🏁 Building a Tattoo Studio: Must-Have Supplies for Beginners
Start strong. Stay safe. Work like a pro.
Opening a tattoo studio is more than just finding the perfect space and designing killer ink—it's about equipping your shop with the right tools and professional-grade supplies to ensure safety, precision, and compliance from day one.
Whether you're opening your first location or setting up a personal studio, this guide will walk you through the essential tattoo supplies every beginner needs, featuring trusted products from Aurum Care Co.—your one-stop shop for hygiene, protection, and studio-ready supplies across Canada and North America.
🧤 1. High-Quality Gloves (Nitrile or Latex)
Clean hands = clean work.
Tattooing is a hands-on job that requires sterile, puncture-resistant gloves to protect both artist and client. For most tattoo artists, nitrile gloves are the go-to:
Latex-free (for allergy concerns)
Better stretch + durability
Excellent tactile sensitivity for detail work
🛒 Shop Nitrile & Latex Gloves →
🧴 2. Skin Prep & Aftercare Essentials
Your canvas is skin, and prepping it properly is key. Stock up on:
70% or 99% Isopropyl Alcohol (for pre-tattoo disinfecting)
Witch Hazel (to reduce irritation and bleeding)
Skin-safe soaps and sprays
Disposable razors for prep
💡 Don’t forget post-care instructions and take-home items for your clients.
🧴 Explore Skin Prep Products →
🧻 3. Surface Protection & Disposable Barriers
A clean studio isn’t just professional, it’s legally required. Use disposables to keep your space safe between clients:
Table paper rolls
Poly aprons & shoe covers
Dental bibs for equipment or the client's lap
Barrier films for machines and cords
🧼 Browse Surface Protection & Covers →
🧽 4. Disinfectants & Cleaning Supplies
Between every client, your space must be sanitized using Health Canada–approved disinfectants. You’ll need:
Surface wipes or sprays (DIN-registered)
Gloves for handling chemicals
Paper towels & waste bins
📦 Pro tip: Have a cleaning protocol posted in your studio to ensure your team stays compliant.
🧴 Shop Disinfectants & Sanitizers →
🪣 5. Ink Setup & Rinse Station Tools
While you’ll source your own ink and machines, don’t forget the hygienic accessories:
Ink caps (various sizes)
Disposable rinse cups
Cotton swabs & applicators
Tongue depressors for ointment application
🩺 6. First Aid, Sharps, and Waste Disposal
Safety first. Every tattoo studio must have:
A complete first aid kit
Sharps containers for needles
Biohazard waste bags
Clearly labeled bins for disposables
📦 Browse First Aid & Sharps Disposal →
🧾 7. Bonus: Admin & Comfort Items
To enhance client experience and keep your studio running smoothly, don’t forget:
Paper towels & tissues
Toilet paper for washrooms
Clipboards, waivers, and sanitizers for the front desk
Air fresheners or purifiers for comfort
🧻 Stock Up on Paper & Facility Products →
🧰 Suggested Starter Kit from Aurum Care Co.
To get you started fast, we recommend: ✔️ 3–4 boxes of nitrile gloves (various sizes)
✔️ 2–3 packs of disinfectant wipes or spray
✔️ 1 roll of exam table paper
✔️ Poly aprons + shoe covers
✔️ 1 box of dental bibs
✔️ Ink caps + rinse cups + applicators
✔️ 1 sharps container + 1 biohazard bag
✔️ First aid kit
✔️ 2 bottles of isopropyl alcohol (70% + 99%)