Why use a signature style?
It might be tempting to think that being good at all designs is enough when it comes to tattooing - after all, it's up to the customer what style, colour or shape they want their designs to be. But actually, the tattoo artists who are diversifying their work are the one’s getting noticed more and more in today's digital world; and they are also the ones with their books filled into the next year with a waiting list as long as your (untattooed) arm.
If you want to stand out from other tattoo artists, simply being a jack of all trades but a master of none is not going to impress your customers. Sure, they will still love their tattoos, but very few people will seek you out specifically to get a certain type of tattoo. If they're not doing that, then you're missing out on valuable trade compared to artists who are willing to go all in with their signature style.
We're not saying you'll never tattoo an old-school piece or a tribal-style tattoo ever again, because by the very nature of the job, tattoo artists have to be able to create great work across a spectrum of designs. But if there's a style or design you particularly like doing, having a signature style can be an excellent way to connect yourself with customers who want you to create the designs that you love tattooing; a win for all parties involved.
Picking your signature style
So you've decided that a signature style might just be for you, but how do you decide what you want that style to be? Like anyone in the arts, most tattoo artists already have a preference for the kind of work they like to create, whether it's hyper realistic designs, geeky themed imagery, old-school ink or anything in between.
If you're particularly skilled at bright, colourful designs, then it might be worth opting for that kind of design as your signature; or if you find your customers love unique abstract styles, then that might be the right fit for you. Producing tattoos in a coherent theme, whether it's down to the linework, the innovation in your designs or simply the use of a specific colour palette, can go a long way towards creating a name for yourself as an artist.
Building the audience
Want to be known for a certain style? Then social media is your best friend. Start promoting your work online and your customers will soon follow, especially if you have a strong visual style and identity when it comes to what you produce. If you're looking to build up a portfolio, creating flash sheets in your chosen look can be an excellent way to gain interest in your designs, and can lead to more customers who love what you do.
Some tattoo artists create flash with the specific purpose of building their portfolio and even offer great discounts on pieces they particularly want to do. This isn't compulsory, but it can be a great way to demonstrate your skill and talent with a very happy customer who got both a design they love and a discount to boot. It's up to you how you choose to promote your style, but simply getting it out there and seen is an excellent start.
Looking for the best tools to get the job done? Our tattoo guns and tattoo equipment can provide you with the best way to start fresh; you’ve got a new style, why not try out some new gear to go with it? See our full range of products online today, and contact us; for more information if you need it.
