I'm a freelance artist, I don't do tattoos. But I'd say about 1-2 years ago, I could pay rent. I still squeaked by but it was doable. Now with AI, nobody wants to pay an artist. I can't afford my medical bills, insurance, food, let alone bills or rent. I can't raise my prices because nobody can afford them NOW and I was affordable before. It SUCKS to be an artist right now, PLEASE try and support us as best as you can, all it takes is some retweets or word of mouth.

@treacletatts

24 күн бұрын

It’s terrifying what is happening to the creative space because of AI now 😫 I’m so sorry you have all of this added stress 🩷

@NatTalks01

24 күн бұрын

I was struggling to make it as an illustrator and after AI art became popular I completely gave up. I believe there is still space for artists and AI art will become old news at some point but artists can't put our bills on hold for that unfortunately

@kellytimms129

24 күн бұрын

@@treacletattsthis is a personal question. Do you have your knee cap tattooed? I’m saving to get mine done

@treacletatts

24 күн бұрын

@@kellytimms129 yes I do!! Both of them 🩷

@kellytimms129

24 күн бұрын

@@treacletatts did you by chance use numbing cream? I have very bony knees

Tattoo artists can charge whatever they feel their art is worth, but at the same time consumers can choose to go elsewhere and that is fine

@trishbarsby2516

24 күн бұрын

Aeeing this in the horse industry as well. Prices are high for everything. People are leaving the sport/hobby because they can no longer afford it. Then I see posts from friends in the uidness complaining because their barn isn't full. I get it. They have to cover costs but if the place down the street offers the same quality work for a cheaper price guess where people are going?

@lauracraig8110

23 күн бұрын

I also think they are not 'essential', so things like tattoos are some of the first things people will cut. If money is tight, people will spend elsewhere.

@Yosoydom

20 күн бұрын

Exactly. I charge pretty cheap. I’m booked and busy. But people STILL complain about my prices and choose to go elsewhere. And that’s okay. Those what want to pay your prices will, and those that can’t pay will find someone cheaper eventually, wether that new artists is worse or even better. I don’t think we should be complaining about anyone’s prices when they’re are PLENTY of artists within their own budget. You’re not entitled to that one persons tattooing. And again, this is coming from an artist that charges cheap enough to stay busy, but that isn’t covered in tattoos bc I can’t afford who I want to go to 😂🤷🏽‍♀️

@blackharvest13

19 күн бұрын

And artist need to stop shaming people who do go elsewhere. Their ego is the sole reason I never followed through with my tattoo apprenticeship. The tattoo artist community is one of the most toxic ones out there.

@ethanreaves8429

13 күн бұрын

Agreed it's all a mix. But I myself love getting tattoos but had to step away from working in my shop just because it was always drama or ego getting in the way of artist and owners. Wild stuff...​@@blackharvest13

Everything is skyhigh... except for my paycheck

@toxiczombiewolf5692

23 күн бұрын

Facts then the older generation give us shit for struggling yay

@guQYdjfdwkCFQDFqUTTrqyVrhTN

20 күн бұрын

@@dominicbullene943 you voted for Biden. You got inflation

@IAmVenix

19 күн бұрын

@@guQYdjfdwkCFQDFqUTTrqyVrhTNtrump gave us inflation, trillions in debt and a shit economy.

@emmahilburn1732

19 күн бұрын

@@guQYdjfdwkCFQDFqUTTrqyVrhTN The inflation started under Trump. And how do you know who they voted for? Did they tell you? Explain.

@ZeCahli

19 күн бұрын

Voting has consequences. Choose correctly in November.

The only reason I can afford my tattoos is because my artist is a friend and she charges me outrageously low prices (like what you’d pay for an apprentice, not someone who owns a shop and has apprentices) I am so incredibly thankful and grateful to her

@sophiesteele2106

24 күн бұрын

I am a broke disabled girly in the US. So, most of my income goes to outrageous medical expenses. The only way I have been able to get tattooed so often is because I do assistant work for tattoos. I am very lucky to have such a wonderful friend/artist that's willing to do that.

@guQYdjfdwkCFQDFqUTTrqyVrhTN

20 күн бұрын

@@Peepoo56_asdfhkkngh every year before Biden I made 30-50 k more i haven’t broke past a certain number even working more and technically making more my condo is 2k. 5 years ago it was 1390. My yearly income is less and shit is super more expensive

Honestly I would love to get tattoos but I want good tattoos and good tattoos cost money I don't have readily available. I don't think artists should charge less because they deserve the money for the work and worth. I just wish there was a more affordable pool of artists where I live.

@ChiaraKeating

24 күн бұрын

Just throwing my experience in for your consideration! I had the same experience but I found that if you look at more rural areas and studios, there is some amazing talent out there living away from big cities who have incredible talent and charge less (they shouldn’t but they do). I know it costs to travel out to remote areas, but some of the artists I’ve met in rural areas is insane and they charge way less than city artists- also these guys deserve the clients for the talent but don’t get city traffic! Just a thought, wishing you the best on your journey ❤

@xxzenn01xx9

24 күн бұрын

​@@ChiaraKeatingill travel to just about anywhere if its safe, the artist is good enough and we both vibe, and I can afford it.

@um2913

23 күн бұрын

@@xxzenn01xx9same to this.

@salemkittie

23 күн бұрын

I'm 34 and I only started getting tattooed around age 30 for these very reasons, and let me just say it is WORTH IT. Saving your money + skin real estate and paying the good money for large badass work is worth it!! By the time you're 30 you have a better idea of who you are and what you like, anyway. It feels so good to know you can get what is an objectively incredible tattoo from a top-of-the-line artist that takes up your whole arm/leg/back, and nothings in the way of that vision. You'll only ever be glad you waited for the best.

@NaetheNatural

3 күн бұрын

When you vacation do your research and travel to them 🤷🏾‍♀️

Tattoo artist here. Bookings have absolutely slowed down, and my biggest piece of advice to other artists right now is to be patient and kind to your clients when they have to cancel or reschedule, and I promise you they will return to you (most of the time) when they have the funds. Patience and just general understanding and communication go such a long way with clients and I feel like a lot of artists overlook the customer service aspect of things. Also don’t lower your prices if you can’t afford to and definitely charge what you’re worth, but working with people’s budgets can be a great way to create a win-win situation with clients on a budget

@treacletatts

24 күн бұрын

This is so so important!! Should I ever need to cancel an appointment (which I’ve only ever had to do once in the 16 years I’ve been getting tattooed) I’d hope to be treated with kindness and I’d of course rebook as soon as I could!! But should I be treated badly then I’d see it as a dodged bullet and would find another artist. Thanks for your take 🩷

@j_me

21 күн бұрын

As a client, I also believe that there is a tattoo recession going on because I've seen all of my favourite artists (who are mostly female, super kind, professional, talented, etc.) have a lot more availability in their schedules this year. And I also see a lot more stories (not just from them) where tattoo artists will half-jokingly say things along the lines of "Please book with me so I can pay my rent lol""

