tattoo shop business plan examples

Upmetrics AI Assistant: Simplifying Business Planning through AI-Powered Insights. Learn How

Business Planning

Financial forecasting, ai assistance, see how upmetrics works  →, strategic planning, entrepreneurs & small business, accelerators & incubators, business consultants & advisors, educators & business schools, students & scholars.

• Sample Plans

Business Plan Course

Small business tools, strategic canvas templates, e-books, guides & more.

• WHY UPMETRICS?

Customers Success Stories

• Sample Business Plans
• Beauty Salon & Fitness

Tattoo Shop Business Plan

Enjoy sharing your love of art through tattoos? Then starting your own tattoo studio could be a worthwhile career choice.

Your industry expertise and artistic skills may help you get started with a new tattoo business, but you need a detailed business plan to succeed.

Need help writing a business plan for your tattoo shop? You’re at the right place. Our tattoo shop business plan template will help you get started.

Free Business Plan Template

Download our free business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

• Fill in the blanks – Outline
• Financial Tables

How to Write a Tattoo Shop Business Plan?

Writing a tattoo shop business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section planned to offer an overview of the entire business plan. However, it is written after the entire business plan is ready and summarizes each section of your plan.

Here are a few key components to include in your executive summary:

Introduce your business:

• This section may include the name of your tattoo shop, its location, when it was founded, the type of tattoo business (E.g., custom tattoo shop, cosmetic tattooing, private studio.), etc.

Market opportunity:

Product and services:.

• For instance, a custom tattoo shop owner may provide customers with personalized tattoo designs.

Marketing & sales strategies:

Financial highlights:, call to action:.

Ensure your executive summary is clear, concise, easy to understand, and jargon-free.

Say goodbye to boring templates

Build your business plan faster and easier with AI

Plans starting from $7/month

2. Business Overview

The business overview section of your business plan offers detailed information about your tattoo studio. The details you add will depend on how important they are to your business. Yet, business name, location, business history, and future goals are some of the foundational elements you must consider adding to this section:

Business description:

Describe your business in this section by providing all the basic information:

• Custom tattoo shop—known for its personalized and custom tattoo designs.
• Cosmetic tattooing shop—known for its permanent makeup and microblading services.
• Hybrid shop—provides a combination of services, such as piercing, tattooing, etc.
• Private studio—best known for providing one-on-one services in a private setting.
• Describe the legal structure of your tattoo parlor, whether it is a sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or others.
• Explain where your business is located and why you selected the place.

Mission statement:

Business history:, future goal:.

This section should provide a thorough understanding of your business, its history, and its future plans. Keep this section engaging, precise, and to the point.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan should offer a thorough understanding of the industry with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. You should include the following components in this section.

Target market:

• For instance, you may target young adults between 18 and 35 interested in tattoos and body art.

Market size and growth potential:

Competitive analysis:, market trends:.

• For instance, custom tattoo designs are gaining popularity in the market, so you might mention if you offer them or plan to.

Regulatory environment:

Here are a few tips for writing the market analysis section of your tattoo salon business plan:

• Conduct market research, industry reports, and surveys to gather data.
• Provide specific and detailed information whenever possible.
• Illustrate your points with charts and graphs.
• Write your business plan keeping your target audience in mind.

4. Products And Services

The product and services section should describe the specific services and products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

Tattooing services:

Mention the tattooing services your business will offer. This list may include services like,

• Custom tattoo designs
• Traditional styles
• Cover-up tattoos
• Flash tattoos, etc.

Aftercare products:

Quality measures:.

• This may include using disposable needles, maintaining a clean environment, properly sterilizing equipment, etc.

Additional products or services:

In short, this section of your tattoo shop plan must be informative, precise, and client-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Sales And Marketing Strategies

Writing the sales and marketing strategies section means a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your clients. Here are some key elements to include in your sales & marketing plan:

Unique selling proposition (USP):

• For example, advanced and safe equipment, creative and talented artists, and personalized experience could be great USPs for a professional tattoo studio.

Pricing strategy:

Marketing strategies:, sales strategies:, customer retention:.

Overall, this section of your tattoo parlor business plan should focus on customer acquisition and retention.

Have a specific, realistic, and data-driven approach while planning sales and marketing strategies for your tattoo shop, and be prepared to adapt or make strategic changes in your strategies based on feedback and results.

6. Operations Plan

The operations plan section of your business plan should outline the processes and procedures involved in your business operations, such as staffing requirements and operational processes. Here are a few components to add to your operations plan:

Staffing & training:

Operational process:, equipment & machinery:.

• Explain how these equipment and machinery help you maintain quality standards and improve the efficiency of your business operations.

Adding these components to your operations plan will help you lay out your business operations, which will eventually help you manage your business effectively.

7. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of your tattoo shop business’s management team. This section should provide a detailed description of each manager’s experience and qualifications, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

Founder/CEO:

Key managers:.

• It should include the store manager, head tattoo artist, and other managers (e.g., marketing manager, financial manager.) involved in the business operations, including their education, professional background, and any relevant experience in the tattooing industry.

Organizational structure:

Compensation plan:, advisors/consultants:.

• So, if you have any advisors or consultants, include them with their names and brief information consisting of roles and years of experience.

This section should describe the key personnel for your tattooing services, highlighting how you have the perfect team to succeed.

8. Financial Plan

Your financial plan section should provide a summary of your business’s financial projections for the first few years. Here are some key elements to include in your financial plan:

Profit & loss statement:

Cash flow statement:, balance sheet:, break-even point:.

• This exercise will help you understand how much revenue you need to generate to sustain or be profitable.

Financing needs:

Be realistic with your financial projections, and make sure you offer relevant information and evidence to support your estimates.

9. Appendix

The appendix section of your plan should include any additional information supporting your business plan’s main content, such as market research, legal documentation, financial statements, and other relevant information.

• Add a table of contents for the appendix section to help readers easily find specific information or sections.
• In addition to your financial statements, provide additional financial documents like tax returns, a list of assets within the business, credit history, and more. These statements must be the latest and offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.
• Provide data derived from market research, including stats about the industry, user demographics, and industry trends.
• Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
• Include any additional documentation related to your business plan, such as product brochures, marketing materials, operational procedures, etc.

Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the necessary information.

Remember, the appendix section of your tattoo studio business plan should only include relevant and important information supporting your plan’s main content.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

This sample tattoo shop business plan will provide an idea for writing a successful tattoo shop plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you still need clarification about writing an investment-ready business plan to impress your audience, download our tattoo shop business plan pdf.

Related Posts

Hair Extension Business Plan

Barber Shop Business Plan

Business Plan Templates with Examples

Attractive Cover Page for Business Plan

Automated Business Plan Writing Tools

Essential Business Plan Components

Frequently asked questions, why do you need a tattoo shop business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful tattoo shop. It helps to get clarity in your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your tattoo shop.

