From equipment to finding clients, every aspect of tattooing has dramatically changed over the past decade thanks to technology.
Artists who effectively utilize technology can spend more time tattooing by eliminating unnecessary workflow steps. The tattoo industry still retains many good old traditions, such as traditional styles. Even within this context, it's important to streamline non-procedural tasks to create an environment where artists can focus on the tattooing process.
Let's take a look at how the tattoo industry has changed from the past to the present.
Online Bookings
While in the past, appointments were typically made by visiting a shop in person, now most bookings can be made online. Some artists even share their online calendars with shops, allowing schedules to be aligned for multiple sessions without the need for repeated visits. This eliminates the need for numerous email exchanges, making schedule management convenient for both parties.
Furthermore, it's possible to complete tasks like signing disclaimers and making advance payments entirely online. These automated processes not only save time but also simplify management by eliminating the need to store large amounts of paperwork.
Additionally, portal sites that allow you to search for tattoo studios across the country are emerging, so it might be a good idea to search for studios near you.
iPad + Procreate
The advent of the Procreate app has probably been a major game-changer for artists, hasn't it?
Artists can quickly create amazing designs without carrying a large amount of art supplies. They can even show clients what a tattoo will look like on their skin, without needing to draw a design in watercolor style.
For cover-ups, instead of using tracing paper, you can import the design to be covered onto an iPad and draw over it.
Stencils can also be easily resized, adjusted, and printed on an iPad.
For those who are new to digital art, it might seem challenging, but it's important to make the most of convenient tools.
There are also many other useful apps like Illustrator, so why not explore and find what suits your preferences?
Social Media
It goes without saying that the evolution of social media has had a significant impact not only on the tattoo industry but globally. Artists can now showcase their preferred designs, and clients who like their work can message them directly. This has made it easier for even less experienced new artists to attract clients. Let's effectively utilize social media to build a stable career.
Rotary and Pen-Style Machines
Although some artists still prefer coil machines, they require a lot of tuning and knowledge. While coil machines are relatively difficult to handle, rotary and pen-style machines have rapidly gained popularity over the last decade. These are easy to adjust and set up. Since they are easy for beginners to use, artists can start tattooing quickly.
In recent years, the variety of machines, including pen-style machines, has rapidly increased. Try out different machines to find your favorite that suits you best.
Cartridges
Most artists today use cartridges and disposable grips during tattoo procedures. This significantly saves artists' time. Once the tattoo is finished, simply discard the used cartridge in a dedicated box. Before cartridges existed, artists had to solder needles themselves and clean tubes. This was a dangerous and time-consuming task, so cartridges have greatly improved time efficiency.
Online Shops
And, of course, the ability to purchase tattoo supplies online has been a major development. In the past, it was quite difficult to acquire tattoo supplies, but now, from numerous online shops, you can easily purchase supplies from your preferred manufacturers.
At Flag Tattoo Supply, which we operate, we offer a wide range of tattoo supplies to meet our customers' demands. If there's any tattoo supply you wish to purchase that we don't currently stock, please let us know. We will consider stocking it to meet your needs as much as possible.
Reference
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