Facebook and Instagram are not just for likes and fun—they're powerful tools that the best tattoo parlors in the world use strategically to attract clients.
We know you're busy running your tattoo parlor and the thought of managing social media might feel like another burden.
But here's the deal: you don't need to be a marketing expert or spend a fortune to make it work. Just a few minutes a day can bring a couple of new clients to your chair.
To help you out we have built a free list of content ideas - also, for a full action plan, please check our strategy pack for tattoo parlor owners.
Get the content idea list made for tattoo parlor owners
A lot of tattoo parlors manage to post engaging content on social media. Here is a free tool to to get you started.
Content that always work well for a tattoo parlor
We have studied dozens of tattoo parlors’ social media accounts when building strategy pack for tattoo parlors - here is what seems to always work.
Content Type | Why It Works to Get New Clients in Your Tattoo Parlor |
---|---|
High-Quality Tattoo Photos | Visually striking images of tattoos can captivate potential clients, inspiring them to book an appointment. |
Behind-the-Scenes Videos | Showcasing the tattooing process, artist techniques, and studio environment builds trust and creates a connection with the audience. |
Client Testimonials | Positive reviews and testimonials from real clients provide social proof and encourage others to choose your parlor. |
Specials and Promotions | Announcing limited-time offers, discounts, and flash sales can attract new clients looking for deals. |
User-Generated Content | Sharing content created by clients (photos, reviews) engages the community and adds authenticity. |
Local Collaborations | Partnering with local influencers or businesses can introduce the tattoo parlor to a broader, local audience. |
Event Announcements | Promoting upcoming events, guest artist appearances, or special tattoo sessions can attract new visitors interested in unique experiences. |
Seasonal and Holiday Posts | Highlighting seasonal designs or holiday-themed tattoos can attract clients looking for special ink during those times. |
Interactive Content | Polls, quizzes, and Q&A sessions engage followers and create a sense of community, encouraging them to visit. |
Tattoo Care Tips | Sharing aftercare tips and advice can engage followers who are interested in maintaining their tattoos. |
Daily Updates | Regularly updating followers with daily activities or new designs keeps the tattoo parlor top-of-mind and encourages spontaneous visits. |
Behind-the-Scenes Artist Stories | Featuring stories about the tattoo artists creates a personal connection and humanizes the brand. |
Tattoo Design Tips | Sharing design tips and inspiration can engage followers who are considering getting a tattoo. |
Sustainability Initiatives | Highlighting sustainable practices or eco-friendly products appeals to environmentally conscious clients. |
Client Spotlights | Featuring regular clients creates a sense of community and makes others want to be part of that group. |
Contests and Giveaways | Running contests and giveaways can increase engagement and attract new followers, many of whom may convert into clients. |
Some tattoo parlors make 5x more profit than you!
We have studied the strategies of the best tattoo parlors in the world. Replicate them now!
How can tattoo parlor owners make great content on social media?
What to Prioritize
You probably know it already, but high-quality photos and videos of your tattoos are essential.
People choose tattoos with their eyes first. Make sure the lighting is good, the tattoos look fresh, and the presentation is inviting.
Also, post regularly to keep your audience engaged. It doesn’t have to be daily, but find a schedule that works for you and stick to it. We have prepared a free social media planner for you.
Of course, respond to comments and messages quickly. People appreciate interaction and it makes them feel valued. Don’t just be another “bland” account.
Show the real side of your tattoo parlor. Behind-the-scenes photos, artist stories, and customer shoutouts can create a personal connection with your audience.
If you want to keep your potential customers excited, highlight any special offers, events, or seasonal designs. Make sure your followers know what’s new and exciting.
Finally, share positive reviews and testimonials. Social proof is powerful and can help attract new customers.
An example of our marketing pack for tattoo parlor owners
What Doesn’t Matter as Much
Overly polished content does not really matter. Your posts don’t need to be perfect. Authenticity can be more engaging than highly produced content.
Also, don’t feel pressured to jump on every social media trend. Focus on what fits your tattoo parlor’s “image” and what your audience likes.
If you have a low budget to conduct marketing for your tattoo parlor, don’t immediately go for paid Ads. Organic reach can still be effective with good content and engagement. You will find tons of tactics and strategies in our strategy pack for tattoo parlor owners.
How to Do It Fast and Efficient
First, spend a few hours once a week taking photos, recording videos, and drafting posts. This way, you’re not scrambling daily.
Use Scheduling Tools - tools like Buffer or Hootsuite can schedule posts in advance, saving you time.
Repurpose and use the same content across different platforms. A photo on Instagram can be a post on Facebook or a tweet on Twitter.
Encourage customers to share their own photos and tag your tattoo parlor. This is what we call “User-Generated Content”. Reposting these can save you time and build community.
Use apps like Canva for quick and easy graphic design, or Lightroom for photo editing. These tools can make your content look professional with minimal effort.
