How to Become a Certified Tattoo Artist

Tattoos are works of art that adorn millions of people around the world.

You won’t have to look far to find someone sporting a nicely penned sleeve, ankle tattoo, or full-back mural.

You might even have a few tattoos yourself.

You might love tattoos so much that you’d like to turn it into a full-time career.

Being a professional tattoo artist can be a fulfilling career for those who appreciate its art form and have the creativity and skill to create stunning tattoos and for those who plan to use only the best care and tattoo supplies.

Since tattoo artists permanently change customers’ bodies, it’s important that you’re skilled enough to be trusted.

You’ll need to be a natural artist, go through the required training, and get certified before you can get paid to do this work.

How to Become a Tattoo Artist

1. Learn Tattoo Art

In order to become a tattoo artist, you’ll need to have a thorough understanding of this craft’s underlying principles.

Tattooing is an art in itself, so knowing different tattooing styles and techniques is important to your path to being a true expert.

Among them are traditional Japanese, abstract, black and white, realism, fine line, old school, tribal, and many more.

You’ll need to understand the differences between each of these and figure out which style fits you best.

This will help you narrow down your potential specializations so you can become a better artist.

By specializing in one or more areas, you can perfect your craft and develop your own unique style.

2. Build a Tattoo Portfolio

Before you can become a tattoo artist, you’ll need to land an apprenticeship in a local shop.

But before you can do that, you’ll need to show that you have the potential to be a great artist and that you’d be a fitting addition to a tattoo parlor.

You can do that by creating a standout tattoo portfolio that highlights your artistic ability.

3. Find a Tattoo Apprenticeship

You’ll need to explore all of the options in your local area to find the apprenticeship that fits you best.

You’ll want to find a tattoo shop that has a history of mentoring others and is eager to teach you.

Apprenticeships are competitive among aspiring tattoo artists, so it will be important to make a great first impression.

Your portfolio will help you land an apprenticeship, but it will also be important to sell yourself and show that you’re serious about the role.

Your best bet is to do your research and approach shop managers face-to-face.

4. Become a Certified Tattooist

After you’ve put in long hours as an apprentice, you can take the next step to becoming a tattoo artist.

This consists of getting certified in several different areas.

Every state has different laws, requirements, and licenses you’ll need to follow. In some states, you’ll need to hold a tattooing license.

In others, you’ll need to have certain vaccinations and/or CPR certifications.

Take the First Step to Full-Time Inking

If you think this is the right career for you, you can start by perfecting your craft.

Study up on artistic tattoo styles, and dust off your drawing and art skills.

Practice will be key in order to build a strong portfolio.

Keep at it, and then start looking around for your first apprenticeship.

Before you know it, you might be sitting in the tattoo chair, inking up paying customers.