@leoh1191

19 күн бұрын

Charge what you think your worth??...did you not see the title of this video.. Keeping your prices insanely high is a good way to close your doors for good. It's too many shops charging too high of prices in a crappy economy..it's economic 101. If you charge what you think your worth...you will end up with no job,no way to pay rent or feed yourself

@SecretAgent440

18 күн бұрын

The tattoo industry reputation is so interesting because I heard so many hard-ass stories of artists being so inflexible it made me anxious to ask for what I needed. In my case, I got sick with COVID a week out from my appointment which was in another state. I felt so so guilty messaging my artist to rebook especially because I know it can be hard to book someone last minute to fill my spot. I honestly considered whether I’d be better by the time of my appointment and if I should keep it. Of course it wasn’t my fault though, and my artist was understanding. It’s kind of a shame that I’ve heard so many unsympathetic stories that I felt bad for something out of my control

@kathleenking47

18 күн бұрын

When someone could invent a needle, which could make ink last 5 weeks, and fade, these artists could make lots of money. You go, for a retouch, or, let it fade

I work 2 jobs and still can't afford stuff. I want to cry all the time. I haven't been able to get a tattoo since 2021 ish. I'm so sad 😞

@treacletatts

24 күн бұрын

I’m so sorry my love. 🩷

@0hMyLife

22 күн бұрын

Same, and my bf OWNS a shop!!!!! Lol

@ruthlessjones8220

20 күн бұрын

Same! So many cool tattoo ideas are going unrealized for me because of it

@Personalinfo404

20 күн бұрын

You work two jobs, but please dont be intellectually dishonest. You are not working 80 hours a week.

@ruthlessjones8220

20 күн бұрын

@@Personalinfo404 you ever heard of a part time job?

I'm getting tattooed in about 1.5 hours and I do think there's weight to the idea that customers are being more discerning on who they're choosing to get tattooed by. The artist I'm seeing is not only immensely talented, she's also very open and honest about all her studio policies AND has a warm and welcoming personality. Why would I go to some haughty dude who's going to make my experience miserable when I can be choosy about who puts ink on me? (Also I had to scrimp and save for WAY longer than I used to in order to afford this, yayyy)

Tattoos are expensive and while I don't want tattoo artists to lower their prices, I sadly can't just afford them as of now. I got really lucky that my back piece I'm getting now is a personal project of my tattoo artist and I don't have to pay anything, as I'm the model.

Tbh it’s very simple; prices are growing at a completely different rate than people’s disposable income. It’s no different than any other goods or service based market in that regard. The other thing is, how many artists are essentially uncontactable. I’ve given up with some artists in the past because they just don’t bother to reply.

@auggiedoggiesmommy1734

24 күн бұрын

That was 100% my experience! No responses was my experience.

@someonessidechannel1485

23 күн бұрын

tbh that's my current problem with my artist. ive got half my tattoo done (it looks fine, finished enough, but *i* know it isnt) and my last appointment got cancelled an hour before the slot, and i havent heard a single word since about rescheduling. the first appointment was already moved twice... once because i got incredibly sick, and the second time because the artist got sick. i have no idea why this third cancel has happened. and its frustrating enough that i am about to simply give up and wait to get the tattoo finished with someone else some other time

@um2913

23 күн бұрын

Oh my god yes! I’m glad I found 2 but finding 2 artists with the style I wanted and affordability was hard. The more expensive one dms and email to contact him through and I did both. Only got a few responses before he stopped replying for like 2 weeks. By the time he answered back I had already set up the time and day with the other artist and had all my questions answered. It was uncomfortable telling the expensive one that I wouldn’t be having him as an artist anymore but if he hadn’t ghosted me for 2 weeks I probably would’ve used him. Glad I didn’t tho.

@YankessLove13

21 күн бұрын

This is huge! My husband got a beautiful piece done two years ago and wanted to return to him to finish out a sleeve. He's always had DMs open and that's how my husband communicated with him last time. This time, nothing back. I've also been ghosted via email. Luckily the shop we use now has an open consultation form that guarantees a call and scheduling with the artist of your choice so you can actually get your foot in the door way easier.

The thing about the industry saturation is there's more tattoo makers, not necessarily tattoo artists.

@neverbows7363

13 күн бұрын

What’s the difference?

(Comment disappeared so reposting it) There are definitely far too many entitled or “snobby” tattoo artists nowadays . I was a receptionist at a parlor (in a major city) ~15 years ago. Everyone got treated like a King/Queen regardless of the tattoo they had chosen. If they wanted a Garfield tattoo on their ankle, they received a smile and some professional behavior from everyone in our shop regardless of anyone’s personal distaste for said tattoo choice. Also, I see a lot of artists charging far too much money for their work. 🤷🏻‍♀️

@terminaldeity

24 күн бұрын

I also worked as shop help at a shop about 13 years ago. Walk-ins were common. Artists were booked maybe a month ahead at most, and made an effort to collaborate with clients, even when the client had shit ideas. I miss the street shops and artists who do quality work but aren't just trying to do masterpieces to post on instagram.

@GreatGreebo

23 күн бұрын

@@terminaldeity 💯

@GangusBong1

18 күн бұрын

Like tattoo artists who think they need their own woman only shops? Cus if men even suggested that, they would be shut down and canceled before they even got the studio up and running.

@Bekz00

18 күн бұрын

Was it Chicago?! lol, I use to live in the southside of Chicago and there was an influx of hipsters (gentrification) that moved into the neighborhood, a lot more high class tattoo parlors popped up and they were definitely snobs, especially if they have 1 artist that does sick work because they try and ride his coat tails and take his clients that don’t “match his style “. They were usually friends with the hipster taco shop owners and the hipster brewery owners in the neighborhood.

@loading...8512

10 күн бұрын

Went to a tattoo convention and omg yes had to walk around a bit until my husband and I found an awesome artist who would work with our budget AND not tell me where to put a tattoo on my body that is a huge red flag for me and I will walk away immediately it's my body and its going to be permanently on my body I want a tattoo where I like it if I ask for your opinion about placement then great but never tell me "well no we should put it here not here" and then argue with me when I say no I want it where I said

Tattoos are definitely expensive. I got a tattoo this month and that ate up my "fun money" for basically 2 months. I don't regret it, but I know I have to space out my tattoos. Although even getting my hair done now costs as much as getting a small tattoo!

@aliceoliver9260

24 күн бұрын

I’m the same, getting one next week that will eat up “fun money” for a couple of months too. Worth it for me but has definitely caused more of a pinch than it would have a few years ago, in terms of artists prices and my own finances!

@Shalomekai

22 күн бұрын

It do! I sometimes debate if I should pay for my hair or a tattoo, with my fun money😂😂😂

My artist undercuts himself all the time. He just wants to work and have folks in his chair - he's willing to take less from more people rather than charge one person a lot. I've asked why he doesn't charge more. That was his answer

@katlynklassen809

18 күн бұрын

It is the smartest way. Velosity keeps you stable.

@NemoTheGlover

17 күн бұрын

Works for my artist

@lyndellecoats8459

6 күн бұрын

1st truth I've seen in comments most "Artists" over value themselves.

