A “scratcher” is an unlicensed tattoo artist who performs tattoos on the side, often in an unprofessional manner. They are often unaware of proper training, professional equipment, and adherence to hygiene and safety standards. Scratchers often give poor quality tattoos that need to be covered up by professional artists or removed to avoid painful removal processes or expensive costs.
Tattoo scratchers are individuals who give themselves or others tattoos without proper training, professional equipment, or adherence to hygiene and safety standards. They may claim to have worked in a professional setup before, but they lack knowledge about bloodborne pathogens and best tattooing practices to create quality tattoos. In most cases, tattoo artists apply permanent decorative tattoos in established businesses like tattoo shops, studios, or parlors.
Scratching your tattoo can extend the healing time, increase the risk of infection, or alter its appearance. To prevent this, it is important to wash your tattoo with antibacterial soap and pat it dry after scratching. Scratchers can also get a tattoo over scratches or small cuts, but the area may be slightly more sensitive since it is still a wound.
A scratcher is someone who makes scratch marks on people and acts like they’re tattooing, often lacking proper equipment and knowledge of tattooing and art. They may have the “proper” equipment and demeanor, but they lack the necessary skills to create bad tattoos. Scratchers are often considered a less-licensed, friendlier alternative to traditional tattoo artists.
| Article | Description | Site |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen scratcher? : r/TattooArtists | A scratcher is someone that has no tattooing skill, nor art skill, but does tattoos, bad tattoos. And usually lacks sanitation, medical knowledge, or has no … | reddit.com |
| r/tattooscratchers | hi i am a beginner tattoo artist and i’d like to know what other artists use to turn real life pictures in to stencils. | reddit.com |
📹 Will a SCRATCH RUIN Your Tattoo? “This happened to me & its never been the same”
In today’s video we talk about scratches, scraps and cuts.. and whether or not they will damage your new tattoo in any way and …
Why Do Tattoo Scratchers Cost So Much?
Scratchers are unlicensed tattooists who often attract clients with low prices, reflecting the poor quality of their work. Unlike professional tattoo artists, who invest in certifications, licensing, sterilization, and insurance, scratchers typically operate "on the side" and lack proper training. As a result, tattoos done by scratchers can lead to subpar results that may require cover-ups or expensive removal processes later on.
Many people, especially in the US where tattoo costs are notoriously high, are tempted to choose scratchers due to their affordability. However, the lack of professional skills and proper equipment poses significant risks to clients' safety and health.
Good tattoos come at a cost that is justified by the various expenses incurred by legitimate tattoo artists, including overhead for quality supplies and equipment. On average, the price for a one-hour session ranges from $150 to $300. The setup and cleanup procedures for tattoos, regardless of their size, require similar time and care, which contributes to the overall cost. Thus, while small tattoos might seem simpler, they still incur significant fees.
Scratchers are often perceived as self-taught and, without formal apprenticeships, their work is widely regarded as inferior. Professional artists critique their lack of adherence to sanitary practices and legal standards, as reputable suppliers refuse to sell to individuals without licenses, forcing scratchers to rely on cheap, low-quality materials.
Ultimately, investing in a professional tattoo artist is crucial for both the quality of the tattoo and the health and safety of the client. The phrase "actions speak louder than words" underscores the importance of evaluating an artist's actual work over their claims, reinforcing the idea that quality tattoos are worth the investment.
Do Tattoo Scratchers Work From Your House?
The issue of tattoo scratchers—unlicensed and often untrained tattooists who operate from home environments like basements, kitchens, or even alleys—has become increasingly problematic. While such setups may have been more common in the past, they are now largely regarded as unacceptable. Scratchers often charge significantly lower prices for their services, which can lure in desperate customers seeking bargains. However, this often results in poor-quality tattoos that may necessitate expensive cover-ups or removal by professional artists.
Attaining a professional tattoo in a licensed studio contrasts starkly with getting inked by a scratcher, who typically lacks the necessary qualifications and knowledge about hygiene. In places like New Jersey, for instance, it is illegal to tattoo at home without a proper license issued by the health department. Despite some home-based tattoo artists having undergone training, many scratchers are self-taught through online videos and do not adhere to standard health and safety practices.
Professional studios prioritize cleanliness and safety, featuring sterile environments with tiled floors and the use of hospital-grade disinfectants. Conversely, most tattoo scratchers neglect these standards and cut corners to save costs. As a result, the tattoos provided often lack quality and intricacy, putting clients at risk of health complications.
To distinguish a professional tattoo artist from a scratcher, one should consider the artist's workspace, adherence to sanitation standards, and credentials. While not all home-based artists are inherently scratchers, those offering significantly cheap rates or operating in subpar conditions are likely to lack professional expertise.
