Tattoos have been around for thousands of years as a form of marking the human body for different purposes and with varying meanings. Almost every ancient culture that has walked the Earth has created and worn tattoos and body art as a part of their symbolic way of life. Tattoo history spans over 5,000 years ago and is as diverse as the people that have worn them.

The art of mehndi, temporary art done on the body with henna, also dates back about 5,000 years. Mehndi is still used in ritualistic and religious ceremonies in India, but the earliest proven civilizations to use henna are the Babylonians, Assyrians and Sumerians. Many ancient cultures have used both tattoos and mehndi for spiritual purposes.

Permanent tattoo designs, sometimes very simple, sometimes extremely elaborate, but always with deep personal meaning, have served as amulets, status symbols, signs of religious beliefs, declarations of love, adornments and even at times as forms of punishment. There is cultural significance to tattoos that is timeless.

It used to be that the earliest known tattoos were for a long time Egyptian, dated around 2,000 BC. Many mummies, which seemed to be exclusively female, showed evidence of tattooed designs on their bodies, especially on their thighs. But the timeline has been pushed back further with the discovery of the Iceman in 1991, carbon-dated at around 5,200 years old, from the area of the Italian/Austrian border who displayed tattoos on various parts of the body. His tattoos were examined and found to correspond to stress-induced degeneration areas, suggesting they may have been applied in order to help alleviate joint pain and therefore were therapeutic in nature.

It is believed by some that the Egyptian women practicing tattooing were dubious in nature and that tattoos were a mark of a prostitute, but it has since been proven that female mummies have been found in royal and elite burial areas and that at first considered a royal concubine, they now know at least one was a high status priestess. So there is no indication that tattooing was only for the “dancing girls” as they called them. Some believe that the tattoos were not marks of a prostitute or to ward off sexually transmitted diseases, but were actually functioning therapeutically as permanent forms of amulets to aid in pregnancy and child birth, as is suggested by their patterns and placements and the addition of the God Bes, who was the protector of women in labor, amongst other things. This helps to explain why Egyptian tattooing was purely restricted as a female custom. Egyptian tattoos were usually a dark or black pigment. Brighter colors, it seems, were widely used in other ancient cultures.

The Inuits, Nubians, Scythian Pazyryk, ancient Britons, Greek, Romans, Pre-Columbian cultures of Peru and Chile, Native Americans, Ancient Chinese and Japanese, and Polynesians to name a few are of the ancient cultures who practiced the art of tattooing for varying reasons. These included similar reasons like the Egyptian women, as a mark of nobility and high status (not having them was a statement of low birth, interesting huh?), as a mark of belonging to a religious sect or to an owner, if a slave, or to mark a criminal as punishment, symbolized devotion to a patron deity, which Roman soldiers adopted until Christianity spread with the belief that tattoos “disfigure that made in God’s image.” Tattoos were worn on every part of the body including the face, all with different meanings and significance.

The Polynesians from Tahiti give us the modern day word “tattoo” from their islander term, “tatatau” or “tattau,” meaning to hit or strike. After James Cook’s expedition there, it became fashionable amongst Europeans to have tattoos, especially men with high risk professions, in which case the tattoos carried amulet-like symbolism for protection.

Modern day tattoos are world-wide spread throughout every culture still, including Japanese, Africans, and Maori of New Zealand to name a few and of course within the Western world as well. All of the symbolisms and reasoning stem from similarities to past ancient cultures, whether we’re conscious of knowing what and why we’re doing it for or not. Some may be for new reasonings and self expression, but the foundation behind it has been passed down for thousands of years and not so coincidentally, many of us get tattoos of ancient symbols from ancient civilizations and cultures. Cross-cultural influences have continued to play a significant part in how we express and live our lives, incorporating and melding things together. Interesting how everything is a cycling circle or spiral effect, linking us all in timeless experience.

A new decade has arrived. It has been ten whole years since the dawn of Y2K and despite all the negativity and dread leading up to the dawning on the new millennium the world hasn’t ended. Life continues to advance and if you are reading this then it is safe to say that you are alive and well in 2010 a whole decade on from Y2K.

So how are you planning to celebrate this new decade? I thought I’d do something that I had always wanted to but never had the guts to follow through with, Yes I was going to get a tattoo nothing too special just my lucky number in roman numerals. Getting a tattoo, if done stylishly, can actually be quick attractive and with the level of tattoo accessories that the tattoo artists use these day you really do get your moneys worth.

Years ago getting a tattoo was a bit hit and miss. The equipment and tattoo accessories used were quite tricky to use and sometimes you may end up with a design or body art that you may live to regret. Thankfully like all sectors the tattoo industry has continued to enhance and develop and now they are at the stage where it is fair easier and medically safer to get your tattoo performed thanks to these new tattoo accessories. At least that is what the artist told me who performed mine.

Obviously a big concern for people when they go to get tattoos is the risk of infection. You constantly hear horror stories on the internet about celebrities who have been infected by an unsterilised needle. Obviously this is more down to a case of where you get your tattoo performed and their hygiene standards rather than a fault with the actual tattoo accessories themselves. However, with the enhancement in tattoo accessories the cost of the equipment has come down meaning there is no need for unsterilised or dirty equipment.

