Tattoo Jobs

Tattooing is a form of art that involves creating permanent designs on the skin using ink and needles. Tattoo artists are professionals who have the skills and experience to perform this service for clients who want to express themselves through body art. However, tattoo artists face a dilemma when it comes to choosing where to work: should they work in a traditional tattoo shop with multiple artists, or open their own private studio?

 

There are pros and cons to both options, and the decision may depend on various factors such as personal preferences, career goals, financial situation, and market demand. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of working in a shop or opening a studio as a tattoo artist:

 

Working in a Shop

 

Pros:

 

- More clientele: Working in a shop can expose you to more potential customers who walk in or book appointments. You can also benefit from the reputation and marketing of the shop, as well as referrals from other artists or clients.

- Work experience: Working in a shop can help you gain valuable work experience and learn from other artists who have different styles and techniques. You can also get feedback and advice from your peers and mentors, and improve your skills and confidence.

- Creative collaboration: Working in a shop can allow you to collaborate with other creative people who share your passion for tattooing. You can exchange ideas, inspire each other, and work on projects together. You can also enjoy the social aspect of working in a team and having a sense of belonging.

 

Cons:

 

- Less income: Working in a shop can mean that you have to pay a percentage of your earnings to the shop owner or manager as rent or commission. You may also have to pay for your own supplies, equipment, insurance, and taxes. This can reduce your income and limit your financial freedom.

- Less autonomy: Working in a shop can mean that you have to follow the rules and policies of the shop, such as working hours, dress code, hygiene standards, customer service, etc. You may also have to deal with competition, conflicts, or politics among other artists or staff. This can limit your autonomy and creativity.

- Less flexibility: Working in a shop can mean that you have to adhere to a fixed schedule and accommodate the needs and preferences of your clients. You may not have much control over the type, size, or style of tattoos that you do. You may also have to deal with cancellations, no-shows, or complaints from customers. This can limit your flexibility and satisfaction.

 

Opening Your Own Studio

 

Pros:

 

- More income: Opening your own studio can mean that you get to keep all of your earnings without paying any rent or commission to anyone else. You can also set your own prices and charge more for your services if you have a loyal clientele and a unique style. This can increase your income and financial independence.

- More autonomy: Opening your own studio can mean that you get to make all the decisions regarding your business, such as location, design, equipment, supplies, marketing, etc. You can also choose the kind of tattoos that you want to do and specialize in your own niche or style. This can increase your autonomy and creativity.

- More flexibility: Opening your own studio can mean that you get to set your own hours and work at your own pace. You can also choose the clients that you want to work with and decline any requests that you don't feel comfortable with. You can also take breaks or vacations whenever you want without asking for permission. This can increase your flexibility and happiness.

 

Cons:

 

- More risk: Opening your own studio can mean that you have to invest a lot of money upfront to start and maintain your business. You may also have to deal with more legal, financial, and administrative responsibilities such as licenses, permits, taxes, insurance, accounting, etc. You may also face more competition from other studios or shops in your area. This can increase your risk and stress.

- More isolation: Opening your own studio can mean that you have to work alone most of the time without any support or guidance from other artists or staff. You may also miss out on the social interaction and camaraderie that comes with working in a team. You may also have to deal with difficult or unhappy customers by yourself without any backup. This can increase your isolation and loneliness.

- More pressure: Opening your own studio can mean that you have to rely on yourself for everything related to your business. You may also have to work harder and longer to attract and retain customers and build your reputation and brand. You may also have to deal with more expectations and demands from your customers and yourself. This can increase your pressure and burnout.

 

Conclusion

 

Tattoo artists have to weigh the pros and cons of working in a shop or opening their own studio. There is no right or wrong answer, as different options may suit different personalities, goals, and situations. Tattoo artists should consider their own strengths, weaknesses, preferences, and aspirations before making a decision that can affect their career and life.