In summation, the rise of home-based tattooing is a double-edged sword; while some artists operate from their homes legally and professionally after obtaining proper training, many do not. The risks of choosing a scratcher—who does not follow professional protocols—far outweigh the potential savings, leading to substandard tattoos and associated health hazards. Potential clients should always prioritize professional venues with confirmed hygiene practices over cheaper, unlicensed options.
What Is A Scratch Tattoo?
Scratchers refer to untrained and inexperienced tattoo artists who have learned to tattoo without proper apprenticeship or guidance from a professional. Their work, often marked by poor-quality tattoos and uneven linework, is typically compared to "chicken scratch," a term that underscores the lack of skill and finesse. Tattooing done by scratchers can lead to significant negative outcomes, such as skin irritation, infection, and even permanent scarring.
Because scratchers typically operate without a licensed environment, often in unsuitable locations, they frequently neglect proper sanitation measures and medical knowledge—making their practices potentially dangerous.
When a tattoo is scratched, it not only disrupts the design but might also push the ink deeper into the skin, leading to complications like scarring and irritation. If you feel the urge to scratch a healing tattoo, waiting to ensure it has fully healed is essential, as scratching prematurely can worsen the situation. Signs such as severe pain or increased redness indicate a need for medical attention.
Despite the potential risks of scratching a tattoo, it is possible to tattoo over minor scratches or cuts without needing to reschedule the procedure in most cases. Understanding the healing process provides insight into proper tattoo care, emphasizing the importance of avoiding damage from scratching.
Moreover, the term "scratcher" encompasses not only the lack of artistic skill but also an understanding of equipment and techniques, highlighting the dangers of using subpar materials sourced irresponsibly. Overall, scratchers are seen as the lowest tier within the tattoo community, frequently producing substandard work due to insufficient knowledge in tattooing and hygiene. It's crucial for individuals seeking tattoos to prioritize finding trained and reputable artists to avoid the pitfalls associated with scratch tattooing.
Do You Regret Getting A Scratcher Tattoo?
Many people who opt for scratcher tattoos often find themselves regretting the decision. The main issue arises when individuals, eager for a tattoo, choose unlicensed practitioners who offer services at a significantly lower cost. Typically, these "scratchers" conduct their tattooing as a side job and lack professional validation. While it’s common for some people to regret tattoos obtained in their youth, numerous tattoo enthusiasts have tattoos that they cherish.
A personal narrative highlights that at age 19, the author got their first tattoo, not particularly well-executed, and over time, accumulated over 80 tattoos but still regrets a few early designs that no longer resonate with them.
Scratcher tattoos can lead to unwelcome outcomes and often bring up issues like regret over design spots, with areas such as the upper back, arms, hips, face, and butt being notably regretted by many. Interestingly, the size of a tattoo can influence regret; smaller tattoos tend to be regretted more frequently. Key strategies for minimizing regret include carefully selecting both the design and artist while considering potential future implications of the tattoo.
If regrettable ink does occur, laser removal offers a promising solution using concentrated light to gradually degrade the ink. The permanence of tattoos can amplify regret, prompting individuals to explore removal options or cover-ups.
Additionally, cognitive dissonance plays a role in tattoo regret, as many individuals struggle to admit their changing aesthetic preferences. Ignoring newcomers and withholding vital knowledge can fuel negative experiences. Additionally, getting tattooed in unsanitary conditions risks infections like Hepatitis. The term "scratcher" carries a negative connotation, often linked to poor quality and unprofessionalism in tattooing.
Ultimately, while some individuals may come to regret certain tattoos, many do not regret their overall tattoo journey. It’s advisable to prioritize safety and professionalism when seeking a tattoo, as guidance from professional tattoo artists significantly reduces unwanted outcomes.
Are Tattoo Scratchers Offensive?
Many professional tattoo artists view "scratchers," or unlicensed and unqualified tattooists, as highly offensive and a threat to public health. Scratchers often work from home and provide services at dangerously low prices, attracting those eager to get a tattoo without considering the risks involved. They are viewed similarly to the sound of fingernails on a chalkboard due to their lack of skill and knowledge, which can result in poorly executed tattoos and serious health risks such as hepatitis and HIV.
A significant issue arises from the fact that these scratchers do not adhere to safety regulations, putting clients at risk. Reports indicate that people with tattoos are significantly more likely to have hepatitis C, highlighting the dangers associated with receiving a tattoo from unqualified individuals.
