subject: How to be a tattoo artist [print this page] How to be a tattoo artist How to be a tattoo artist
It takes a variety of skills to become a tattoo artist, some may be harder to acquire then others, but the most important skill to have would be passion. If you have a strong passion and urge to become a successful artist you will eventually achieve your goal. That's not to say it will be easy, you'll need to learn the basics like illustration, painting and drawing as well as striving to be unique. The difference between a successful artist and a very successful artist is how much they strive to be different. Not many people want their tattoo to be like everyone else's, if you believe you have a different style of art then most people you may just have that extra edge over your competition.
Learning from someone with years of experience will cut the learning curve significantly. Although it is relatively hard to get an apprenticeship/traineeship you may get your foot in the door offering to do work experience at the tattoo parlor. Once you've got that sorted you should be practising drawing everyday, just pick anything and draw it, the more practise the better you will become and the larger your portfolio will become. Showing your sketches to other tattoo artists can also get your name out as a great artist. Don't let others negitive opinons of your sketches put you off, just keep your mind on the end goal and you'll keep improving everyday bit by bit.
Always be looking for ways to improve your skill at tattooing, if that means learning to use a new tool at the parlor or just practising certain designs you know possible clients will be interested in. You can't just become great at drawing the most popular types of tattoos, take a chance and practise sketching animals or even famous people. You may find that your ability to offer something other artists can't do will put you even more ahead of the rest.
With the above information you should be well on your way to achieving your dream of becoming a tattoo artist. If you are still having trouble finding that perfect tattoo for yourself I highly recommend this great resource http://shrinkmylink.com/eabiton
