Career Advice on How to Become A Tattoo Artist Being a tattoo artist might sound like fun and games to some people, but it’s actually more of a serious and stressful job than many might believe.  After all, if a tattoo artist has a bad day or really screws up a job, somebody has to live with the results, maybe even forever!  Now that is pressure.  Of course, there is also always someone who may also hate his or her tattoo, which can certainly make for a stressful day.  And there is the issue of making sure that all the equipment used to give people tattoos is extremely sanitary.  All of this to consider… and you have to be, at the very least, a decent artist.

Career Facts:

Being a tattoo artist means being concerned with hygiene, at least in theory.  One is working with needles, which, of course, means that there is a risk of disease and infection.  Those looking to be extra cautious should ask about having new ink and ink containers used to reduce the risk of exposure to disease.  In states such as Hawaii and Oregon, tattoo artists are expected to pass test regarding safety and health issues related to tattooing. 

Career Opportunities and Job Outlook-Unknown:

A tattoo artist, after learning the business, might open up his or her own tattoo parlor.  Tattooing has been with mankind for thousands of years and is showing no signs of disappearing anytime soon.

A Day in The Life:

Much like the body piercer, the tattoo artist begins their day by donning the official “I am a rebel” uniform commonly used by the “counter culture” individuals.  After stopping by a multinational fast food conglomerate that pays near slave wages, the tattoo artist, shows up to work in his or her full “I am a rebel” attire and begins giving tattoos to from people ranging from drunk men and women, to tattoo junkies to ridiculous misguided posers.

Average Salary:

New tattoo artists, who are essentially apprentices, can expect to make somewhere in the neighborhood of $20,000 if they are lucky.  Experienced tattoo artists can make as much as $50,000 or more.

$20k – $50k

Career Training and Qualifications:

Many tattoo artists learn their craft on the job.  Having some artistic abilities is a must. Often these artists have gotten a degree in art or at least spent a lot of time practicing and perfecting their drawing and illustration skills.