Are you passionate about art and fascinated by the world of tattoos?
How about turning that love into a career? In this article, we’ll guide you on how to become a tattoo artist.
Learn all the necessary skills, legal requirements, and opportunities to seek this second job for creative types.
An Overview of Tattoo Artists: A Primer
Tattoo artists get the opportunity to create permanent works of art on skin. It’s a great job for people with anxiety since you work with clients on a one-on-one basis, and small talk is often not required.
Becoming a tattoo artist lets you collaborate with clients to design custom tattoos, operate tattoo machines, and continuously improve their drawing abilities.
A professional tattoo artist needs to practice proper hygiene and safety protocols to prevent blood-borne pathogens and give high-quality tattoos.
People working in this industry are either self-taught artists or follow tattoo apprenticeships or tattoo schools. Still, they all have a particular art style and a motivation to practice drawing and develop their artistic skill set.
These artists often work in tattoo studios, where they interact with a diverse clientele and contribute to the vibrant community.
How Much Do Tattoo Artists Make?
An artist’s income varies on experience, skill level, location, reputation, and service demand. The average monthly salary for tattoo artists is $4k, with certain areas giving out as much as $9k.
Some artists earn significantly more depending on their clientele and the rates they charge. Depending on how skilled they are or how satisfied their clients are, tattoo artists also cash in through tips.
Aspiring tattoo artists have to hone their skills, build a solid clientele, and continuously hone their craft to earn and succeed in their industry.
What You’ll Need to Become a Tattoo Artist & Associated Costs
To pursue a career and obtain a tattoo artist license, new artists need to follow state-regulated tattoo artistry requirements.
Here are some of the key conditions and their estimated expenses:
- Education and Training: Attending a reputable tattoo apprenticeship program or taking art classes in your local community college or fine art school will provide you with the necessary skills for designing tattoos and building your tattoo portfolio. Prepare around $2,000 to $10,000 for your classes and programs.
- Tattoo Equipment: You’ll need to invest in tattooing equipment, including a tattoo gun, needles, inks, sterilization tools, skin pens, and other supplies. Basic setups cost around $500 to $2,000; expert gear usually goes above this in terms of price.
- Studio Setup: If you plan to establish a shop, you’ll need to consider rental costs, renovations for health and safety regulations, and furnishings. Get ready to spend several thousands of dollars for this.
- Ongoing Expenses: As a professional artist, you’ll have ongoing expenses such as tattoo supplies replenishment, studio rent, utilities, insurance, and marketing. Depending on how big or small you want your business to be, these costs can reach up to several hundred dollars monthly.
How Much Does it Cost to Become a Tattoo Artist?
There isn’t an exact figure for this, but it’s fair to think along the lines of several thousand dollars.
Education and training costs, tattoo artistry equipment, following health and safety courses, licensing fees, and setting up a tattoo studio can all involve additional expenses.
Anyone starting a career in this industry should carefully plan and budget for these expenses.
Aspiring tattooers won’t require a high school diploma or basic education, some experienced tattoo artists learn professional business skills to succeed in their studio.
Is it Hard to Become a Tattoo Artist?
It’s not an easy path, as it involves developing graphic design skills, artistic talent, and professionalism.
Tattooing is a highly competitive industry, and a well-rounded artist must continuously improve their craft to stay relevant and succeed.
Tattoo licensing requirements include learning about hygiene and safety practices, mastering tattooing techniques, and gaining a solid understanding of art styles and color theory.
This requires patience, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure.
Additionally, building a client base and establishing a reputation takes time and effort, but with continuous learning and a strong work ethic, anyone can forge a successful career with this gig.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Tattoo Artist?
Generally, it takes several years of apprenticeship under an established tattoo artist to create high-quality tattoos.
During the apprenticeship, many tattoo artists learn about tattoo gun sterilization, safe practices, tattoo designs, and customer interaction.
They gradually progress from observing to assisting, and eventually, they practice tattooing under supervision.
Apprenticeships often take around one to three years. But, even after completing an apprenticeship, professional tattoo artists continue to refine their art skills for a higher success rate in the tattoo industry.
How to Become a Tattoo Artist in 6 Simple Steps
Becoming a successful tattoo artist requires dedication, tattoo skills development, and a solid understanding of the tattoo art industry.
If you’re passionate about pursuing this career, follow these steps to get started:
Step 1: Research the Tattoo Industry
Begin by immersing yourself in the world of famous tattoo artists. Research different styles, artists, and techniques.
