Tattoo Artists Deserve More. So Why Are We Settling for Less?

Hey, Nando Mondragon here.

Alright, let’s get real. The tattoo industry has been around for decades, and we still see the same problems. Artists working for peanuts in shops that treat them like cogs in a machine, making it all about THEIR brand instead of YOURS. We’ve got talented tattooers out here—creative geniuses—who are stuck hustling under someone else’s rules, someone else’s vision. And why? Because the “traditional way” is all we’ve ever known. That’s the elephant in the room that nobody’s talking about.

It’s almost laughable, right? Like, here we are in 2024, and we’re still pretending that artists should be grateful to squeeze into these old-school systems that only benefit the ones at the top. It’s about time we shook things up.

The Problem With the Tattoo Industry (Spoiler: It’s Not the Clients)

You know what I’m tired of seeing? Artists pouring their heart into their craft, only to be told what they CAN’T do. “Oh, you can’t take walk-ins, those are for the junior artists.” “You can’t set your own rates, that’s not how we do it here.” It’s like, since when did tattooing become about gatekeeping and rules instead of the art itself? And don’t get me started on the studios that prioritize their brand over the artist's—acting like the artist is just a tool in their box. Nah, man. That’s not the future of tattooing, that’s the past.

It’s Time to Flip the Script

Now, I’ve been in this game for over 18 years, and I’ve seen every type of shop out there—from the dark and dingy spots that feel more like a biker bar than a place to create art, to the fancy, sterile studios that look like they belong in a sci-fi movie but have ZERO soul. None of that’s working for the real artists, the ones who actually give a damn about their clients, their work, and their freedom.

That’s why I started Certified Tattoo Studios—to make it about the clients AND the artists. To build a place where the art comes first, where the client’s vision matters as much as the artist’s. And you know what? It worked. 8,000+ 5-star reviews later, it’s proof that if you do right by your clients and your artists, you create something unstoppable.

But We Need More Than Just Studios. We Need Suites

Here’s the thing: Not every artist wants to work under someone else’s banner, including mine and that’s cool. I get it. You want your OWN space, your OWN vibe, and you want to keep most of your hard-earned money in your own pocket. And that’s exactly why I’m launching Certified Tattoo Suites—a new space where tattooers and piercers can have it all.

Think about it—no boss breathing down your neck, no gatekeeping. You set your schedule, your prices, your rules. You bring in your clients and keep the majority of what you earn. And it’s not just about freedom; it’s about having the support you actually need. We’re talking tattoo-specific amenities like sharps disposal, business coaching from yours truly (and the Tattoo Empire Builders), and a suite you can customize to fit YOUR vibe.

A New Day for Tattoo Artists and Piercers

Certified Tattoo Suites isn’t just another spot to rent. It’s a movement. It’s about building YOUR empire, not someone else’s. It’s about giving artists and piercers what they deserve—autonomy, support, and the tools to succeed. Because let’s face it—if the tattoo industry is going to grow, we’ve got to let the artists grow. We’ve got to give the new generation a chance to build something better than what we had.

So, if you’re tired of the same old thing—tired of playing by someone else’s rules—and you’re ready to step into a space that’s built for you, come talk to us. Because this is where tattooing is going. And we’re just getting started.

Build your empire. It’s time.

Nando Mondragon

Ceo and Founder Certified Tattoo Studios

Tattooing is Changing. It’s Time the Industry Does Too.

Hey, Nando here.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my 18 years in the tattoo industry, it’s that change is inevitable. Tattooing isn’t what it used to be, and that’s a good thing. We’ve got new artists coming up with fresh ideas, pushing boundaries, and making tattooing a bigger part of mainstream culture than ever before. But here’s the catch—most of the industry isn’t built to support this new wave of talent.

The Problem with the Old Ways

Tattoo shops are great, but they’re not for everyone. Many artists want to create without the traditional shop environment holding them back. Maybe they don’t vibe with the ‘boss mentality,’ or maybe they want the freedom to build their own brand without limitations. And let’s be real—the old-school shop model just doesn’t cut it for artists who are ready to evolve and grow in new ways.

The industry is still clinging to the past, but we’re in a new era, and it’s time we embrace it.

Enter Tattoo Suites—A New Opportunity

That’s where Certified Tattoo Suites comes in. We’re not just about renting space—we’re about building a platform where the next generation of artists can thrive with the guidance and wisdom from those who came before them. Imagine a space where you can run your business, set your own hours, and charge your own rates—without anyone telling you how it “should” be done. A space where seasoned tattooers and piercers can guide you, not as bosses but as mentors, sharing their knowledge to help you avoid the pitfalls and grow faster than they did.

Empowering Artists with Knowledge and Freedom

The old guard has worked hard to build this industry, and they have the scars to prove it. They’ve learned the hard lessons, so why not share that wisdom with those who are coming up? At Certified Tattoo Suites, we’re bridging the gap between the past and the future. We’re offering ongoing masterclasses and training programs so that the next generation can learn from those who’ve been in the trenches—whether it’s mastering new techniques, building a business, or learning how to thrive without burnout.

It’s not about breaking away from tradition—it’s about evolving it. We need spaces that respect the history of tattooing while allowing artists to build their future.

The New Era is Here

If you’re a tattoo artist or piercer who wants more than just a booth to work out of—if you want a space where you can grow, collaborate, and build a legacy—then Certified Tattoo Suites is where it starts. The next era of tattooing isn’t just about the art; it’s about the freedom to create and the knowledge to succeed.

So, are you ready to step into a space where your future is yours to build? The door is open. Let’s build the next generation together.

The future is now. And it’s in your hands.

