What Does It Take To Be A Tattoo Artist?
What is the educational path for a tattoo artist? – Tattoo artists may take a few different routes to become licensed. One of the first steps is to practice your drawing skills. You might take a drawing class, earn a bachelor’s degree in art, train at a tattoo institute or teach yourself artistic techniques.
- Another facet of art that’s important to learn before becoming a tattoo artist is the techniques of design;
- When you become an artist, it’s common for clients to describe what they want, and it’s the responsibility of the tattoo artist to compose a design that fits the description;
The main focus of an aspiring tattoo artist is the apprenticeship. It’s important to find an apprenticeship that teaches you a variety of practical and technical skills. For example, if you begin an apprenticeship, you may learn about the various machinery, needle types or ink choices.
You can learn about how to sanitize the space and the client’s skin to ensure that the tattooing is safe. As the main source of education for tattoo artists, apprenticeships with respected artists or in a well-known tattoo parlor may benefit your future career.
Related: What Does a Tattoo Artist Do?.
What abilities do you need to be a tattoo artist?
Can you be a tattoo artist without knowing how do you draw?
Do You Need To Be Good At Drawing To Be A Tattoo Artist? – Yes, but the great news is if you aren’t, you can learn. Some people may have more established artistic talent, but anyone can learn to draw. Take a look at our Drawing Tutorials and you will see how easy it can be.
Drawing doesnt have to be complicated and a lot of the flash tattoo designs most tattooists make a living from are fairly basic line drawings. Flash designs in general will be made up of a basic line drawing that you can then add colour to.
You will need a steady hand though and there is no better way to learn than from a good tattooist. Most tattooists dont want the extra work of teaching an apprentice. To impress them enough to give you a chance is more likely if they can see evidence of your artistic talent.
