Are you thinking of becoming a tattoo artist? Tattooing is a great way to express yourself and make a living doing something you love. But it’s not as easy as just picking up a needle and starting to tattoo people. There are important things you need to know before becoming a tattoo artist.
In this article, we will discuss the basics of tattooing and what you need to do to start your career in this exciting industry. Also, check out Ink-Match — a tattoo service where you can find information about everything related to tattoos.
What you need to start tattooing
Tattooing is a great way to make money and express your creativity, but it takes more than just a steady hand and an artistic eye. If you’re thinking about becoming a professional tattoo artist, there are some important things you need to know before you get started.
Necessary equipment
If you’re serious about getting a job as a tattoo artist, you need to have the proper equipment. This includes a good quality tattoo machine, power supply, needles and tattoo cartridges, inks, and other supplies. Tattoo inks are heavy, and they can leave stubborn stains on the hands of the artists. It’s one reason tattoo artists use comfortable puncture-resistant gloves. But apart from that, there is the issue of safety and sanitation. Nobody wants to get pricked by a needle or to pick up possible pathogens and other equipment while tattooing or cleaning up. Gloves protect both the artist and the customer. They can also help the artist have a firm grip on the tattoo gun to draw sharper lines and get better results.
- Tattoo machine
A tattoo machine is the most important equipment for a tattoo artist. It’s what allows you to create the tattoos. There are many different types of machines available on the market, so it’s important to do your research and find one that suits your needs.
- Power supply
The power supply is what provides the power to the tattoo machine. It’s important to choose a power supply that is compatible with the tattoo machine. In addition, the power supply must be able to provide enough power for the tattoo machine to function properly.
- Needles
Needles are used to create tattoos. There are different types of needles available, so it’s important to choose the right type for the job. For example, if you’re doing a small tattoo, you’ll need a different type of needle than if you’re doing a large tattoo.
- Inks
Inks are used to create tattoos. There are many different types of inks available: vegan inks, organic inks, etc. It’s important to choose the right type of ink for the job. Also, make sure to get a good brand of ink.
- Other supplies
There are other supplies that you’ll need, such as gloves, barrier products, and aftercare products. It’s important to have these items on hand so that you can properly take care of your clients.
What should you buy first: a liner or a shader?
If you’re just starting out, it’s recommended that you purchase a liner machine first. Once you’ve mastered lining, then you can move on to shading. Shading generally requires more practice and experience than lining does.
Another factor to consider is the type of tattooing you want to do. If you’re interested in doing mostly black and gray work, then you’ll want to purchase a shader. If you’re interested in doing colorwork, then you’ll want to purchase a liner.
Some machines can do both lining and shading, but it’s usually best to start with one machine that specializes in one type of tattooing. That way, you can get the hang of that type of tattooing before moving on to the other.
Tips for tattooing for beginners
If you’re thinking about starting a career in tattooing, there are some important things you need to know. Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Research the industry
Talk to people who are already tattoo artists, and do your own research online. It’s important that you understand the business before you get started. Also, be sure to check out the different tattoo conventions and events happening in your area.
- Find a mentor
Once you’ve done your research, it’s time to find a mentor. A mentor is someone who can teach you the ropes and help you get started in the business. There are a few ways to find a mentor, such as joining a tattoo group or club or taking a class from a tattoo artist.
- Get training
There are plenty of books and online resources available, but nothing beats hands-on experience. Look for an apprenticeship or take classes from an experienced tattoo artist. You can also find online tutorials, but be sure to find ones that are from reputable sources.
- Build a portfolio
Once you’ve got some experience under your belt, it’s time to start building a portfolio. This will help you land clients and get your name out there. Start by posting your work on social media and contacting local shops to see if they’re interested in displaying your work.
- Invest in quality supplies
You’ll need a good set of needles, inks, and other supplies. Talk to your mentor or other artists to find out what brands they recommend. In addition, be sure to invest in a good set of flash books. These will help you build your portfolio and attract clients.
- Practice on fruits and vegetables
Before you start working on real skin, practice your techniques on fruits and vegetables. You can use a potato or an orange to practice tattooing. This will help you get a feel for the needle and the ink.
- Start small
When you’re first starting out, it’s best to stick to small tattoos. Once you’ve gained more experience, you can start tackling larger projects. Also, be sure to charge less for your tattoos when you’re first starting out.
- Listen to your clients
It’s important that you listen to your clients and understand their wants and needs. This will help you create a tattoo that they’re happy with. In addition, be sure to get their permission before you start tattooing them.
- Be patient
Tattooing is a skill that takes time to develop. Don’t get discouraged if your first few attempts aren’t perfect. Just keep practicing and you’ll eventually get the hang of it.
Conclusion
Tattooing is a great way to make a living. It’s not easy, but it can be very rewarding. There are a few things you should know before you start tattooing, and this article has hopefully helped you with that. Remember to do your research, practice on fruit or pigskin, and find a good mentor. Most importantly, have fun!