Tattoo artist renting a chair in a shop

Adults who want custom or flash tattoos, cover-ups and touch-ups, often found through Instagram, referrals and shop walk-ins.

You charge per piece or by the hour, and pay the shop weekly or monthly chair rent or a percentage of each session. Deposits for booked sessions help cover no-shows.

• Strong drawing and design ability
• Steady hands and attention to detail
• Good client communication and consultation
• Strict hygiene habits

• Most states or counties require an individual artist license or permit, and rules differ a lot, so check with your health department
• Bloodborne pathogen training and strict sterilization and disposal rules usually apply
• Check whether you are an independent contractor or employee in the shop agreement, and ask about insurance
• Professional liability or general liability insurance is worth checking, as some shops require it
• Tattoos are permanent, so keep signed consent forms, ID checks for age and clear aftercare instructions
• Learning the craft properly usually means a formal apprenticeship, since practicing without training is risky and may be illegal

Startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $8,000, depending on your equipment, supplies and the shop's terms. The shop provides the space and often the sterilization setup, while you cover your own supplies.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on how quickly you build a client list and how many hours you book. These estimates start from about 20 hours a week.

Most states or counties require an individual artist license or permit, and rules differ a lot, so check with your health department. Also check bloodborne pathogen training, sterilization rules, and whether your shop agreement makes you a contractor or employee.