Barber Shop Tools of the Trade

If you are thinking about opening a barbershop, you need to get familiar with the tools of the trade so that you know what you’ll need when planning out your initial investment and ongoing expenses. Like any business, you can start small and build as your business grows. However, there are some basic tools that you will need the day you open your business.

Here are a few tools of the trade that you’ll need for your barbershop.

Barber Chairs

Barber chairs are essential because they allow you to move your client around to the positions you need them to be in for the proper cut while enabling them to be completely comfortable the entire time. You also want chairs that look great so they add to the visual appeal of your shop. Vintage barber chairs are an excellent option for the functionality and comfort you need while also looking great and creating a relaxed vibe for your shop.

The barber chairs will be a critical part of the overall design of your shop. While you may not be thinking about interior design, the look and feel of your shop will influence the clientele you get walking in. You can go with the classic small-town barbershop look, or you can choose something edgy, vintage, or completely modern. The shop should reflect your style and your targeted customer base.

Straight Razors

Straight razors are a must-have tool for authentic barbershops. Research the best straight razors to ensure you get those that will serve you well and provide the best and most comfortable cut for your clients. Straight razors provide the closest shave possible. Look for razors with a sharp blade, a straight edge that’s durable, and the tools to keep it sharp. Learning how to take care of your straight razor blade is as important as learning how to use it properly. Many men look for barbershops that can give them a shave using the traditional straight razor because it gives a better cut when used correctly.

Electric Razors

High-quality electric razors will allow you to give edgy and designed shaved looks that many younger clients may be looking for. Razor haircuts are a form of art that you can become known for, and men will travel to have you design their hair. Along with the skill, you will need good electric razors to achieve the sharp lines you need for a clear design. You’ll need multiple attachments to get all the lengths you need when working on someone’s hair or facial hair. You’ll also need scissors, but the bulk of your work will be done with razors.

Brushes

Brushes to apply the shaving cream and brushes to clear away facial hair remnants enhance the overall experience of the barbershop. Choosing vintage chairs and using straight razors create a nostalgic experience. As long as you are going in that direction, keep it going with all of the vintage tools of the trade. Getting a variety of brushes will ensure you always have what you need while working on a client.

You want to create an experience for the men that come to your barbershop to build loyalty and get them to recommend your place to their friends and families. Traditionally, barbershops have been community places where men could hang out together, get their hair and beards trimmed, and talk about life. They are a critical part of many communities, and you can recreate that community feel within your barbershop if that’s what you’re looking for. In addition to the tools of the trade discussed above, you also want to create a comfortable atmosphere for people to sit and hang out.