Is Tattooing a Good Career?
If you’re looking for a creative job that gives you the freedom to do what you want and be your own boss, tattooing might be the right career for you. While it’s not the best-paying profession, some artists can earn up to $150,000 per year, and they often have the opportunity to work from home or wherever they please.
Does it take years to become a tattoo artist?
Despite being one of the most creative jobs in the world, becoming a tattoo artist is not an easy path to pursue. In fact, it takes years to learn the art and to develop a reputation for yourself as a skilled professional. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to prepare for a career as a tattoo artist.
A background in graphic design – taking classes at a community college or pursuing an art university will help you gain the skills and knowledge to become a great tattoo artist. You’ll learn about shape, texture, shading, color, value, line, and more.
An apprenticeship – working under the supervision of a professional tattoo artist will help you learn how to tattoo and how to be safe when working with ink. It can take up to 3 years to complete an apprenticeship, but it will give you valuable experience.
Bloodborne disease certification – tattoo artists are constantly in contact with blood, so it’s important that you take a course on bloodborne pathogens before you start your career. Getting trained on how to avoid spreading infections is crucial for your health and the safety of your clients’ health.
It’s also a good idea to get some training on the latest tattoo equipment and to understand how to properly sterilise it. Having the right equipment can mean the difference between a successful tattoo and a bad one.
The art of tattooing is a 5000-year-old tradition that dates back to ancient Egypt. Originally, it was used as a form of protection for the body and as a way to express an individual’s personality. The practice has grown in popularity in recent years and is now more regulated than ever before.
If you’re interested in becoming a tattoo artist, here are some steps to take before you begin your career:
First, you need to find a mentor or a tattoo shop that is willing to let you apprentice under them. You’ll need to ask about the cost of the apprenticeship, the nature of the apprenticeship contracts, and what will be expected of you.
Next, you need to invest in the necessary equipment for your apprenticeship. This includes a tattoo gun, sterilising equipment, and other essential tools. It’s a good idea to get an estimate of the total costs, as this will allow you to plan ahead and set aside savings for your apprenticeship.
Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship, you can look for a tattoo shop that will hire you as a full-time employee. Be sure to submit a resume and portfolio to any potential employers, as many shops will hire new artists when they see a person who has the necessary skills for their shop.