This article was written by our expert who is surveying the industry and constantly updating business plan for a tattoo shop.
Our business plan for a tattoo shop will help you build a profitable project
Opening a tattoo shop is an exciting venture, but figuring out what equipment you need can feel overwhelming.
The tricky part is knowing exactly what to buy without going broke or missing something crucial for safety and quality.
Every tattoo shop has different needs, and equipment costs can quickly spiral out of control if you're not careful about planning.
Complete Tattoo Shop Equipment List
Opening a successful tattoo shop requires careful planning and the right equipment. This comprehensive list covers everything you need to get your tattoo shop up and running safely and professionally.
Tattooing Equipment
- Tattoo machines (rotary/coil) - Essential tools for creating tattoo artwork
- Tattoo needles (various configurations) - Different sizes for lines, shading, and coloring
- Tattoo ink (complete color set) - High-quality pigments for vibrant, lasting tattoos
- Power supplies - Regulates voltage and current for consistent machine performance
- Foot pedals - Controls machine operation hands-free during tattooing
- Clip cords - Connects machines to power supplies safely
- Grip tubes and tips - Holds needles and provides comfortable handling
- Tattoo cartridges - Modern needle systems for efficiency and safety
- Thermal copier/printer - Transfers stencil designs onto skin
- Stencil paper - Creates temporary outlines for tattoo designs
- Transfer gel/solution - Helps apply stencils smoothly to skin
- Green soap - Specialized cleaning solution for tattooing process
Furniture & Workstations
- Tattoo chairs/beds - Adjustable seating for client comfort during sessions
- Artist stools - Ergonomic seating for tattoo artists
- Work stations/carts - Mobile storage for supplies and equipment
- Light fixtures - Bright, adjustable lighting for detailed work
- Magnifying lamps - Enhanced visibility for intricate designs
- Equipment stands - Stable platforms for machines and supplies
- Reception desk - Customer service area for consultations and payments
- Waiting area seating - Comfortable furniture for clients
Sterilization & Safety
- Autoclave sterilizer - Medical-grade sterilization of reusable equipment
- Ultrasonic cleaner - Pre-sterilization cleaning of instruments
- Sterile pouches - Individual packaging for sterilized equipment
- Disposable gloves (nitrile/latex) - Hand protection during tattooing procedures
- Face masks - Respiratory protection for artist and client
- Safety glasses - Eye protection from ink splatter
- Sharps containers - Safe disposal of used needles and blades
- Biohazard bags - Proper disposal of contaminated materials
- Hand sanitizer dispensers - Easy access to hand hygiene
- First aid kit - Emergency medical supplies for minor incidents
Cleaning & Maintenance
- Disinfectant solutions - EPA-approved cleaners for surfaces and equipment
- Paper towels - Disposable cleaning materials for single-use
- Spray bottles - Application of cleaning solutions
- Disposable razors - Hair removal before tattooing
- Barrier film - Protective covering for equipment and surfaces
- Cleaning cloths - Lint-free materials for equipment maintenance
- Petroleum jelly - Skin protection and aftercare
- Antibacterial soap - Hand washing and skin preparation
Client Comfort & Aftercare
- Aftercare products - Healing ointments and lotions for clients
- Bandages and wraps - Protection for fresh tattoos
- Disposable cups - Water for clients during long sessions
- Pillows and supports - Comfort accessories for extended sessions
- Air conditioning/heating - Climate control for client comfort
- Entertainment system - Music or TV for client relaxation
Design & Consultation
- Drawing tablets - Digital design creation and modification
- Art supplies - Traditional drawing materials for custom designs
- Reference books - Design inspiration and technical guides
- Portfolio displays - Showcasing artist work to potential clients
- Consultation forms - Client information and consent documentation
- Design software - Computer programs for digital artwork
- Printer/copier - Document and design reproduction
Business Operations
- Cash register/POS system - Payment processing and transaction records
- Appointment scheduling software - Client booking and calendar management
- Security system - Cameras and alarms for shop protection
- Safe - Secure storage for cash and valuables
- Business phone system - Professional communication with clients
- Inventory management system - Tracking supplies and equipment
Storage & Organization
- Storage cabinets - Organized storage for supplies and equipment
- Ink organizers - Systematic storage of tattoo pigments
- Supply drawers - Easy access storage for frequently used items
- Equipment cases - Portable storage for artist tools
- Filing cabinets - Document storage for business records
Utilities & Infrastructure
- Adequate electrical supply - Powers all tattoo equipment safely
- Plumbing connections - Supports sinks and cleaning stations
- Ventilation system - Removes fumes and maintains air quality
- Internet connection - Business operations and payment processing
- Emergency lighting - Safety backup during power outages
Our financial plan for a tattoo shop will help you build a profitable project
What Equipment Budget Should You Plan?