How to get funding for your tattoo shop?

There are several ways to get funding for your tattoo shop, but self-funding is one of the most efficient and speedy funding options. Other options for funding are:

Small Business Administration (SBA) loan

Crowdfunding, angel investors.

Apart from all these options, there are small business grants available, check for the same in your location and you can apply for it.

Where to find business plan writers for your tattoo shop business?

There are many business plan writers available, but no one knows your business and ideas better than you, so we recommend you write your tattoo shop business plan and outline your vision as you have in your mind.

What is the easiest way to write your tattoo shop business plan?

A lot of research is necessary for writing a business plan, but you can write your plan most efficiently with the help of any tattoo shop business plan example and edit it as per your need. You can also quickly finish your plan in just a few hours or less with the help of our business plan software.

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

Plan your business in the shortest time possible

No Risk – Cancel at Any Time – 15 Day Money Back Guarantee

Popular Templates

Create a great Business Plan with great price.

• 200+ Business plan templates & examples
• AI Assistance & step by step guidance
• 4.8 Star rating on Trustpilot

Streamline your business planning process with Upmetrics .

Opening a tattoo shop: 10 steps to launch your business

Key takeaways

• To open a tattoo studio, you must register your business in your state and meet local licensing requirements
• Claiming your online profiles and creating a marketing plan can help you build an engaged following 
• An expense plan is key to ensure you have enough capital to operate 

Once a sign of rebellion, tattoos are now part of the mainstream. Three in 10 Americans have at least one tattoo—including 40% of people under 35—and the numbers are increasing every year. Plus, the average American doesn’t stop at one: People with tattoos get an average of four in their lifetime. 

If you’re thinking of opening a tattoo shop, now is the perfect time to enter the industry and help create the permanent body art millions are seeking. Follow these important steps to bring your business idea to life.

1. Choose your business name

Your brand name can give you a competitive advantage in your local market. Strong business names clue shoppers in on what you do and what makes your brand experience different. 

First, identify your approach to the art form and business. Do you specialize in any kinds of tattoos, such as fine line or minimalist designs? Will you offer other services, such as piercings? If so, you can include these elements in your name. For example, a shop that specializes in delicate, fine-lined artwork could be named “The Razor’s Edge.”

Start brainstorming business names in a written list. Then, make sure your top choice is legally available using your state government’s name search tool—like the Florida Division of Corporations’ fictitious name search —and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s database before proceeding. If your top choice is taken, go down the list until you find one that’s available.

2. Select your business structure

Your business structure affects how your tattoo shop is taxed, what annual paperwork you file, and your level of personal liability when your business owes cash to lenders (or is sued). There are different legal structures you can choose from—including Limited Liability Companies (LLCs ), S corporations, and C corporations—and there’s no right or wrong answer:

• S corporations 
• C corporations

However, it’s generally not recommended to operate a tattoo shop as a sole proprietorship or partnership. Though these business entities can be easier to launch since there’s no required paperwork or costs in most states, they leave you with more personal liability in an industry that has its own inherent risks. Since your team is regularly working with clients using needles and permanent ink, there’s always potential for injury, blood-borne illnesses due to poor sanitation, and other issues with unhappy clients. If your business is sued or defaults on a loan, your personal assets could be at risk.

3. Find your business location

Next, you’ll need to find a location for your tattoo parlor. As you tour potential spaces for your tattoo business, consider the cost of any renovations and how much foot traffic the area gets.

Tattoo shop owners must also be mindful of local zoning requirements. Tattoo parlors in certain cities—like Myrtle Beach, FL and Ashland, KY —are sometimes barred from operating within a set distance from schools, churches, and parks. 

In other cases, a city might restrict the number of tattoo parlors that can operate in its limits. Historically, cities like North Chicago have regulated tattoo parlors with the same zoning requirements as adult entertainment businesses , citing health, safety, and community development concerns. 

4. Register your business

Registering your business with state and local governments is a key step that allows you to legally run your tattoo shop under your chosen business name. To begin, use the Small Business Association’s tool to identify the agency that regulates business formations in your state. Your state agency can provide the paperwork you need to file in person or online.

If you’re registering your business as an LLC or corporation, most states require you to have a physical address before you start the registration process. Due to zoning requirements, this typically can’t be your home address or a coworking space address. As a result, you’ll likely need to secure your tattoo shop before registering.

Many states also require tattoo shops to be licensed by their local health department. To get your business license, you might need to complete a bloodborne pathogen course and first aid training and provide proof of Hepatitis B vaccination. A few states, like Iowa and Kansas, also require tattoo artists and shop owners to have a high school diploma or GED.

Some tattoo shop owners—including those who plan to have employees or operate as a corporation or partnership—will also need to register with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to obtain an employer identification number (EIN), which is a type of tax identification. But even when it’s not legally required, getting an EIN can be a good idea, since they’re often requested by banks, investors, and lenders.

5. Set up your online profiles

Once you have a legal claim over your business name, establish your online presence to build brand awareness, engage with prospective clients, and promote your soft launch before your grand opening. This way, your new shop won’t be empty on your first day in business.

In addition to creating a website, create accounts on sites where your target market searches for local tattoo shops. For example, you can create a social media profile to showcase your tattoo portfolio or claim your Yelp Business Page up to a month ahead of your opening date. On Yelp, you can add information about your grand opening in the “From the Business” section of your page.

Once you’ve claimed your online profiles, spruce them up to attract more people to your small business. Add your business information—including your phone number, address, and store hours—along with images of your logo, shop, and tattoo designs. This is especially important for tattoo shops because most customers will search for examples of your work to see if you’re the right fit for them—whether that’s specific color work, custom designs, or portraits. Be sure to also include detailed photo captions with credit to the specific artists. 

Get a free Yelp Page

Promote your business to local customers.

6. Open a business bank account

Keeping your personal life and business separate is always a good idea, especially when it comes to finances. Doing so makes your revenue and expenses easier to track, which can help you:

• Maintain accurate records: Monitor your business revenue and expenses without any risk of confusion so your financial statements can accurately reflect your business growth (or losses).
• Easily prepare your taxes: When you’re sorting out your documents during tax season and finding deductions to claim , your finances will be more neatly sorted and reduce the headache of filing with or without an accountant.
• Access more financing: Many lenders and creditors require you to have a business bank account to access business loans.
• Show off your professionalism: Clients will be able to make a check out to your business instead of writing your first and last name.

Separating your personal and business accounts is also a requirement for most business structures, with the exception of sole proprietors and partnerships.

Once you have your federal EIN, open a business bank account with a bank of your choice. Business checking and savings accounts are great places to start. You can always consider starting a cash management account, which offers higher interest than savings accounts, later on. 