I was always worried about what it would feel like. I had seen several people have tattoos performed but this was to be my first. To be honest it wasn’t as bad as I was thinking, it felt more like someone scratching at your arm, there was the odd occasion when you could feel the needle more but on the whole it was an enjoyable experience and I’m really pleased with the way it has turned out. The only thing I need to do now is resist the urge to get any more.

There are so many different aspects of tattooing that it’s hard to choose just a few to focus on.  After all, you need to know about the obvious things like inks and needles; but there are a lot of less obvious, but still important, tattoo lessons that need to be learned.

We’re going to take on some of the biggest tattoo lessons here, with the idea of moving step-by-step through the tattoo process, from preparing the client to applying the tattoo to follow-up care for proper healing.

If you take the time to master these five tattoo lessons, you will definitely know the basics required to start you on the path to the pros.

Tattoo Lesson One:  Preparations

The workspace, the artist, and the client all need to be properly prepared before you ever even pick up the tattoo machine.  Preparing in advance is one of the best time-saving tattoo lessons you can learn, and doing it properly helps make sure that everything that follows will go as smoothly as possible.

In order to protect yourself and the client, start by doing some basic housekeeping. Make sure that the work area is clean before the client even arrives.  All of your equipment should have been sterilized, and your tools should be laid out and ready to go.  A good idea to keep in mind is that fabrics and fibers provide places for bacteria to live and grow, so it’s best to avoid carpets and curtains in the tattooing area.  Also, make sure you clean and disinfect the floors, walls, and furniture on a regular basis.

To prepare yourself for the tattoo process, make sure your hair is pulled back, that your fingernails are clean, that you don’t have any loose clothing that might drag on the client’s skin, and that you’ve removed rings and other jewelry.  Sanitizing soap is the best way to clean your hands and arms, and you should use a brush to make sure you’re getting under your nails.   It’s a little like a doctor scrubbing in for surgery!  Follow this procedure by putting on a brand new pair of latex gloves.

Finally, you’ll want to prepare the client. Allow him or her to get into a comfortable position.  In many cases, the client will need to remain in the same position for a long time, so finding a comfortable one up front will be helpful.  Expose the area to be tattooed, and clean it thoroughly with sterilizing soap.  You will also want to remove hair from the area.  Always use a brand new disposable razor, and throw it away immediately after shaving the client.  Clean the area again with an alcohol solution, and follow this up with Betadine.  To keep the area clean, cover it with a sterile pad until you’re ready to get started.

Lesson Two:  Transferring the Stencil

Another of the most important tattoo lessons is the importance of proper stencil placement. Getting the image onto the client properly is the first real step in getting the tattoo from the planning stage to the permanent design stage.  The stencil itself is the basic outline of the design, and by transferring it from paper to the skin, you are giving yourself a pattern to follow with the tattoo needle.

The stencil itself will often be drawn in ink or graphite on tracing paper.  The image will be backwards on the page so that when it is pressed to the skin, the design will appear facing the right direction.  The actual transfer is accomplished by applying a light layer of a sticky substance to the skin and then laying the stencil on top of this spot.  Deodorant and green soap are two common substances to use.

Rub the back of the stencil thoroughly, and the image will be transferred off of the tracing paper and onto the skin.  You now have a clear image to follow when it comes time to do the lining.

Lesson Three:  Outlining the Design

The next of our tattoo lessons is where you actually start to ink the client. The outline provides both the foundation for the tattoo and some great contrast for the final product.  Using special lining needles, which are made up of sharps arranged in a round grouping, start by dipping your needle tip into the ink.  The rule of thumb is to start with the darkest colors first.  This can be easy with outlining, as it is often done all in black.

Do a nice small line at the beginning to make sure you’ve got a good feel for what you’re doing.  Each client’s skin will be a little different, so you’ll need to adjust for each person.  At this point, you will find the right depth, angle, and speed.  Begin at the bottom right and move toward the top left to keep from smearing or wiping away your stencil lines as you work.

Lesson Four:  Shading the Design

Shading a tattoo is what really helps to bring it to life, and mastering the various tattoo lessons regarding this subject can add all sorts of textures and effects to your work.  Shading can be done with either a special “shader,” or by using a liner in a circular motion.  Again, you want to start with the darkest colors first and move your way into the lighter ones.

Take your time to make sure that you’re getting good coverage and adjust the size of your circles if needed.  You don’t want to have to go over the same area more than once, as that can chew up the skin, cause excessive bleeding, and keep the ink from staying in the holes.  As you go along, wipe the tattooed area to remove any ink, blood, and sweat that might obscure your view of the work. (Be sure to read, The Ultimate Tattoo Black and Grey Shading Guide)

Lesson Five:  Aftercare

In order to ensure that your work heals properly, you need to teach a few tattoo lessons yourself. As a tattoo artist, it will be your job to make sure the client has the best possible outcome from the work you’ve done.  This means that you want him or her to take great care of the new tattoo, keeping it clean, dry, and out of sunlight.

In addition to going over aftercare instructions with the client, be sure to pass out a sheet with the most important information on it.  This should include advice on how to clean the area (and how often) and things to avoid, such as direct sunlight, swimming and baths, and picking at any scabs that develop.  While it is the client’s responsibility to take care of the new tattoo, the final outcome of the work is going to reflect upon you and your abilities.

