How To Become A Tattoo Artist

Becoming a tattoo artist isn't easy, and it is definitely not for everyone. If you've been thinking about becoming a tattoo artist, there are a few fundamentals about the profession you will need to know.

There is only “one way” of becoming a professional tattoo artist and that is to study as an apprentice. Tattooing is one of the last trades where a student learns directly from a master. There is far more to be learned about the art and business of tattooing than what can be attained simply from a reading a book or sitting in a “tattoo school” classroom. Besides, most professional shops will not even consider hiring on a new artist who has not received proper training through an apprenticeship. But getting an apprenticeship isn't simply accomplished overnight.

In order to prepare to be considered entry level for an apprenticeship requires a collection of numerous examples of your talented artwork. The best way to “kill two birds with one stone” is to take art classes. Exercise your artistic skill by taking art classes at a local college geared towards illustration so you can learn the basics of good design as you develop your talent.

Now that you've put time into becoming a better artist on paper, you will want to layout your drawings and create a professional portfolio. Keep in mind; a sizeable portfolio should take a few years to build. This portfolio is essential in becoming a tattoo artist. Your portfolio must professionally display your best designs so you can take with you to show to potential employers.

An apprenticeship is like an internship; you work for an artist for free and learn as you go along, and in return you are paid with valuable hands on knowledge about the tattoo business. Take the extra initiative to learn the regulations for tattooing in your state, as tattoo artists and shop owners will be more willing to consider you if you show an interest in sterilization and following the state rules as they want to work with an apprentice willing to learn the correct way of doing things, not someone who already has bad habits.

This is key to note: not all shops are the same. Just as with any other profession there are those who are not as dedicated to their work. Try to get an apprenticeship with a shop with a good reputation. Networking is a great way to find an apprenticeship in a reputable shop. Ask your friends and their friends if they know of a shop. If you do get the honor of apprenticing under a great master then get ready for work, work, and more work.

Assisting customers, moping floors, cleaning will probably be just a few of your new chores, but do not despair your day will come in due time. You may need several years of experience working with a tattoo artist before you are ready to begin applying tattoos on your own.

Tattoos are permanent markings and need to be expertly performed. The average training period for a tattoo artist to complete an apprenticeship is two to three years. There is no formal ending to an apprenticeship. It ends when the teacher, or shop owner decides that the studying apprentice is ready and prepared to tattoo professionally.

Sometimes a contract is signed at the beginning of the apprenticeship. Other times, the teacher might hire you as an employee. Now that you have learned how to become a tattoo artist, you will be free to look for a job elsewhere, or even a tattoo shop of your own. The learning never ends- becoming a tattoo artist is like many other professions in that you are continually evolving and becoming learning new techniques and business practices. Similar to most professional careers, you need to always be open minded and willing to perfecting and developing your skills. as this is key to becoming and remaining successful at everything you do!

Article Take Away Points: to become a successful tattoo artist you need:

Ability to draw
Personality to sell your abilities
Organized Portfolio
An Apprenticeship
Patience and Practice

Remember becoming a tattoo artist takes time and commitment and great artwork otherwise tattoo removal will be a guarantee for your customers.