I think one thing not covered in the video is that top artists are realising they can charge more than the not as good, so they are charging more which is fair enough. but the artists who maybe are not as good are now seeing these prices as the standard and are raising their prices, and then the cycle repeats and the prices have just gotten insane as a result D:

@treacletatts

24 күн бұрын

This is a good point!!

@Sahm.tattoo

24 күн бұрын

@@treacletattsthe point about tattoo artists and studios having a bad reputation being the ones who will really feel the tattoo recession is from my experience not true at all. Where I live in Denmark, the WORST tattoo studio is still the most popular by far. They are the typical biker related shop owners and artists who can’t even do a fineline without causing blowout, not to mention their ‘’sleeves’’ and realism work which is just awful, and they still have so many clients it is insane. That is partly because they lower their prices whenever a client asks if they can do a certain design cheaper than the one they’ve been offered. And people always choose the cheapest option even though their work is really bad. Ive only been 2-3 years and I haven’t felt this recession luckily, I get more and more work to do because of the good reputation.

@danielvelkovski3156

19 күн бұрын

This happened with barbers too. “If everyone else charging more so will I”. Actually heard that that. I used to pay $20 for a haircut now they all charge around $50. Mostly cause of YT telling them to charge more. Not every barber is worth $50/cut. I cut my own hair on occasion now and looks fine.

@Bekz00

18 күн бұрын

@@Sahm.tattoogood point, the biker type shops you mentioned don’t really care about a fancy studio, art on the walls or being in a location that’s “hip” or trending, so they aren’t spending a lot to stay in business. I know some tattoo “parlors “ in Chicago that are in gentrified areas where the rent/mortgage is in the 2k a month range & I know their client list is dwindling down. I’m not saying they deserve it but they were only interested in clients looking for full mural type work so they can charge them a couple hundred a session and were snobs w/anyone wanting something small

I think the rise of social media has had a huge influence on the “business” of being a tattoo artist. It is becoming more and more a requirement to have and maintain a social media presence so your work is seen and people can “find” you. The joke is nobody under 40 even wants to make a phone call anymore, how do you think those same people feel about walking into a studio without already knowing they will get exactly what they are looking for? Being a tattoo artist and being a successful social media marketer aren’t always going to be linked skill sets. Another skill set some artists may be lacking are “soft skills”. As tattooing has become more mainstream, it has shifted to a sort of service industry where consumers are expecting a connection and experience more on par with a visit to a salon or a masseuse and if you can’t use emotional intelligence to make your customer feel comfortable and appreciated from the start, people are going to stay away. This connects back to the social media aspect as people will perhaps be more comfortable with an artist they have seen positively interacting with clients in video as opposed to going in blind. All this to say that I agree with the theory that the tattoo industry is changing, a lot of it has to do with the increase of women both as artists and customers and a demand for more respect and empathy, and those who can not adjust will be left behind.

a big thing is also trends. a few years ago, the trend was getting as many tattoos as fast as possible, now it's the "clean girl aesthetic". many people are regretting their tattoos because they got them way too young and way too fast and it's now no longer in trend

@user-pc9yb9vi5k

21 күн бұрын

This is what I was thinking while I was watching the video and I was surprised it wasn't mentioned - are tattoos also just out of fashion now? Celle did a video on the idea that tattoos just aren't cool any more and I do think that is contributing.

@deedeeramone34

20 күн бұрын

@@user-pc9yb9vi5kthey’ve never been cool, unless it’s prison/military ink that was earned

@maximumjongs

20 күн бұрын

I think you're right, but you can't expect a tattoo enthusiast to acknowledge it. Their algorithm is filled with tattoo content and their friends are tatted. If a generation skips tattoos there are only so many people that want to walk around as looking like a collage.

@maxjohnson1758

10 күн бұрын

I think you are correct.

There are too many tattoo artists, yet you can't get any to respond to an email because their books aren't open. You can't find an artist that will draw because "thats not the material they are interested in right now." Too many people think that everyone should be begging for their work.

@artbyddp

9 күн бұрын

Yeah, I wouldn't draw anything without a deposit and commitment to do business.

Ooooh I’ve been hoping you’d do an episode on this. I’ve been tattooing 26 years, and while I’m doing ok, I’m getting far less requests than I ever have. All of my coworkers are feeling it too. I think a couple other factors are at play (as well as many of the things you mentioned), location is a lot of it. I’m in San Francisco, and as of this year, only 1/3 of my clients live here. People left or are barely financially hanging on since Covid. The other theory I have is that politics are scary everywhere right now. I’m less willing to make financial risks than I was a couple years ago. I know some people are waiting to see if they might need to move for safety, depending on the election results. And that’s not just the US, the whole world has been bonkers and nothing feels safe.

Inflation and the arrogant attitude of a lot of the modern tattooers. People don't want to give their hard earned money to any businesses where they're treated like an inconvenience and beneath the tattooer. And the prices went up when the market became oversaturated with the number of people now who want to tattoo, so now they're all competing for the work available. Prices didn't need to be gouged when there were only a few shop and maybe a couple hundred tattooers in the country.

@captainmycaptain8334

24 күн бұрын

Have you also noticed the newer artists who are charging outrageous prices typically also dont even have the best work? not all, of course, still a lot of talent out there, but a lot of these new school tiktok/insta artists will put out work that is shoddy at best but then charge like theyve been at it for 10 yrs and are doing elite work 😭

@sophrosyne5900

19 күн бұрын

​@@captainmycaptain8334😢YUP, I've noticed this . I'm on the hunt for an apprentice artist because these broads that have been tattooing like three years are charging between $225-$300/hr like absolutely fkn not.

@skateordie280

13 күн бұрын

​@@captainmycaptain8334Yep, the vast majority of new artists are so arrogant with egos the size of planets. They need to just stop

I think that the cost of living is just the icing on a cake to a greater issue that’s been boiling up for a few years now. In my experience, tattoo artist, lack humility, and respect. I understand as a artist, wanting to try different things or wanting to remain in your wheelhouse, but I’ve been told by an artist before that the idea for a tattoo, I wanted simply wasn’t unique enough, and she was looking to fill out her portfolio more which was honestly disrespectful, but then when this tattoo session started, and she was struggling to get new clientele, she reached back out to me saying that she wanted to expand her portfolio to what I desired to have tattooed so if I still wanted to work with her she was open… like girl no, I don’t wanna work with you. You essentially said my idea was not unique or special enough to do in the first place.

@Bekz00

18 күн бұрын

The last tattoo shop I went to had a female artist on staff that was chasing away customers by doing the same thing. She was dating the owner of the shop so she pretty much acted like it was her shop. All she talked about was how she had a Fine Art degree and was capable of doing better work than the guys on staff but people only go to her w/ “basic” ideas . I let her finish a flower on my sleeve because my original artist was gone and she caused a blowout because of how heavy handed she was and thought it was funny. Never went back again

Portland Oregon has been asking $200+ per hour for years now. Getting a color realism sleeve has cost as much as a car. I want more tattoos but this is ridiculous. Even those who are not very good charge nearly that much. Over it.