You must also visit tattoo shops, attend conventions, and study the work of other tattoo artists – especially those whose style matches yours.
Step 2: Develop Your Artistic Ability
Tattooing is a form of art, so honing your artistic and drawing skills is crucial. Practice drawing, sketching, and painting to improve your creativity and ability to create captivating designs.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different mediums and explore various subjects to expand your reach. Mastering a tattoo machine is one thing, but being able to convey body art on human skin takes more time.
Step 3: Get Proper Training
Enroll in a reputable tattoo apprenticeship or tattoo school, or seek mentorship from a professional tattoo artist. This will allow you to learn the craft under the guidance of a licensed tattoo artist.
During this time, you’ll gain knowledge about what tattoo shops require, how to work a tattoo machine, how to sterilize one properly, and the key points of talking to potential clients.
Step 4: Build Your Portfolio
As you progress in your training, focus on building a strong portfolio o your designs and artwork.
Showcase a diverse range of styles, highlighting your technical skills, creativity, and attention to detail. You can even offer free tattoos and develop a clientele for your business.
Becoming a tattoo artist involves impressing the right people, and a well-curated portfolio is your shortcut to that.
By demonstrating your potential to potential clients and employers, you’ll open the door to more tattoo artist jobs, or even build the foundation for your tattoo shop.
Step 5: Obtain Licensing
Once you’ve acquired the necessary skills and experience, research the licensing requirements in your jurisdiction to understand what you’ll need.
Each location has different regulations, but they’ll all require you to comply with their specific permits, certifications, and health and safety standards.
The National Conference of State Legislatures has one of the most comprehensive overviews of these regulations. Aspiring artists may explore their resources to know what procedures need to be followed in each state.
Step 6: Establish Your Career
After joining the licensed tattoo artists club, you can choose to establish your career by either opening your tattoo studio or working as a contractor under a reputable tattoo shop.
Consider the logistics, financial aspects, and marketing strategies involved in running a tattoo parlor or being a shop owner.
Alternatively, you can seek opportunities to collaborate with popular tattoo artists and gain exposure in the industry.
Reasons to Consider Becoming a Tattoo Artist
Successful tattoo artists create art on human skin, which makes this gig a must-try for many creative people.
Here are some compelling reasons why becoming a tattoo artist could be an exciting opportunity:
- Artistic Expression: Tattooing lets you express your creativity and artistic skills daily, transforming ideas into permanent works of art.
- Freedom & Flexibility: A successful tattoo artist has the potential for a great work/life balance if desired, in a variety of settings, such as parlors, conventions, or even as s traveling artist.
- High Earning Potential: With the growing popularity of tattoos, skilled artists have the potential to earn a lucrative income that grows as they gain experience, establish a strong client base, and specialize in unique styles.
- Personal Connection: Tattooing allows you to connect and network with people on a personal level. Each mark represents a meaningful story, and being part of that journey can be incredibly rewarding – even if it requires the ability to work overnight occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s explore some key inquiries about becoming a successful tattoo artist and guide you toward your new gig.
Do I need to be a skilled artist to become a tattoo artist?
Having a strong artistic ability is a big plus, but you can also develop it through practice and training.
Tattooing requires more skills than mere drawing, and that includes understanding body autonomies and working with different skin types.
The only way to learn those is through practice.
What skills are important for a tattoo artist?
Apart from artistic abilities, an aspiring artist needs excellent hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, a steady hand, and good communication skills.
You’ll also need a solid understanding of hygiene and safety practices, as well as the ability to work well under pressure.
Similar Gigs to Check Out
If you’re not ready to become a tattoo artist today, there are other creatively-induced gigs you can check out:
- How to Become an Esthetician: learn how to make money by helping people get healthy and glowing skin;
- How to Become a Massage Therapist: earn a great living by becoming a massage therapist in just a few easy steps;
- How to Become a Nail Tech: make a living by creating unique nail designs for clients.
Wrapping Up
Joining the tattoo design career is perfect for those who have a passion for art, creativity, and self-expression.
The steps outlined here provide a roadmap to help all aspiring artist navigate their paths to success by providing insider tips that most tattoo shops take ages to reveal.
Remember, it’s crucial to continuously learn and grow as an artist and network with as many people as possible. With dedication and hard work, the journey to becoming a skilled and respected tattoo artist awaits.
