Running your tattoo business solo doesn’t mean you need to be available 24/7 just to stay on top of everything related to client bookings. What you do need is a reliable system that covers for you when you’re busy — that is, a good appointment scheduler.
We’ve put together a list of the best tattoo scheduling software specifically for solo artists. Whether you’re completely new to this or you’re looking to switch because your current scheduler isn’t cutting it, you’ll surely find something that suits your needs.
Best Tattoo Appointment Booking Software for Solo Artists
Below are the most highly recommended appointment scheduling software for tattoo artists who run their business solo.
1. Bookedin – Overall pick for solo tattoo businesses
If you’re a solo tattoo artist, Bookedin is the kind of tool that quietly works to keep your schedule organized and never chaotic. It stands out as the best option for solo tattoo artists who want a professional-looking booking system without having to deal with a complex setup.
What’s more, it comes with various innovative features that are designed specifically to help make things easier for both tattoo artists and their clients.
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Key features that make it stand out:
Customizable booking forms: You can add specific intake questions right into the booking flow (e.g., style preferences, budget, design reference images). That way, you’re not doing back-and-forths in DMs just to get the basics.
Request flow option: This is ideal when you want to be able to approve clients first before confirming an appointment slot, especially since you’re a one-person team who can only handle so many clients per day.
Automated text and email reminders: Bookedin allows you to send up to three reminders to clients per appointment. This helps prevent no-shows and keeps clients in the loop without you manually following up.
Payment requests and deposits: You can require a deposit or send a payment request to lock in a client’s commitment and reduce last-minute flakes.
Client history, notes, and files: Keep client notes (such as on skin sensitivities, design changes, etc.) and attach files like references or forms. When they come back months later, you won’t be starting from scratch.
Scheduling limits: Set boundaries like how far in advance people can book, buffer rules, and lead times so your schedule stays realistic, and you don’t accidentally stack your day too tight.
Website embedding: If you have a website or portfolio, you can embed your booking page so it feels like part of your brand, not just a random external booking page.
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2. Square Appointments
This scheduler makes sense for those who already use Square for taking payments, since it places your bookings and point-of-sale (POS) system in one ecosystem.
Why it’s worth considering:
Easy checkout after appointment: Since it’s a Square product, you can process a client’s payment quickly (via card, tap, or wallet) without switching systems or doing extra bookkeeping.
Automated digital forms sent after booking: You can automatically send clients a digital consent form once an appointment is booked, which is useful for ensuring policies and agreements are followed.
Prepayment-friendly setup: This tool supports cancellation + prepayment policies, including requesting card-on-file and enforcing fees
Service setup and availability rules: You can set up multiple services (e.g., consultation, small tattoo, half-day session) with different durations, so clients book the right type of appointment instead of guessing.
3. Acuity Scheduling
If you do consultations first (or you’re strict about notice windows and buffer time), Acuity gives you the controls to enforce that. It’s popular with solo service professionals who like having firm rules and structure around their calendars.
Why it’s worth considering:
Scheduling rules and control: Add buffers between appointments, set minimum notice times, and limit how far ahead people can book. This prevents “back-to-back-to-back” days that burn you out.
Waitlist workaround: If you’re fully booked, you can direct clients to a waitlist form so you’ve got a list of people to contact if a spot opens up.
Client self-rescheduling and cancellation: Clients can reschedule within the rules you set, which cuts down on admin and avoids the constant messaging back-and-forth.
Intake forms and client info: You can collect info during booking and keep it tied to the client profile. This is helpful for when you have repeat clients, multi-session work, and staying organized.
4. Setmore
Setmore is another budget-friendly scheduling option for solo artists who want a straightforward booking page and basic automation. It’s a good “starter” tool if you want online booking without paying for a bunch of extra features you won’t use.
Why it’s worth considering:
Virtual meeting support: If you do online consultations, such as for bigger pieces or long-distance clients, built-in video options can help keep things organized.
Recurring appointments: This feature on Setmore’s premium plans is great for repeat touch-ups or scheduled follow-ups, so you can book repeating sessions without re-entering everything each time.
Email marketing integrations: If you use Mailchimp or MailerLite, Setmore can export new customer details into your mailing list, which is handy for instantly sending announcements, last-minute openings, or seasonal promos.
5. InkDesk
InkDesk is built for artists who want fewer scattered conversations and a clearer workflow. If your biggest headache is juggling inquiries, details, and scheduling, this one might be worth considering.
Why it’s worth considering:
Tattoo-focused workflow: It’s designed with tattoo booking realities in mind, such as requests, references, follow-ups, and turning leads into booked clients.
Reference-friendly organization: InkDesk emphasizes keeping reference images and details alongside the client request, so you’re not hunting through old messages when it’s time to design.
Email templates for commonly asked questions: Send consistent answers for pricing, consults, prep, and aftercare without rewriting them every single time.
6. Booksy
Booksy is different from the other tools listed here, given that it also has a marketplace discovery component. For solo tattoo artists trying to get more new clients without relying only on social media, that’s perhaps the main appeal.
Why it’s worth considering:
Marketplace discovery: People can find you through Booksy and book without needing to DM first. That can be helpful if you’re building your client base or want more consistent inquiries.
Client app convenience: Clients can choose a time and manage appointments right in the Booksy app, which can reduce last-minute confusion and make rebooking easier.
Boost marketing feature for extra exposure: Booksy also offers a “Boost” feature to increase visibility to clients near you, which is ideal if you’re still building your clientele or trying to fill slower weeks.
Tap-to-pay option (no extra hardware needed): You can take contactless in-person payments using just your phone, which is great for guest spots, conventions, or artists who don’t want to carry a card reader.
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Also read: Free vs. Paid Tattoo Booking Software: Which One Should You Use?
Final Word
A good tattoo studio scheduler keeps booking moving in the background so your calendar stays organized without you constantly checking your phone.
After all, when you’re in the middle of a tattoo session, you can’t just stop to answer DMs, confirm deposits, or shuffle appointments around.
The right scheduling software lets your clients book an appointment with you easily and covers the basics for you — from collecting intake details and taking deposits when needed, to sending appointment reminders and aftercare instructions.
P.S. — Considering Bookedin but not yet fully convinced? Good thing there’s a 14-day free trial when you sign up, so you can explore all features firsthand.