When you’re first opening a tattoo shop, you can minimize risk by choosing free or low-fee accounts that offer basic services like money transfers. If you want to apply for funding from your bank or gain more financial guidance for your business, choose a traditional brick-and-mortar bank instead of a digital-only one to establish personal relationships. 

7. Create an expense plan

Preparing for the costs of opening a tattoo shop can help you maintain cash flow in your first year—one of the biggest challenges for new businesses . Start by listing all the startup expenses associated with launching your business, such as:

• Furniture, like reclining chairs and full-length mirrors
• Tattoo equipment, including tattoo machines, supply carts, needles, and ink
• Office equipment, such as a phone, printer, and credit card reader
• Autoclaves for sterilization
• Point-of-sale (POS) equipment and software

Next, outline the recurring costs of running your shop:

• Rent and utilities
• Commission for tattooists
• Salaries or wages for other tattoo shop employees
• Your business liability insurance policy
• Tattoo supplies like needles and ink
• Hygiene and cleaning supplies, like plastic gloves and cling film for chairs
• Appointment/booking software

Estimating your expenses will help you create a pricing strategy for your services so you can maintain a healthy cash flow. Plus, you’ll know how much capital you need to launch. If you need outside financing—such as credit cards, business loans, or lines of credit—a budget will help you start the application process early on.

8. Create a marketing plan

A solid marketing strategy will help you grow your small business . Brainstorm ways you can reach your target market, such as using social media to share your tattoo art and sales promotions or starting a referral marketing program to drive word of mouth . Check out the websites and social media profiles of other businesses like yours to see what they’re doing successfully (and what you might do differently to stand out).

Once you have a few ideas, compile them in a marketing plan , which will help you define your mission statement, audience, and objectives.

Make sure to include a digital advertising strategy in your marketing plan to drive faster growth. For instance, Yelp Ads , social media ads, and search engine ads can help you reach your target audience and attract clients within your budget.

Ready to try Yelp Ads?

Put your business in front of more customers.

9. Plan out the client experience

A strong client management system will help you create a seamless customer experience, from booking to payment. The first step is deciding how to take appointments. You might use an online booking system, accept walk-ins, or offer phone bookings—or any combination of the three. If tattoo artists rent space in your shop, you might have clients go directly through them, via social media or a website.

You should also consider what waivers and consent forms you’ll need to provide when clients arrive.

Of course, the customer experience doesn’t end there. Consider creating guidelines for post-appointment client management as well—following up with clients to show you care. For example, you can send an email to see if clients have further questions about tattoo care or share images of their completed body art online and tag them with permission. You should also make responding to reviews on platforms like Yelp part of your process.

10. Write your tattoo shop business plan

To set yourself up for long-term success, create a five-year tattoo parlor business plan that compiles all the strategies you outlined above—and more. This document will help you and your team work toward unified goals and strategies. And if you need outside funding to get started, a strong business plan will help lenders decide if your tattoo business is worth the investment.

An effective business plan typically includes these core sections:

• Executive summary: A compelling, one-page intro to your tattoo shop and why it’ll succeed. (Write this last so you can gather highlights from the rest of your plan and avoid inconsistencies.)
• Business description : An in-depth description of what you do, who you serve, and what gives your business a competitive advantage.
• Business and management structure: Introducing your business structure, owner-operators, and management team, including your leadership team’s experience and artists’ licenses and certifications.
• Products and services: A complete list of what you sell, including pricing and descriptions of each service.
• Market analysis: Thorough research on market and industry trends and how you differ from the competition.
• Marketing plan: An overview of your primary marketing channels and the metrics you’ll track to ensure you meet your goals, including the strategies outlined in your tattoo shop marketing plan. 
• Financial plan: Include your expense plan with start-up and monthly operational costs, as well as realistic (and positive) financial projections for the next five years.

Opening a tattoo shop is easier when you have a plan

Opening a tattoo shop can be a lucrative opportunity—and a great way to create long-lasting relationships with people who value your skill and artistry. Many tattoo artists have used their platforms to connect with customers and make the industry a more welcoming and diverse place.  

Once you complete this process, you can begin building a client base and recognizable brand to help deliver on your small business goals. To generate excitement for your opening day and beyond, consider these low-cost ideas to promote your business .

The information above is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice and may not be suitable for your circumstances. Unless stated otherwise, references to third-party links, services, or products do not constitute endorsement by Yelp.

Related stories

The beginner’s guide to small business SEO 

Learn all about small business SEO and how it can help your business grow. You’ll find a glossary of terms and helpful tips you can use now.

8 smart social media marketing tips for small businesses

Use this list of social media marketing tips to get the most out of your marketing efforts and improve your online presence.

The ultimate guide to starting a small business

This 9-step guide will help you learn what it takes to start your own small business and smoothly transition into entrepreneurship.

How to Start a Tattoo Shop

Starting a tattoo shop can be very profitable. With proper planning, execution and hard work, you can enjoy great success. Below you will learn the keys to launching a successful tattoo shop.

Importantly, a critical step in starting a tattoo shop is to complete your business plan. To help you out, you should download Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template here .

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here

14 Steps To Start a Tattoo Shop :

• Choose the Name for Your Tattoo Shop
• Develop Your Tattoo Shop Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Tattoo Shop
• Secure Startup Funding for Your Tattoo Shop (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your Tattoo Shop with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Tattoo Shop
• Buy or Lease the Right Tattoo Shop Equipment
• Develop Your Tattoo Shop Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Tattoo Shop
• Open for Business

1. Choose the Name for Your Tattoo Shop

The first step to starting a tattoo shop is to choose your business’ name.  

This is a very important choice since your company name is your brand and will last for the lifetime of your business. Ideally you choose a name that is meaningful and memorable. Here are some tips for choosing a name for your tattoo shop:

• Make sure the name is available . Check your desired name against trademark databases and your state’s list of registered business names to see if it’s available. Also check to see if a suitable domain name is available.
• Keep it simple . The best names are usually ones that are easy to remember, pronounce and spell.
• Think about marketing . Come up with a name that reflects the desired brand and/or focus of your tattoo shop.

2. Develop Your Tattoo Shop Business Plan

One of the most important steps in starting a tattoo shop is to develop your tattoo shop business plan . The process of creating your plan ensures that you fully understand your market and your business strategy. The plan also provides you with a roadmap to follow and if needed, to present to funding sources to raise capital for your business.

