It's safe to say that the process of creating and designing tattoos has changed quite a bit since the earliest recorded tattoos in 3300 BCE. Even since the 2000s, tattoo artists have rapidly adapted to new technology and software to help improve their craft. With so many options out there, we rounded up the top 4 software and apps every artist must have:

1 – Procreate

“Sketch. Paint. Create.” The slogan for the app says it all. Procreate is a must-have tool every tattoo artist should incorporate in all their bodies of work. With Procreate, you can easily create masterpieces with a user-friendly app that's jam-packed with features that brings your artistic ideas to life.

Why we love it:

• An entire library with over 200 handcrafted brushes
• 3D model painting
• Stroke stabilization
• 120hz performance

App Store rating: 3.9/5 stars

2 – Tatstat

Let’s face it: whether you’re a solo artist or have your own tattoo studio alongside others, appointments and bookings can be challenging. Good news: Tatstat has you covered. With this innovative app, your calendar, payments/deposits, client intake forms and messaging are all in one easy-to-use app. Tatstat takes the stress out of running your business by streamlining all of your client tools into one place so you can focus on creating works of art that your clients will enjoy.

Why we love it:  

• Integrated Calendar manages all consultations and appointments
• Client intake forms: get detailed info on your client’s desired tattoo without the back-and-forth 
• Request and receive deposits with one click
• “My Book” keeps your clients organized

App Store rating: 4.2/5 stars

3 – Preview

Seeing is believing. That’s why it's critical for your current and potential clients to see your work. Today’s artists need to take advantage of social media’s features and vast reach, especially Instagram. Here comes the Preview app, which helps you manage your Instagram, from scheduling posts to providing analytics to make the most out of your account.

Why we love it:  

• Smart analytics to improve your social presence 
• Schedule future posts
• Hashtag tools such as hashtag tester, hashtag analytics and hashtag finder
• Editing tools, including filters and image splitters

App Store rating 4.7/5 stars

4 – Canva

Up your social media game with Canva and easily create a logo, posters, social media posts — you name it! This app offers a variety of templates, and you can invite anyone you want to collaborate with.

Why we love it:

• Tons of templates
• Ability to resize videos to format any social media platform
• Easy to collaborate
• Photo effects help your photos stand out

App Store rating 4.9/5 stars

Do you use any of these apps or other software for your tattoo booking, social media efforts or design? Tell us what you think in the comments! And be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook for the latest Tatstat updates.