What does a Tattoo Artist do?
A tattoo artist is a professional artist that will create and apply tattoos based on a client’s request. Many walk-in tattoo studios have hundreds, if not thousands, of images that the client can look at and choose from. Some clients prefer to bring in their own picture, or have a custom tattoo drawn up for them, and will seek out a tattoo artist that can do custom work (usually at a custom tattoo studio). Once the image has been chosen, or drawn, the tattoo artist will transfer the image onto the client’s skin. The placement of the image can be adjusted several times until the client is happy.There are many pathogens and diseases that can easily be transferred through the blood, and a tattoo artist must take extra care in the safety of the client and in making sure that all equipment is sterilized before each appointment and that tattooing needles must be discarded after each use.
After the tattoo has been applied to the skin, the area needs to be kept clean in order to avoid infection and to ensure proper healing. The tattoo artist will educate the client on proper aftercare.
A tattoo artist’s daily duties:
- Cleaning and sterilizing tattoo equipment
- Cleaning and sterilizing work areas
- Thinking up new designs and sketching them out
- Keeping up to date with the latest trends in tattoos
- Meeting clients to discuss their ideas
- Booking appointments
- Tattooing clients
- Educating clients on proper aftercare
- Keeping up-to-date with the latest health and safety procedures
What is the workplace of a Tattoo Artist like?
Some tattoo artists will start their own tattoo studio after years of experience, but most artists will typically start out working in an existing tattoo studio that has all the necessary tattooing equipment, many books of designs, and a dedicated workspace for tattooing clients. Work hours are usually from 10am – 6pm or later, six days a week. Each appointment requires intense concentration and leaves little room for error, therefore the job can be mentally and physically tiring.
How long does it take to become a Tattoo Artist?
It’s important not to jump into this career blindly because you think it’s cool, as the mastering of this art takes years to perfect. Do not think you will make a quick buck either, as tattoo artists aren’t considered professional (and won’t be able to demand a certain amount of money) until they have five to ten years experience under their belt. Tattooing is an art form that demands respect when it’s done right. It entails tons of hard work, and only years of experience can give an artist confidence in their ability. This is the result of tiny bits of knowledge piling up, and of all the lessons that setbacks and mistakes have taught them.
Most states require licensure for tattoo artists, and requirements can vary by state. Some states, such as Oregon, require licensees to complete a minimum of 360 hours of training under an approved artist as well as 50 tattoos. To get licensing, a written exam and a skills assessment is also typically necessary.