Additionally, scratchers often disregard laws surrounding regulations and age restrictions for tattooing, leading to further complications. The rise in popularity of tattoos has unfortunately provided a platform for unprofessional artists to exploit customers, diminishing the reputation of trained tattooists who prioritize safety and artistry in their work. The term "scratcher" carries a derogatory connotation, suggesting that these individuals are dirty, unprofessional, and lacking in artistic ability.
This sentiment is echoed by established tattoo artists, who express frustration at the damage caused by scratchers to both their profession and the health of unsuspecting clients. Despite the rise in individuals seeking body modification, the presence of scratchers complicates the landscape of tattooing, prompting the need for increased awareness and adherence to professional standards in the industry.
📹 How Tiktok Inspired a Generation of Tattoo Scratchers
With some veteran tattoo artists claiming that this is why the tattoo industry might be in a bad place right now! Stick around for a …
As a tattoo apprentice, tattoos are a luxury that a lot of people just can’t afford right now, plus with so many people having such high prices nowadays, it’s no wonder why people are struggling to book. But also, most people I know are finding their artists on social media and aren’t going into random shops for walk ins, so you have to be really good at social media if you want a consistent client base. I dont think its technically an apocalypse, but the industry is changing and people are struggling to keep up because it’s difficult
I remember when I was in highschool (20 years ago) I took my sketchbook to my local tattoo parlor and showed it to the owner. I wanted desperately to do an apprenticeship, I loved the art of tattoo and I spent all day drawing. He told me no, it was not an industry for women. When I was graduated and moved states, I went to a reputable shop around where i lived and was told the same thing. I cannot tell you how many shops told me that tattooing was not an industry for women. So I let my dream die. Kids today don’t have to let that dream die and I think that’s pretty cool. They have resources I would have killed for at their finger tips.
The only thing that really bugs me about the ease of people jumping into this is when I see no gloves or proper protection against infection. That shit is down right dangerous for everyone involved and the people who are offering up their bodies to someone with a tattoo machine deserve that level of safety.
The darker read of the “DIY-generation” is that genZ is so nihilistic that they don’t care if they fuck up. Its not “I trust my skills” its “well not like any of this matters anyway” Theres a lot of straight up selfharm in those “tattooing myself daily untilIi become famous” tiktok trends. And sure theres a lot of people who put in work to pick up new skills off the internet, but theres a huge amount of people who’ll just go “i can build a gazebo, sure” with zero actual ability. 🦋
I don’t think that “scratchers” are to blame for artists slow business. I see so many good artists that are able to get consistent work through all seasons because that are constantly advertising themselves and producing quality work. I don’t think new artists are saturating the market because tattoos are so popular now and everywhere you go there are so many people in the world with blank skin. I feel that older tattoo artists blame new artists for their business slowing down but in every industry there is going to be competition and I see new artists being able to adapt to social media and are able to create unique work that can’t be replicated by other artists.
id love to have tattoos problem is its just completely unaffordable right now. im unemployed atm but even my friends working full time making good money are barely scraping by, the average person really just cant afford it with this economy. i can only dream that someday i’ll finally be in a place to afford to make my magical girl sleeve real
I’m a millennial and I think my gen and younger gens are realizing that it’s costing a lot just to survive so to get what we want we have been turning to diy projects. I know just this year I’ve started a very small garden, learned how to make bread, and a few other little things just to make things a little easier on my wallet. So makes sense in this climate to be able to learn skills we can’t afford to hire for. I think this changes things for a lot of businesses but unfortunately with the way things are going in the world, consumers have to do what they have to do and businesses have to adjust.
I am learning to tattoo at home and have no issue with others doing the same. My tattoo artist encouraged me to do so. However what bothers me is the lack of education when it comes to safety. I have a full setup with supplies from reputable sites. I am a former phlebotomist and have a blood borne pathogens certification. Yes tattooing is art, but tattooing is also creating a wound. Every time you get a tattoo you are a receiving a new wound that is prone to infection if not properly cared for. It astounds and disgusts me that so many people are not looking out for health and safety when tattooing at home. Tattoo infections can become extremely serious quickly and are no joke. And the fact that people are so careless about the sanitation of their environments and their bodies is scary to me.
