What does a day in the life of a Tattoo Artist actually look like? Beyond the ink and the machines, it is a rhythm of preparation, artistry, client care, and follow-through. We sat down with CJ Adams, a Tattoo Artist at Ink Different, to walk through his working day from the first meal to the final healing check. If you are weighing a career change, this is the honest picture of the craft you would be stepping into.

How does a Tattoo Artist start the day?

CJ’s day begins with a solid meal. “I like to tattoo on a full stomach,” he explains, “so I can have a sharper focus on my procedure.” This simple step keeps his energy steady and his mind ready for the creative work ahead.

Before any needle touches skin, there is another priority: the client. “I always confirm with my client the morning of the appointment,” CJ notes. “I remind them to eat and hydrate before the appointment.” Looking after the client’s well-being is the foundation of a good session.

Curious about the bigger picture? Read our guide on how to become a Tattoo Artist.

How does a Tattoo Artist design a custom piece?

One of CJ’s signatures is a unique design for every tattoo. “I usually like to design the tattoo the day of the appointment,” he says. “I use Procreate for design purposes.” Digital tools give him precision and flexibility, so the final piece is tailored closely to what the client wants.

What goes into preparing for a session?

Preparation is everything in tattooing. CJ gathers all the materials he needs, then studies the design on the way to the studio, picturing how he will approach each stage of the work.

Here is how a Tattoo Artist sets up for a clean, focused session:

Why does connection matter during the tattoo?

Tattooing goes beyond ink and needles; it is about connecting with the person in the chair. During the session, CJ keeps a close eye on the client’s health, checking in with regular questions. Conversation flows, and that builds comfort and trust.

CJ puts it simply: “Building a connection with the client is essential. It’s not just about the tattoo; it’s about the experience.”

How does a session end?

As the tattoo wraps up, CJ photographs the finished work, then carefully applies a second-skin bandage to protect the fresh ink before completing the transaction.

“After the transaction, I give many thanks to my client,” CJ shares, “and I inform them I’ll stay in touch during their healing process.” That personal touch carries beyond the studio, so clients feel supported throughout their tattoo journey.

What does keeping a sterile studio involve?

Tattoo Artists take health and safety seriously. Once the client leaves, CJ runs a thorough decontamination routine: “I like to ensure my personal materials and the shop’s equipment are free from biohazardous waste.” This is not optional housekeeping; it is what keeps every client safe.

Key parts of a proper clean-down include:

• Personal materials: disposing of single-use items and biohazardous waste correctly after every client.
• Shop equipment: disinfecting the station, machine, and surfaces so nothing carries over.
• A hygienic reset: leaving the space ready and safe for the next appointment.

What happens after the shop closes?

With the studio spotless, the day still is not over. “My last step is to move on to the content creation step,” CJ explains. “I edit, crop, and save the pictures and videos I made after the session. This content will be posted a few days after the tattoo.”

That digital presence is more than self-promotion. It shares the craft with the world, inspires others, and builds a community that appreciates the art.

Does the job end when the client walks out?

Not quite. Tattooing extends into the healing period. “After two days,” CJ mentions, “I check in with my client to see how their tattoo is healing.” That follow-up shows the dedication behind the craft: making sure the art continues to look its best long after the session.

Thinking about making the leap yourself? Read our guide on how to change careers and become a Tattoo Artist.

A labor of love

CJ’s day is a testament to the dedication, care, and artistic flair this profession asks for. Every step, from the early meal to the healing check, reflects the same passion for the craft that runs through Ink Different.

In tattooing, it is more than ink on skin; it is a deeply personal, creative journey that leaves a lasting imprint. As the ink dries and the tattoo heals, it becomes a memory, an experience, and a work of art. That is the standard CJ and the Mentors at Ink Different hold to on every piece.