Perhaps the most important of these tattoo lessons is that you are always going to be represented by the work you have out there, and the higher the quality, the more new clients and repeat customers you will attract.

Recommended Reading:
Bestselling Tattoo Books on The Art of Tattooing

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Photo Credit: Philippe Leroyer

Some tattooists become “scratchers,” learning the basics the hard way and practicing on whoever will let them.  For someone who is really serious about learning how to become a tattoo artist, however, the true path to a professional position usually requires an apprenticeship.

What is an Apprenticeship?

The concept of apprenticeships is thousands of years old, and there aren’t a lot of fields left today that still require this kind of intense training from someone who has already mastered a craft.  Throughout time, someone who wanted to join a particular profession would have to go to work for a master, sometimes for years, and usually without pay.  This was especially common in skilled trades such as carpentry, masonry, and metal smithing.  Even bakers and tailors would often live with a master craftsman for years, learning the trade before going on to either be a journeyman working in the field or become a master apprentice with a workshop and apprentices of his or her own.

The Tattoo Apprenticeship

A modern-day tattoo apprenticeship is obviously going to be a little different from those of medieval times.  The apprentice is probably not going to live with the master tattoo artist, for example.  This actually can pose some problems, as you will likely not be getting paid for your time during an apprenticeship.  This means that you will need to have some money saved up to live on during this period of time.

The length of the apprenticeship is determined by you and the master artist. When it comes to learning how to become a tattoo artist, you can’t really speed things up too much.  It takes a lot of time to learn techniques and then to practice them over and over until they become second nature.  A year-long apprenticeship is not unusual, and it may be even longer.

At the beginning of an apprenticeship, you may wonder if what you’re doing has anything at all with actually teaching you how to become a tattoo artist.  This is because most apprenticeships start out with a lot of “grunt” work. You will probably be expected to clean up the shop, spending your time sweeping, dusting, and washing windows, rather than actually inking clients.  This is the time when an apprentice can really start to make a good impression.

The master artist wants to see that you are dedicated and motivated, that you’re a hard worker who is eager to do everything necessary to be a success.

After a while, you may be asked to start working with the equipment.  For example, it may become your job to sterilize needle bars and other tattoo machine parts.  Hygiene and safety is a huge part of the tattoo business, and even though it may seem like a hassle, understanding and respecting the process is an important part of learning how to become a tattoo artist.

As you continue to prove yourself, you will be allowed to take on a more active role. You may start  creating stencils from flash, for example.  Some master artists may even allow you to create flash of your own, which you can then add to your portfolio.  If the tattoo shop makes its own needles rather than buying them, this chore may become one of your duties.  You will also get to start observing the artists in action, sitting quietly while he or she tattoos clients, and possibly even helping to position clients or hold the skin taut during sessions.

The next step may require you to learn how to tattoo by practicing on fruit, animal skins, or fake practice skins. The master artist will watch you work and offer advice and critiques.  Once he or she is feeling confident about your skills, you will be allowed to start working on clients.

Generally, you will only be able to do a small amount, perhaps a bit of lining or tattoo shading to start out.  This is a really exciting time in a tattoo apprenticeship because not only are you learning how it really feels to put the needles to the skin, but you also know that your master artist is impressed with you and has confidence in your abilities.

Getting an Apprenticeship

Even though getting an apprenticeship is a major part of learning how to become a tattoo artist, it is not all that easy.  Master artists have their pick of apprentices, and the competition is fierce. It can take years of waiting to get the apprenticeship you want…or even to get one at all.  Many apprentices have found that they must actually relocate in order to find opportunities to train in the field.

One way to improve your chances of learning how to become a tattoo artist from a true master artist is to have a stellar portfolio. This is a file that holds your best artistic work.  It will likely contain flash you’ve done, even stuff you’ve designed yourself.  You may also include some of your favorite assignments, if you took classes to improve your art skills.  (Another way to possibly improve your chances of being chosen for an apprenticeship.)

A good place to start is probably at the tattoo shop where you’ve had your own work done, assuming you like what they do and the atmosphere they provide.  Even if they don’t have an apprenticeship opportunity available, they might know of a good artist who would consider taking you on.  Generally speaking, tattoo artists don’t go looking for apprentices because they don’t have to.  It’s up to you to find opportunities.

When presenting yourself, always be aware of your appearance. Even though some tattoo artists have a tendency to be tattooed and pierced, they still present themselves professionally.   You are expected to be clean and presentable.  It’s OK to let your personality shine through, but again, remember to be professional.  Avoid being vulgar or disrespectful.

If you find that you’re having a hard time finding a master who is willing to teach you how to become a tattoo artist, you may not be presenting yourself in the best way possible.  Politely ask for advice on what you can do differently to ensure that you will have better luck with the next place you try.

Recommended Reading:
Bestselling Tattoo Books on The Art of Tattooing

Photo Credit: Philippe Leroyer

Whether you are trying to create and transfer the perfect stencil or you want to master the ability to make designs appear to glow, it’s all about finding the right tattooing techniques and then practicing them until they’re perfect.

Here are four basic techniques that will give you a start on the path to becoming a truly skilled tattoo artist.

#1. Transferring a Design

Each artist has his or her own preferred tattooing techniques, and each one can tell you why you should do something a certain way.  Of course, another artist will tell you just as adamantly why you should use a completely different technique to do the same exact thing!

