If you’re interested in becoming a tattoo artist, you’ve come to the right place! This article will discuss everything you need to know about getting a tattoo apprenticeship and launching your career in this industry. We will also provide helpful tips on how to make the most of getting a tattoo apprenticeship. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
1. Learn How to Draw
One of the most important things you need to do if you want to become a tattoo artist is to learn how to draw. This will allow you to create the designs you will eventually put on people’s skin. You can learn how to draw in many ways, including taking classes or online tutorials.
2. Get an Art Education
You don’t need a formal art education to become a tattoo artist, but it can help. If you want to go the apprenticeship route, getting an education in the art will give you a solid foundation to build your skills.
Even if you’re not planning on getting an apprenticeship, having a degree or diploma in the art will give you an edge over the competition. There are many great tattoo schools out there that can give you the education you need to succeed in this field.
3. Establish Basic Design Skills and Knowledge
To become a tattoo artist, you must develop basic design skills and knowledge. This can be accomplished by taking art classes, studying tattoo flash (the designs used by tattoo artists), and practicing on yourself or friends.
You should also familiarize yourself with the types of needles, inks, and machines used in tattooing. This will give you a better understanding of the tattoo process and help you avoid making mistakes when you are starting.
4. Build a Portfolio
As a tattoo artist, you must have a portfolio of your work. This is important for getting hired by a shop and for getting customers. Your portfolio should include examples of all the different styles of tattoos that you can do. It should also be updated regularly with your most recent work.
5. Work with an Established Tattoo Artist
One of the best ways to learn how to become a tattoo artist is to work with an established artist. This will allow you to experience the industry and learn from someone who knows what they’re doing. You must find an artist willing to take on an apprentice and patient enough to teach you the ropes.
Tattoo apprenticeships can last anywhere from a few months to a few years, so you’ll need to be prepared for a long-term commitment. During your apprenticeship, you’ll likely be doing a lot of menial tasks like cleaning the shop and getting coffee for the artists.
6. Complete an Apprenticeship and Learn the Trade
The best way to learn how to tattoo is by completing an apprenticeship with a licensed tattoo artist. During your tattoo apprenticeship, you will shadow experienced artists, help set up and break down equipment, and eventually start practicing on skin.
Most apprenticeships last between one and three years; during that time, you will be expected to complete several tasks and responsibilities. Once you have completed your apprenticeship, you will be a fully licensed tattoo artist and can start working in a shop or setting up your studio.
7. Obtain Additional Pre-License Certification and Training
Most states require that you complete additional pre-license certification and training before becoming a tattoo artist. You can find the specific requirements for your state by contacting your state’s licensing board.
In some states, you may be required to take a Bloodborne Pathogens course before getting licensed. This course will teach you how to prevent the spread of diseases and infections.
You may also be required to take a First Aid/CPR course. This course will teach you how to properly care for someone injured or suffering from a medical emergency.
8. Get Licensed
To work as a tattoo artist, you’ll need to get licensed in the state where you plan to practice. Requirements for getting a tattoo license vary from state to state but generally include completing a certain amount of hours of training, passing an exam, and paying a fee. You can learn more about getting licensed in your state by contacting your local health department.
9. Buy Your Tattoo Equipment
You will need to purchase your tattoo equipment before you can start practicing on the skin. This includes a tattoo machine, needles, inks, power supply, and clip cord. You can find tattoo kits for sale online or at your local tattoo shop.
Do your research before purchasing any equipment, as you want to be sure you are getting high-quality products.
Once you have your equipment, you must set up a workspace. This should be in a well-ventilated area so that the fumes from the inks do not build up. You will also need to sterilize your equipment before each use.
10. Start Your Career
Getting an apprenticeship is the best way to start your career as a tattoo artist. You can find apprenticeships by contacting local tattoo shops and asking if they are hiring. Many tattoo artists start their careers by working as an apprentice for a few years before moving on to open their shops.
Apprenticeships can last anywhere from six months to a few years; during this time, you will learn the basics of tattooing. This includes how to set up your equipment, how to sterilize needles, how to mix inks, and how to apply tattoos. You will also learn about the different styles of tattooing, and what types of designs are popular.
Bottom line
So you want to be a tattoo artist? It’s not as easy as getting a tattoo and picking up a needle. An apprenticeship process takes years, but it is well worth the effort. If you are serious about becoming a tattoo artist, follow these steps and start your journey today. And if you have any questions along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for more information.
Keep being AllDayChic!
