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hyena · Tattoo lover Joined: 03 Oct 2007 Posts: 1

hey, im new to tattooing, actually very new, im 17 and just began to become interested in tattooing. I know that some may think i shouldnt do this, but i really am serious about it. Right now, im looking to become an apperentice, but the closest ive got is a few suggestions from an older friend, who has experience with tattoos. there are only two tattoo studios in my area, and their not looking for anybody.

but im asking anyone who wants to help me out, what is worth buying to learn the basics and etc. so far, i bought a kit, then practice skin. im not going to do real tattoos for a while, even though ive been asked. i do want to be totally safe though, for when i do tattoo somebody, and with limited money, i want to get the best products for what i can spend. if anybody knows of any household items i can use, that are safe, thad be even better.

and finally to anybody that replies, thank you.

TJ_tats · Posted: Thu Oct 04, 2007 2:24 pm Post subject:

You have to make yourself appealing to the tattoo artist you wish to apprentice under. Do you draw? If so do you have a portfolio of your drawings? If you have had art classes "Even High School” List those also. If you had any practical art experience? List this experience such as commissioned drawings, other art work and so on. These are all things that can make you appealing to a tattoo artist.

The first thing you have against you is your age. You are only 17 so I recommend getting a portfolio of your work together while you wait to turn 18. In addition use this time to find a friendly studio and try to make some friends in the industry. Offer your services to the artist if you have the opportunity.

You can learn how to do stencils old school style in the mean time. DO NOT INK anyone, don't buy machines, needles or inks or you will be way to tempted to scratch should you have these things. If you scratch you will be lowering your chances of ever getting an apprenticeship as we professional artist usually hate scratchers. I have trained one scratcher and only because she was a very fine artist and new how to present herself.

Draw your butt off, get books, videos and any other training materials you can find. Learn about tattooing also, history, origins and so on. All these can help. If you are really interested in the art you should be interested in learning about it, as in any other professions knowing the growth path of the profession is an excellent way of understanding why things are the way they are now.

Take your time and don't be in a rush. Your young and that is a disadvantage but not completely, as you can overcome this with knowledge. Use the time to become knowledge that will help you overcome barriers with customers. Being able to have a meaningful conversation with customers that are much older then you will allow you to gain credibility with them. You will be surprised how much your customers will know about the art of tattooing.

I’m actually amazed at how many artists don’t know the origins of the word tattooing. Do you? If you don’t do you think you should? Since this word is the bases o f your chosen profession.

Good luck I hope this little bit is a help.