@ljmmm666

23 күн бұрын

NY is $300-400/hr :( out in the suburbs $250 seems to be the standard other than newbies

@Bekz00

18 күн бұрын

My ex friend wanted to get into tattooing a few years ago because she has an “art background “ and was told by another friend “you are an artist, you can charge as much as you think your work is worth “…..but the thing is, she was a cartoon artist and thought that as long as she could trace a drawing she would be good and can get $500 a piece lol

@krystaleverett5197

18 күн бұрын

@@ljmmm666so crazy! I am willing to pay for quality work but at $1,000+ per session for pieces that take 10 or more sessions, that is hard to justify. I'm finishing up my right arm sleeve and have 2 or 3 more sessions to go but this artist is giving me a deal and much of this arm is B&G with pops of color. A lot of highly symmetrical details and geometric stuff that goes faster than full color realism. She also usually quits after 3-5 hours. I wish she would go longer because even though it is hourly, I try to tip around $200 for most sessions. The more sessions, the longer it takes and the more it ends up costing me in tips. Not saying they don't deserve it. It is more about how many $10,000 tattoos I can afford. Everything is expensive and tattoos are a luxury.

@HunterLvyiXIII

3 күн бұрын

​@@Bekz00 lol definitely sounds suited to new school. And $500 for a new artist lmao Wait, actual tracing? Did she trace art for her cartoon work? If so, bruh

I got extorted at a shop recently. Was quoted $180-300 for 2 small tattoos on my arm (line work, black ink only, no shading or small details) Was charged $500 after the fact bc the dude changed his mind. I let the shop owner know over email. Both the artist and owner admit I was overcharged & offered me to come back again with a discount. I'm all for paying artists for their worth but this was someone who straight up took advantage of my passiveness.

@KriusAerion

20 күн бұрын

Always agree on a price beforehand and know what their hourly rate is. If at any point during the process the price needs to change that should be made clear to you BEFOREHAND

@Chanta2424

20 күн бұрын

@@KriusAerion I was told verbatim that $300 would be the "absolute maximum". I wrote a complaint to the shop owner and he apologized but that was pretty much it. It was very disheartening particularly because one of them was a memorial tattoo.

@KriusAerion

20 күн бұрын

@@Chanta2424 I know every shop I’ve worked has used a “agree to pay” form where the cost of the tattoo session is agreed upon beforehand. That is a legally binding document meant to not only keep the artist safe from tattoo scammers or runners, but also the client and what they agreed to pay from artist scammers. I deeply empathize with you and what you went through is terrible. You are allowed to say no if they decide to change the price last minute , and you can fall back on that payment agreement if it becomes a civil matter.

@desimo2686

20 күн бұрын

Go to small claims court and get your money back!! The fact the shop owner didn't make him give you your money back and offered a discount for your NEXT tattoo is insane. They'd have to call the cops to make me pay 500 when they said 300 max

@NerfHerder909

19 күн бұрын

Love that they offered for you to come back and spend even more money with them but hey, you can have a discount. Stuff like that is so scuzzy.

It’s insane how expensive everything is

A tattooer friend of mine passed away last weekend. He was so respectful and one of the nicest people I’ve met. It sucks to lose a good one

@treacletatts

24 күн бұрын

I’m so sorry my love 🩷

I’m honestly glad that people are finally standing up and not wanting to be treated like shit from tattoo artist anymore. I remember when I was in my early 20s and was getting first two tattoos. I honestly felt like I was getting judged by the artists especially with getting the second one done. I felt like all they saw was a nerdy soft spoken girl who was getting their first or second tattoo and automatically assuming that I wasn’t the type to get tattoos. I’m so glad I didn’t let their judgement get to me because the artist I got my recent tattoo done by gave me the most comfortable and relaxing tattoo experience I have ever had. She offered me plushies to cuddle with if I need something to make me feel more relaxed, she offered me candy in case I needed some sugar as well as water. And she even asked many times throughout the session if I wanted to take a break. I’ve only had one bad experience from a female tattoo artist and she worked at the studio where I got my second tattoo done at. She gave me such a judgmental look and I could tell she was assuming I wasn’t the type of person to get tattoos based on how I look as a person. Also based on her demeanor and behavior she gave me the impression that she is kinda stuck up and kinda a bitch. She even turned her nose up at the tattoos me and my mom wanted to get done. She honestly was just plain rude. So yes unfortunately not all female tattoo artists are nice and sweet and friendly.

@Bekz00

18 күн бұрын

I know what you mean, my friend kept recommending a female tattoo artist to me that her coworker used, when I went to talk to her she acted like a total snob and like she was too famous to do small pieces because she had a “large” Instagram following. When I decided not to work w/her my friend acted like I blew an opportunity to get something done by a “real artist “.

@HunterLvyiXIII

3 күн бұрын

Plushies, sugar, and water? Yay! That sounds like a dream, I'm glad you found such a good artist ❤

I'm a 2 years female tattoo apprentice in a very small and rural town in Canada, and I am very affected by this recession. Tattooing is not my main source of income, fortunately, but it has changed so much in a year. In the first months that I started tattooing, I had more clients than right now, even though I had literally no experience and was doing less quality tattoos. And I know it is not because I'm a man, or because I treat people poorly, heck, being kind, professional and open is the first thing my clients notice and talk about. Just to say, in my first months, my mentor (wich is the shop owner) was texting us (the artists) multiple times a week, sometimes even multiple times a day, to ask us if we wanted to take x or y client/project that contacted the studio. Today, she's texting this about once a month. Nobody's coming for new tattoo. No new clients. And I can count on my fingers the tattooers in this town, and there are no new artists. There is less artists in fact. So yeah, I'm getting better but people are not coming anymore 😥

@treacletatts

24 күн бұрын

Oh I’m so sorry to hear this my love, I truly hope things do pick up for you very soon and you deserve all the success in the world. I hate to see decent tattoo artists be affected by all of this cause you’re the ones keeping the industry going 🩷

Tattoos are expensive and then the tip. I go several times a year and even though I save for it I still get anxiety about the cost. I don’t smoke, drink or gamble (no judgement) so it is something I do for myself. But it is still expensive and isn’t a necessity.

"of course it isnt all men but all women have a story" is fuckin bars 😳

@mr.fettesq.7705

24 күн бұрын

I hate predatory Men....but every woman does not have a story. Not one to that extent. Because then we would have to start saying goodbye every PERSO has a story. Whi h technically they would. We have all had bad experien es with the opposite sex.

@deathspells666

24 күн бұрын

@@mr.fettesq.7705I’m sorry but you’re not getting it. Maybe go for a jog at night to think it over 😬

@fawn2911

23 күн бұрын

​@@mr.fettesq.7705cope

@mr.fettesq.7705

23 күн бұрын

@@deathspells666 I get it just fine. But this lady in the video said it herself. She's a "man hating feminist". And it shows. Despite that nonsense...I still give her content a shot. I just happen to advocate against ALL predatory people. Not just the awful Men. The women too. None of that should offend or anger any of you. I don't need to take "jog at night" to understand that.