It’s hard to find total agreement on any one topic in the industry.

This rule holds true, even for the seemingly simple act of transferring a design from paper to the skin through the means of a stencil.  There are several tattooing techniques that can be used, but probably the most popular involves the use of an unexpected agent: deodorant. To be more specific, many artists recommend the use of Speed Stick deodorant to help the lines of a stencil stick to the client’s skin.

Here is how to do it…

To do this properly, make sure you have drawn a mirror image of the design onto your tracing paper.   Next, apply a light coating of Speed Stick to the skin.  To avoid potential contamination, it is best to do this with a tongue depressor rather than by placing the product directly to the skin.  Now, press the tracing paper, image side down, against the skin.  It will stick slightly due to the deodorant.  Rub the entire surface of the paper firmly, and when you gently pull it from the skin, you will see that the design is left behind and is facing the right direction.

#2. Creating a Bridge

Some tattooing techniques are all about the fundamentals, and that is definitely true when it comes to creating “the bridge.” This term refers to the way in which a tattoo artist holds his or her hand when pressing the needles to the client’s skin.

While holding the needle tube of the tattoo machine in the same way you would hold a pencil, you will find that the rest of the hand-held mechanism is over your hand.  The device is top-heavy because of its design, and it takes skill and practice to master holding it for long periods of time while maintaining enough control to create an attractive design.

In order to add as much stability to the process as possible, you want to create a bridge with your hand. That means to place the heel of your hand on the client’s skin while still holding the needle tube like a pencil.  This bridge helps to stabilize your hand and also serves as a pivot point while you work.  It allows you to create much smoother lines, as well as to tattoo for longer periods of time.

#3. Working in Order

One of the biggest time wasters that a new tattoo artist can face is having to redo a stencil. This can happen because the original placement wasn’t correct, because it didn’t transfer fully, or—perhaps most frustratingly—because the artist himself has smeared or rubbed the transfer off of the skin.  There are a few tattooing techniques that can remedy these situations.

In the case of smearing and rubbing, a common approach is to start outlining at one corner and work your way up and across to the other.

Generally speaking, it works best to start in the lower right-hand corner.  Picture in your mind how your hand will be resting on the client’s skin, and you can see how working from top to bottom and right to left will keep that hand from dragging over parts of the design that haven’t yet been lined.  Of course, if you are left-handed, it would make more sense to start at the bottom left corner of the design.

It’s impossible to always avoid smearing or rubbing a transferred design, but using this particular tattooing technique can definitely lessen the problem. Staying aware of what you’re doing will also help; if you’re thinking ahead, you’ll be able to avoid some complications.  Remember that you’ll likely have to go back in and fill in the occasional line, and there’s no shame in that.

#4. Creating Smooth, Solid Lines

A major pitfall for the newbie tattoo artist is the inability to avoid knots, blowouts, and other signs that too much ink was quickly put into one spot. When this happens, the ink has nowhere to go and ends up spreading out under the skin, making a permanent mark that can ruin the overall design.

There are a few tattoo techniques you can employ in order to minimize or avoid creating these unsightly mistakes.  First of all, make sure that your ink reservoir is full before you put the needle to the skin.  This will allow you to run a line longer, without having to stop partway through and then pick back up, increasing your chance for a blowout or knot.

If you do need to stop partway through a line and then start again, try lightly lifting your needle toward the end of the first pass and then putting it back down lightly when tracing back over the spot and starting again.  This gives the opportunity for the line to be as dark as the others but without the worry of putting down too much ink in one pass.

Another safeguarding tattooing technique is to make sure that the needle is already running before you press it to the skin, and to already have your hand starting the forward motion, too.  This can help keep the needles from snagging or hanging up, which is another reason for knots and blowouts.

There is no shortage of hints, tattoo tips, and tattoo techniques that tattoo artists use to perfect their skills and hone their craft.  Each professional you come across will likely have his or her own suggestions for how to make the process better, whether they’re offering advice on how to get sharper corners or thoughts on the best way to make your own needles.

Sometimes, the biggest problem with finding the best tattooing techniques is getting the
tattoo professionals to spill their secrets.

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Recommended Reading:
Bestselling Tattoo Books on The Art of Tattooing

Photo Credit: Philippe Leroyer

After all, “pro” is short for “professional,” and there’s a lot that goes into being a true professional in the tattoo industry.

You may have decided you want to learn how to tattoo because you think the work looks interesting and because you like the atmosphere in the tattoo shop.  There is definitely a whole culture, or subculture, when it comes to tattooing.  Much of this comes from the fact that tattooing used to be considered very subversive.  Only the “bad boys” and “bad girls” got tattoos.  Getting inked was a sign of rebellion, of not conforming to society’s rules.

Many of the people who choose to learn how to tattoo feel like they fit in well within this culture.   To be sure, that culture has been changing over the last decade or two.  While many people are still not fans of tattoos, they have definitely become much more mainstream.  That said, a lot of tattoo artists are still throwbacks to this earlier ideal.  You will find that most of them have lots of tattoos themselves.  Many have piercings, and there is definitely a bit of a “tough guy” or “tough girl” image that these folks live up to.