The following are the components of a business plan :

• Executive Summary – this section should summarize your entire business plan so readers can quickly understand the key details of your tattoo shop.
• Company Overview – this section tells the reader about the history of your tattoo shop and what type of tattoo shop you operate. For example, are you a tattoo street shop, tattoo parlor business, or private tattoo studio?
• Industry Analysis – here you will document key information about the tattoo industry. Conduct market research and document how big the industry is and what trends are affecting it.
• Customer Analysis – in this section, you will document who your ideal or target customers are and their demographics. For example, how old are they? Where do they live? What do they find important when purchasing services like the ones you will offer?
• Competitive Analysis – here you will document the key direct and indirect competitors you will face and how you will build competitive advantage.
• Marketing Plan – your marketing plan should address the 4Ps: Product, Price, Promotions and Place.
• Product : Determine and document what products/services you will offer 
• Prices : Document the prices of your products/services
• Place : Where will your business be located and how will that location help you increase sales?
• Promotions : What promotional methods will you use to attract customers to your tattoo shop? For example, you might decide to use pay-per-click advertising, public relations, search engine optimization and/or social media marketing.
• Operations Plan – here you will determine the key processes you will need to run your day-to-day operations. You will also determine your staffing needs. Finally, in this section of your plan, you will create a projected growth timeline showing the milestones you hope to achieve in the coming years.
• Management Team – this section details the background of your company’s management team.
• Financial Plan – finally, the financial plan answers questions including the following:
• What startup costs will you incur?
• How will your tattoo shop make money?
• What are your projected sales and expenses for the next five years?
• Do you need to raise funding to launch your business?

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

3. choose the legal structure for your tattoo shop.

Next you need to choose a legal structure for your tattoo business and register it and your business name with the Secretary of State in each state where you operate your business.

Below are the five most common legal structures:

1) Sole proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is a business entity in which the owner of the tattoo shop and the business are the same legal person. The owner of a sole proprietorship is responsible for all debts and obligations of the business. There are no formalities required to establish a sole proprietorship, and it is easy to set up and operate. The main advantage of a sole proprietorship is that it is simple and inexpensive to establish. The main disadvantage is that the owner is liable for all debts and obligations of the business.

2) Partnerships

A partnership is a legal structure that is popular among other business owners. It is an agreement between two or more people who want to start a tattoo shop together. The partners share in the profits and losses of the business. 

The advantages of a partnership are that it is easy to set up, and the partners share in the profits and losses of the business. The disadvantages of a partnership are that the partners are jointly liable for the debts of the business, and disagreements between partners can be difficult to resolve.

3) Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A limited liability company, or LLC, is a type of business entity that provides limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners of an LLC are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The advantages of an LLC for a tattoo shop include flexibility in management, pass-through taxation (avoids double taxation as explained below), and limited personal liability. The disadvantages of an LLC include lack of availability in some states and self-employment taxes.

4) C Corporation

A C Corporation is a business entity that is separate from its owners. It has its own tax ID and can have shareholders. The main advantage of a C Corporation for a tattoo shop is that it offers limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The disadvantage is that C Corporations are subject to double taxation. This means that the corporation pays taxes on its profits, and the shareholders also pay taxes on their dividends.

5) S Corporation

An S Corporation is a type of corporation that provides its owners with limited liability protection and allows them to pass their business income through to their personal income tax returns, thus avoiding double taxation. There are several limitations on S Corporations including the number of shareholders they can have among others.

Once you register your  new tattoo shop, your state will send you your official “Articles of Incorporation.” You will need this among other documentation when establishing your banking account (see below). We recommend that you consult an attorney in determining which legal structure is best suited for your company.

Incorporate Your Business at the Guaranteed Lowest Price

We are proud to have partnered with Business Rocket to help you incorporate your business at the lowest price, guaranteed.

Not only does BusinessRocket have a 4.9 out of 5 rating on TrustPilot (with over 1,000 reviews) because of their amazing quality…but they also guarantee the most affordable incorporation packages and the fastest processing time in the industry.

4. Secure Startup Funding for Your Tattoo Shop (If Needed)

In developing your tattoo shop business plan , you might have determined that you need to raise funding to launch your business. 

If so, the main sources of funding for a tattoo shop to consider are personal savings, family and friends, credit card financing, bank loans, crowdfunding and angel investors. Angel investors are individuals who provide capital to early-stage businesses. Angel investors typically will invest in a tattoo shop that they believe has high potential for growth.

5. Secure a Location for Your Business

When opening a tattoo shop, there are a few things you need to take into account:

• Look for a location that’s visible and accessible. You want your customers to be able to find your shop easily, so choose a spot that’s in a high-traffic area.
• Make sure the space is large enough to accommodate your equipment and workspace.
• Select a location that’s close to other businesses that cater to the same clientele as you do. This will help increase foot traffic and expose your shop to new customers.
• Look for a place with ample parking, especially if you plan on having customers come to your shop by car.
• Check the legalities of your potential location. Some localities require special permits or licenses before opening a tattoo shop in their area.

6. Register Your Tattoo Shop with the IRS

Next, you need to register your business with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) which will result in the IRS issuing you an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

Most banks will require you to have an EIN in order to open up an account. In addition, in order to hire employees, you will need an EIN since that is how the IRS tracks your payroll tax payments.

Note that if you are a sole proprietor without employees, you generally do not need to get an EIN. Rather, you would use your social security number (instead of your EIN) as your taxpayer identification number.

7. Open a Business Bank Account

It is important to establish a bank account in your tattoo shop’ name. This process is fairly simple and involves the following steps:

• Identify and contact the bank you want to use
• Gather and present the required documents (generally include your company’s Articles of Incorporation, driver’s license or passport, and proof of address)
• Complete the bank’s application form and provide all relevant information
• Meet with a banker to discuss your business needs and establish a relationship with them

8. Get a Business Credit Card

You should get a business credit card for your new shop to help you separate personal and business expenses.

You can either apply for a business credit card through your bank or apply for one through a credit card company.

When you’re applying for a business credit card, you’ll need to provide some information about your business. This includes the name of your business, the address of your business, and the type of business you’re running. You’ll also need to provide some information about yourself, including your name, Social Security number, and date of birth.

Once you’ve been approved for a business credit card, you’ll be able to use it to make purchases for your business. You can also use it to build your credit history which could be very important in securing loans and getting credit lines for your business in the future.

9. Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits

You will need to acquire a business license and a permit to operate a tattoo shop. You may also need to acquire other licenses and permits, depending on the jurisdiction in which you plan to operate your business.

In order to start a tattoo shop, you will need to obtain the following licenses and permits:

• Business license
• Tattoo artist license
• Tattoo parlor permit
• Health department permit

10. Get Business Insurance for Your Tattoo Shop

The type of insurance you need to operate a tattoo shop may vary by state.

