticing with a highly renowned artist in a low-income region. It’s advisable to seek tattoo shops with fairer commission structures.

Payment is often in cash, but this can vary.

Work Hours:

The 9-5: Many tattoo shops, especially for new artists, expect a 9-to-5 presence. Flexibility varies, but extended hours may be viewed differently depending on the shop’s culture. My personal workday in a tattoo shop usually ends around 6 PM.
Additional Work: Tattooing is more than just a job; it’s a lifestyle. Expect to spend 2-4 hours daily outside shop hours designing for clients and managing administrative tasks like social media inquiries and bookings.
Tattooing After-Hours: Some artists take machines home for security, while others leave them at the shop. Shop policies on after-hours tattooing vary. Some owners may suspect artists of stealing clients if machines are taken home. It’s crucial to understand the shop’s stance on this.
Apprentice Hours: Apprentices should NEVER take machines home to avoid any perception of unauthorized tattooing that could jeopardize their apprenticeship.
New Artist Hours: New artists should expect to work almost constantly (24/7) to build their clientele, including extensive social media engagement. This demand lessens as a client base grows.

Note: As your income grows, consider hiring a virtual assistant to manage administrative tasks.

Setting Your Own Hours: Veteran artists often have more flexible schedules due to their value to the tattoo shop. Owners, of course, set their own hours. However, apprentices are typically expected to adhere to the strictest schedules, being the first to arrive and last to leave.

No Vacation, No Sick Days: The Reality of Tattoo Shop Benefits

In tattoo shops, artists are usually contractors, not employees, meaning traditional benefits like paid vacation, sick leave, or 401Ks are not provided. Time off directly impacts income for both the artist and the tattoo shop owner, which owners are not always thrilled about. However, guest spots offer a way to travel and earn simultaneously, a unique benefit of this industry.

While sick days aren’t formally offered, being genuinely ill necessitates staying home. A shop owner who pressures a sick artist to work is a red flag. Similarly, health insurance and retirement plans are typically the artist’s responsibility, as earnings are commission-based with no base salary.

The Casual Vibe of Tattoo Shops: Dress Code and Language

Tattoo studios generally have a relaxed atmosphere. Suits are rarely seen behind the counter. However, professionalism is still key.

Closed-toe shoes are the main dress code requirement for safety reasons. Beyond that, casual and trendy attire is common. I prefer darker clothing to hide ink stains. Changing clothes immediately upon returning home is advisable, especially for artists with families, to prevent potential contamination.

Language and Swearing:

Swearing is common in tattoo shops and often used humorously. However, abusive language towards clients or colleagues is unacceptable. Hate speech is not tolerated in reputable tattoo shops.

Clients: The Heart of Tattoo Shops – Both Rewarding and Challenging

Client interactions are a spectrum. Some lead to incredible conversations and connections, while others can be more challenging, especially in street tattoo shops. However, there are strategies to attract more desirable clients.

Client Reactions: Passing Out and Throwing Up – Rare but Real

Client fainting during tattoos is often exaggerated in popular media. In my ten years, I’ve only encountered about 4-5 instances. However, preparation is key. I advise clients to eat beforehand and regularly check in on their well-being during sessions, offering sugary drinks if they feel unwell.

Vomiting is even rarer. Client hygiene issues, however, are a more common and less pleasant reality. Poor hygiene can be significantly more challenging for the artist than blood or needles.

Managing Pain: Breaks and Comfort During Tattoo Sessions

Clients often request breaks due to pain. However, frequent long breaks can actually worsen the pain as the area cools down and stiffens. Shorter, less frequent breaks (around every 2 hours) are generally better for both artist and client. In cases of pain-induced nausea, breaks are necessary. I sometimes use Bactine as a mild numbing and redness-reducing agent, even if its primary effect is psychological.

Booth Buddies: Why Some Tattoo Artists Prefer Solo Tattooing

Many first-time clients want companions in the tattoo area. While artist preference varies, I personally discourage it based on experience. Friends can cause distraction, encourage dramatic pain reactions, influence design choices, and generally disrupt the tattooing process with extra questions and movement. Overcrowding can also increase heat in the booth, and hovering friends can create discomfort and hinder movement. Children in the booth pose safety hazards and distractions.

