You don’t have to be conventional to start your body art business.

With tattoos becoming more acceptable and accessible, it is no longer surprising to find that your local tattoo artist might also be an ex-graphic designer. These designers often branch out into tattooing start-ups based on their love for unconventional illustration.

On a creative note, today’s tattoo businesses have evolved far beyond the standard 5x5cm for RM250 option. They now offer innovative packages, online giveaways, flash sales, and host interactive events to engage with their audiences. Some promotions get as creative as, “Bring a friend, and you both get matching tattoos for just RM200” (terms and conditions apply, of course). 

For those who prefer a lower level of commitment, semi-permanent options like jagua and henna tattoos are popular. These are especially favoured at pop-up events and art markets, often costing less than a quarter of a permanent tattoo. Henna, with roots dating back to ancient Babylonia, remains a cultural practice in many races and religions. Today’s henna artists are redefining traditional practices by experimenting with non-traditional colours like white, metallics, neons, and even glow-in-the-dark versions. The variety and quick application draw people in, and for those who love glitter, many henna booths offer that option too.

If you haven’t heard of jagua, it’s a semi-permanent tattoo ink derived from the fruit of the Genipa americana. The extract is mixed with cane sugar, xanthan gum, and citric acid to create a gel. Like henna, jagua is applied from a tube, though it has a more gel-like consistency than henna’s paste-like texture. Jagua’s colour payoff is unique, from a tinted blue or dark grey to a deep bluish-black tone lasting longer than regular henna. Although jagua is less common in Sarawak, it has the potential to become the next big thing in semi-permanent body art. If you are planning to start your own tattoo business, there are a few things you may want to consider.

1. Build a Distinctive Brand 
To stand out, consider what makes you unique. Perhaps you excel at line art or specialize in animal portraits—identify your strengths and find your tribe while doing what you love. Establishing a clear brand identity is key to attracting loyal customers who resonate with your style and ethos. Social media, often free, can serve as your portfolio to showcase your skills. Leveraging multiple platforms effectively can help you engage with a broader audience seeking similar services.

2. Invest in The Right Tools To Set The Right Price    
Like any business, the ingredients to your success matter. Investing in high-quality materials and tools not only improves your work but also enhances your reputation and allows you to charge premium prices. Going back to building a distinctive brand, consider investing in materials that make you stand out—perhaps offering glow-in-the-dark tattoos or rainbow-coloured henna. This exclusivity can justify higher prices. Also, think about aftercare, especially for permanent tattoos. Clients will appreciate your thoughtfulness if you help them speed up the healing process and ensure the colours fade slower.

3. Collaboration
They say, “Keep your friends close and your enemies closer,” and in this case, working with like-minded people might be your best move. Everyone starts somewhere; sometimes, you may need to collaborate with those more established than yourself. Collaborating with other artists can lead to creative synergies, broader exposure, and opportunities to learn from others in the field. So, do not view other tattoo artists as competitors. Who knows? You might end up building a tattoo empire together.

4. Workshops and Inclusivity 
While mastering tattooing can’t happen in a day, workshops and short courses are excellent opportunities to help the community better understand the craft. These can be organized during tattoo expos, covering themes ranging from aftercare to hand-poking techniques. Workshops not only educate but also create a sense of community around your brand, building trust and loyalty among potential clients. Charging an entry or participation fee for such events can provide a side income and increase your brand’s visibility.

A gentle reminder: you don’t have to be conventional to start your business. After all, you’ve chosen a non-conventional career. Embrace innovation and creativity in promotions, pop-up events, and giveaways, as many people seek inclusiveness, and nothing beats relating to someone else’s craft. Be as bold as those who get permanent tattoos, but unlike the pain of getting inked, remember to enjoy the process—even if it’s a little more challenging at times.