Low-budget content ideas for tattoo parlors on social media
Our team has curated a list of highly specific, budget-friendly content ideas tailored for tattoo parlors, complete with practical tips to keep costs low and maximize your social media presence.
You might want to incorporate some of these ideas in the marketing plan of your tattoo parlor.
Content Type | Tips to Make It More Affordable |
---|---|
Smartphone Tattoo Photos | Utilize natural light by positioning clients near windows during the day. Enhance photos with free apps like Snapseed or VSCO. |
Client Testimonials | Ask satisfied clients to leave a quick video testimonial on their phone. Offer a small discount on their next tattoo as a thank-you. |
User-Generated Content | Encourage clients to share their tattoo photos by offering a monthly raffle for those who tag your parlor on Instagram. |
DIY Tattoo Care Videos | Film short, simple aftercare tips using a smartphone and a basic tripod. Use free editing software like iMovie or OpenShot. |
Behind-the-Scenes Stories | Use Instagram Stories or Facebook Live to give a real-time look at your daily work or introduce the team during slow hours. |
Flash Tattoo Posts | Design simple, eye-catching graphics for flash tattoo events using free tools like Canva. Include a brief description and a striking photo. |
Artist Spotlights | Feature tattoo artists with a casual photo and fun facts about them. Use your smartphone and a natural setting in the parlor. |
Simple Polls and Questions | Engage followers with free Instagram or Facebook polls about their favorite tattoo styles or suggestions for new designs. |
Local Event Promotions | Collaborate with local events by offering a small discount or coupon. Cross-promote each other's content to reach a wider audience. |
Community Involvement Posts | Post photos and short stories about your participation in local charity events or partnerships with community organizations. |
Client Spotlights | Highlight loyal clients with their favorite tattoos. Take a quick photo and share a short story about their experience at your parlor. |
Studio Photos | Create attractive settings using inexpensive items like wall art, plants, and props from dollar stores. |
Sustainability Tips | Share eco-friendly practices such as using biodegradable tattoo supplies. Create simple infographics with free tools like Canva. |
Behind-the-Scenes Prep | Record short clips of the tattoo prep work, such as setting up the station or sketching designs. Compile them into a quick video using free tools. |
Simple Contests and Giveaways | Run social media contests where participants like, share, or tag friends to win a free tattoo. Use prizes that are cost-effective like a free small tattoo or a discount on their next visit. |
Seasonal Tattoo Posts | Highlight seasonal tattoo designs using natural light and your smartphone camera. Share the story behind the design to add interest. |
Copy the tactics of the best tattoo parlors in the world!
There are tattoo parlors that make way more money than you do. We have studied their tactics. Get them now!
Exceptionally creative and innovative content ideas specifically for tattoo parlors
Investing in top-notch social media content for your tattoo parlor might be worth it because many other places won't bother, giving you a chance to really stand out, grab people's attention, and build a loyal clientele.
Content Type | Why It Could Bring a LOT of Customers |
---|---|
Live Tattoo Sessions | Hosting live or recorded tattoo sessions where your artists showcase their skills can create a sense of community and attract a global audience. |
Interactive 360° Parlor Tours | Offering virtual 360° tours of your tattoo parlor, including the artist stations and design areas, can provide a unique behind-the-scenes experience and entice people to visit in person. |
Limited Edition Tattoo Designs | Creating buzz with limited edition or seasonal tattoo designs available for a short time can generate excitement and urgency, attracting new and repeat customers. |
Artist Meet-and-Greet | Offering an exclusive experience where customers can meet the artists and discuss their tattoo ideas can create a memorable experience and word-of-mouth. |
AR Tattoo Previews | Implementing augmented reality (AR) technology where customers can see a 3D representation of their potential tattoo on their skin can enhance the decision-making process and attract tech-savvy customers. |
Themed Tattoo Events | Hosting themed tattoo events, such as a Halloween special or a charity tattoo day, can provide a unique and immersive experience, attracting groups and special occasions. |
Tattoo Challenge Contests | Organizing tattoo challenge contests (e.g., best small tattoo design) can create viral moments, attracting competitive artists and spectators. |
Collaborative Pop-Up Events | Partnering with other local artists or tattoo parlors to host pop-up events can introduce your parlor to new audiences and create a buzz in the community. |
Story-Driven Social Media Posts | Sharing in-depth stories about the origins of your tattoo designs, the inspiration behind them, or the personal journey of your artists can create an emotional connection with customers. |
Interactive Design Selection | Allowing customers to choose or vote on tattoo designs via social media polls can make them feel involved and eager to get the creations they helped design. |
Eco-Friendly Initiatives | Launching and promoting eco-friendly initiatives, such as vegan inks or sustainable practices, can attract environmentally conscious consumers and media attention. |
Mobile Tattoo Booths | Operating a mobile tattoo booth in different locations or at local events can expand your reach and attract new customers who may visit your main parlor later. |
Design Subscription Service | Offering a subscription service where customers receive monthly tattoo design ideas and consultations can create a loyal customer base. |
Immersive Tattoo Workshops | Hosting workshops where customers can learn about tattoo art and techniques from your artists can attract tattoo enthusiasts and create a sense of exclusivity. |
Flash Mob Tattoo Events | Organizing flash mob tattoo events in unexpected locations can create viral content and attract adventurous clients looking for unique experiences. |
Content that never works well for tattoo parlors on social media
Don't waste your time and resources on these ideas. We've seen many tattoo parlor owners make these mistakes, and they won't help you stand out from the crowd or bring in new clients for your business.