Design Rejection: When Tattoo Artists Say No

Some experienced artists decline designs simply due to repetition. While I rarely refuse designs for income reasons, I draw a line at offensive or hateful content. Even new artists should not be pressured to tattoo designs that violate their values or exceed their current skill level.

The Ideal Tattoo Client: What Tattoo Artists Look For

While I strive to provide the best service to every client, there are definitely “ideal” and “less ideal” client types.

The BEST Clients…

…Have Money. They are willing to invest in quality tattoos, respecting the artist’s skill and time. They often opt for larger, more elaborate pieces and become repeat customers.
…Have Good Skin. Younger women often have optimal skin due to better skincare routines. Clinically speaking, healthier skin is easier to tattoo. However, I value all clients and enjoy working with diverse individuals, recognizing that older skin and smaller flash pieces are also part of the profession, even if they present different challenges or less financial return.

The WORST Clients…

…Bring Their Kids. Children in a tattoo shop create safety and distraction concerns.
…Haggle Over Price. Price haggling devalues the artist’s work and expertise.
…People With Bad Hygiene and Major Health Issues. Poor hygiene creates unpleasant working conditions. Significant obesity can make positioning clients difficult, and certain health conditions can affect tattoo healing.
…Are Clearly On Drugs. Intoxicated clients are unpredictable, move excessively, and often regret their tattoos.
…Are On Their Phone Constantly. Excessive phone use, especially for constant social media posting, leads to disruptive movements during tattooing.

Attracting Your Ideal Clients: Shaping Your Tattoo Career

Attracting clients who value your work and align with your preferred tattoo styles is a gradual process. Certain career choices influence the type of clientele you attract:

Your Tattoo Style: Your artistic specialization directly impacts your client demographic. Tribal styles attract different clients than delicate fine-line work. Staying informed about current trends can also influence client types.
Your Location: Urban tattoo shops tend to attract a more affluent clientele, while shops in less affluent or rural areas may attract a different demographic.
Your Experience Level: Building a desirable clientele takes time. Initially, tattooing a wide range of clients is necessary. As you gain experience and refine your style, you’ll naturally attract clients who appreciate your specific aesthetic.

Tattoo Shop Perks: Little Luxuries That Make a Big Difference

Certain amenities significantly improve the tattoo shop work environment:

Tattoo Shop Luxuries:

Front Desk Staff: A receptionist frees up artists from administrative tasks, allowing them to focus on tattooing.
Air Conditioning: Essential for comfort and hygiene, especially during long tattoo sessions.
Private Booths: Private spaces enhance concentration and client privacy.
Stencil Machine: Saves considerable time and effort in stencil preparation.
Advertising: Shop-provided advertising is invaluable, especially for new artists, in building their client base.

The Real Deal: Pros and Cons of Tattoo Shop Life

The biggest downside of working in tattoo shops is ending up in a shop that prioritizes profit over artist well-being. I once worked in a shop that discouraged guest spots to prevent any potential loss of income, highlighting a purely exploitative approach.

Back pain is another often-overlooked challenge due to prolonged hunching. Maintaining good posture, taking breaks, and strength training (especially deadlifts) are crucial for spinal health.

However, the advantages of tattooing far outweigh the disadvantages. It’s a career that allows me to pursue my passion daily in a creative and engaging environment, surrounded by supportive colleagues. The ability to travel and work globally is an unparalleled perk. Tattooing has provided an exciting life filled with diverse experiences and connections worldwide.

Ready to Dive In? Starting Your Career in Tattoo Shops

Traditionally, entering tattoo shops required a lengthy, unpaid apprenticeship, often lasting 2-4 years, filled with menial tasks to “earn” tattooing knowledge.

Now, programs like Tattooing 101’s Artist Accelerator Program offer a faster route to becoming a professional tattoo artist, potentially in as little as 90 days. This program condenses the traditional apprenticeship curriculum into video modules, providing a structured and efficient learning experience to help you start your career in your dream shop or even open your own tattoo business.

Click here to learn more about the Artist Accelerator Program.