@Whats-a-Chidi

22 күн бұрын

@@deathspells666 Saying "every woman does not have a story" as a man is wild 😂

I feel bad for artists who are keeping their heads down and working hard and respectfully. I'm hoping that they're the ones who get through this and that the bad ones fall away. I just wish that I could say that costs would stop rising, but it's like saying the tide might stop. It just isn't going to happen. You look great today, as you always do! 😊 Thanks for your perspective!

it may not be "all" men but it's ENOUGH men to where the majority of women or afab people have had horrible experiences. The guys who get pissy and up in arms should be directing their anger towards the guys doing horrible things and calling out their bros for doing problematic crap if they care so much about not being generalized

@treacletatts

24 күн бұрын

Agree!!!!!!!

@sylverscale

24 күн бұрын

100% - and I'm a dude. It's not the fault of the women or afab people but the fault of the creeps. I'd never defend such behavior. Does it suck when people don't trust you because of your gender? Of course it does. But I distrust a lot of people myself because of bad experiences and while that might suck for them, I need to protect myself from potential harm just like anyone does. People who get angry about that can't have had the best intentions to begin with or why else would they be mad?

@captainmycaptain8334

24 күн бұрын

You said it best. so often is the case that people get mad at people for having a horrible experience and opting to avoid more horrible experiences rather than get mad at the one causing people to have horrible experiences.

@mr.fettesq.7705

24 күн бұрын

I agree with you....depending on which area we are talking about, there's going to be predatory people. The Men who choose to act this way in the Tattoo industry deserve to be ostracized. So the generalizatio of that area doesn't bother me. I say the same thing about Women when it comes to the education space. Especially lately there has never been more Child predators in the education space as there appears to be now as it pertains to Women. The amount of women molesting their students is out of control. It's a new case I. The legal system seemingly every week. I believe that degeneracy is a problem at the moment effecting bothe Men and Women. It's out of control. And these predators deserve the justice that comes their way.

@ssebasgoo

23 күн бұрын

As a man, I don't know what to do about this. And you don't know either, otherwise you would have give a solution to this problem. I think a majority of men are seen as a threat because of those kind of behaviour and, unless there is a real change in the mentalities, nothing can be done about it. (Those people have parents, there is clearly a lack of education here.)

My husband is a tattoo artist, thankfully he owns a shop (collects booth rent) but we are still just scraping by. Everyone there (including female artists) are feeling the recession. Personally, I agree that the cost of living is outrageously high. Also, the people posting “tattoo regret” videos are certainly not doing any favors for the industry. So many younger people are leaning into the “clean/neutral” beauty trend esthetic, doubled with the pressure of fitness influencers to live healthier lifestyles. People are spending their extra income at lululemon, the gym, hair & nail salons, Sephora…. That’s just my opinion though, great video. I appreciate you bringing light to this…

I think you hit the nail on the head right at the beginning, it's not just a tattoo recession - it's just a recession recession... That being said, I'll still try pay to get art when I can 🤞

I think it’s a combination of all 3. As someone of the transgender persuasion I personally have been picky about artists not just because of price but also only going to studios with multiple artists because I specifically don’t want to be in the situation you described of being left alone with an artist I don’t know. And some future pieces I want involve covering up my surgery scars and unfortunately the shop that specialized in that around here closed because of covid so I am doing a lot of vetting at the moment. I dont make a lot of money either so any of my big ideas are just not realistic right now. I cant even afford my sleeve in full rn, i am getting it done a little bit at a time as I have extra cash. But life happens and my tattoo fund is getting dipped into for car repairs. Such is life

Where I live a lot of tattoo artists only do it part time and have a second job, because they're just not making enough money from it. I also think something that's had a big impact on the industry is artists specializing in a specific style. I remember in the past you could pretty much walk into any studio with any concept and they'd do it. Now you get "oh I only do realism" or "I only do black and white" etc. Which is great!! It means better tattoos, imo. But it also lowers walk in rates for sure. I seen a guy review a local studio once saying he went for a walk in and was turned away. So it's def a win/lose situation, because while the artist can focus on one area and really improve their work, they're also losing potential customers

Here is my opinion as a tattooed person and the assistant of my best friend/tattoo artist. I get to have a more neutral view of things while still knowing more than the average person. My artist is kind, respectful, and she owns her own shop. All of the artists that work there are wonderful human beings. They have been affected by this, but because they have loyal clients that refer other people to them, it hasn't been as bad as it could be. That being said it's still not enough money for them to live off of. All of the artists there also sell merch with their artwork on it because it's easier for people to buy a $15 print than a $300 tattoo. Yes there are more cancellations. Yes they aren't as busy. However, things have started picking up again after they started doing walk in events and overhauled the shop social media. So, in my opinion artists are making it harder for themselves by not evolving with the industry, being jerks, and not adding different ways to make money. Hell even the shop apprentice, who's been tattooing for 4 months, has been tattooing more than the tattoo artists that are on social media whining.

@Bekz00

18 күн бұрын

One of the best tattoos I ever got and receive the most compliments on was from an apprentice, the shop owner/main artist didn’t want to work with me because I was a walk in and he only wanted to work with people that directly contacted him through his website.

I’m quite heavily tattooed and the only time I had a bad experience was when I was freshly 18, my first tattoo, and it was a man in a studio that’s well known in my area for being cliquey. I felt like I was being laughed at the whole time. My best experience was working on my sleeve with a female artist.

Whenever times get tight, the first thing on the chopping block is art. It's never considered 'necessary' even though it's literally all around us all the time. Businesses say 'oh, we need to cut some corners, let the art department go, we can get by with old stuff/clip art/ai/whatever.' Not only that, corporate bean crushers think art is 'easy' so even if you have a job in the field, you're expected to do five other jobs in addition to the one you were hired for, of course with no additional pay.... I'm looking at going off on my own, but I'm sticking to 3d (props) because it's easier to stay ahead of the art thieves and ai if you're making real material items.

I haven't been able to afford tattoos in 2 years because I'm living paycheck to paycheck and child care is expensive I have no fun money for tattoos I used to be able to afford it 4 years ago but now I can barely afford to eat

I think it's a mix of price and the artists' views/treatment of minorities/women. I had to DIG through a shop and an artists Instagrams to make sure they weren't going to call me slurs when I asked for a trans boxer tattoo. Which covers most of my forearm for $400. (I'm small, so my experience is probably different when it comes to pricing.) I also live in a red (right wing) state, so I understand why a left leaning tattoo shops/artists wouldn't want to aggressively advertise their views.

@NerfHerder909

18 күн бұрын

Yeah, I want to get a chest piece at some point, but you'd better believe I'm doing some serious research before I rock up to a tattoo studio with my top surgery scars out. That tatoo sounds awesome, BTW.

Oh my gosh yes! My best friend (a tattoo artist) was just talking about this recently. She even considered getting a side job just to help. And I really hate that she's even having to go through this considering how beautiful her work is.

I'm a tattoo artist from Brazil, I'm very surprised because I was thinking that this "crisis" was a local problem. A lot of tattoo artists I know are giving up and looking for another job. Some time ago I had a lot of clients every week, now I do 2 tattoos per month and I'm broke and desperate :(

I’ve always wanted a tattoo, but when I went to a shop to see if I liked the artwork my mind was changed by the tattoo artists there. I got snide comments and was told I could only get one of the few on display that weren’t what I wanted. I haven’t been in another shop since because the anxiety of having that episode repeated is high. >.

