How To: Become a tattoo artist without an apprenticeship

Becoming a professional tattoo artist is not as easy and simple as one might think, most tattoo artists these days got to where they were by getting an apprenticeship from another professional artist. This is the best way to get the right start in the tattoo world. However, apprenticeships are hard to come by, that's a fact. There is a way that you can achieve you dreams on your own, below I am going to list the steps required to become an artist without doing some rip-off 2 week course or without having to hunt endlessly for an apprenticeship.

Step one: Find out about the process of Tattooing

Watch Youtube videos, go look at tattoo artist at work in their shops, check Amazon.com for books on the subject, ask them questions, buy a DVD that will teach you the basics like this one at our online shop. Just the mere fact that you're reading this blog right now means you're on the right track.

Step 2: Get some Equipment

Buy Apprentice Tattoo Kit

You'll need to get a starter tattoo kit so you can begin to understand the equipment and how to use the machine. You don't need to go all out and break the bank when buying your first kit, this is just to practice on fake skin (for now). A great tattoo starter kit can be purchased for under $100 including shipping to your door here. These are great quality starter kits and at very affordable prices.

Step 3: Practice Tattooing on Fake Skin

Buy Fake Skin

Get lots and lots of practice on rubber skin before you even think of tattooing real skin! Although it does not resemble real skin completely, it will give you experience on how to fit the machine together and tune it properly. Practice stencil transfer techniques and sterilization processes (even on the fake skin, don't start forming bad habits) Fake tattoo practice skin can be bought here. Now read everything there is to know about sterilizing your equipment and preventing the spread of blood-borne pathogens. Buy an autoclave and ultrasonic cleaner before you even think of  tattooing real skin.

Step 3 must be repeated until you are 100% confident in your skill level and have tried a range of designs and techniques, you may now attempt your first tattoo! Just remember to stay within your skill level while starting out, attempting a realistic portrait on your first attempt is not a good idea, start simple and slowly start branching out as you feel more confident. 

I wish you the best of luck in achieving your dreams.