Some business insurance policies you should consider for your tattoo shop include:

• General liability insurance : This covers accidents and injuries that occur on your property. It also covers damages caused by your employees or products.
• Workers’ compensation insurance : If you have employees, this type of policy works with your general liability policy to protect against workplace injuries and accidents. It also covers medical expenses and lost wages.
• Commercial property insurance : This covers damage to your property caused by fire, theft, or vandalism.
• Business interruption insurance : This covers lost income and expenses if your business is forced to close due to a covered event.
• Professional liability insurance : This protects your business against claims of professional negligence.

Find an insurance agent, tell them about your business and its needs, and they will recommend policies that fit those needs.

11. Buy or Lease the Right Tattoo Shop Equipment

To start your tattoo shop you will need a few essential pieces of equipment.

In order to run it successfully, you will need the following:

• Tattoo chair
• Tattoo station
• Tattoo gloves
• Ink paper towels
• Electrical outlets
• Cleaning supplies
• Tattooing machines
• Lighted tracing tables
• Tattoo machine power supply

Make sure to research different brands and models before making a purchase so that you can find the best equipment for your needs.

12. Develop Your Tattoo Shop Marketing Materials

Marketing materials will be required to attract and retain customers to your tattoo shop.

The key marketing materials you will need are as follows:

• Logo : Spend some time developing a good logo for your tattoo shop. Your logo will be printed on company stationery, business cards, marketing materials and so forth. The right logo can increase customer trust and awareness of your brand.
• Website : Likewise, a professional business website provides potential customers with information about the many services you offer, your company’s history, and contact information. Importantly, remember that the look and feel of your website will affect how customers perceive you.
• Social Media Accounts : establish social media accounts in your company’s name. Accounts on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and/or other social media platforms will help customers and others find and interact with your tattoo shop.

13. Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Tattoo Shop

The software programs you need to run a tattoo shop will vary depending on the specific needs of your business. 

However, some common software packages that a tattoo shop use include:

• Tattoo design software
• Accounting software
• Ink inventory management software
• Customer relationship management (CRM) software
• A custom-built software to manage the scheduling of tattoo artists and appointments
• Scheduling software (if using a PC instead of custom software)
• Point of sale (POS) system, including hardware and software

14. Open for Business

You are now ready to open your tattoo shop. If you followed the steps above, you should be in a great position to build a successful business. Below are answers to frequently asked questions that might further help you.

How to Finish Your Ultimate Business Plan in 1 Day!

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your tattoo shop business plan?

With Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

How to Start a Tattoo Shop FAQs

Is it hard to start a tattoo shop.

Yes, it is easy to start a tattoo shop. There are many things to consider when starting a business, but with a bit of planning and research, you can be on your way to opening your tattoo shop. 

How can I start a tattoo shop with no experience?

There are a few things you can do to start a tattoo shop with no experience. You can start by doing some research on the industry and the different aspects of running a business. You can also reach out to other tattoo shop owners in your area for advice and mentorship. Finally, you can get involved in the tattoo community online or locally to learn more about the art form and the industry.

What type of tattoo shop is most profitable?

A tattoo shop that offers a wide variety of custom tattoos may be more profitable than a shop that only offers basic art designs. Custom tattoos require less salesmanship on the part of the artist and therefore tend to be more profitable for both artist and the store. Pre-made designs by comparison do not require as much artistic knowledge and may require more salesmanship on the part of the artist to sell.

How much does it cost to start a tattoo shop?

The cost s involved in starting a tattoo shop will vary depending on the business's specific needs and location. However, some ballpark figures to consider would be between $10,000 and $50,000 for startup costs.

What are the ongoing expenses for a tattoo shop?

A tattoo shop can have various ongoing expenses, such as the cost of ink, needles, and other supplies. The shop may also need to pay rent or lease a property, hire professionally trained tattoo artists , and purchase insurance.

How does a tattoo shop make money?

A tattoo shop makes money by charging for their services. They typically charge per hour, with a minimum set amount. Some shops also charge a percentage of the cost of the tattoo should it be requested to be covered by insurance.

Is owning a tattoo shop profitable?

Yes, a tattoo shop can be profitable because it is a relatively low-cost business to start. Another reason is tattoos are increasingly popular. In addition, many people view tattoos as a form of self-expression, so they are likely to continue to seek them out and pay higher prices for quality tattoos regardless of the economy.

Why do tattoo shops fail?

There are many reasons tattoo shops might fail, but one of the most common is a lack of business planning. A successful tattoo shop should have a comprehensive business plan that outlines its goals, strategies, and how it plans to achieve them. Other common reasons for failure include financial troubles, poor customer service, lack of marketing, and running out of supplies.

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

Tattoo Shop Business Plan Sample

You want to open a tattoo shop, but where do you start?  From finding a location, to hiring artists, to the day to day finances – there’s a lot to cover!  This sample business plan should provide you with insight on what a business plan for a tattoo company should look like.  Take a skim through, and as you’re reading begin generating ideas for your tattoo company.  If you need any help you can reach out for a business plan review or for our professional business plan writing services .

The art of tattooing has evolved from simple body adornment to a powerful form of self-expression. Intention tattoos, in particular, have become increasingly popular as people seek to convey their beliefs or values through their body art. This growing trend has created a high demand for skilled tattoo artists, resulting in a significant increase in tattoo artist pay. With tattoo designs ranging from simple to intricate, tattoo proposal ideas are limited only by one’s imagination. As tattoos continue to gain acceptance in various industries, more talented tattoo artists are taking the leap and starting their own businesses. If you’re a skilled tattoo artist looking to make your mark in the industry, now is the perfect time to do so.

Are you a talented tattoo artist looking to start your own business? The booming tattoo industry presents a golden opportunity to turn your passion into a lucrative career. However, starting a tattoo shop requires careful planning and preparation, just like any other business. Fortunately, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to successfully establish and manage your own tattoo parlor, from creating a solid business plan to navigating legal requirements. Don’t miss out on this chance to turn your dreams into reality!

In the world of retail businesses, tattoo shops are a unique and fascinating addition. These establishments specialize in providing personalized tattoo services that deliver high-quality results. Whether you’re looking for a small independent studio or a larger, well-established tattoo design shop, tattoo shop ideas can come in many different sizes and styles. The possibilities for studio decoration ideas are endless, with some shops choosing a minimalist and industrial aesthetic while others opt for a more colorful and vibrant atmosphere. And with the rise of project tattoo studios, where artists collaborate on complex, multi-session pieces, there’s never been a more exciting time to be a part of this industry. Plus, for clients who can’t make it to a traditional shop, mobile tattoo businesses and parlor studios offer convenience and flexibility.

If you want to learn how to open a private tattoo studio, there are several factors to consider:

Research the industry: Before you create a tattoo studio, it’s important to research the industry thoroughly. You should learn about the different types of tattoos, the equipment needed,  and the tattoo shop set up. You should also research other tattoo shops in your area to see what they offer and how they operate.