Most tattoo shop owners spend between $30,000 and $150,000 on equipment, depending on their size and concept. You really can't go below $20,000 for even the smallest setup because you need quality machines, sterilization equipment, and safety supplies just to operate legally and professionally.
- Small Single-Artist Shop
A small single-artist tattoo shop with basic equipment needs around $20,000-$40,000, and most of that budget goes toward quality tattoo machines, autoclave, and essential safety equipment.
- Medium Multi-Artist Shop
A medium-sized shop with multiple stations typically runs $40,000-$80,000, with additional workstations, advanced sterilization equipment, and professional furniture.
- Large Premium Studio
A large premium tattoo studio can easily hit $80,000-$150,000, especially when you add custom furniture, advanced technology, and luxury client amenities.
Equipment Budget Examples
Small Single-Artist Shop ($20,000 - $40,000)
Small tattoo shops focus on essential equipment that can handle daily tattooing needs safely and professionally. The goal is getting quality basics without overspending on features you won't use right away.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Tattoo Equipment | 2-3 quality rotary machines, complete needle selection, professional ink set, power supplies, foot pedals | $3,000 - $6,000 |
| Sterilization | Tabletop autoclave, ultrasonic cleaner, sterile pouches, basic sterilization indicators | $2,500 - $4,000 |
| Furniture | One adjustable tattoo chair, artist stool, basic workstation, adequate lighting system | $2,000 - $4,000 |
| Safety Supplies | Disposable gloves, masks, safety glasses, sharps containers, basic first aid supplies | $1,000 - $2,000 |
| Design & Stencil | Thermal copier, stencil paper, transfer solutions, basic art supplies, portfolio materials | $1,500 - $3,000 |
| Cleaning Supplies | Disinfectants, paper towels, barrier film, green soap, cleaning equipment | $500 - $1,000 |
| Business Setup | Basic POS system, appointment software, basic security, initial inventory | $2,000 - $4,000 |
| Installation & Permits | Equipment setup, health department permits, initial inspections, professional consultation | $1,500 - $3,000 |
Medium Multi-Artist Shop ($40,000 - $80,000)
Medium tattoo shops need multiple workstations and enhanced equipment to handle several artists and higher client volume. You're investing in efficiency and professional presentation.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Tattoo Equipment | 6-8 professional machines, wireless options, complete cartridge systems, premium ink selection | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| Sterilization | Large capacity autoclave, dual ultrasonic cleaners, sterilization monitoring system | $4,000 - $7,000 |
| Furniture & Stations | 3-4 complete workstations, hydraulic chairs, ergonomic stools, professional lighting | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| Safety & Compliance | Complete safety supply inventory, emergency equipment, compliance documentation systems | $2,000 - $4,000 |
| Design Technology | Digital design tablets, high-quality printer, design software, reference library | $3,000 - $6,000 |
| Client Areas | Reception furniture, waiting area setup, consultation rooms, entertainment systems | $4,000 - $8,000 |
| Business Systems | Advanced POS system, inventory management, security cameras, professional phone system | $3,000 - $6,000 |
| Professional Setup | Complete installation, staff training, all permits and licenses, grand opening marketing | $3,000 - $6,000 |
Large Premium Studio ($80,000 - $150,000)
Large premium tattoo studios operate with luxury amenities and cutting-edge technology. The focus shifts to maximizing client experience, artist efficiency, and maintaining the highest professional standards.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Equipment | Top-tier wireless machines, custom needle configurations, premium ink collections, advanced power systems | $15,000 - $25,000 |
| Sterilization Systems | Hospital-grade autoclaves, automated sterilization tracking, multiple cleaning stations | $8,000 - $12,000 |
| Custom Furniture | Custom-built workstations, luxury client chairs, specialized lighting systems, premium storage | $15,000 - $25,000 |
| Technology Integration | Digital design suites, high-end printing systems, client consultation technology, virtual reality design tools | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| Luxury Client Experience | Premium reception area, private consultation suites, entertainment systems, refreshment stations | $10,000 - $18,000 |
| Advanced Safety | Air purification systems, advanced emergency equipment, comprehensive safety monitoring | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Business Infrastructure | Integrated business management systems, advanced security, professional marketing displays | $6,000 - $12,000 |
| Professional Installation | Complete custom installation, comprehensive training programs, full compliance setup, launch marketing | $8,000 - $15,000 |