Nando Mondragon

Founder & Ceo

Certified Tattoo Studios

It’s Time to Stop Accepting Less. The Next Generation of Tattoo Artists Deserves Better

Hey, Nando here.

You know, weve all heard it before right? “when I started tattooing, it wasn’t all shiny studios and fancy tools” It was gritty, tough, and honestly, you had to claw your way up. And while I wouldn’t trade those experiences for anything, I realized something: this industry, for all its growth, still isn’t giving artists the tools they really need to thrive.

It’s like we’re asking artists to be superstars while handing them broken guitars. And let’s be real—why should we accept less when we know there’s a better way?

The Journey: From Tattoo Artist to Business Mentor

I’ve been lucky enough to work with some of the best artists and build some of the most incredible collectives right here in Colorado. But it wasn’t just about putting great artists under one roof. It was about learning how to take care of them—how to create spaces where artists could be themselves, grow their skills, and turn their craft into a business that actually sustains them. From Pirates to the Navy is what I like to say!

When you’ve been doing this as long as I have, you start to see the patterns. The artists that soar aren’t necessarily the best technical ones (though that helps). They’re the ones who have the business know-how to make it about their clients, the ones who understand that this is an art form AND a career. They’re the ones who have mentors who actually want them to succeed.

Learning, Growing, and Giving Back

I’ve spent years helping build artists and collectives, and in the process, I grew too—not just as a tattooer but as a father and businessman. I learned that leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about creating an environment where people feel empowered to find their own. I made it my mission to help tattoo artists avoid the pitfalls that I—and so many others—faced when we were just getting started.

So here’s the thing—if we’re really going to help the next generation, we’ve got to stop pretending that tattooing is the same as it was 20 years ago. It’s not. Artists today have more opportunities, more tools, and more potential. But the old guard? They’re stuck thinking that it’s still all about gatekeeping, secrets, and struggle. Newsflash: It doesn’t have to be.

Certified Tattoo Suites: A New Path for Artists

When I started Certified Tattoo Studios, it was all about creating a client-first experience. But with Certified Tattoo Suites, it’s about giving artists the space, support, and business tools they need to succeed. Imagine a space where you’re not just renting a chair but gaining a mentor, a community, and a path to grow your career beyond what you thought possible.

We’re offering more than just a place to tattoo—we’re providing a place to evolve. A place where the wisdom of the past meets the innovation of the future. It’s not about tearing down the old ways; it’s about building something better.

The Future is Bright – If You Want It To Be

So, if you’re tired of hearing the same old advice from people who’ve been doing the same thing for decades with no results, come see what we’re building. Tattooing is changing—finally—and it’s not just about the next big design. It’s about giving artists the tools to build their brand, make a living, and actually enjoy the ride.

Let’s make this industry about empowerment, not limits. Let’s build the next generation of tattoo legends.

The future is yours. Don’t settle for less.

Nando Mondragon

Founder & Ceo

Certified Tattoo Studios

From World Stages to Local Shops: Why Tattooing Is About More Than Trophies.

Hey, it’s Nando.

I’ve had the privilege of tattooing around the world—literally. I’ve competed at some of the biggest conventions, including the Milan Tattoo Convention (if you know, you know). I even won an award there. Not to mention, I’ve tattooed some big names like Guy Fieri from Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives while traveling through Paris.

It was a high, man. The kind of experience that makes you feel like you’ve really made it. When I got back to Denver, my fellow artists were pumped. Everyone was buzzing, asking me to share stories about the trip, the convention, the chef. And for a moment, it felt like I was on top of the world.

But then, the doorbell rang. A client walked in—a regular walk-in. Just someone off the street, looking for a tattoo. And in that moment, it hit me: This person doesn’t care about the trophies, the trips, or the accolades. They just wanted a great tattoo and an experience they could remember. The lightbulb went off, and I realized all the trophies, the awards, and the travel—it was all about ME. But that client? They reminded me that tattooing isn’t about me at all. It’s about them.

The Shift That Changed Everything

That moment changed my entire approach to tattooing. I started focusing not on how to become the “best tattoo artist” but on how to create the best tattoo experience for the client. And let me tell you, when you start putting the client first, everything changes.

My businesses began to grow. Certified Tattoo Studios became not just a place where people get inked but a place where they feel heard, valued, and part of something bigger. Suddenly, we weren’t just creating tattoos; we were creating memories. And with that shift came thousands of satisfied clients and dozens of artists who have learned and grown alongside me.

Building More Than Just Tattoos

Now, I’m taking that growth and experience to a new level. With Certified Tattoo Suites, I want to give artists the freedom I’ve worked so hard to build for myself—but without the years of struggling to figure it all out. I know what it’s like to be an artist chasing success and to finally have that lightbulb moment where you realize it’s not just about the accolades—it’s about creating something meaningful.

We’re giving tattoo artists and piercers a space where they can work independently while having the resources, knowledge, and support to succeed. Whether it’s business coaching, industry connections, or real estate knowledge, I want artists to build something bigger and better for themselves. It’s about using my years of experience—both the wins and the lessons—to empower the next generation to reach heights that even I couldn’t imagine.

The Next Chapter Is About Us, Not Me

So, here’s the thing: The industry is changing. Tattooing isn’t just about who’s the best or who has the most trophies. It’s about connecting with clients, building businesses that matter, and growing as a community. The new generation of artists has more potential than ever, and with the right support, there’s no limit to how far we can go together.

I’m excited for what’s next, and I hope you are too. Because we’re just getting started.

It’s time to build the future of tattooing—together.

Nando Mondragon

Founder & Ceo

Certified Tattoo Studios