Content Type | Why It Never Works for Tattoo Parlors | Do This Instead |
---|---|---|
Generic Stock Photos | They lack authenticity and can make the tattoo parlor appear unoriginal or untrustworthy. | Use real photos of your tattoo artists, their work, and your studio to create a genuine connection with your audience. |
Overly Promotional Posts | Constantly pushing promotions can feel spammy and turn off followers. | Mix in engaging content like behind-the-scenes stories, client testimonials, and interactive posts to keep your audience interested. |
Unrelated Content | Posting content that has nothing to do with tattoos or your parlor confuses followers and dilutes your brand. | Keep your content focused on your tattoo work, events, and related topics to maintain relevance and interest. |
Low-Quality Videos | Poorly shot or edited videos can reflect badly on your tattoo parlor's quality and professionalism. | Invest in basic video equipment or hire a local videographer to produce high-quality videos that showcase your parlor positively. |
Political or Controversial Posts | These can alienate parts of your audience and lead to negative backlash. | Stick to neutral, positive content that focuses on tattoos, community, and your parlor's unique offerings. |
Too Many Hashtags | Overusing hashtags can look desperate and reduce engagement by making posts look cluttered. | Use a few relevant, targeted hashtags to increase visibility without overwhelming your audience. |
Automated Replies and Messages | They can come off as impersonal and frustrate customers looking for genuine interaction. | Respond personally to comments and messages to show that you care about your clients and value their feedback. |
Overly Staged Photos | Photos that look too perfect can seem inauthentic and less relatable. | Use natural lighting and casual settings to make your photos feel more genuine and inviting. |
Constant Self-Promotion | Only talking about your parlor can bore followers and reduce engagement. | Share user-generated content, collaborate with local businesses, and highlight community involvement to diversify your content. |
Negative or Defensive Responses | Responding poorly to criticism can damage your reputation and discourage potential clients. | Address negative feedback calmly and constructively, showing that you are willing to improve and value customer input. |
Ignoring Social Media Trends | Being out of touch with current trends can make your parlor seem outdated and unappealing. | Stay updated with social media trends and incorporate them creatively into your content strategy to keep your audience engaged and excited. |
Excessive Posting | Posting too frequently can overwhelm your followers and lead to unfollows. | Maintain a consistent but moderate posting schedule, ensuring each post adds value and keeps your audience looking forward to your updates. |
Complex or Confusing Promotions | Promotions that are hard to understand can frustrate customers and deter participation. | Offer simple, clear, and straightforward promotions that are easy for customers to grasp and engage with. |
Ignoring Comments and Messages | Not engaging with your audience can make them feel undervalued and reduce their loyalty. | Regularly respond to comments and messages to build a strong, interactive community around your tattoo parlor. |
Make your tattoo parlor more profitable
We have studied the strategies of the best tattoo parlors in the world. All their tactics are explained in our pack!
Why social media can be a big pay-off for your tattoo parlor
We understand that as a tattoo parlor owner, you might feel hesitant about diving into social media marketing.
The world of social media can seem foreign and filled with confusing jargon. You might believe that it's more suited for big corporations rather than small businesses like yours.
The day-to-day demands of running a tattoo parlor are already overwhelming, leaving little time for additional tasks like social media.
It's common to think that social media marketing is an expensive endeavor, one that your tight profit margins can't support. Plus, the sheer number of social media platforms can lead to indecision and skepticism, especially if previous efforts haven't yielded the results you hoped for.
That's why we've created a "marketing pack" specifically designed for tattoo parlor owners like you.
Our pack addresses all the issues you might face, offering simple, cost-effective strategies that don't require a marketing expert or a big budget for your tattoo parlor. These documents are straightforward and easy to understand, cutting through the jargon and focusing on what really works for small tattoo parlors on social media.
We provide clear, actionable steps for creating engaging posts, building a loyal following, and boosting your tattoo parlor's visibility online.
With our marketing pack, you can invest in your tattoo parlor's growth without feeling overwhelmed or uncertain.
Your tattoo parlor could make more money!
Most tattoo parlor owners don't know how to grow their business. Let us teach you the right strategies.