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Tattoos have become increasingly popular in the US — almost one-third of Americans are permanently tattooed, regardless of gender, race, and ideology. Meanwhile, in Europe, a 2022 report indicates that about 12% of the population has at least one tattoo, with variations across different countries. For you, this means a thriving industry to kickstart your career! If you're here looking for handy info on how to become a tattoo artist, we're happy to help.
Before we jump into the details of becoming a tattooist, let’s take a moment to appreciate some of the hottest tattoos on celebrities we love. Lady Gaga is the top favorite. Everyone loves her music-inspired tattoos, but her monster paw is hands down the best. Then there are Billie Eilish’s fairies, Rihanna’s mandala on her hand, David Beckham’s collection of tattoos representing the loves of his life, and the many doodles on Harry Styles' body!
This could go on forever! So let’s just say tattoos are here to stay; people get them for various reasons – to honor someone or something, to make a statement, or to look cool (or hot, to each their own).
So, if you’re thinking about how to become a tattoo artist, your next thought could be what it takes to become a tattoo artist. Is it enough to just be artistic? Do you need any specific training? We’ll answer all these questions and more, so stick around.
First things first – a tattoo artist is a creative and dynamic person, one who has the skill to visualize, draw, and create unique designs on people’s bodies. An extraordinary imagination, the ability to put people at ease, a steady mind and steadier hand-eye coordination, and loads of patience – these qualities come together in a skillful and reliable tattoo artist.
However, you need more than these skills to qualify as a tattoo artist.
Apart from your passion for art and bringing it to life on people’s bodies, the right qualifications are necessary. Valid certifications from a reputable institution and credentials from tattoo studios or renowned artists you have apprenticed under will earn you a license that allows you to practice legally.
Even if becoming a tattoo artist doesn’t seem to require formal training, the journey is anything but easy! To become a tattoo artist, you will first need to find an artist to apprentice under for at least two to three years. A chunk of this apprenticeship could be unpaid, but during a period of one to five years, you will learn on the job, pick up essential skills, and build a portfolio that will enable you to get licensed and start your independent career.
Ideally, use this time wisely by getting all the necessary certifications and extra training, in addition to learning skills that will help you land a job at a leading tattoo studio, or even set up your own studio. Take advantage of this time to understand your personal and professional goals, and figure out how you want your career as a tattoo artist to pan out.
The steps to earning a license to become a tattoo artist will depend on the state you’re living in. Each state has unique regulations and certification requirements that you will have to follow to become a licensed tattoo artist. This includes a certain number of years in apprenticeship as proof of training and a series of compliance requirements to meet regulatory standards.
In most states, licensing protocols involve receiving training at a reputable tattoo studio that will provide a deep understanding of how tattooing is done, along with various safety protocols. An aspiring tattooist will also need to take a Hepatitis B shot or provide a letter of declination.
The next step to getting a license is to earn the OSHA bloodborne pathogens certification. Some states also require you to get certifications in CPR and First Aid.
Applying, along with training proof, photos, IDs, and a fee should get you licensed post-verification, depending on the state’s regulations.
We’ll give you a step-by-step guide on how to become a tattoo artist, starting with the kind of education you need.
Your mentor’s guidance can give you just the kind of exposure and learning you need to become a tattoo artist, like understanding the human anatomy to create tattoos on clients, knowledge about skin health such as skin disorders and risks of diabetes, techniques for infection control with proper waste disposal, hand hygiene and equipment sterilization, and awareness of safety measures to protect yourself and your clients.
You’ll get to observe seasoned professionals at work, interact with clients and understand their preferences, get hands-on experience, and learn the ropes of the industry. Use this time to build a portfolio of your work, a must when you’re looking for a job or starting your tattoo studio.
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A tattoo artist is more than, well, an artist. While being creative will be your primary role, being intuitive and good with people are other must-have qualities for someone working so closely with their clients.
Becoming a tattooist is more than half the job done; setting up your practice or establishing an exclusive clientele requires you to be empathetic, respectful, and outgoing. You’ll need to do everything in your power to make your clients feel comfortable and safe around you.
It goes without saying that plenty of patience and physical stamina are a must. Clients can get restless during the long hours it takes to create tattoos. They can also be difficult to please. Managing the see-saw of emotions and the physical effort it takes to do your job will need you to be mentally and physically fit and ready.
Take care of yourself, always be ready to learn, and adapt to changing trends and client preferences to thrive in the business.
When you’re ready to start your own tattoo studio, Zenoti software can help you manage your business. From sales, marketing, and appointment scheduling to billing, payments, and automation, the Zenoti business growth platform built for the beauty and wellness industry can take the weight off your shoulders.
Ask for a demo if you’re set to roll.
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