Back to Basics: Your Essential Tattoo Setup

Have you ever stopped to count how many products we actually need as tattoo artists to run a proper session?
Well… It’s a long list!

Being a tattoo artist is so much more than sitting in a leather chair, focusing on your art, and making the magic happen (I wish it were that simple).

In reality, every tattoo artist carries a full backpack of experience.

Let’s start from the beginning: when we’re learning, we spend hours trying to understand every detail, from machine mechanics to needle configurations.
Why does one brand use “1003” and another “30/03”? Come on, right? That’s just the beginning.

Nobody warns you about the therapy moments.

One day, you’re listening to wild stories from your clients… and the next, you’re the one opening up your heart. Honestly, every tattoo artist could write a book of experiences. (Hmm… maybe that’s an idea for later. Anyway, let’s get back on track.)

If you started your career following an experienced artist, you’ve already had a bit of the path mapped out. But with time, we all discover new products, try different brands, and find our own favourites. It’s like walking into an amusement park full of endless options.

And let’s be honest, once we settle on our essentials, we stick to them like glue.

As we mentioned before, the list is long, and we could split it into categories like cleaning, disposable items, stencil materials, skin prep, inks, cartridges, and aftercare.

But today, let’s focus on just five essentials, one from each area. 

                 

1. Cleaning Products

A clean workspace is the foundation of a safe tattoo environment. Surfaces should always be disinfected before and after every session to prevent cross-contamination.

Products like Clinell Disinfectant are ideal for wiping down chairs, benches, and machines,  ensuring quick, effective sanitation between clients.

2. Gloves

Gloves are a must for protection and comfort throughout every tattoo. They act as a vital barrier between the artist and potential contaminants.

Options such as Pearl, Select Black, or Pink Gloves combine durability, comfort, and excellent grip, allowing maximum control during work.

3. Stencil Products

A clear stencil is essential for clean lines and consistent results. The right stencil product helps designs transfer evenly and stay visible throughout the session.

Proton Stencil Products offer a smooth texture and strong hold, helping prevent smudging and ensuring precision from start to finish.

4. Skin Preparation

Proper skin preparation ensures the stencil adheres correctly and the tattooing process runs smoothly.

Using antiseptic sprays, alcohol swabs, and razors to clean and prepare the area helps remove oils, hair, and residue before application.
A well-prepped surface supports better stencil results and a more comfortable tattoo experience.

5. Inks & Cartridges

We all have that one brand that immediately comes to mind, like Dynamic Ink, a legendary name in the tattoo world. But don’t be afraid to explore new ones; experimenting helps you find the perfect match for your style.

 

 

 

As for cartridges, that’s a topic that deserves its own blog post (and yes, we’ll get there soon). Choosing the right cartridge setup is key to precision, comfort, and consistency in your work.

Being a tattoo artist is a huge responsibility, but also an incredible journey of growth and discovery. Every session teaches us something new, about technique, products, and even people.

We’re happy to be part of your journey and to keep sharing knowledge that helps you grow in your career.
Thanks for reading, and keep an eye out for our next post. There’s much more to come!

Stay inspired, stay safe, and keep creating. 

TATTOO BOUTIQUE