@treacletatts

24 күн бұрын

Oh yikes!!!! That sounds awful, so sorry you had to deal with that. I hope when you feel up to it you eventually find a super kind artist and you have a great experience 🩷

@ModernLifeisThrift

24 күн бұрын

Hit up artists whose style you like and get a custom. Good custom walk-ins have been hard to come by especially post pandemic

@tristanfromtx

24 күн бұрын

definitely check out shops online on their websites or instagram before going in ! remember this: there’s a shop on every corner, and if they’re refusing to do any customs, they’re a joke and ur dodging a bullet. tattoos are supposed to be to UR liking - it’s UR body, not ur artist’s !

@mackennzie9

24 күн бұрын

Best advice I can give you is to go to a female artist!

@mr.fettesq.7705

24 күн бұрын

Any artist that can only do flash...isn't an artist. These are the people who used trace things in elementary school and try and pass it off as their own talent.

I'm a freelance digital artist and, unfortunately, shit rolls downhill. If the people who would normally buy art are finding it harder to get by then it'll undoubtedly hit freelancers, too. Between that and AI, it's harder than ever to pay bills and keep a roof over our heads. Sadly, if I don't work, I don't get paid, so I can't exactly take a vacation or "mental health break" and still expect compensation. Freelancing was always hard, but my god it's gotten *really* bad the past year or two.

I'm so glad my tattoo artist is chill. Which probably explains why he's always getting fully booked months at a time. He does FANTATIC work, but he's also just a cool dude. I'm a woman, and he never makes me feel uncomfortable, and he has enjoyed the two tattoos that he's done for me so far, because I bring him ideas that aren't completely his usual style. He's just a good dude, and also a good artist. Shout out to him, Alex Sierra.

I definitely think it’s a recession in the way that less people overall are getting tattoos because of less fun money but then on top of that, those who can afford it are also able to put their money toward artists that they feel safe with, supported by, and have good rapport with. I’ve never gone to an artist twice yet but my most recent tattoo was with a wonderful artist and I am absolutely ITCHING to go back to him- once I can afford it lol. Really great video, I hope you’re doing well!! 💜

The only reason I can get tattoos is because I live with family and don't pay rent or have many bills. I'm unable to work much because of disability but I'm able to save most of the money that I do earn for my passions.

@tifKh

18 күн бұрын

So you don’t save it, you spend it. If you still live at home you shouldn’t be pursuing little financial whims. They aren’t passions, they’re whims. Well done.

@Sophia-nk1iy

18 күн бұрын

@@tifKh You don't know my life and it doesn't affect you.

@ActWithUnderstanding

5 күн бұрын

​@tifKh they work when they can. They set the money aside. When they have enough, they get what they want. What's your problem? This person's needs are met. Yes, disabled people are allowed to purchase things that give them pleasure in life. Setting a goal, going through the steps, and accomplishing said goal is hardly a whim. You should look up the definition of both words "save" and "whim" before making a fool of yourself for absolutely no reason.

Agree it’s expensive but also shopping around so to speak, had a creepy male artist, im never going back ever.. I’m returning to my original female artist who’s a delight.. I only started getting tattooed this past year and I’m 52, it’s certainly an eye opener in these “studios”. X

I got my first tattoo last year, and my tattoo artist was fantastic! She did really good work, made sure I was comfortable, allowed breaks, and was a great conversationalist!

Ive not experienced this recession as much, because some artists ive been trying to get booked by are fully booked in an instant. While my own artist has quite a few cancelations. Its strange how one seems fully booked & another is having issues. currently i am paying 2k a month for just rent, and then everything else ontop. Luckily i have no kids or anything so i feel i have more money available to spend on myself, and in this case tattoos. I have a little tattoo jar and i put a little bit in every month and then save up for a bigger piece. But i can really understand this is not possible for everyone

Not only is everything more expensive, but what we’re being paid hasn’t equally gone up, so we “need to work more” for the same things

I'm an apprentice, and while I get nervous seeing stuff like this, I also think about what the original tattooists had to go through. The reason the tattoo industry was so gatekept was because there were so few clients. They wouldn't share their recipes for ink, they wouldn't teach people their craft, it was like a big secret and it stayed that way a long time. Tattoos weren't socially acceptable, and after the Holocaust people were coming back tattooed against their will which only added to the negative reputation. Luckily today around 40% of Americans are tattooed, which is awesome for artists! I think where we'll have to adapt is really carving out our niches. That means innovating new styles, new techniques, and creating great experiences for clients. For me, I know computer aided design as well, so I see myself creating custom machines in the future for the growing artist population. One thing I was asked by a senior tattoo artist was "what are you bringing to the industry thats not already here?" and I think tattooists, both new and old, need to start thinking about that more. The economy WILL recover some day, how will you keep yourself relevant in the meantime?

@dylanvanhoorne3191

22 күн бұрын

It will become a spa.

Tattoos are expensive, much more so than in the past, but I do think the real problem is that most other people’s hourly pay has not increased in the last decade or so. The problem is with wages, not with tattoo pricing. I mean $2000 is crazy for a palm size tattoo, but normal high prices are simply responding to the rising cost of living for the artists.

Watching this video right after Celle's is truly a blessing today! I agree that since the economy has everyone struggling and people are more aware of what they deserve in terms of treatment, many tattoo artists aren't having the stable influx of clientele like they've once had.

Sadly it’s also on the attitude some shops have taken. I work hard and make good money but it’s hard to hand it over to someone who has an attitude. It’s a business and it’s just exhausting trying to almost have to “interviews” for your artists these days.

Girl I just came from Celle’s video where she’s talking about the tattoo recession got damn 😂 however, I just had to move a planned tattoo to next year because I had to dip into my tattoo funds for stuff for the house. I feel for artists in this time. Shout out to Only Skin Deep in westbury who are amazing and wonderful people with beautiful skill!! ❤

When I was younger I definitely dealt with some tattoo artist bullshit that I shouldn't have. I'm in my mid thirties now and absolutely not going to put up with it. I want a chill, talented artist when getting tattooed and just won't put money toward anything other than the experience I want.

