How to Learn to Tattoo
The tattoo, or a permanent picture on the skin, has been worn in many different cultures since ancient times. In modern times, men have traditionally worn tattoos, usually on their arms. But the art of tattoo has grown in recent decades and now many women wear tattoos and they’re applied on any body area. If you’d like to learn tattoo, follow these steps. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Realize that being a good artist doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be a good tattoo artist. Tattooing is a precise craft that must be learned and perfected.
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Study art and practice drawing before you learn to tattoo. Any art studying you do can be applied in the craft of tattooing.
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Become familiar with tattoo laws for the state or area where you live. Some places may require a license or some sort of certification in order to apply a tattoo.
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Make sure you are knowledgeable about all diseases that can be spread through unsafe tattooing practices and take steps to protect yourself and others. Know how to avoid contamination of your dye or equipment. Never reuse needles.
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Buy a tattoo kit and practice on citrus fruits, baby doll skin, pigskin, fake skin, leather or unpeeled potatoes. You have to be 18 years old to tattoo people legally, but you can practice until then. You can also develop a portfolio of your artwork.
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Practice on yourself after you gain enough knowledge and confidence to do it safely. Your own body will advertise your skill, so don’t attempt this until you’re ready. Start with your thighs since they’re easy to reach and then do your forearms.
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Seek an apprenticeship at a tattoo shop. Make sure you’re familiar with their work and know they run a quality shop. Show them your portfolio and tell them your goals. They’ll probably say “no” to an apprenticeship, but if you persevere, you’ll eventually find one.
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Watch other tattoo artists as much as you can. This is also a good way to build friendships, learn about tattooing, and possibly obtain an apprenticeship.
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Take advantage of other sources of tattoo knowledge. There are many books and DVDs available about how to learn to tattoo.
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