Everything you need to set up professionally as a fine line tattoo artist after completing your course. Work through each section methodically, tick each item as you complete it.
6 sections · 40+ items
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01
Equipment
Core tools and supplies you need before taking any client
Rotary tattoo machineSuitable for fine line. Check cartridge compatibility
Tattoo cartridges, 1RL and 3RLSingle needle for fine line, tight groupings for shading
Tattoo inks, black and greywash setVegan-certified recommended for broader client appeal
Power supply and clip cord or RCA
Stencil transfer paper and transfer solution
Grip tape and adjustable grip
Nitrile gloves (multiple sizes available)
Barrier film and cling wrap
Green soap and distilled water
Paper towels and cotton swabs
02
Legal & Licensing
Required before you take any paying client in the UK
Local authority registration submittedContact your local council's Environmental Health team, typically £100-£250 and requires evidence of training
CPD certificate filed and accessibleYour certificate from your course is your primary training evidence
IPC Level 2 certificate filed (10-Day graduates)
Public liability insurance obtainedMinimum £1m cover, specialist tattoo artist insurance is widely available from £150/year
Client consent form drafted and reviewedMust cover health conditions, medication, allergies, age confirmation
Aftercare instruction card or sheet prepared
Sharps disposal contract in placeUsed needles must be disposed of via a licensed waste carrier, most councils can advise
03
Workspace Setup
Your environment must meet hygiene standards for your registration to be approved
Dedicated, enclosed workspaceSeparated from general living areas, councils inspect this
Professional medical-grade lightingDaylight-balanced LED ring or panel, essential for fine line precision
Adjustable client chair or bedEasy-clean surface, vinyl or similar
Artist stool at correct working height
Washable, wipeable work surfacesNon-porous surfaces required, plastic or metal trolleys work well
Hand washing station accessible from workspace
Written cleaning and hygiene schedule
Sharps container in workspace
04
Social Media
Instagram is the primary booking channel for fine line tattoo artists
Instagram business account created with consistent handle@[yourname]tattoo or @[city]fineline. Check availability first
Bio written with style, location, and booking infoe.g. "Fine line tattoo artist · Manchester · DM to book · Deposit required"
Profile photo set, professional headshot or clean logo
First 9 posts planned and shot (practice work, healed work, studio shots)
Relevant hashtag list researched and savedMix of style (#finelinetattoo), location (#manchestertattoo) and community (#tattooaddict)
Instagram Story highlights set up (Portfolio, Pricing, Booking info, Healed work)
Posting schedule decided, minimum 3× per week to start
05
First Client Preparation
Be ready before you open bookings, professionalism builds trust from the first message
Pricing decided, per hour or per pieceNew artists typically start at £60-£80/hour or equivalent flat rates. Don't undervalue: it sets expectations
Deposit policy set and written downTypical: £30-£50 non-refundable deposit to secure the booking
Consultation form ready (digital or paper)Health conditions, medications, placement preferences, reference images
Patch test process in place if required
Aftercare card or digital aftercare instructions ready to send
Before/after photo consent included in your consent form
Cancellation policy written and communicated clearly
06
Business Admin
Get the basics right from day one: it saves a lot of work later
Separate business bank account openedKeeps personal and business money separate, essential for tax purposes. Free business accounts available from most banks
Self-assessment registration with HMRCRequired once you start earning from tattooing. Register at gov.uk/self-assessment-tax-returns
Simple bookkeeping system set upEven a spreadsheet works to start. Track: date, client, amount charged, expenses
Invoice or receipt template ready
Booking system in place, whether that's a diary, DMs or a booking app
Expense tracking started (equipment, supplies, insurance, training)
Ready to take the next step?
Our 4-Day Fine Line Masterclass and 10-Day Complete Beginner Course are designed to give you everything you need to start working professionally.