Develop a business plan: A business plan is essential for any business, including a tattoo shop. Your business plan should include details such as your target market, your services and prices, your marketing plan, and your financial projections. You can find many tattoo planning templates online to help you create a comprehensive plan.

Secure financing: Starting a tattoo shop can be expensive, so you will likely need to secure financing. This may involve taking out a loan from a bank or finding investors. You should also create a budget to ensure that you have enough money to cover your expenses until your shop becomes profitable.

Obtain licenses and permits: Tattoo shops are heavily regulated, and you will need to obtain licenses and permits to operate legally. You will need to research the licensing requirements in your area and obtain any necessary permits, such as a health permit or a business license.

Set up your shop: Once you have secured financing and obtained the necessary licenses and permits, you can start setting up your shop. You will need to purchase equipment, such as tattoo machines and needles, and set up a sterile workspace. You will also need to create a tattoo shop layout that is both functional and visually appealing. 

Hire staff: When hiring staff for your tattoo shop, it’s essential to find talented tattoo artists who can deliver high-quality work. Additionally, you’ll need a receptionist or manager to handle administrative tasks, such as scheduling appointments and managing finances. To ensure smooth communication with your staff, it’s important to have their contact numbers readily available, so customers can easily text or message them.

Market your shop: Marketing is crucial for any business, and a tattoo shop is no exception. You can market your shop through social media, local advertising, and word of mouth. You can also sell your art to tattoo shops to increase your exposure and generate more business.

To run a successful tattoo shop, it’s important to have more than just tattooing skills. Staying updated with the latest developments in the constantly evolving tattoo industry is crucial. To keep up with the latest trends, attending industry events like tattoo conventions or seminars, following industry publications, websites, and social media accounts, and joining professional organizations and associations are effective ways. These methods provide access to new techniques, equipment, products, and resources, as well as opportunities to network and receive mentorship. By staying informed and connected, you can ensure that your tattoo shop business stays competitive and up to date with the latest advancements in the tattoo industry.

1.0 Executive Summary

“Sample Tattoo Shop Inc.” operating as “Sample Tattoo Shop” (the company) was incorporated on August 1, 2021 in the state of Florida by John O’Miley.  Sample Tattoo is based at 100 Allen St. Miami, Florida where customers receive small tattoos and customized tattoos by an experienced team of professional artists.

In recent years the tattoo industry has seen a surge in demand as tattoos become more commonplace in society.  Furthermore, with the rise of social media, more people are conscious of their physical appearance and are looking to express themselves and their individuality.

To meet this demand, Sample Tattoo Shop, led by Owner & Operator John O’Miley  will provide a clean, hygienic and comfortable experience to clientele.  Sample Tattoo will be a leader in providing not only the highest quality tattoos, but an unrivaled tattoo experience.

John O’Miley  brings 8 years of direct experience in custom tattooing.  He has worked at 6 shops across the US, and in doing so has developed an abundance of knowledge in client care and management.  Dean is focused on establishing the company on a commitment to customer-centrism.  By engaging in feedback from each client, the company plans to not only lead, but in fact evolve the tattoo industry standard.

Sample Tattoo Shop Inc. is seeking a $50,280 business loan through the Small Business Administration.   The funds will be used to purchase equipment, furniture and decor for the shop, to develop a state of the art website, and for six months of a marketing budget.

2.0 Business Overview

Sample Tattoo Shop is currently a one-shop studio that provides two overriding styles: small and customized tattoos.  The business is founded by John O’Miley , an experienced and respected tattoo artist in the Miami area.  Over the first year of operation a few artists will be hired to expand options for clients and increase gross revenues. The business will provide both basic and customized designs based on the client’s needs and requirements. Clients include individuals that are new to tattoos and tattoo enthusiasts.

2.1 Industry Overview

The global tattoo industry has an annual revenue of $3 billion per year, and is expected to grow nearly 8% annually. This near 8% increase can be attributed not only to the increasing popularity of tattoos but younger generations choosing expensive customized work instead of less expensive, pre-designed artwork. Once the client has been tattooed, the customer return rate increases substantially.

The tattoo industry has low barriers to entry and high profit margins. After a few years of establishing clientele, most tattoo artists earn at least $100,000 CAD per year.  Most tattoo shops have an average profit margin of 30% after expenses.

2.2 Mission & Vision Statement

Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide the greatest tattoo experience available in the state of Florida.

Vision Statement

Our vision is a tattoo industry where client care becomes just as important as the final result.

2.3 Goals and Objectives

Sample Tattoo Shop’s primary goal is to retain artists who are not only talented at tattooing but also have great personalities. Communication plays a key role in the tattoo industry, and thus an artist must understand what the client wants and deliver it accordingly. Sample Tattoo Shop recognizes that artists with great personalities tend to receive more loyal customers.

2.4 Key Success Factors

Working with talented artists with great personalities: Clients come in search of talented artists because they believe the artist will provide a heightened standard of service. So, it is important to have talented artists. There’s also another factor associated with success. That is Customer Retention. This is possible only when the artist is talented and professional, in other terms having a good personality. People always respect and prefer a person with a good attitude. A talented artist would bring business to the company but a talented artist with a good personality would bring new business and retain the clients which is essential for the growth of the company.

Creating a safe and comfortable environment for clients: It is important to make the client feel safe and comfortable. At Sample Tattoo, all equipment is cleaned and sterilized frequently. The shop plays music according to the client’s preference, and offers Netflix so the client can feel as comfortable as  possible. The more comfortable and connected the client feels, the greater a  chance the client will return for another positive experience.

Having more loyal customers: Sample Tattoo is focused on retaining loyal customers; which act as advocates, thus bringing more business to the company.

2.5 Staffing

John O’Miley  is currently the company’s main tattoo artist. He will be accompanied by another artist for basic tattoo work and a virtual assistant to book sessions and answer questions about tattoo maintenance. By the third year, the company will have the following professionals:

Tattoo Artists (3)

The tattoo artists will be involved in consultation, drawing, stenciling, tattooing and ordering of tattoo supplies.

Virtual Assistant (1)

The receptionist/manager’s work will involve booking, scheduling & rescheduling appointments, bank deposits, daily payroll management, and taking photographs of finished tattoos.

Tattoo Apprentice (3)

Tattoo apprentices will perform the following work: cleaning, setting up/taking down work areas, learning to draw/tattoo, stenciling, running errands for supplies, helping artists with tattooing.

2.6 Management Team   

John O’Miley

Owner & Operator

About John O’Miley

John O’Miley  is a well-spoken, likable, and personable artist with expert knowledge in the body modification industry specializing in custom tattooing. While most tattoo artists cannot draw, talent has always been present, making it easy, fast and efficient to produce an idea on paper or directly to the skin using traditional pencils, pencil crayons, and markers.

