That of the tattoo artist is an ancient art that does not require a traditional training. Tattoo artists must prove their skill through their artistic talent, dedication and commitment to the work they do, and certified experience as an apprentice. Here you will find some tips on how to become one.
Steps
Step 1. Finish high school
You must have a high school or vocational college diploma, and of course be over 18, to take up the tattoo profession.
Step 2. Consider your artistic talent
Tattoo artists need to be excellent designers with great attention to detail and color. If you have never studied art subjects, you could take an introductory drawing course before getting into the art of tattooing.
- If you are already a good designer, keep putting your art into practice and create a portfolio (a collection) of your best works. A quality portfolio will help you a lot when applying as an apprentice tattoo artist.
- To become a tattoo artist you need to have excellent eyesight and a steady hand.
Step 3. Apply as an apprentice to an experienced tattoo artist
This will help you grow and learn the techniques of this art directly in the field.
Step 4. A tattoo machine is not a gun, so if you call it a "tattoo gun" you will be made fun of by everyone who works with you
Step 5. Always offer your help and volunteer for any task
Step 6. Learn how to clean the floors
Step 7. If you have attitude problems, keep them under control, because otherwise you will always be pointed out
Don't take it personally, your "colleagues" just want to test your seriousness towards this art.
Step 8. Observe how tattoo artists handle waste
Step 9. Don't wait for them to tell you what to do, always keep busy
Step 10. Buy a notebook and write down everything you learn
As each tattoo artist works differently, so also make a small sketch of their respective workstations.
- Look for a reputable artist or tattoo studio to finish your apprenticeship.
- Choose a mentor with many years of experience.
- The duration of the apprenticeship depends on the regulations in force in your country regarding certification for tattoo artists.
- Some apprenticeships are free, while others are very expensive. Do your research to find the right one for you.
Step 11. Take a tattoo class
Apprenticeship provides you with the practical techniques of this art, but you also need to be prepared for disease prevention and skin diseases / infections. This by the way will likely be a subject for the state-required tattoo artist test.
Step 12. Obtain a certificate / license as a tattoo artist
The requirements for this certification vary from state to state, but in principle what is needed is a certain number of hours of apprenticeship and promotion to a written exam.
Step 13. Keep your license valid
As already mentioned, the laws on the subject vary depending on where you are, but renewal of the license is normally required more or less every year through complementary courses.
Step 14. Find your customers and keep your portfolio up to date
The best way to build a good clientele is to get tattoos of as many people as possible and of course in an excellent way. It is very important to get positive reviews from your customers, because this will activate word of mouth among friends and family. Always keep your portfolio updated as you improve at work, and make sure you always include your unique and best work in it.
If you have the dream of opening your own tattoo studio, you should take some business management courses specifically for small businesses. You will need to write a business plan, find a suitable location, buy software that takes stock of your finances, and find out what licenses and hygiene regulations are needed in your country for studies. tattoos
Warnings
- Remember that tattoos are permanent. When you tattoo someone, always work with extreme caution.
- Do not tattoo your friends or anyone else before you have finished your apprenticeship and course.
- Make sure you fully understand the hygiene and safety precautions needed to prevent injuries and infections.
