Tattoo artists use special colors to apply permanent body markings – i.e. tattoos – to their customers’ skin with needles. To do this, they create drafts or use templates. Some tattoo artists work freehand, others use stencils. The tattoo technique can also be very individual, because not all tattoo artists work with an electric tattoo machine.
In addition to making drafts and sketches and tattooing itself, tattoo artists also have to take care of the preparation and follow-up of the sessions.
This includes compliance with hygiene standards as well as customer advice and professional care of the tattooed parts of the body – after all, these are wounds. When dealing with customers, tact and patience are often required.
What does everyday work as a tattoo artist look like?
The everyday work of a tattoo artist is very varied and is strongly determined by your customers. Sometimes you can expect several short sessions, sometimes a lengthy project where you have to sit and concentrate for a long time. At the beginning of your working day you have to prepare your workplace – and then the customers can already come.
A good tattoo artist guarantees their customers comprehensive advice, in which they always show empathy and thus take away any fears they may have. For example, tattoo artists plan their designs in advance so that colors are applied in the correct order, ensure storage drawers have a supply of additional small parts, pay attention to specific recipes when making inks, scrupulously follow hygiene rules to protect customers, and keep licenses and certifications up to date. You also examine clients’ skin before they start tattooing to identify possible injuries or illnesses.
Sitting for a long time is often part of the job as some designs take a lot of time to create. Many tattoo artists also work in the evenings and on weekends – but the working day sometimes doesn’t start until midday.
Where do you work as a tattoo artist?
Tattoo artists work in tattoo and piercing studios. If you don’t have your own studio, you can often use the premises of a studio operator as a freelance tattoo artist. There are hardly any employed tattoo artists, so you are always self-employed and therefore have to calculate risks and insure yourself.
When working as a tattoo artist you are very free. Some tattoo artists also offer their services at trade fairs or festivals.