“Being able to put oneself in the shoes of the client and understanding even the most basic needs to make them feel welcome and safe is paramount to good business practices and productivity.”

– John O’Miley , Sample Tattoo Shop Inc.

Work Experience

Geronimo Tattoo and Piercing, Miami, Florida

Tattoo Artist

2021 – to present

• Consulted with clients to understand their idea, vision and desires for a tattoo
• Provided clients with a detailed outline of the process before applying the tattoo
• Used safe sterilized techniques and maintained safe and comfortable environment to the clients
• Gave the clients proper home care instructions after applying the tattoo
• Frequently sterilized tools and equipments
• Keeping in touch with the existing clientele
• Gaining knowledge on how to run a business
• Keenly observing and understanding current scenario of the tattoo industry
• Networking with other artists

Mobile Tattooing, Georgia

• Packing light (took a big business and shrunk it down to fit inside one tattoo case for easier transportation and travelling by air)
• During this time money was tight and I didn’t take on many tattoos. Raising my son was most important because he had Slight Torticollis which I needed to correct. He has a shortening of the muscle in his neck which I needed to physically stretch out several times a day to correct his neck. This process took many months.

Black Tattoo and Piercing, Georgia

Head Artist – 2016

• Achieved high customer satisfaction by doing quality work and creative tattoo work
• Identified key issues of the business and fixed it
• Increased the revenue of the studio and brought many new clients
• Held meetings with the team to improve the business
• Focused on developing a good work culture in the studio
• Responsible for hiring new artists as clientele increased (15 requests per hour for my service)
• Took responsibility of finance and paid the artists
• Dealt with the head of health department overseeing the body modification industry
• Did spore testing and delivered spore tests to labs
• Health board compliance and resolving issues by following recommendation by the health inspector
• Learned sales funnel with regards to converting conversations into deposits for appointment booking
• Built close relationships with clients by making myself reachable and personable
• Delegating tasks to artists
• Teaching client aftercare by sharing stories of past experiences where things went wrong and directing them to not make the same mistakes

Mobile tattoo artist, Manitoba

• Travelled to far places to provide a service to the client
• Responsibly ordered supplies without getting help from the shop
• Coordinated and maintained relationships with suppliers
• Started teaching one apprentice

Twisted Ink, Manitoba

Professional Tattoo Artist

• Worked on designing and applying bigger tattoos (sleeves, back pieces, etc)
• Responsible for conducting contests to promote the shop
• Complexity of tattoos were more gratifying
• Passed Georgia Health body modification competency test and certified as a body modification technician with permit to work
• Maintained a hygienic and neat work environment
• Responsible for setting up/taking down of work areas
• Worked closely with the team of tattoo professionals
• Handled Tattoo appointment booking process, Cash outs/payouts, Pay split agreements
• Learned how to deal with people experiencing shock and loss of consciousness
• Learned how to create a safe environment and culture

Skills/Training

• Computer and website development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Ethereum EVM, React, JSON, python, #C, XCODE, Linux, MAC OS, Microsoft, HTML5, 3D, etc.)
• Audio engineering (routing, mixing, processing, side chaining, compression, mastering, limiting, filtering, distortion, programming synths, setting up plug-ins, stabilization of music production software environment, Ableton live, FLStudio, etc.)
• Art apps (paint, photoshop, procreate)
• Website building apps (wix, shopify)

General Education

Mount Park College 2015

Let's Get Started!

• Your Name *
• Email Address *
• Phone Number

3.0 Products & Services

Sample Tattoo will be involved only in tattooing where the artists will perform ordinary and customized tattoos based on the client’s needs and requirements. The pricing is based on a per hour basis. The pricing for tattoo service is provided below:

Consultation

$250 deposit (non-refundable)

Customized Tattoos

$180.00/hour + Tax

Small Tattoos

$100.00 / 30 min + Tax

$45.00/15mins + Tax (after first hour)

The deposit will be paid back after the last follow-up and photography.

4.0 Operations

The company is located at 100 Allen, Miami, Florida. The standard business hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m Monday – Saturday. Clients will schedule appointments with our virtual assistant and pay the deposit amount on our website.

4.1 Equipment

The company will use a variety of equipment including:

• (1 rotary, 2 coils, 1 pen) including many different needle cartridges
• tube tips, for different tattoo effects (sizes: 3rl, 5rl, 9rl, 11rl, 7rs, and 9ft)
• digital power supply and analogs
• two types of cords (RCA, Clip)
• 2 ultra-thin foot pedals.
• small tools to fix/replace parts
• Spare parts (coil springs, contacts, sprocket)

Artists are allowed to bring their own equipment provided they follow all standard safety and health processes.

4.2 Inventory

Stocking up inventory is important in the tattoo industry. Sample Tattoo Shop will have all the necessary items in inventory such as needles, and cleaning materials.

5.0 Market Overview

The tattoo business has low startup costs and above average profit margins. There is an 8% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for tattoo studios.  With the increase in people getting tattooed, the industry is flourishing in the Canadian market.

5.1 Market Trends

During the covid pandemic in 2020, all industries, including tattoo studios took a hit. Since the tattoo industry involves frequent interactions with the customer, tattoo studios too had to close down which resulted in a 9.5% revenue decline from the previous years. But currently, the industry is starting to rebound as many prospective customers are making frequent enquiries to have work completed.

The tattoo industry has grown quickly over the past years which is currently valued at $3 billion per year. The growth rate of this industry is on an upward trend with more people accepting tattoos in society. Even Canada’s current Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau has a tattoo on his upper left arm. The industry is expected to grow continuously as more people are coming forward to have a tattoo. 38% of the Canadian population have at least one tattoo on their body and this is expected to increase over the next few years.

5.2 Competition

Liquid Amber

Established in 2001 and located at Powell Street, Miami. Liquid Amber is a female owned and operated studio. They charge $120-$200 per hour. The charges vary from artist to artist.

Gastown Tattoo Parlour

It was established in 2011 and is located at West Cordova, Miami. The minimum rate is $120 per hour and the base rate of the business is $200 per hour.

Black Medicine Tattoo

It was established in 2015 and is located on E Place Street. Black work tattooing is their specialty and the minimum charge is $100 and it varies from one artist to another.

5.3 Competitive Advantage

Quality Tattoos: The biggest advantage Sample Tattoo Shop will have is that it will be known for its Quality tattoos.

Customer Service: Sample Tattoo Shop will provide an excellent service to its clients. The studio will have music, gaming systems, televisions to watch movies or shows on Netflix or cable. Wi-Fi passwords will be given to the client so that they won’t have to worry about their data usage. Music will be played based on the client’s preference.

