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