Making It P.O.P. : Turning the Tattoo Experience into a Blueprint for Success

For most artists, creativity isn’t confined to one medium—it’s a constant evolution. Ray Wiggins knows this well. With 16 years of tattooing experience, he has spent countless hours perfecting his craft, building his career, and now, expanding into new territory: writing. His first book, Make It P.O.P., is more than just a guide for aspiring tattoo professionals—it’s a direct reflection of his journey, offering real-world insight into what it takes to make it in the industry.

But writing wasn’t always part of Ray’s plan. Like many tattoo artists, his passion began with ink, skin, and the hum of a machine. Over time, he realized his experiences could serve as a roadmap for others. The idea of creating a resource that demystifies the tattoo industry and provides actionable steps for success became the driving force behind Make It P.O.P..

"The book is more than influenced by my tattoo career. It is my tattoo career. It is basically my 16 years of experience distilled down into something a person can use to help them get started in the industry," Ray explains.

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Stepping into the world of publishing was a challenge. Writing required a different kind of discipline, one that didn’t come as naturally as tattooing. But just as he has faced unexpected challenges in his tattooing career—like a wiped-off stencil forcing him to go freehand—Ray leaned on his ability to adapt.

"In tattooing, you have to have the ability to improvise and overcome obstacles on the spot. This has helped me in this new journey of writing and education. When I am met with a challenge, I use the same critical thinking skills I would if my stencil wipes off while I’m tattooing."

Since the book’s release, Ray has connected with a new wave of tattoo artists—those who are just starting their journey and those who have long been in the industry but are seeking fresh perspectives. His book isn’t just about techniques; it’s about mindset, growth, and opening doors that many may not have known existed.

But Make It P.O.P. is just the beginning. The process of publishing his book led Ray to establish his own publishing company, a move that signals a broader vision beyond tattooing. His goal? To create opportunities not just for himself, but for other creatives looking to share their knowledge and art in new ways.

"Moving forward, I will be focusing a lot on publishing and media. I want to offer a platform for other creators to do things like publishing books and having access to different forms of expression."

With big plans ahead, Ray is keeping the details of his next moves close to the chest, but one thing is certain—his second book is already in the works and is set to release this fall.

"I was able to collaborate with some amazing artists like Poch, Steve Butcher, and Aaron Davis. So just wait and see what I pop off with next. I’ll try not to disappoint."

For those looking to gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to break into the tattoo industry, Make It P.O.P. is available now on Amazon. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or someone looking to elevate your career, Ray’s insights provide a roadmap that challenges and inspires.

And if there’s one piece of advice he wants every artist to take away?

"Just go for it. Make it happen. Make It P.O.P."