5.4 Risk Analysis

Health and Safety

The major issue the tattoo industry faces is the risk of health and safety. Due to unhealthy practices like improper sterilization, cleanliness, people have been affected by infections.

• At Sample Tattoo, the client’s health and welfare are taken quite seriously
• Equipment is wrapped using a variety of disposable plastic wrap products supplied by tattoo suppliers such as pen bags for tattoo pens and tube grips, cord sleeve bags to protect cords from contamination, machine bags for use as machine contamination barrier, sharps container to discard needles, razors, galvinize to sanitize equipment and furniture after every use, plastic wrap for covering furniture, armrest and lamp grip, tape to secure plastic barriers to equipment, and furniture.
• All machines have spare parts and tools nearby to maintain good working order. Machines are inexpensive and easy to fix and or upgrade. In an emergency, there are Tattoo suppliers nearby which carry everything a tattoo shop would need to stay operational.
• Garbage cans have a step lever that opens the lid. Garbage is emptied regularly. All surfaces have barriers that are purchased in bulk and disposed of after each session.
• Ink is poured into clean ink cups only and handled by clean gloves, tongue depressors are used to scoop out Vaseline so as not to contaminate the whole jar.
• Paper towels are manually pulled from a clean roll with clean gloves and stacked in the set-up area which is covered by a dental bib that helps protect the desk or tray from contamination.
• Gloves are changed in between breaks and hands washed before and after taking gloves off every time.
• Floors are swept and mopped daily.
• Face masks are worn all the time. Needles, tube grips, and needle cartridges are changed every 4 hours (to maintain sharpness during full-day tattoos only). This ensures great color packing and saturation as well as less pain and irritation for the client’s skin. Otherwise, all needles, tube grips, and needle cartridges are discarded into the sharps bin after every client.
• Nothing is reused. Surgical green soap and water solution mix are used to wipe tattoos at all times during the procedure with the positive effect of reducing the chances of infections caused by airborne dust contamination.

Clients cancelling appointments: There are instances where the client would cancel the appointment and the time allotted for the artist goes to waste, which in turn is a loss to the business.

To mitigate this, clients will be required to pay a deposit of $100 at the time of making an appointment. The client needs to go through a follow up process where the tattoo will be examined if it is healed and a photograph of the finished work will be taken. If the client doesn’t come for a touch up and follow up session, they will be charged from the deposit made.

Have Questions? Looking To Get Started?

6.0 sales & marketing plan.

Sample Tattoo intends to maintain frequent marketing campaigns online that will ensure maximum visibility to the target group. Some of the strategies planned are:

• Develop an online presence by having a website, showcase the designs and the portfolio
• Interviews with the client and tattoo artist about their experience and passion for tattooing
• Running Social Media contests for free tattoos, gifts certificates

Sample Tattoo will use digital channels to target the desired customer. John O’Miley  will register the company details and contact information in the online portals available so that the potential clients will be aware of the brand and reach out with ease. The company will have a website, social media pages to feature the artist’s portfolio, the company’s address & contact details.

6.1 Target Customer

Our target customers can be divided into 3 groups..

• 18-30 yrs. – This audience is often brand new to tattoos and is coming in for the first time.
• 30-40 yrs. – Often tattoo enthusiasts who already have multiple tattoos on them. They often get tattooed for sentimental value.
• 40+ yrs. – This audience is a mix of people who have never received a tattoo before, and tattoo enthusiasts.

The age group below 18 yrs. would require consent from their parents. The prospective clients will be ready to spend approximately $150 to $300 for each tattoo.

In order to run at maximum efficiency, Sample Tattoo will serve all these target customer groups. The business will advertise its basic designs and the customized design work they are capable of. The shop will be appropriate for both individuals brand new to tattoos and tattoo enthusiasts, with entertaining music playing and products available for sale.

6.2 Key Channels

Sample Tattoo will use a digital marketing strategy to reach the target audience.  These channels will include:

Company Website: The website will feature details about the company, its services, address, contact details, and artists’ portfolio.

Social Media: The company will focus on Instagram & Facebook and will post pictures of finished tattoo work. The company will also run social media contests to create more awareness about the Company and its services

Google Ads: Google Ads will play a primary role in reaching the target audience.  By geo targeting the Miami area, and appearing for relevant keywords, Sample Tattoo can take the front stage in the Miami tattoo market.

6.3 SWOT Analysis

7.0 financial plan.

7.1 Capital Requirements  

7.2 income statements – year 1  .

7.3 Cash Flow Statement  

7.4 Balance Sheet

How can we help you?

Get in touch with us or visit our office

Don't bother with copy and paste.

Get this complete sample business plan as a free text document.

Tattoo Parlor Business Plan

Start your own tattoo parlor business plan

Tablature Tattoo

Products and services.

Tablature Tattoo will provide the following services to customers:

• Introductory/shop-minimum tattoos
• Basic tattoos (~1 hour session)
• Full sessions (2-6 hour sessions)

Introductory tattoos are for those who are new to tattoos. They are basic, small designs by the artists or standard public-domain designs. Custom designs cannot be provided as an introductory tattoo. These tattoos can generally be finished in 45 minutes and with a minimum amount of consultation with the client. For many customers who get a small tattoo, it may be the only tattoo they ever receive. Some do convert to get more tattoos in the future. Those who are more adventurous and who intend to collect tattoos will often choose the other services. The price for an introductory tattoo will be $60 at launch.

Basic tattoos offer some consultation with the client, a wider number of colors, and about an hour of work with an artist. These are not generally custom-designed tattoos, but may include some customization of existing designs. The price for this service will be $100 at launch.

Full sessions allow creative freedom for the artist to create customization of a design or an original design for a customer and freedom for the customer to know that there is a ceiling on the price he or she will pay. The price for these sessions will be $300 at launch.

Clients can view binders of the flash art (photos and images of designs by the artists and public domain designs they can work from) while sitting on the couch in the shop’s waiting area. Julie can discuss options and prices with the customers if the artists are working with customers at the moment.

Tablature Tattoo will also sell branded products in the store with designs created by the shop’s tattoo artists. These include t-shirts, hoodies, bags, caps, posters, and potentially other items. The artists will choose their best and most popular designs four times a year and have runs of these items printed. Short runs will be printed, allowing the business to respond to customer preference based on what sells (both the types of items and the types of designs). The items will be sold for an average of $20, which will vary depending on the type of item. Each item will contain the Tablature Tattoo logo and can be signed by the tattoo artist if desired.

Start your own business plan

Your business plan can look as polished and professional as this sample plan. It's fast and easy, with LivePlan.

The quickest way to turn a business idea into a business plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

No thanks, I prefer writing 40-page documents.

Our biggest savings of the year

Black Friday Save 60%

for life on the #1 rated business plan software