I totally agree on the idea that people are now deciding to go to certain artists based on the entire experience rather than just the art and having so much more access to different artists thanks to social media. When I first started getting tattooed, I’d go to a local shop, walk in, and get tattooed that same day by whoever was available at that time. My first 2 tattoos were done this way and both were men, the first was okay but a very “in and out here’s your tattoo see ya later” kind of experience as it was a very small and quick tattoo so I didn’t think much of it, and the second tattoo was a larger piece that took a couple hours but this man did not speak a word to me whilst tattooing other than telling me half way through he was taking a cigarette break. Luckily after this I found a female artist that I became very close with and she ended up doing 80% of my current tattoos. The experience altogether was worlds apart, she was unbelievably accommodating to every need imaginable, we’d chat, put on our favourite music, take breaks together when needed, everything was perfect. She later moved away and has become a very popular artist that is SO hard to get a booking with as she’s always fully booked so I haven’t seen her for a while but hope to see her again soon for a few pieces we’ve discussed. Now I only go to female artists, and every one since (minus one that was in a horrible studio owned by a creepy guy I know so no fault of her own) has been a dream! Honestly research your artist and of your a woman, just go to a woman, I promise you you’ll prefer it! ❤

I feel lucky, I've been to several tattoo artists and none of them were creepy or snobby

Hey! Have been a fan of your content for years now and watch pretty much every video you release. I’m a female tattoo artist myself and agree with your points wholeheartedly. My shop though has been so greatly affected by the tattoo recession that we (excluding the shop owner) are seriously considering getting another job to supplement our incomes. This includes myself, another female tattooer and a male tattooer who mentored me. He is the sweetest man on earth and barely makes enough to pay his bills. Unfortunately he has been directly and devastatingly affected by the tattoo recession. It is so very real, and it’s very scary. Having to go into debt just to eat is something that really sucks your soul right out of your body, and it’s even harder to successfully tattoo with that stress weighing on you. I would love to talk more about our experiences in our small-town shop, keep up the great videos!

I just had to cancel a tattoo appointment because my employer didn't pay me for the last month. Wage theft is the number one theft in America.

ive been saving up for a big piece for the longest time but life keeps happening and i have had to use those funds for emergencies 😭

Personally, I feel like it's a combination of the high cost of living and the fact that women are done with the bullshit. We have money, options, and a voice.

@deductivereasoning4257

18 күн бұрын

Women overpay for everything...

@ivanmeza7089

13 күн бұрын

I've heard about studies done on the price of goods that are split between the genders. The example used was a bicycle helmet, pink helmet sold to girls was like 80 bucks vs the plain black one sold to dudes for like 40 bucks. And they simply concluded that guys just won't pay it if it ain't worth it. Women spend the majority of household money, so statically you guys overspend on a ton of junk. So, arguably, we can say that giving women freedom to spend and earn has sky rocketed the price of certain items, like tattos. This is multi layered so I'm not saying it's just women, paychecks aren't keeping up with cost of living ect...

I'm getting a tattoo in Aug and the had to set aside about 3-4 months of "fun" money to afford it. I don't mind paying my artist properly, they deserve it, but it would be really nice if geberal cost of groceries, etc went down.

I’ve wanted to finish one of my tattoos for a year now and would love to be able to finish it as it’s just an outline right now but simply can’t afford it. Tattoo prices in shops has gone up around me like everything else has.

@comalies

20 күн бұрын

i spent all my savings on my sleeve and its only halfway done, i really want to finish it but i havent been able to put any money into my savings account since covid... and i have a better paying job now T_T its tough out here

Something in my area (Kent uk) I’ve seen popping up a lot is tattoo pods in men’s barbers. I don’t know if this country wide just something local. My tattoo artist is a man but I have never felt safer and that is why I’ve gone to him for years and he is also booked out until the new year all ready. Tattoos in the USA seem really expensive compared to the UK. I personally wouldn’t pay USA prices even without the current economic situation.

@NerfHerder909

19 күн бұрын

Yes! There's a tattoo/barbershop combo that just opened up in Bristol, as well. All of my tattoo artists have been men (not as a deliberate choice, it just shook out that way), and I've had positive experiences across the board, but I absolutely look at instas before booking to make sure there's no sign of weird, homophobic/transphobic/racist/misogynist bullshit. The worst time to find out someone is terrible is when you're an hour into a multi-hour tattoo and trapped in the chair listening to them.

Evan as a man I prefer women artists doing work on me, I’ve been getting inked since the 90s and I much prefer women as they have given me a much more enjoyable experience.

@GangusBong1

18 күн бұрын

This is also kinda creepy, maybe youre the creepy client(according to these women its definitely your fault for some reason)

@motorbikesmegarock8477

18 күн бұрын

@@GangusBong1 yawn

@GangusBong1

2 күн бұрын

@@motorbikesmegarock8477 i hope that tattoo artist youve been creeping on sees this bro🤣

@motorbikesmegarock8477

20 сағат бұрын

@@GangusBong1 the typical reply I would expect from a insel who quite can’t figure out yet that men and women can talk without it getting strange.

I was diagnosed with a blood clot yesterday, I have to put off my 1/2 finished tattoo for at least 6months. I'm devastated. It's taken me so long to save up, it's been a year of consistent sessions, about 15hrs so far. I haven't broken the news to my artist yet 😔 I let her loose on the colour and she was having so much fun letting her creative juices flow.

@treacletatts

24 күн бұрын

Oh lovely I’m so so sorry!! 🩷

@nicolorange

24 күн бұрын

@@treacletatts thankyou, sorry to trauma dump! I figure I'll have the tattoo for longer than I'll have to wait to get it done.

@treacletatts

24 күн бұрын

@@nicolorange no need to be sorry whatsoever!! While I’m not in your situation and can’t relate fully, I understand health reasons getting in the way of being able to get tattooed and I know how frustrating it is to want to be tattooed but your body is like “nah let me throw this curveball” 🩷

@nicolorange

24 күн бұрын

@@treacletatts you're so kind, watching your videos gave me inspiration to get it started. I can live vicariously through your channel to get my tattoo fix 😉 Loved the tattoo tour!

Honestly, this is the first gap in tattoos that i have gotten in a while. I havent gotten one since February and ny rent just got raised 20% starting August 1. So even with my artist giving me a great discount i just cannot afford it. I wint get another until things change. It sucks.

I’ve been tattooing for about 8 years now and I’ve worked really hard on making sure that I’ve got a very good reputation of looking after clients and not over charging. I’m booking ahead 6 months, and I see a lot of people struggling around me. I’ve even had other artists reach out and ask how I’m so busy. Playing the long game and not being money focused has actually worked out in my favour. I think so many artists got greedy to make as much money in a short amount of time. I’ve just opened a studio and so many people have told me it’s the worst time to do this? But I think it really depends on the artist and their reputation as my clients always seem to book back in. I feel extremely blessed.

I’m an apprentice and this honestly is so disheartening. This has been my dream since I was a kid and my apprenticeship has been an amazing experience but seeing even the tattooers in my shop who have 50k+ followers on instagram struggling to book is so scary. I have no other plans, all my eggs are in this basket and now it feels like it may not work out for me.

