Online tattoo supplies store

Professional tattoo artists, small studios, apprentices and cosmetic tattooists. Some sales may go to hobbyists, depending on your policy and local rules.

You buy stock wholesale and sell at a markup. Repeat orders of consumables such as needles, gloves and ink bring steady income, and bundles or starter kits lift order value.

• Knowing tattoo products and what artists actually use
• Online shop setup and basic marketing
• Stock control and packing orders
• Customer service

• Tattoo inks and some related products may be regulated as industrial chemicals, so check the AICIS rules for importing or supplying them
• Check whether your state or territory restricts selling tattoo equipment to unlicensed people
• Check whether needles and sterile items need particular labelling or storage, and how to handle expiry dates
• Public liability and product liability insurance
• Check council rules if you store stock at home, and register for GST once you reach the threshold
• Overseas stock may be held up or seized at customs, so check import requirements first

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how much opening stock you buy, your online shop setup and your packaging and storage needs.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on your product range, pricing and how many artists and studios you reach. Allow about 10 hours a week at minimum.

Check AICIS rules, as tattoo inks may be regulated as industrial chemicals, and whether your state or territory restricts selling equipment to unlicensed people. Also check labelling and storage for needles and sterile items, insurance, and customs requirements for overseas stock.