How to Become a Tattoo Artist

What is a Tattoo Artist?

A tattoo artist is a skilled professional who creates permanent designs on the skin using needles and ink. They work closely with clients to understand their ideas and turn them into unique and meaningful tattoos. Tattoo artists need strong artistic skills and a deep understanding of the human body to ensure that the designs look great and fit well. They also follow strict safety and hygiene practices to protect their clients. Tattoo artists may work in a variety of styles, from traditional to modern, and their work allows people to express themselves through art on their bodies.

What Skills does a Tattoo Artist need?

To become a tattoo artist, you’ll need artistic talent, a steady hand, and a strong attention to detail to create beautiful and meaningful designs on people’s skin. You get to help people express their stories through body art.

What Qualification Does a Tattoo Artist Need?

To become a tattoo artist, you typically need a combination of artistic skills, training, and certification. While formal education is not always required, having a background in art, such as taking art classes or earning a degree in fine arts, can be very helpful. Most tattoo artists start by completing an apprenticeship, where they learn from an experienced tattoo artist. During the apprenticeship, they gain hands-on experience in drawing, tattooing techniques, and safety practices. Additionally, many places require tattoo artists to be licensed, which usually involves passing a health and safety exam to ensure they understand proper sterilization and hygiene procedures. Building a strong portfolio of your artwork is also important to showcase your skills to potential clients and employers.

Types of Tattoo Artists/Styles

There are different types of tattoo artists, each specializing in a particular style or technique. Here are some of the main types:

• Traditional Tattoo Artists: These artists specialise in the classic tattoo style, also known as “old school” tattoos. Their work typically features bold lines, bright colors, and iconic imagery like anchors, roses, and pin-up girls.
• Realism Tattoo Artists: Realism artists focus on creating tattoos that look like photographs. They specialise in detailed portraits, animals, and other lifelike images, often in black and gray or color.
• Japanese Tattoo Artists: These artists are experts in traditional Japanese tattooing, known as Irezumi. Their work often includes detailed designs of koi fish, dragons, samurai, and other cultural symbols, with a focus on storytelling.
• Blackwork Tattoo Artists: Blackwork artists specialise in tattoos done entirely in black ink. This style includes a variety of techniques such as geometric patterns, tribal designs, and illustrative work.
• Watercolor Tattoo Artists: These artists create tattoos that mimic the look of watercolor paintings. Their designs often feature soft, flowing colours and can range from abstract to more detailed images.
• Minimalist Tattoo Artists: Minimalist tattoo artists focus on simple, clean designs, often using thin lines and limited shading. These tattoos are usually small and subtle, with a focus on elegance and simplicity.

Each type of tattoo artist has a unique skill set that caters to different client preferences and artistic styles.

What Can You do to Build a CV to become a Tattoo Artist?

Here are some things you can do whilst still at school to start building a CV to become a tattoo artist:

• Practice Drawing: Spend time drawing every day to improve your artistic skills, focusing on different styles and techniques that could be used in tattooing.
• Opt for Art: Study art to the highest level in your school to learn about shading, colour theory, and other important concepts that will help in tattoo design.
• Create a Portfolio: Begin compiling a portfolio of your best artwork. Include a variety of styles to show your versatility and creativity.
• Study Tattoo Art: Research different tattoo styles (see above), famous tattoo artists, and the history of tattooing to deepen your understanding of the craft.
• Volunteer for Art Projects: Get involved in any school or community art projects, such as painting murals or designing posters, to gain experience and showcase your talent.
• Learn About Skin and Safety: Start reading about the basics of skin care, sterilisation, and safety practices related to tattooing to prepare for future training.
• Seek Mentorship: If possible, reach out to local tattoo artists to ask about their experiences and seek advice on how to get started in the field.

These steps will help build a strong foundation for a future career as a tattoo artist.

Useful Links

What are Blackwork Tattoos?

What is Irezumi?

Safety & Hygiene for Tattoos

Learn more about Art Careers.

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