There Are Different Kinds of “Professional”

When you think of the word “professional,” you probably don’t immediately picture the tattoo artist.  Instead, you may conjure images of Wall Street types in suits and ties or men and women in various uniforms.  Even among those jobs considered to be “professional,” you will find differences in expectations.  Nurses, for example, generally wear scrubs, while police officers wear the uniform of their department.

Oftentimes, the people who choose to learn how to tattoo as a profession are the very same people who would be least likely to wear a suit or be happy in the same uniform day after day.  That doesn’t mean, however, that they are not “professional.”

In order to learn how to tattoo like a professional, you need to consider both your tattooing skills and your appearance and demeanor.

Five Keys to Tattooing Success

1. Do the highest-quality work. Probably the most important factor that determines your success is your actual ability.  That’s not to say that it’s the only factor, but if you don’t learn how to tattoo well, then your chances of becoming a pro are slim to none. You need to know how your equipment works, as well as how to perform any number of specialized techniques.   To get the most out of your tattooing career, you have to really put yourself into it heart and soul.  Study, learn, practice, and work hard.
2. Protect your reputation. Of course, doing high-quality work is going to do a lot to bolster your reputation.  When your clients show off their art, you want their friends and families to say, “Wow!  I want that artist to do my next tattoo!”  In addition to being good at giving tattoos, you also need to make sure that you teach clients how to take care of their ink.  The better they care for their tattoos, the better those tattoos will look.



3. Conduct yourself professionally. Yes, tattoo artists are sometimes a little “rough” around the edges.  They may get away with using a bit of off-color language and engaging in some behaviors that we might not appreciate in our physician, for example.   Still, a tattoo professional needs to be just that…a professional.  This means you need to take care of your appearance, keep your workspace in order, and make clients feel secure and comfortable with you.
4. Follow all safety procedures. Really, this topic encompasses all the things we’ve already discussed.  By keeping your equipment clean and sanitary, you are safeguarding the quality of your work, protecting your reputation, and conducting yourself professionally.  Safety procedures go beyond using the autoclave to sterilize needles, and also include things like thoroughly washing, using gloves, and even wearing clean clothes to work every day.
5. Be a good business person. When someone learns how to tattoo, they usually do it because they love art, they love culture, and they  love working with other people.  They very rarely do it because they love all of the nitpicky details that come along with running a business.  Even if you work in someone else’s shop, there will be business angles to consider, from pricing and commissions to rent, etc.  Keeping up with bills, paperwork, certifications, and all of the other aspects of being in business can be difficult and time consuming, and it’s most definitely not the most enjoyable aspect of being a tattoo artist.  It is, however, extremely important if you want to be a successful professional.

You will find tons of tattoo articles, tattoo books, and tattoo videos that teach you the fundamentals of the art of tattooing.  They will teach you how to break down and set up the tattoo machine or the difference between an ultrasonic cleaner and an autoclave.

These are all really important things to study when you learn how to tattoo.  BUT, they are not the only requirements when it comes to being successful.

Being a truly successful tattoo artist requires you to conduct yourself as a professional.

Being a professional in the tattoo world is a little different than it is in other fields, but there are still important guidelines and expectations.  If you do not go to the effort to learn and meet these expectations, then you’re just not going to fit in.  You will likely have a hard time finding other professionals who want to work with you, and even if you start your own shop, you will find that just because you learn how to tattoo doesn’t mean that you can attract and keep customers.

Recommended Further Reading:

Click Here For The BEST Instructional Books on How To Tattoo

Photo Credit: Philippe Leroyer

It seems like every little tattoo tip, every new idea or innovative thought may be just the thing to take you to the next level.  It is precisely this kind of drive and motivation to learn and grow that will help you reach your goals.

Here you will find a few of those tips and innovations that can help you perfect and hone your skills.

The tattoo instructions included here are just suggestions, of course.  Every tattoo artist finds his or her own groove and determines what ideas should be implemented on a daily basis.  Of course, we can’t all discover every new technique on our own, so by offering these tattoo instructions, we’re just giving you a little food for thought.

You’re invited to try these tips out on your own.  Keep the ones that work for you, and leave the rest behind.

Use the Right Machine for the Job

Most professional tattoo artists actually use more than one machine, and it’s even likely that they will use multiple machines on one tattoo.  This is because different machines are equipped for different purposes.  Each will have individual tattoo instructions that define its purpose, but there are some general guidelines that can help make sure you are getting the most out of your equipment and therefore creating the best possible tattoos.

An 8-coil machine, for example, has less power and is better for tattooing with smaller needle groupings.  A 10-coil, therefore, has the power for larger needle groupings, and a 12-coil can handle even larger groups yet.  It’s important to recognize that a 12-coil isn’t just a better machine than an 8-coil.  Instead, it is designed for a completely different purpose.

If you’re doing a tattoo that includes very thin, medium, and very thick lines all in one design, you may find that you use all three machines one the same client in one day.

Tattoo Needles

In order to create perfect tattoos, you need to be using the best equipment.  To get the highest quality and to protect your clients’ health, always use brand new needles out of the package.  Use a jeweler’s eye piece to examine your needles up close.  You want to ensure that they are not bent, that there are no pits, and that they’re not all scratched up.  Once you’re satisfied, sterilize them and keep them protected until you’re ready to get started.

