The Business Side of Tattooing
- sara phillips
- Nov 8
- 3 min read
Tattooing is an art, but running a successful tattoo career is also a business. Without the right legal setup, financial systems, and marketing strategies, even the most talented artists can struggle to grow.
At Bone & Blossom Tattoo Studio, a female-owned inclusive tattoo shop in Lombard, IL, we believe in empowering artists with the tools they need to thrive—not just creatively, but financially and professionally. Here’s what every tattoo artist should know about building a strong business foundation.
Choosing the Right Legal Setup
The first step in protecting yourself and your work is setting up the right business structure. For most independent tattoo artists, an LLC (Limited Liability Company) offers the best balance of protection and flexibility.
Why an LLC matters:
Protects personal assets: Your personal finances are separate from your business liabilities.
Builds credibility: Clients and partners see you as a professional.
Tax flexibility: You can choose how your income is taxed, potentially saving money.
If you’re not sure how to set up an LLC, your state’s Secretary of State website is a great starting point—or work with a business attorney to ensure everything is filed correctly.
Bookkeeping and Taxes Made Simple
Tracking your finances is about more than just preparing for tax season—it’s about understanding your business.
Bookkeeping tips for tattoo artists:
Separate accounts: Keep personal and business banking separate.
Track every expense: Supplies, equipment, rent, marketing, and education can all be deductible.
Save for taxes: Set aside a portion of every payment (typically 25–30%) for quarterly tax payments.
Use software: QuickBooks, Wave, or FreshBooks can simplify invoicing and reporting.
Working with an accountant who understands creative businesses can help you maximize deductions and avoid costly mistakes.
Marketing That Keeps Your Books Full
Marketing isn’t just about getting noticed—it’s about attracting the right clients for your style and schedule.
Newsletter Marketing:
Build an email list from your client base and social media followers.
Use newsletters to announce booking openings, flash events, and new projects.
Share behind-the-scenes insights, healed work, and client stories to keep your audience engaged.
Social Media Marketing:
Post consistently with a mix of fresh tattoos, healed pieces, and process content.
Use relevant hashtags like #TattooShopLombardIL and #InclusiveTattooStudio to reach your target audience.
Engage with followers by replying to comments and DMs to build relationships that lead to bookings.
The Artist as Entrepreneur
It’s easy to think of yourself only as an artist, but if you want longevity in tattooing, you have to think like an entrepreneur. That means:
Planning ahead: Set income goals and review them quarterly.
Investing in growth: Take classes, upgrade your equipment, and explore new marketing tools.
Diversifying income: Offer merch, prints, or art commissions in addition to tattooing.
Final Thoughts
The creative side of tattooing may get the spotlight, but the business side is what keeps the lights on. By setting up your legal structure, maintaining solid bookkeeping, and using strategic marketing to keep your schedule full, you set yourself up for a long, successful career.
At Bone & Blossom Tattoo Studio, we’re not just committed to creating beautiful tattoos—we’re dedicated to helping artists grow as professionals and business owners.
Are you a tattoo artist? We would love to know more about how you run your business!
We have surveys that help us know how we can better help and prepare fellow tattoo artists to set up themselves for success.
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