How to Become a Tattoo Artist in Orlando, Florida
Traditionally, tattoo artists learn the craft from other tattooers using an apprenticeship system. This involves a lot of hard work on the part of the apprentice, who then gains the craft education, tattoo machinery skill and customer service skills needed to succeed. Orlando's thriving tattoo and art scene offers everything you need to get started.
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Instructions
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Enroll in art classes to practice your drawing skills. You'll need line drawing, figure drawing and calligraphy skills to tattoo. You may prefer certain drawing styles, such as anime, classic Japanese tattooing or portrait tattoos. If so, make sure you study these.
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Practice drawing every day to improve your skill. Make sure to draw classic tats from a tattoo design book in addition to your class assignments.
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Identify tattoo artists in Orlando that could offer you an apprenticeship. Search for someone with at least five years' experience on the job and with a willingness to train. Not all shops offer apprenticeships. Shops that do take apprentices might not have availability when you need it. Continue to search until you find a mentor whose style and personality you like who can offer you a position. Make sure the shop is clean and sanitary. Be prepared to show your portfolio to potential mentors as proof of your talent and dedication.
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Begin your apprenticeship. You might work the telephone or front desk, or you might clean up after the artists, copy designs or perform other prep work as needed. Do whatever you're asked to do with a smile.
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Learn how to hold and operate a tattoo gun from your mentor. He might have you practice tattooing melons, synthetic skin or other objects while you practice learning to control the gun and draw with it. Be patient, practice hard and you'll learn.
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Study different techniques, styles and trends on your own. Read industry magazines, attend tattoo fairs and talk to different artists. Your mentor might expose you to different styles as part of your training.
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Begin to tattoo people under the instruction of your mentor. Only do this once you've mastered the tattoo gun.
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Get hired as a tattoo artist upon completion of your apprenticeship. If your mentor doesn't have a spot for you at the shop when she thinks you're done, she can recommend you to friends.
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Tips & Warnings
As of September 2011, the State of Florida does not require tattoo artists to hold a license to begin practicing. However, they are developing licensing for tattooers and tattoo shops. When the new system is in place, you may need to seek a license.
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