Your needles are not completely out of harm’s way just yet, though.  You need to be very careful when placing the needle bar into the needle tube.  You do not want your needles to touch the sides or bump anywhere within the needle tube, because they can get damaged very easily.

The final major obstacle comes when you dip your needle into the ink.  Even though it’s easy to get distracted by what you’re doing or by talking with the client, you need to pay attention so that you do not touch your needle tips to the bottom or sides of the ink lids.

Tattoo Inks

When you create a tattoo, it’s really the ink that is left behind to be admired.  Everything else you do is a matter of delivering the ink in the safest and most effective way possible.  There are hundreds of tattoo instructions that can be issued about inks used in the industry, but we’ll just take a moment to point out a few important aspects of working with them.

There are a number of companies that produce tattoo inks, and each has its own recipe for mixing pigments and various carrier fluids.  For this reason, it is probably the best practice not to use different brands of ink on the same tattoo.  You want to use inks that are going to have similar properties, and it’s too difficult to predict what will happen if you mix and match.

Most professional tattoo artists recommend that you begin with the darkest inks needed for your tattoo and work your way into the lightest colors. This is because the darker colors will obscure the lighter ones if applied later.  Some artists insist that if you’re careful, this isn’t much of a concern, but it’s definitely worth taking into consideration when planning your approach to a client’s design.

Black and Gray Tattoos

Some people will tell you that THE way to make yourself stand out as a tattoo artist is to truly master the ability to do black and gray tattoos.  We could offer all kinds of tattoo instructions when it comes to just this one topic, but here are a few of the hints and tips that many people find the most useful.

• There are four basic options when it comes to gray. You can purchase one of hundreds of gray tones from a distributor, you can create your own grays by adding varying amounts of white to black, you can dilute your black ink with water to lighten it, or you can lighten pressure and move your hand more quickly while using pure black in your needle tip in order to get a lighter appearance of your black ink.

• Outlines are not necessary, especially if you want more of an airbrushed effect, but they can look really, really good on black and gray tattoos. Because these tattoos are monochrome, you need to find other ways to get contrast, and using different sized outlines can create a wonderful effect that makes the whole tattoo pop.

• If you want to keep an area blank (often representing “white” in the design), you can use a bloodline to mark off the area. Use a needle with no ink to draw the line that delineates the negative space.  You can then tattoo up to that line while making sure you don’t cross it.  The bloodline will disappear in a few days.

• When doing a fill, start with a small area and then wipe it to guarantee you’re getting full, even coverage. If the area is spotty, you need to use smaller circles or slow down.  If it is getting chewed up, you need to move more quickly and check to make sure your needles are not damaged.

**Recommended Reading: The Ultimate Black and Grey Shading Guide

**More Articles on Tattoo Instructions, Click Here.

It’s impossible to sum all the nuances of the art of tattooing in one place, but these tips and ideas should give you some good suggestions on how to perfect your designs.  Implement them as you continue to practice, and you will find that the quality of your tattoos will improve, as well your clients’ satisfaction.

Just a few little tattoo instructions can make a big difference in the long run.

Photo Credit: Philippe Leroyer

While the art of tattooing is certainly unique in the overall art world, many of the fundamentals are the same.  Studying the basics of drawing, painting, illustration, and other forms of visual art are a great way to build the skills needed to become a successful tattoo artist.

Most people actually start out by simply recognizing that they have both a knack for and an interest in creating art on paper.  Maybe an aspiring tattoo artist has always been a doodler and eventually decided to take that hobby to the next level.

Personal Drive

Formal training is certainly not the only way to become skilled. Simply being diligent about practicing can be more important than any college class for someone who is dedicated and is able to develop his or her natural talents.  There are also thousands of art books available that can teach all manner of techniques that can be applied to the art of tattooing.

Formal Training

Formal training for art can take many forms. Some tattoo artists have attended art schools specifically to learn art history, methodology, and various specialized skills.  Not everyone chooses this route, however, and there are options available.  For example, many aspiring tattoo artists recognize that they can hone their skills with a few community college classes; and at a cost that is a whole lot less than going to art school for two or four years.  While having an art degree may be helpful, it is most definitely not a requirement for being successful at the art of tattooing.

On-the-Job Training

There are some positive things to be said for building art skills right in the tattoo shop, and there are lots of opportunities. Even if you are not yet ready to pick up a tattoo machine and put needles to skin, there are lots of opportunities to practice fundamental art skills in the shop.  One of the easiest methods is to start by creating stencils from flash designs that customers might choose.  Tracing and working with these designs gives the aspiring tattoo artist a better understanding of what is required for the job, as well as a first-hand feel for some of the most common motifs.

Once the aspiring artist has gotten experience with flash in the shop, he or she may start designing original flash.  Again, this helps to hone skills and also allows for the creation of a portfolio.  The portfolio itself is very important when applying for apprenticeships.

The Unique Art of Tattooing

As we said, the art of tattooing shares many fundamentals with other forms of visual art.  Color theory, depth and perspective, composition, and many other elements go into creating a great tattoo, just as they do with any drawing or painting.  Of course, there are a number of differences between the art of tattooing and other visual art forms, too.

Probably the most obvious difference is the canvas upon which the tattoo artist works. Rather than actual canvas or some sort of specialized paper, the tattoo artist imprints his or her creations onto the skin of a living, breathing human being.  This creates both challenges and benefits that other types of artists will never experience.  For one thing, a tattoo artist’s work constantly moves from one location to another, rather than being displayed on a wall in a home or a museum or in the pages of a book.

