In our review of different careers, we take a look at how to become a tattoo artist. We also take a look at what a tattoo artist does and what skills and attributes you need to become a tattoo artist.
What Does a Tattoo Artist Do?
A tattoo artist creates designs, both ideas of their own and requests from clients, and then applies them to their client's body as a permanent image. Using ink and needles the tattoo artist will draw the designs onto the skin.
Day to day, as a tattoo artist, you would meet with clients to discuss the designs they want and offer them advice on suitable designs for them. You would draw up designs the clients have requested to ensure that they were happy with it, spend time talking to clients to ensure that they understand that the tattoo will be permanent and explaining how the procedure works. As a tattoo artist you will also spend time transferring designs onto the skin, either freehand or using a transfer onto the skin with an electrically operated needle.
Health and safety is also very important and you must also spend time ensuring you meet all of the latest health and safety requirements, and keeping up to date on what these requirements are.
As a tattoo artist, you will often be self-employed, renting out a small studio and in the times that you are not working directly with clients you might be creating new designs for your portfolio or managing your business affairs. As a self-employed tattoo artist you will decide your own working hours, but these might be based around the clients needs as well.
Is Becoming a Tattoo Artist Right For Me?
To become a tattoo artist you will need to possess the following skills and attributes.
- An extremely steady hand
- Excellent artistic ability
- Attention to detail
- The ability to concentrate for long periods of time
- A willingness to keep up to date on the latest health and safety legislation
- A desire to keep up to date on the latest trends and fashions in the industry
- Good communication skills
How Much Can a Tattoo Artist Earn?
What a tattoo artist can earn varies greatly. You will usually set your own rates and the rates that people will pay depends greatly upon your skills and your local reputation.
What Qualifications Do I Need To Become a Tattoo Artist?
You don't need any formal qualifications to become a tattoo artist but you are likely to gain entry into the sector by doing an apprenticeship. You will also need a tattoo, piercing and electrolysis license to work in the industry.
