The Ripple Affect: How Bone & Blossom Tattoo Studio Is Using Continuing Education To Create a More Inclusive Tattoo Industry

At Bone & Blossom Tattoo Studio in Lombard, IL, we believe tattooing should be inclusive, intentional, and accessible to all. That’s why our owner, Sara Phillips, has partnered with Emily from Evergreen Studio to launch a new initiative: The Ripple Affect — a project rooted in community, transparency, and education.

The Ripple Affect is a community committed to mentorship, education, and systemic change in the tattoo industry. This project is one of the first steps in identifying what’s missing from client education and what tattooers need to thrive in a more equitable work environment.

Illustration by owner Sara of the B&B storefront

Why Continuing Education Matters

The tattoo industry has traditionally operated behind a curtain—gatekeeping knowledge, failing to support diverse voices, and overlooking the client experience. But that’s changing.

At Bone & Blossom, a woman-owned, inclusive tattoo studio rooted in the Chicago suburbs, we’re choosing to lead with connection, respect, and collaboration. The Ripple Affect is about listening deeply, sharing honestly, and empowering the next wave of artists and shop owners through education and access.

Be Part of the Ripple

Whether you’re a longtime collector or new to tattooing, your story helps us shape an industry where everyone feels seen, safe, and celebrated. We’ll be sharing updates and findings through our newsletter, along with other collective projects in the works—so be sure to sign up for the latest.

Help Us Shape the Future

Whether you're an artist or a collector, your voice matters. As part of The Ripple Affect, we’ve created a series of quick, anonymous surveys designed to gather honest feedback from both clients and tattooers. Your responses will directly inform how we educate, support, and evolve the industry from the inside out.

Here’s what we’re asking for:

• Tattoo Client Survey: Help Us Help You!

  This survey is all about improving your experience—from booking and design to aftercare and communication. We want to know what you wish you knew before your first tattoo and how artists can make things clearer and more comfortable.

• Tattoo Artist Supply Shop Interest Survey

  Are you a tattoo artist who struggles to find reliable, ethical, or inclusive supplies? This survey explores the need for a supply shop designed by artists, for artists—with better access, education, and transparency.

• Tattoo Artist Life & Career Longevity Survey

  Tattooing is physically and emotionally demanding. This survey helps us understand what artists need to build sustainable careers with less burnout—think boundaries, breaks, rest, and resources.

• Tattoo Artist Business Growth & Education Survey

  This one is for the business-minded artist. We’re collecting insights on what’s missing in professional development, marketing, pricing education, and continuing mentorship.

• Bone & Blossom Client Feedback Survey

  Have you been tattooed at Bone & Blossom? We’d love to hear from you! Your feedback helps us improve our booking process, studio atmosphere, artist communication, and overall client care.