With the growing trends of tattooing in modern times, tattoo profession is on its rise. In the absence of any academic or college degree in the domain of this body art, people seldom know what the right course to follow? Here are some valuable tips for those who want to try their luck in this passion as a professional.

Dos …….. Must be Followed

  1. Firstly, like another field, build your concepts and study the theory of this field. For this purpose, tattoo books are the excellent source. These books cover topics ranging from techniques, equipment, designs, tattoo origins, tattoo types, color combination, tattoo history, portfolio of famous tattoo artists, and much more. Some of the worth reading books for beginner artists include The Tattoo Textbook: Escape the Grind, Do What You Love, and Launch Your Kick-Ass Tattoo Career, Basic Fundamentals of Modern Tattoo, The World Atlas of Tattoo, The Tattoo Dictionary, Tattoo Sourcebook, Tattoo Lettering Bible, Vintage Tattoos: The Book of Old-School Skin Art, The Tattoo Chronicles, This Might Sting a Bit: Everything Your Tattoo Artist Forgot to Tell You & You Were Too Afraid to Ask etc.
  2. Spend at least 3 to 4 years of apprenticeship under a well-known tattoo supervisor prior doing tattoo work independently.
  3. Use artificial skin for initial training and learning.
  4. Remember, not all the tattooist can make all genres of tattoos. Choose your specialized field after much consideration. It can be understood by this example that a skin specialist cannot conduct a heart surgery though both are Doctors. So choose your major wisely so that you can build your expertise in that special tattoo type like realism, anatomical, trash polka or Japanese tattoo.
  5. Read biography and go through the work and professional journey of famous tattoo artists like Keith Scott McCurdy, Vyvyn Lazonga, Sailor Jerry and Kat von D etc
  6. Always give prioritize client's need, wish and health.
  7. Before starting your shop/studio, carefully read the laws of your region or country regarding tattoo business.
  8. Register your business and be clear about Tattooing SOP's
  9. Use the best tattoo equipment like tattoo guns, tattoo cartilages, needles, inks, gloves, covers autoclave etc
  10. Always use sterilize equipment.
  11. Always try to learn and improve your craft with dedication and motivation.

Donts ……… Must be Avoided

  1. Never start your professional career just on the basis of book and video tutorials.
  2. Never start your professional career unless you have a proper professional training by a Tattoo Master or Guru.
  3. Never start your work directly on human beings nor practice on animals.
  4. Consider the client's body as precious medium. Never treat him as a Guinea pig for your training purpose
  5. Don't impose your idea on client, instead only suggest him and try to understand his perspective
  6. Never compromise on client's health.
  7. Don't go for cheap and low hygiene materials
  8. Don't steal other's idea, always respect copyright of Art

Hopefully this article will help you in basic understanding of this realm before you step on the road of learning. Always remember there is no short cut in this profession. Only hardwork, passion and consistency keep you going.