Over the past decade, tattoos have become an acceptable fashion statement. People with tattoos do not get categorized or stereotyped as they once were. Because of the wide acceptance of tattoos as true body art, tattoo parlors now cater to a wide segment of society that is not bound by race, social class, occupation, economic status, or criminal activity. Fortunately, the industry has become regulated, making the giving and receiving of a tattoo to be a much more safe procedure.

This article intends to highlight the things that you must consider if you are to open your own tattoo shop.

EXACTLY HOW BUSY WILL YOUR TATTOO PARLOR BE?

If you and your team already have a reputation and clientele that you will bring with you, you want to make sure that you have an adequate supply of supplies, so that you arent caught unprepared for someone ready to entrust their body ink to your reputation.

HOW MUCH INVESTMENT CAPITAL DO YOU HAVE?

If you are starting out and have limited resources, you may want to get a starter kit, which will be good for a few tattoos, but will need to be quickly replenished as you start getting income.Starter kits come in various formats, with a variety of different inks, practice skin and even DVD's. You will have to look at each kit and decide which is most suitable for your clients and level of expertise.

WHAT GLOVES WILL ALLOW YOU AND YOUR TEAM TO DO THEIR BEST WORK?

One overlooked supply in the tattoo industry is the type of glove used. Latex and non latex gloves are available, however many clients may be allergic to latex gloves so make sure that you ask your client each and every time. Gloves are not all the same, with different grades being available allowing greater comfort and minimal interference. Remember a comfortable worker is a happy worker, and better tattoos come from happy workers!

STERILE PACKS OR BULK NEEDLES?

You will also need to make sure that you have a good supply of all the needle varieties you will need. You have the choice of buying the needles in bulk or in pre-sterilized blister packs. It is up to you and the image you want to display to your clientele which you prefer. Bulk needles are less expensive, but the blister packs tend to have a more sanitary and professional appearance.

AFTERCARE PRODUCTS? WILL YOU PROVIDE THEM?

You will need to have ointment to put on fresh work along with gauze, medical tape, etc. You could provide each client with a sample package of ointment with the view to selling it to clients and enhance your bottom line.

BUT THATS NOT ALL!

You will also need to have a good supply of basic art choices, tips and grips, medical drapery, stenciling supplies, sterilizing machinery, and more. The tattoo business is fun, but it is a business. You must start out treating it like one. Having quality supplies and accessories is an important first step! Happy Inking!