Body piercing is an art form that many people use to express themselves. Body piercers can also be considered as body modification artists. The work goes far beyond making holes, as it requires good customer service and the ability to understand the wishes of those who show up in the studio. A body piercer can work as an employee in a studio or open one of their own. If this career is of interest to you, there are several steps you need to go through.
Steps
Step 1. Find out if you could be a good piercer before attempting a career
You must have excellent hand-eye coordination and not be picky about seeing body fluids and sexual organs.
Step 2. Learn what blood-borne pathogens are
Piercers come in contact with clients' blood, saliva and other body fluids. Classes on diseases communicable by these fluids will teach you the dangers and risks associated with your job. You can inquire at the health office of your municipality to find out where these lessons are held.
Step 3. Research the laws in your area that regulate the licensing of piercing studios
In some countries it is necessary for the studio owner to have the license, but not the individual employees. If certification is required, you will have to take courses and renew authorizations every year, also following any refresher courses.
Step 4. Complete the safety courses your council deems necessary
These lessons may include first aid techniques, prevention techniques, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, sterilization, and hygiene. Many of these classes are held at local universities or at the chamber of commerce. If you can't find them, contact your municipality's ASL.
Step 5. Become an apprentice in a renowned studio
A well-known body modification artist can teach you a lot. As an apprentice you will learn the right piercing techniques, sterilization of tools, different types of jewelry, and how to teach clients to take care of their piercing.
Step 6. Try to become an intern
At this stage you can actually "get your hands" on customers, under the supervision of an experienced piercer. It may take a few months or even a year of apprenticeship to get to this job, depending on the firm's standards and volume of clients.
Step 7. Start working as a piercer
After completing the internship, the studio may offer you a job, or you can look for a job at another facility. Over time, you will build a clientele based on the quality of your work and your ability to relate to the public. When you have a good experience, you will be able to try a career as an entrepreneur and open your own studio.
Advice
- Many piercers also learn the art of tattooing. Mastering both techniques greatly expands your client base, which means higher earnings and / or more chances of being hired by a prestigious firm.
- A prerequisite for becoming a piercer is to love needles and have a lot of passion for the craft.