Unlike other canvases, however, skin is very unforgiving.  There is no erasing of mistakes or throwing out a first attempt and starting fresh on a new sheet of paper.  In addition, receiving a tattoo can be rather uncomfortable, so the tattoo artist must constantly be aware of the need to make his or her “canvas” more comfortable or to reassure it.  Dedicating oneself to the art of tattooing requires the ability to work with other people and to inspire and earn their trust.

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What It Takes to Become a Tattoo Artist

Becoming a tattoo artist requires a certain type of person.  There are some very specific skills and qualities that are required.  If you’re interested in becoming a tattoo artist, you may want to check out this list and see if it sounds like you.

A tattoo artist…

• Has an ongoing interest in art
• Can produce art in a variety of styles
• Is willing to constantly learn new concepts and techniques
• Is willing to put health and safety above convenience
• Can put up with all different personality types
• Probably has several tattoos of his or her own
• Goes through proper channels to learn the art of tattooing
• Practices tattooing from every angle
• Keeps equipment clean and sanitized
• Enjoys getting to know people quickly
• Is not squeamish about blood or needles
• Uses personal integrity when making decisions
• Can be trusted when clients expose bare skin
• Offers good customer service while being true to his or her own vision
• Can be assertive when necessary
• Understands basic anatomy
• Understands basic kinetics
• Is patient with the process and the client

Becoming a tattoo artist is not always easy.  It requires years of training and a commitment to becoming the best.  Whether you’re depending on personal drive, formal training, or an on-the-job opportunity to broaden your horizons, there is more to be learned about this art form than one master can learn in an entire lifetime.

If you are willing to work hard and practice, practice, practice, though, the art of tattooing can be an amazing creative outlet that adds joy to other people’s lives while allowing you to make a good living at the same time.

Recommended Reading:
Bestselling Tattoo Books on The Art of Tattooing

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Photo Credit: Philippe Leroyer

Some of these tattoo techniques take years to master, while others are simple but powerful.  It’s the ability to think in new ways and apply what they learn to their art that really makes these master artists rise above the rest.

Recognize the Need for Improvement

It can be argued that there is some degree of ego involved in being a tattoo artist.  Those who are good know that they’re good, and they’re proud of their skills and abilities.  The very best in every field, however, recognize that openness to learning new things is key in both becoming better at your job and in advancing your field. Just as new discoveries are made in astronomy or chemistry, new tattoo technique and ideas are always being developed.  Those who are willing to learn about these advances are the ones who will be on the cutting edge of the tattoo world.

A Little History Lesson

To illustrate how tattoo techniques have improved over the years, it’s helpful to go all the way back to the beginning of tattoo history.  Early tattoos we created by making wounds in the skin and then rubbing soot or other pigment into them.  Different groups developed new tattoo techniques as time went by.  Some would actually puncture the skin with a sewing needle and pull an ink-covered thread under the skin to leave a permanent mark.  Others used chisels-like tools, and drove them into the skin by being hit with mallets.

The discovery of electricity did a lot to change tattoo techniques. An electric machine was invented in the United States in the early 1890s that allowed for faster and even more accurate placement of pigment in the skin.  Since that time, innovations have continued to come, one after the other.  Where tattoo artists used to have to create their own inks, numerous varieties can now be purchased pre-made.  Not only that, but the safety standards for these inks has improved substantially, allowing for the development of hypo-allergenic inks and more.

Of course, tattoo safety is one of the biggest areas of advancement in the modern age of tattooing. Tattoo techniques are now sterile, and professionals are well trained in how to protect themselves and their clients from infection and the spread of diseases.  Obviously, being open to new tattoo techniques can have some pretty great ripple effects for an individual artist and his or her entire working community.

Artistic Tattoo Techniques that Make the Difference

Every tattoo artist wants to be recognized for doing incredible work, and it takes a lot of dedication to make it happen.  From the basic fundamentals to the most complex tattoo techniques, you have to be open to learning everything you can.  You may find that one technique just doesn’t work for you, or that if you put your own spin on it, the results are even better.  That’s great and should encourage you to keep experimenting and learning from others.

Some of the tattoo techniques that really put an artist’s work a cut above the rest have to do with creating eye-catching effects.

Many tattoo artists will have their own signature style, and this can help you to develop techniques that advance your own work.  For example, an artist who is known for her ability to create life-like portraits on skin might discover that a certain fading technique helps her to get a more three-dimensional image.  Another artist who has a unique illustrative style may find that using complementary colors in different ratios really makes his work pop.

There are a number of incredible tattoo techniques that can really take your work up a notch.  Learning to do them, of course, is going to require some study on your part, as well as a lot of practice.  One of the most useful ways to learn a new technique is from someone who has already mastered it, but you’ll need to find a tattoo artist who doesn’t mind sharing his or her inside secrets.

Contrast

In order to make sure that your designs are exciting and dynamic, you should work to master some of the various tattoo techniques used to provide contrast.  The most obvious of these might be to use black and white, but it really goes a lot deeper than that. It is a good idea to contrast the foreground and the background, for example.  If you are tattooing a light image, you would want to surround it with a darker background to give it the necessary contrast to keep it from simply fading away.

