Welcome back to TATTerbox, the tattoo podcast where we talk honestly about the tattoo industry, social media, business, creativity, and everything that goes on behind the scenes.

In Episode 3, Birmingham-based tattoo artist Megan Smith-Evans sits down with Abbie Wayte, tattoo artist and co-owner of Lucky Penny Tattoo in Leicestershire. Known for her fine line, ornamental, and floral work, Abbie talks about the realities of opening and running a studio, building a community within tattooing, and navigating the pressure of social media in the modern tattoo industry.

We also chat about client education, tattoo conventions, career milestones, growth as an artist after 11 years in the industry, and the changing landscape of tattooing in 2026.

TATTerbox is all about open conversations with no gatekeeping, giving an honest look into tattoo life from artists actually living it every day.

Follow Abbie:

Instagram/TikTok: @abbiewaytetattoo

Follow Megan / TATTerbox:

Instagram: @megansmithevans

TikTok: @megansmithevans

#TattooPodcast #TattooArtist #TattooTok #TATTerbox #FineLineTattoo #TattooStudio #TattooIndustry #PodcastUK #OrnamentalTattoo #TattooTalk

Welcome to TATTerbox where we talk about the honest side of tattooing!

Hosted by Birmingham based Tattoo Artist of over 10 years Megan Smith-Evans, we delve into the lives of Tattoo Artists and Clients.

Episode 2 - Kasi Firefly. Birmingham based Tattoo Artists with 15+ years based at Painted Lady Tattoo Parlour talking Tattoo Apprenticeships, changed in the industry and much more!

Follow Kasi:

Instagram: Firefly89

Tik Tok: Fireflyfae89

Follow me:

Instagram / TikTok / YouTube: @MeganSmithEvans

Welcome to the very first episode of TATTerbox!

This podcast is all about honest conversations within the tattoo industry, no gatekeeping, no sugarcoating, just real insight into what it’s actually like to be a working tattoo artist today.

For Episode 1, I’m joined by Rob INKD - a tattoo artist with over 15 years of experience who’s become widely known for his bold approach to social media, giving away free tattoos, and introducing the concept of the “black card.”

We dive into Rob’s background, how he got into tattooing, and what the industry looked like when he first started. From traditional biker shops and tougher studio environments to the huge shift towards private studios and the influence of social media.

A big part of this episode focuses on how platforms like TikTok and Instagram have changed tattooing, not just in terms of marketing, but in how artists build careers, attract clients, and create income beyond tattooing. Rob shares how he grew his following to over 350,000 and why he leaned so heavily into content.

We also get into the business side of things, including how social media can generate income and what opportunities open up once you build an audience outside of tattooing.

Of course, we touch on some of the more controversial topics too. There’s a growing divide between how the public views social media tattoo artists and how some traditional tattooists feel about it and we talk honestly about both sides.

Rob also explains the thinking behind giving away free tattoos and the “black card” system.

There’s also plenty of real-life stories from years of tattooing, including some funny moments and honest reflections on how much things have changed.

If you’re a tattoo artist, an apprentice, or someone who’s just interested in the reality of the industry, this episode gives a proper behind-the-scenes look at where tattooing is right now and where it might be heading.

Follow Rob:

Instagram & TikTok: @robinkd

Follow me:

Instagram / TikTok / YouTube: @MeganSmithEvans

New episodes every week!