The 21. Century brought freedom of personal artistic expressions, including piercings and tattoos. Northern Europe is one of the fastest-growing countries in tattoo popularity. Ireland is now a very popular place for aspiring tattoo artists. Getting a tattoo in Dublin has become a part of many tourist visits to this part of the world full of anime pfp.
Yet, to become a tattoo artist and create amazing tattoo art yourself, you must go through the full process and use the best tattoo supplies whether you are self-taught or choose to apprentice. So, sifting through online sources can make it challenging to piece together the correct information.
However, getting a certification, licence and recognition as a tattoo artist are necessary. To help you in this, we have created a comprehensive resource on becoming a tattoo artist.
Here are some basic steps on how to enter the tattoo artists’ world:
- Learn How to Draw Tattoo Designs and Practice
Learning to draw tattoo designs is not the same as learning to draw. You must consider the clients’ anatomy and muscles. Emulating famous tattoo artists you admire is the best way to learn how to create tattoo designs. Draw their tattoos without tracing them and try to figure out why that tattoo seems to work. You will start understanding what good tattoos look like and how they are put together.
Remember that you do not need to “reinvent the wheel” when learning to tattoo. Learning to draw by mimicking the designs of a successful tattoo artist enables you to learn from their years of experience. Rather than figuring everything out on your own, you’ll benefit from their knowledge.
- Build a Great Portfolio
When you walk into a tattoo shop looking for an apprenticeship or a job, the only thing a shop owner cares about is the quality of your work. So you want to focus on developing a strong portfolio.
An online portfolio is a social media page where you have displayed your work. Instagram is usually the most effective. It should not be used in place of a physical portfolio but go with the online portfolio. The tattoo shop will look at a physical portfolio you have provided, and if interested, they will also go to your online portfolio. However, it is a good idea to keep posting your artwork online.
If you gain followers and show shop owners that people are already interested in your work, they will be more likely to hire you because it will be easier for you to get and bring new clients. This means you won’t have to rely on walk-ins or take work from other artists, but you’ll be a valuable asset to the tattoo studio.
- You Need To Get Your Bloodborne Pathogens Certification
Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) Training is legally necessary for every tattoo artist in every state, and it’s a course that teaches you to protect yourself and your clients from infections.
When getting your BBP certification, be sure that the course you are taking is OSHA-approved, so you do not waste your time and money. One of the best ways is to register for the class online and get certified through the American Red Cross’ BBP Training.
- You Need to Get Licensed in Your State
Each state has its licensing regulations. For example, artists must be licensed as individuals in some states. Others only require that the shops be registered and that the artists have Bloodborne Pathogens Training.
- Deciding on a Type of Apprenticeship
Self-taught or apprenticeship, which one to choose? The best answer is which is right for your learning style and life situation. Although, they do have differences that should be taken into consideration.
Tattoo apprenticeships are considered the traditional method. You will work under a mentor. They are hard to find and usually not without a mutual connection. Apprenticeships typically last 2-4 years and are generally unpaid. You will most probably have to pay your mentor. It will take about an entire year until you can start tattooing simple designs.
Apprenticeships can be great learning experiences but can also be exhausting and demotivating.
Self-taught tattoo artists are usually criticised. It’s generally due to bad sanitation, improper tattooing techniques, and being too rough.
Also, picking pieces of information from online videos, forums, and websites can be misleading. It can lead to missing some very important information. And can leave you and your client without the desired result.
It’s tricky, and you must know how to collect valuable and correct information. There are a lot of Tattoo Online Courses on the internet. You need to get information and reviews before deciding which one to choose.
In Conclusion
Becoming a tattoo artist is not an easy road to follow. Becoming a good tattoo artist takes years, practice, and self-discipline. And even more to become a true tattoo master. If you’ve got what it takes and have the will and the dedication, you are already on the right track to making some amazing tattoos.