Lines are another way to create contrast. By utilizing outlines of different thicknesses, you can contrast one area of the tattoo with another, as well as to differentiate your design from the background or other elements of the piece.  Color can be used in a similar way, and learning the tattoo techniques involved with using color effectively can definitely separate a master artist from the rest.

Finally, texture is another way to create contrast in a tattoo. Again, there are all kinds of techniques for creating different looks and textures, but by gradually adding them to your arsenal, you will be able to create more and more intricate, elaborate, and impressive pieces.

Luminosity

Luminosity is another of those “extras” that can make one tattoo stand out far above the others.  Again, there are lots of different tattoo techniques that can be used to create the illusion of light and shine.  For example, a tiny bit of white on a rounded surface can give the impression of both a curve and of a light source.  In other cases, you may want an object to appear to be glowing, and this can be accomplished by working with negative and positive space.

Shadows are another way to play with luminosity and light. A longer shadow below or to the side of an object, for example, will make it appear as if the light source is farther away than if the shadow is short.  They can even be used to convey a time of day or a certain setting.  A beach scene might appear to be well lit from above, while a night-time scene would appear to be illuminated by the light of the moon.

Truly great artists recognize the importance of growing and expanding their abilities. Tattoo techniques have been advancing for thousands of years, but never as fast as in the last couple of decades.  The dedicated artist who truly wants to make a name for himself or herself would do well to watch the trends and learn those tattoo techniques that really seem to take the work to a higher level.

THE BESTSELLING BOOKS ON TATTOOING

Photo Credit: Philippe Leroyer

Here are some tattoo tips that will help you get the most out of your tattoo.

Getting a tattoo is a life-changing event.  By doing some research in advance, you can have a memorable tattoo experience.  Take time to learn about tattoo studios, get tattoo tips from friends, and choose the best design and placement for your tattoo.  You will be rewarded with a piece of body art that you can enjoy for years to come.

Tattoo Tips on Finding a Tattoo Studio

• If you’ve just decided to get your first tattoo, take some time to research local tattoo studios.  Become familiar with tattoo regulations and look for a licensed studio that complies.

• The best way to find a tattoo artist is through personal recommendations.  Talk to friends who have tattoo and find out if they have tattoo tips about a favorite tattoo artist.

• Make sure the tattoo artist you choose wears disposable gloves and uses sterile needles and fresh ink.  Reusing needles can pass on life-threatening diseases like hepatitis and HIV/AIDS.

• It’s against the law in every state for a tattoo artist to give a tattoo to someone under 18.  If you’re younger than 18 and someone offers to give you a tattoo, don’t do it.  The person giving the tattoo is most likely not a conscientious tattoo professional and you may end up with a bad tattoo.

Tattoo Tips on Design

• Getting a tattoo may be a spur of the moment decision.  Instead of acting on impulse and making a quick decision on a design, take time to choose a design that has deep meaning for you.  After all, it will be with you for the rest of your life.

• There are many resources for tattoo tips on design.  Look through tattoo magazines to get some design ideas.  You may want to create a personal design that a tattoo artist can help you refine.

• Before getting a permanent tattoo, take your tattoo design for a “test drive.”  Get a temporary tattoo, show it to your friends and family and then re-evaluate the design.

• Procedures for removing tattoos are expensive, painful and not always successful.  Keep this in mind when choosing a tattoo design.

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Essential Tattoo Tips For Any Tattoo Artist!

Tattoo Tips on Placement

• One of the most important tattoo tips is to try to look to the future when deciding on tattoo placement.  There may come a day when job requirements will make you regret having a tattoo in a highly visible location on your body (such as the neck, hands or face).

• The amount of pain experienced while getting a tattoo varies by person, but for most people the chest, shoulders and arms are the least painful locations.

• Tattoos on the torso, such as on the lower back, can be more painful due to the proximity to nerves from the spine.  Tattoos on the feet and ankles can also be more painful.

Tattoo Tips on Color and Longevity

• Tattoo designs with little color work best on darker or tanned skin.  Black and red are the best colors to use on tanned and darker skin.  Blue, yellow and purple are not as effective as they are on lighter skin.

• Sun exposure can fade the colors in a tattoo.  People who spend time tanning should consider this when getting a tattoo

• Since sun exposure can fade the colors in a tattoo, it makes sense to have them applied to places on the body that get less sun.

Tattoo Tips when you get Your Tattoo

• Make sure you’re well rested and have eaten when you get your tattoo.

• It may be tempting to have a few drinks to calm your nerves, but this could end up backfiring if you find it hard to sit still during the procedure.  You could also end up feeling nauseated or dizzy while you get your tattoo.

Tattoo Tips for Aftercare

• Right after getting a tattoo, avoid using ointments and lotions that contain fragrance and dye.  These can cause a skin reaction that will have a negative impact on the tattoo healing process.

• Avoid immersing a new tattoo in water.  Instead, keep it clean by washing softly with a mild soap and patting it dry.

• Keep your tattoo out of the sun for a few weeks after it’s applied.

• Don’t pick at a new tattoo.  If scabs form or a rash develops, consult a medical professional.

• Make sure the tattoo artist you chose can give you detailed tattoo tips for aftercare.

Photo Credit: Philippe Leroyer