As an independent artist, tattooist, and small business owner, I’ve always understood that art is considered a luxury. But in 2024, with inflation driving up the cost of everything from food to rent, my business took a massive hit—one that I’m still trying to recover from.
The Harsh Reality of Running an Art & Tattoo Business Right Now
At one time, my art and tattoo shop was a sustainable way to support my family while doing what I love. But not a single month in 2024 was profitable. January 2025 was even worse—I made only $220 total for the entire month, while my business expenses remain at $3,500 per month just to keep the doors open.
I completely understand why. When people are struggling to afford necessities like food, housing, and utilities, luxurieslike tattoos and artwork become secondary, or even impossible. And while my income plummeted, my business expenses only increased:
Electricity, gas, and water bills skyrocketed
Insurance and waste management costs shot up
Tattoo supplies (needles, inks, cleaners, gloves) all got more expensive
Art materials, from canvases to paints, increased in price
Even though rent hasn’t gone up yet, it might soon
Despite working harder than ever, I’m seeing fewer tattoo bookings (down 75% in 2024) and art sales have become nearly non-existent. The clients I do speak with are extremely hesitant to commit, and I hear phrases like:
“I love your work! I’ll buy it all when I win the lottery.”
“Hopefully things get better so I can get that tattoo.”
“Times are hard. I wish I could afford to buy it. Maybe next year.”
I’ve even had to push harder than I ever wanted to for the few sales I’ve made, which is not how I like to operate. But desperate times call for desperate measures, right?
How You Can Support Artists & Small Businesses (Without Spending Money!)
I know that not everyone can afford to buy art or get tattooed right now. But if you love and appreciate an artist’s work, there are so many ways to support them that don’t cost a dime. Here’s how you can make a difference:
Engage on Social Media: Like, comment, and share posts—these actions help artists reach a wider audience and keep their work visible.
Follow on All Platforms: I actively post on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, YouTube, Patreon, and Pinterest, and engaging with my content on any of these platforms is a huge help.
Write a Review: If you’ve ever had a tattoo from me, purchased a piece of art, or even just enjoyed my work, a positive review helps attract new clients.
Recommend Me to Friends & Family: Word of mouth is powerful, and personal recommendations help more than you know.
If you do have the means to support financially, even in small ways, here are some options:
Join My Patreon: I’ve been running my Patreon page for over a year now, but engagement has been low and I have only two free members. Even a small paid membership would help create a little bit of monthly stability. You can find my Patreon here: Patreon.com/heatherpilapil
Watch & Share My YouTube Content: One of my goals is to finally get my YouTube channel monetized, which requires consistent views and engagement. Watching, liking, and sharing helps push me toward that goal. You can subscribe to my YouTube here: @heatherpilapil
Commission a Small Piece: If you’re not ready for a big purchase, consider a small sketch, ornament, or custom design instead.
Explore My Digital Offerings: I sell downloadable birth month flower tattoo designs with both outline and shaded versions available. I created 24 total designs (two flowers per month), but unfortunately, no one has purchased them in the two years they’ve been available. If you’re interested, you can check them out here: www.HeatherPilapil.com/shop
Finding Stability: How Artists Can Secure Monthly Income
Like many independent artists, I’m looking for ways to create a reliable monthly income that doesn’t depend entirely on tattoo bookings or unpredictable art sales. Some ideas I’m considering (or open to exploring) include:
Expanding my Patreon offerings to encourage more subscribers
Creating exclusive online art tutorials or behind-the-scenes content
Exploring passive income options, like art licensing
Selling digital downloads of my artwork
If you have any suggestions or know of ways independent artists can create a more stable income, I’d love to hear them!
The Future: Why I Still Have Hope
I won’t lie—right now, it’s hard to feel hopeful. Running a small business in today’s economy is tough, draining, and uncertain. But one thing keeps me going: the belief that art is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity for the soul.
Even when times are hard, art has the power to inspire, heal, and bring people together. It’s a reminder of beauty, creativity, and resilience. And as long as there are people who appreciate and support the arts in any way they can, I know that artists like me will find a way forward.
If you made it this far—thank you. Your support means more than words can express. Let’s keep art alive, together. 💙
📩 If you're interested in supporting my work, check out my:
Website: www.HeatherPilapil.com
Web Shop: www.HeatherPilapil.com/shop
Patreon: Patreon.com/heatherpilapil
YouTube: youtube.com/@heatherpilapil
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