Tattooing is the process of inserting ink into a layer of skin called the dermis, which is located between the top layer of skin and the subcutaneous tissue underneath. Tattoos have been used as body art and a way of identification for centuries. Tattoos are now made in tattoo studios, with electric machines, although in the past they were done with just a needle or knife and ink. A tattoo artist has to go through a long training procedure to learn how to tattoo properly.
Step
Part 1 of 4: Preparing to Be a Tattoo Artist
Step 1. Learn how to draw and color well
Taking a course at a fine arts university will ensure you have a good foundation.
Step 2. Create a portfolio
You should be able to show all your artistic abilities. Prepare designs that are similar to tattoos, as well as anything that shows your compositional and coloring talents.
Step 3. Tattoo yourself
This is a great way to learn the best techniques from other tattoo artists. Apart from that, this will also help in gaining the trust of your clients.
Part 2 of 4: Taking an Internship Program
Step 1. Talk to tattoo artists in your area to find recommended places for your internship
Step 2. Apply for an internship
There really aren't many opportunities to become an intern, but visit the nearest tattoo studios and ask if they can accept you.
Step 3. Do another job
Internship programs can last up to 3 years and cost tens of millions of rupiah, so make sure you can support yourself during this internship program.
Step 4. Get a contract from a tattoo artist and consult this contract with an attorney
Step 5. Realize that during your internship, you will likely be doing a variety of trivial tasks at the tattoo studio, such as watching the artist actually work
Part 3 of 4: Cost of Internship
Step 1. Learn about the equipment
Modern electric tattoo machines have a unit with various groups of needles that can be inserted into the skin up to 150 times a second. These needles can only be used once and are packaged separately.
Step 2. Maintain the fixtures
You will learn how to clean and run it efficiently. All equipment will be sterilized by placing it in the autoclave after each use.
Step 3. Keep your clients healthy during and after the tattoo process
Both hands should always be washed and the skin area to be tattooed should be very clean. Wear surgical gloves at all times.
Step 4. Learn about the various skin conditions that affect the process
Allergic reactions to some dyes can occur, so check with your client to see if he or she has any particular allergies.
Step 5. Learn how to control infection
Instruct the client on how to care for the tattoo for a few weeks or months after the tattoo. The following rules must be followed:
- The wound will be bandaged for 24 hours, after which it must be smeared with antibiotic ointment.
- Wear loose clothing that won't rub against the tattoo.
- Do not swim while the tattoo is still recovering.
- Tattooed skin should be kept clean at all times, using water and unscented soap. Drying should be done with extreme care, and the tattooed skin area should not be rubbed.
- Moisturizers can be used for the wound, twice a day.
- Keep the tattoo out of the sun for a few weeks.
Part 4 of 4: Tattooing
Step 1. Be aware that this will be the last part of your internship program, and the tattoo artist will only allow you to start work when he or she is sure that you are ready and thoroughly trained in other aspects of the art
Step 2. Wash both hands and put on surgical gloves
Step 3. Sterilize all equipment while the client is watching you
Step 4. Shave and clean the area where the tattoo will be made
Step 5. Draw or stencil the design onto the client's skin, keeping the skin taut
Step 6. Outline the design using ink and a single-edged needle
Step 7. Clean the area again
Step 8. Create a single, wider line using thicker ink and a variety of different needles
Step 9. Clean the area again
