As a tattoo artist about to venture out on your own, you no doubt have your plate full with a flurry of responsibilities and tough decisions to consider – all before you ever book your first client. One of the most important elements of a tattoo shop is the setup. A proper tattoo station setup is a necessary component to seamlessly running your business, and your tattoo setup can essentially set the tone for how the session will go. A neat, hygienic workstation can give your customers confidence that you take your craft and their health and safety seriously, which can enhance their overall experience. 

This article will provide a step-by-step guide to organizing a tattoo setup for beginners, including tips for making the most out of your tattoo station setup, plus a list of equipment to get you started. 

What Equipment Do You Need to Set Up Your Tattoo Station?

Your tattoo station is where the magic happens! But even magic needs the right equipment and a well-stocked inventory. Read on to view our tattoo setup checklist to ensure you’ve got everything you need to open up shop. 

1. Sanitizing agents

Disinfecting wipes, sprays, and solutions (such as hospital-grade MadaCide) are a must to help maintain a germ-free working environment. Sanitizing your workspace between clients can prevent cross-contamination and lower the risk of spreading disease or causing dangerous infections. 

2. A tattoo machine

Your tattoo machine should be at the top of your tattoo setup checklist. Whether you go traditional with a coil tattoo machine or modernize your efforts with a rotary tattoo machine is entirely up to you, but it should be a quality machine with a reliable power supply that won’t quit on you mid-session. (Your machine may also require a clip cord or foot pedal.)

If you’re a beginner, you’ll likely want to choose a machine that’s simple and straightforward to use. Building a bustling business requires reliable work, and if you’re just starting out solo, you should try to keep your process as uncomplicated as possible. 

3. Tattoo trays

Tattoo trays will hold your supplies while you create your masterpieces. Metal (or otherwise non-porous) trays are ideal for tattoo artists, as they’re easy to clean and disinfect. Wheelable tattoo trays make it simple to move your supplies around as you go, allowing you to always keep what you need right where you need it. 

4. Tattoo needles

You’ll need plenty of disposable needles (either cartridge or traditional, depending on your machine) of varying widths and sizes. Different needle groupings will create a range of illustrative effects such as filling, shading, and pointillism, so investing in a diverse supply will ensure you can tackle most design types and styles. 

An OSHA-approved sharps container is another crucial piece of equipment you’ll have to keep on site to dispose of used needles in a safe manner. 

5. Ink caps

Also referred to as ink cups, these little containers hold your tattoo ink for quick access during your sessions, and can keep your regular ink bottles from getting contaminated during the tattooing process. 

6. Protective supplies

Barrier film (or saran wrap) is an important material to keep on hand, as you will use this to cover machines, drawer handles, buttons, chairs, and other equipment to prevent contamination. 

7. Safety and hygiene tools

Safety gear like disposable gloves and masks can help keep both you and your clients safe from toxic materials, blood, and other substances. You may want to consider investing in non-latex gloves so you can still provide tattooing services to allergic or sensitive customers. 

8. Razors

Razors will remove the hair from the tattoo area to make it easier to ink your design. Disposable razors can come in handy, giving each client a fresh blade free of any contaminants, which can keep their skin safe and infection-free. 

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How to Set Up a Tattoo Station in 5 Steps

Trying to remember every single thing you’ll need for your tattoo business can get overwhelming. Luckily, we’ve provided a guide to putting together a tattoo setup for beginners to help you hit the ground running. 

1. Clean your workspace 

Use your disinfecting tools to sanitize all surfaces, including the client chair and the floor. Cover your tattoo tray in a protective wrap to keep it safe from blood, plasma, or other toxic debris. 

2. Get your machine ready

Set up your tattoo machine by first wrapping it in protective film. Plug it into its power supply (using a covered clip cord if required), and attach your foot pedal if the machine uses one. Select the right needles for your design and change out any disposable ones if necessary. Test your machine to make sure it turns on. 

3. Organize your inks

Organize your ink caps for your upcoming client. You can have your colors poured out before they arrive, with extras ready for more frequently used colors. Keeping the full bottles at the workstation can increase the risk of contamination, so it’s better to only keep a supply of what’s necessary for each session. 

4. Stock your tray

Lay out all the tools you typically use during a session – stencils, spatulas, bibs, ointments, mixing bowls – so they’re within close reach when you’re ready for them. Ensure these tools have been sterilized before introducing them into your work area. 

5. Find the right spot

If you’ve got enough room at the shop for placement options, take the time to find the perfect area to put your tattoo chair and station. You’ll want a well-ventilated space that’s out of the main traffic path, with plenty of light and minimal noise or obstruction. 

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4 Tips for Setting Up Your Tattoo Station

A smart configuration will streamline your efforts and facilitate a smooth tattooing experience for both you and the client. Here, we have a list of tips that will help supercharge your setup: 

1. Invest in the right chair

Many of your clients will spend several hours in your chair, patiently sitting still in a single (or awkward) position, so you want them to be as comfortable as possible. An ergonomic chair with adjustable settings can help prevent strains and keep your clients from fidgeting during your tattoo sessions. 

2. Wear safety gear

Gloves, aprons, goggles, face shields, and masks can help prevent you from coming into contact with your clients’ bodily fluids, while also protecting them from yours. Try to wear disposable gear when possible to lower the risk of infection and cross-contamination. 

3. Don’t overwhelm your space

Aside from staying clean and sanitized, your space should also be neat and organized. You don’t have to fit all of your inventory onto your tattoo tray or workbench. In fact, it’s best to only leave out the essentials you’ll need for each specific client to ensure your other tools don’t get exposed to germs or other contaminants. 

4. Put away equipment when you’re done

All of your equipment should have its own storage place. Avoid leaving out machines or leaving them plugged in when not in use. Keep them out of the way and secure so your workspace can remain free and uncluttered. 

Treat your tools like the valuable investments they are. The better you take care of your equipment, the less often you’ll need to pay for repairs or replacements. 

Start Your Tattoo Studio with GlossGenius

Once you know how to set up a tattoo station, all that’s left is for you to wow your clients with your skill. The right setup will keep things flowing seamlessly, while also maintaining proper hygiene and professionalism. Elevating the client experience will make patrons more likely to return, leave good reviews, and refer you to their friends and family. 

GlossGenius can help you scale your business with features like Online Booking, which makes it easy for clients to schedule a session with you anytime – and without waiting on the phone. Reports & Analytics features will provide insight into key metrics so you can identify what’s benefitting your business, and which areas need improvement. GlossGenius’ features also include Marketing, so you can send text and email blasts with exclusive deals and offers to all your current and potential clients. 

Try GlossGenius today and get 14 days free!