Tattoo artists possess not only technical skills but also a unique artistic vision. This opens up opportunities to expand their offerings beyond tattoos. By selling additional products and services, tattooists can diversify their income while enhancing the customer experience. This approach creates new revenue streams and builds a stronger connection with clients.
· Custom Artwork and Prints
Many tattoo artists are talented illustrators. Selling custom artwork allows clients to take home a piece of their favorite artist’s creativity, even if they aren’t getting a tattoo. Tattooists can offer limited edition prints, digital illustrations, or commissioned pieces.
These can range from small sketches to elaborate wall art. Custom artwork not only increases earnings but also highlights the tattoo artist’s creative capabilities beyond the skin.
· Branded Merchandise
Branded merchandise can significantly boost a tattoo artist’s profile. This includes t-shirts, hats, and accessories with unique designs or the shop’s logo. Clients enjoy representing their favorite tattoo artist by wearing branded apparel.
Selling merchandise also helps spread brand awareness, especially for a tattoo artist on the Gold Coast, who may want to expand their reach. Offering quality merchandise allows artists to connect with their audience in a more personal way, building a loyal following.
· Aftercare Products
Tattoo aftercare is crucial for healing. Artists can sell high-quality aftercare products that align with their values, whether they focus on organic, vegan, or fragrance-free options. Selling branded aftercare creams, lotions, and balms ensures clients use the right products to maintain their tattoos.
This also reinforces the artist’s professionalism and care, fostering trust between artist and client. The convenience of purchasing aftercare products directly from a trusted source enhances the overall client experience.
· Jewelry and Piercing Services
Many tattoo shops offer piercing services as an additional revenue stream. By selling high-quality body jewelry, tattooists can cater to a wider audience. Some shops specialize in handcrafted, custom jewelry designed by local artists, giving clients one-of-a-kind pieces.
Jewelry sales complement piercing services and offer clients a way to personalize their look further. For a tattooist on the Gold Coast, selling jewelry and offering piercing services can attract more clients and diversify business offerings.
· Art Classes and Workshops
Tattoo artists can share their skills with aspiring tattooists and art enthusiasts through workshops and classes. These sessions may focus on drawing, shading techniques, or the fundamentals of tattoo design.
Offering courses for beginners or even advanced learners allows tattoo artists to share their knowledge while earning additional income. Teaching also helps build the artist’s reputation as an expert in the field and creates a supportive community for those interested in the art form.
· Temporary Tattoos and Flash Sheets
Not everyone is ready for a permanent tattoo. Artists can offer temporary tattoos as an alternative. These can be custom-designed for events or sold as part of a product line in the shop.
Flash sheets are also popular, where clients can purchase pre-drawn tattoo designs to frame or display. Both temporary tattoos and flash sheets allow clients to experience tattoo art without commitment while offering artists another way to monetize their designs.
Conclusion
Tattoo artists have multiple avenues to expand their business beyond ink. From custom artwork and aftercare products to branded merchandise and workshops, there are various ways to increase revenue and engage clients. Diversifying income streams benefits both the artist and the client, creating a richer, more fulfilling experience in the tattoo industry.