Why Tattoo Artists Love Guest Spots and Why It’s Great for the Industry
In the tattoo world, travel and creativity go hand in hand. It’s not uncommon for artists to pack up their machines and head to another studio for a guest spot. Whether it’s across the state, interstate, or even overseas, being a tattoo artist comes with a unique freedom; you can take your craft anywhere. All it takes is connecting with a studio owner and arranging to work for a few days or weeks in their space.
What Is a Guest Spot?
A guest spot is when a tattoo artist temporarily works out of a studio that isn’t their usual home base. These visits can last a few days or several weeks, depending on schedules and demand. Guest spots are mutually beneficial; the host studio gets fresh talent and a new style to offer clients, while the guest artist gains exposure and fresh inspiration.
Why Do Artists Guest Spot?
Here's just a few reasons why an artist might want to do a guest spot:
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Reaching New Clients
Maybe there’s a demand for their style in a different city. Guest spots let artists tap into fresh markets and meet clients they wouldn’t reach otherwise.
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Learning and Collaboration
Tattooing is an ever-evolving art form. Many artists travel to learn from mentors they admire, exchange techniques with peers, and level up their skills in new environments.
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Reconnecting With Friends
Tattooing is a tight-knit community. Guest spots are a great excuse to visit industry buddies, share ideas, and strengthen professional relationships.
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Adventure and Inspiration
Sometimes it’s about experiencing something new. Working in different studios exposes artists to new cultures, styles, and creative vibes that can reignite passion for the craft.
We spoke with two artists Tom (tomtom.tattoos) about guest spots at studios about his personal perspective on guest spots.
Tom: "Most of my best work has come from guest spots. When your city might be a bit slow, why not travel and check out a new spot? You’ll be surprised at how much you may get booked; especially if you have a specific style.
How I pick a studio to guest spot at varies. It depends on the city.
If it's a city where I have friends or know artists I'll always check out their shop and hang out with them. If it's a new city, I'll research studios online and look for one that's clean, professional and has a vibe that matches what I'm looking for.
Once you have a place in mind, get in contact with the studio. Be respectful! Don’t just assume you can work there. If you don’t know the owner or manager, don’t cold-call them on Instagram; reach out properly.
If the studio is busy and you’re not bringing your own clients, it can be tough to get in. Have your portfolio ready, stay professional, and remember: you’re asking them to host you."
There are heaps of benefits from guest spots. The main ones Tom mentions are:
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Building new clientele in another city with clients who might not travel to your home studio.
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Networking with other artists around the country or world.
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Growing your social media reach and exposure.
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Traveling and experiencing new places.
"Most of my best work has come from guest spots. When your city might be a bit slow, why not travel and check out a new spot? You’ll be surprised at how much you may get booked—especially if you have a specific style."
There is of course the uncertainty when it comes to a guest spot but nothing that cant be worked out.
We asked about financial risk, working in an unknown studio with artists you may not know and how to manage these pushbacks.
Tom responded with:
"Yes there is always a financial risk. Especially if you’ve already booked flights and haven’t filled your schedule. Use social media, friends in that city, and advertising if needed. Sometimes it’s not about making a huge profit—sometimes breaking even is worth it for the experience, connections, and new projects.
The first day at a new studio always feels backwards - nothing is where you expect it to be. You’ll probably feel unorganized, but by the next day you’ll settle in and feel comfortable.
I've never had any negative experiences. I’ve had nothing but amazing hospitality, especially in Australia. Guest spots have led to some of the best connections and friendships I’ve made."
When it comes down to what to bring to a guest spot, Most studios supply basic consumables, but always check. You’ll need to bring your inks, machines, needles, glides, ink caps, soap bottles, etc.
Always have a good travel bag and take your machines and needles in your carry-on when flying.
We then asked about the role of the host usually is and about rent when doing a guest spot:
The studio usually provides consumables and often shares your post on their social media.
As for rates: I personally think a guest should pay 5–10% less than resident artists. If you’re bringing your own clients and covering your own advertising, a small commission makes sense. If you do get walk-ins, the shop deserves their usual cut, since those clients came to the shop, not to you specifically.
Guest spots are a win-win for artists and studios. They allow artists to expand their clientele, network with peers, grow their skills, and find new inspiration while giving studios fresh talent and styles to offer. While there are challenges like financial risks and adjusting to a new workspace; most artists, like Tom, find the rewards far outweigh the hurdles. For many, guest spots lead not just to better work, but also to lasting friendships and career growth.
