Although tattoos have often been seen as taboo in previous generations, millennials are embracing them more than ever. A study by Pew Research found that nearly 40% of people between ages 18-29 have at least one tattoo on their body.

Of course, both clients and artists want to be comfortable when tattoos are being made. This is where tattoo stools and chairs come into play. Let’s find out what types of options there are for both customers and tattoo artists alike.

Tattoo Chairs Vs Stools: What’s the Difference?

Two pieces of furniture are needed for a comfortable and successful tattoo experience: a stool and a chair.

The client will take the chair and remain stationary while ink is being applied. Meanwhile, the artist needs a comfortable and stable seat that allows them to move around to get the right angle or apply different elements. This is why a stool is often used by tattoo artists

While it can be expensive to purchase high-end tattoo stools and chairs, the more luxurious options have very compelling features.

Types of Tattoo Stools

An image of Boss 360 Tattoo Stool in gray color

Every tattoo shop should have stools for their artists. These are crucial pieces of equipment that keep the artist comfortable and focused on their work.

Depending on the type of stool you choose, some offer ergonomic features that keep the body and hands stable during the process, which can improve the overall quality of the finished product.

Here are the features you should look for in any great tattoo stool:

  • Comfort
  • Affordability
  • Designer and brand’s reputation/reviews
  • Mobility

Ultimately, you need to focus on the customer, which means adjusting and moving to get the proper angles and positioning. Depending on your needs and your budget, you’ll find several types of tattoo stools to choose from.

Adjustable Stools (No Back)

Adjustable Tattoo Stool in black color

The entry-level option for tattoo stools is the standard seat with five wheels and an adjustable height. It has the ability to swivel and move in any direction for your needs.

These are commonly seen in tattoo shops, doctor’s offices, and many other professions. They consist of a small cushion and synthetic leather, but it’s not meant for long-term comfort. It does, however, score points for maneuverability.

Ergonomic Tattoo Stools (Back Included)

Ergonomic Tattoo Stool Black Color

These types of stools are more comfortable for artists who do a lot of work. They include an adjustable height and an adjustable back cushion.

If you have a larger budget, there are stools that offer chest support as well. High-end stools have both back and armrests that can be moved to the front so you can lean forward onto the support and brace your arms while you work.

Saddle Stools

An image of Saddle Tattoo Stool in rich coffee color

We already know that sitting too often can lead to a lot of health disorders later in life. Getting up and moving around is ideal, but saddle stools can help reduce some of the negative effects associated with sitting.

These chairs have the same five-wheel design as standard stools, along with an adjustable height. The major difference is the design of the seat cushion.

While standard stools have a circular flat shape, saddle stools take a different approach inspired by bicycle seats. The curved design keeps your legs from being stationary or stiff while you’re sitting.

Types of Tattoo Chairs

For clients who come to get tattoos, comfort is paramount. The process of getting a tattoo can be quite painful, so you want them to be as relaxed as possible. The ideal chair will allow you to do tattoos on every part of the body, but some are more limited.

Let’s take a look at the types of tattoo chairs on the market:

Portable Tattoo Chairs

An image of Portable Tattoo Chair

Our first option trades some comfort for convenience. Portable tattoo chairs are lightweight and easy to transport if you often change locations. The trade-off is that they are often lacking many of the features that keep users at ease.

They can also make it difficult to do specific types of tattoos. They are often made of plastic or synthetic leather. If you need something durable to go with you as you serve clients, these are a great fit for that purpose.

Hydraulic Tattoo Chairs

Hydraulic Tattoo Chair Black Color

Hydraulic tattoo chairs are very similar in design to barber chairs. They allow you to adjust various things like height and position without straining the customer or artist.

By using pressurized air or water, the hydraulics make a huge difference when you’re moving or adjusting customers. They often have additional features like reclining and armrests for the customer.

Adjustable Tattoo Chairs

Adjustable Tattoo Chair Black Color

Adjustable tattoo chairs don’t have the hydraulics features mentioned above, but they do still have the option for customization and adjustment. Things like the height and headrest can be adjusted for customer’s comfort.

Armrests can also be attached or removed without the need for tools. A footrest also allows you to prop up the customer’s legs or let them recline as needed.

Tattoo Tables

An image of Tattoo Table

While not technically a chair, tattoo tables are an extremely comfortable option for the customer experience. They combine portability with full exposure to the skin so you can place tattoos anywhere on the body.

A face rest makes it resemble a massage table, but these types of tattoo furniture are a great way to combine function with comfort for your customers.

The only downside would be the table’s height. You will need to consider this when choosing a stool as it may not rise to the height of the table.

Types of Tatto Stools & Chairs Conclusion

Tattoos are a great form of self-expression. While they can be painful for the customer, that doesn’t mean they can’t be comfortable. Artists should also be able to move around as needed to produce the best final product.

Stools for artists and chairs for clients. The best types of tattoo stools and chairs combine both form and function to benefit everyone involved.