@GangusBong1

18 күн бұрын

😂

@skateordie280

13 күн бұрын

Not the best move then. I had a lifelong dream career that I had to give up on, unfortunately that's just life

@HunterLvyiXIII

3 күн бұрын

I'm sorry about all the stress, hopefully this whole situation passes soon. You may have to postpone being a tattoo artist until things level out (hopefully not though), or get a side hustle. Since you're already an artist perhaps selling bags, shirts, hats, etc. with your designs on them or starting a clothing line (eventually managed by someone else) would be a good move. But don't give up, you'll get there

Since 2 years I'm not able to afford new tattoos. I would get so many new once but i dont have the money for that

My next tattoo will be around 1400€.. It's not a huuuuge tattoo and I kinda hate that I have to work a full month in a 9 to 5 job to make as much money as my artist will make in one day. And of course they have to pay money for the studio and stuff but I still see tattoo artists on Instagram going on vacations all the time and wearing super expensive clothes (basically living a luxury life) where I have to make a decision if I am getting tattooed this year or going on vacation etc.. 😅

I have been in the industry for 7 years, I work in a female only shop and we treat our clients well.. Most of my clients are female too! A lot of my peers around my cities - yes there is a tattoo recession. Some artists styles triumph over others and thats why they are booked out, or they have a fuck ton of instagram followers which does actually matter- but at the end of the day, no one has money right now therefore no one is getting tattooed.

was having a terrible day and now you just made it good, thank you for posting ❤️

I’ve noticed a push in the clean girl aesthetic too and women being told that clean is more attractive and a few of my friends now are getting laser. My tattoos are for life and I still proudly show them off. Laser has become more popular recent too as well.

Years ago a tattoo made you individual, now everyone's got them, your more individual if you haven't got one.

I’m not gonna lie, I’ve been to multiple artists this past year and they’ve all told me they haven’t slowed down with work. Idk maybe these artists have just cultivated the correct audience and client base. Their prices aren’t “cheap” but they aren’t super expensive either (usually offering a half day/day rate that comes to about $150-$200/hr). I personally love getting tattoos so they are priority for me to spend money on after taking care of bills and other savings. If I’m gonna be real, a LOT of the artists I see complaining on social media are “mid” at best in terms of what they’re putting out there. Like not awful but not anything special in terms of ability and just not offering anything unique (like specializing in a sought-after difficult style). A lot of fine line artists, for example. Obviously when you don’t stand out from the crowd and you don’t have an established client base, a “tattoo recession” will hit harder for you.

@elitabaldridge6967

24 күн бұрын

The shop I go to is still doing just fine, but they aren't doing as many multi session projects as they were. Still busy, just a larger proportion of single session pieces.

@phoenixfritzinger9185

24 күн бұрын

Like it’s definitely a skill issue for a non insignificant chunk of these artists. And the skill they are lacking can be anything from social media branding to artistic improvement to not being a fucking creep

I’ve been saving up for tattoos to cover my very visible SH scars that cover both of my arms and some of my legs. I’m so tired of having them be so obvious and they make me very self conscious. They’re definitely the first thing people notice about me, and I much rather they notice tattoos first. It’s been two years of saving and I feel like I’m never going to be able to afford them. It’s disheartening.

I had a shop completely lie about an artists experience, they literally put some new guy on my tat without me knowing until it was too late. I see why folks are avoiding them.

Its not so much the prices, it's more that everyone has gotten poorer (in real terms) during there past few years; costs have exceeded income for basically everyone. The artists absolutely deserve decent money for their work; there's just a lot less to spare these days.

I've watched people get tattoos and wear their trousers below their buttocks for 30 years. Maybe it's time for a change.

The cost of living definitely has an impact on the tattoo industry. I only had 2 tattoos done this year as opposed to last year (13!).

The guy at roughly 8:30 min in really resonated with me. I've been encountering a lot of new artists with very small portfolios of work that are trying to charge $300-350, then get all wounded when they're told "nevermind."

your hair and makeup is so pretty today.

@treacletatts

24 күн бұрын

Tysm 🩷

Only reason I’m able to get tattoos is because my artist works with me and my budget. He knows I’m on a fixed income. Tattoos are definitely a luxury item as you said but it’s fun to have a nice treat once in a while. My mother gets her nails done and a facial and it’s about the same as little banger tattoo.

I got a tattoo recently and it was stupid affordable. I could afford her normal rate but bc she was so excited to do it she dropped the price. During the appointment she told me about the tattoo recession. I gave her a huge tip even though she said I didn’t have to

For me it's financial, but with a twist. I have a whole folder of inspo pics for a few pieces I really want, but I also have a side "gig" making money off of donating blood plasma. If I go twice a week, I make $120. However, due to bloodborne illnesses, certain activities, including getting tattooed, are not allowed. If I get a tattoo, no matter how big or small, I'll be disqualified from donating for 4 months. A little math tells me that my budget will take a $2,000 hit in addition to the cost of the tattoo itself. So.... I'm going to be waiting until that doesn't sound like a problem lol.

Really liked this video. And I agree pretty much with everything ❤

We love your videos ❤ and your hair looks amazing that style ! ❤

I got tattooed three weeks ago and got onto this topic with my artist, I had thought the "tattoo recession" was mostly due to the cost of living crisis, but her all female studio is doing well and she feels that it's studios not making an effort with inclusivity and social media - women have now overtaken men as tattoo clients and they have different priorities which some studios aren't adapting to. Interesting seeing it coming up as a point here too

@GangusBong1

18 күн бұрын

Women have overtaken men in most aspects, thats what happens when you have like 50 years of policy that favors one group at the direct detriment of another, its about to end though thank god. DEI bullshit is getting thrown out of every major institution in the country and donald trump is about to be president again lmao, yall are about to get fucking wrekt

Been looking for an artist for my first tattoo, and I think I've found two potential ones. Stunning artwork, I just know they're going to cost a bit and I want to be 1000% sure I want one. Maybe a bit of nerves too haha!

I am about to start as a tattoo apprentice and this scares me to my bones. Its feels so sad to be inadvertently hurting the industry I am so excited to become a part of by joining it. Trying anything new can be scary but starting as a tattoo artist in 2024 feels like starring into an abyss hoping the fall wont hurt that bad. I am just lucky to be young (21 yo) and having supporting parents that lets me liv at home so my cost of living is low. good luck for anyone who is also trying to be a creative. I hope you are an outlier and find success

tysm for crediting my video!!!! ❤❤❤ love your content

I see tattoos were a trend for older people who bought into expressing themself as alternative, but that’s really mainstream nowdays

Love your vids thanks!

On a less depressing note, I love seeing your build a bear axolotl collection grow 😂

There is definitely a recession on both ends. I got my last large tattoo in 2020 and can only get my next one this month because I sold an expensive piece of jewelry. Even so I can only afford my artist because she’s lowering her prices to bring in more work. She’s been tattooing 12 years and her work is incredible but she said she finally got to a point that she has to work with lower budgets or stop tattooing. It’s unfortunate, but I’m grateful!

I used to have an appointment to work on my leg sleeve once every 1-2 months, however now it's closer to once every 3-4 months. My artist's prices have not changed, the cost of living has just increased so much in my area that it takes me longer to save up. She has increased her prices by about $20/hr for any new projects, but it is the 1st time in a few years that she had increased her hourly rate. Most of the artists at the studios I regularly go to are still booked out for months, the only artists I have heard complain are........not great people or work at bad studios. But that's just what I have seen as a regularly tattooed person and someone who was going to start a tattoo apprenticeship (unfortunately the artist that was going to be my mentor moved out of state.)

I searched for a reputable artist for a long time. Found one, but he made getting a custom piece feel like an inconvenience, so I got something simple that was literally free web art, and he couldn’t have cared less while doing it. I still want a custom piece but I can’t bring myself to take that chance again while i’m spending so much money.