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Tattoo Deciding
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Tattoo Meaning
Finding Tattooist
Final Decision
Tattoo Science
Getting Inked
What Next
Tattoo Q&A Before
Tattoo Q&A After
Tattoo Safety
Becoming Tattooist

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I Want To Be A Tattooist

Generally, aspiring tattooists serve an apprenticeship to an experienced practitioner. This isn't a few days watching him/her work and then out with the tattoo machine; you'll need to spend time proving that you're serious and showing that you're not afraid of hard work. Tattooing is a complex process and you'll need to learn everything there is to know about each part of the job. Designing and inking may be what you're thinking about but there's also cleanliness, customer service and business practice to consider. A good tattooist will teach their apprentice about every aspect of the job before letting them anywhere near a paying client.

How do I get an apprenticeship?

Find a tattooist that you like and respect and ask if they would be willing to take you on as an apprentice. You'll need to show them a portfolio of your designs. These need not be Flash designs; include all sorts of different artwork. The mechanics of tattooing can be learned but you need to be a good artist first.

Talk to the tattooist, let them know that you're genuinely interested and that you have a good knowledge of tattoo history, techniques and concerns. Learn about the health-related issues too and consider taking a First Aid course; if for no other reason than it may prove useful when you have to ink a fainter! Keep up with the latest news and trends in tattooing through magazines, conventions and the 'net.

When you get an apprenticeship make the most of it. You may not get paid much (if at all) but accept that the hard graft you put in now could keep you employed for your whole life.

And will I get any qualifications?

There are very few formal qualifications for tattooists so you need to make sure that your apprenticeship ends with you having some recognition of what you've done. You'll have a portfolio of designs and photographs but ask the tattooist you've been working with to write a detailed report about your time with them.

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