I was a guinea pig for friends who wanted to learn tattooing because I wanted tattoos & I couldn’t afford them. I really lucked out because I was in San Francisco in the 1990’s where tattoos & piercings were exploding. Anyone could buy machines & ink from companies that advertised in tattoo magazines so this kinda thing has already been going on for a long time. Nowadays the artists are more expensive, the equipment is way cheaper & wages are the same: shit. Going to a friend or doing it yourself is a real option now rather than saving up to get a tiny piece that costs a month’s wages from an actual artist. However, I think it’ll be interesting to see the level of ‘tattoo regret’ this generation will have in 10 years vs. previous generations.🦋
I kind of love your positive attitude towards this movement! I have tons of tattoos and im a good artist and ive always wanted to tattoo. I have bills to pay so i never thought id be able to pursue this path because of the unpaid apprenticeship. I have 3 dogs, rent, car, phone, etc i cannot stop working full time to pursue an apprenticeship. You literally made my day. Im sure I’ll get hate for this comment, but i dont care. Just wanted you to know you did something amazing with this article ❤
TW: suicide I had an online friend who was also somewhat TikTok famous, like Noah. I didn’t know them as well as others in their life, but they were such a sweet person who did amazing goth makeup and fashion looks. Tomorrow is their memorial. It was a shock, since I only had access to my friend online, they had left Instagram for a few weeks before their mom posted on their account saying that they had passed. I found out later that they were struggling immensely, and had thrown themselves in front of a car on the freeway. It’s a lot. I’m only commenting to say this: If you are struggling, tell someone, anyone, really. Please get help. Let this be your sign. Everyone who knows you would rather hear your story than go to your funeral.
I honestly think that scratchers are not the cause of the tattoo industry’s dry spell, but just another symptom of the recession we’re in. Nobody is getting tattoos like they used to because tattoos are an expensive luxury you have to save up for. At a time like this, ppl are “saving up” just to afford new underwear, and shampoo refills. No one has the money for tattoos like we used to. So what do the young people do? Just like in recessions past, we get creative and DIY the shit we want. And yeah, while we aren’t professionals by any means, we end u learning just how competent we really can be. And those who aren’t so competent… well fuck it, we ball, it’s a style now. And, on top of not having $ for pro artists, we don’t have 9 months to piss away working for free under an abusive “apprenticeship”. Looking into apprenticeships, I saw a lot of “Beware of-” and “Abusive shops will-” and “I didn’t touch a machine until a YEAR into my apprenticeship!” And to be frank- fuck that. There’s no way in hell I, in this economy, am going to spend 12, 9, or even 6 months doing menial shop work and never learning the 1st thing about actual tattooing and tattoo artwork, for FREE ! Not when I can save a couple hundred, buy a machine and some fake skin, and learn it my damn self. Don’t get me wrong, I would like to apprentice and learn to properly tattoo by studio standards. I’d like to upgrade from working with an old rotary machine with outdated ink, working exclusively on fake skin. But we’re out here doing what we can to survive, and clinging to every little luxury as our source of escape from the capitalist hellscape.
I feel like getting a tattoo is a luxury. While I’ve wanted tattoos since I was young, I’m now almost 23 with no tattoos, bc I feel like it’s not a responsible thing to be spending my money on at this age (this is coming from someone who has heavily tattooed parents). I want to, but financially it doesn’t make sense, I’m sure I’m not the only one. I live in a tourist town where prices are super blown out of proportion, including tattoos. I want to be able to support tattoo artists, but it doesn’t make sense for me financially as someone who just graduated college & needs to move for more opportunities.
So I have a tattoo friend who has been working in the tattoo industry for years and she has a different perspective on what’s hurting the tattoo industry. She’s been struggling with getting more people to see her work on places like instagram because of the algorithm she and her current clientele haven’t been coming as much because of the economy. We’ve actually talked about me coming to work at my place if I can get and finish an apprenticeship. The problem is that I need a strong following otherwise no one will come to their shop because it’s not as much a walk in place as some of the others. So yeah scratchers have always been around but having to market yourself while dealing with the algorithm is probably a bigger issue
I really appreciate hearing your opinion on self taught tattoo artists as someone who started off self taught before getting an apprenticeship by pure luck. I watched another tattoo youtuber yesterday who isn’t even a tattoo artist(tattoo “enthusiast”) who had a very closed mindset about the industry and how people should learn and it irritated me so im happy I was able to find your articles
I got all three of my tattoos from a “scratcher” about 10-12 years ago. She bought her “kit” from a sketchy import store down the street, so it’s not just amazon selling these things. I definitely want to get them all covered up/redone (the lines are wonky and there’s straight up missing ink in areas), but just like when I first got them, I’m still poor. It’s not just scratchers saturating the market, but everything is more expensive now too (not that tattoos have ever been cheap). It’s hard because artists definitely deserve to get paid for their work and are trying to survive in this world, as we all are. We can’t blame each other, but we need to blame “the system” or “the man” or whatever you wanna call it, and work together to create a better system (bartering? trading?) and world.
🦋 You could also flip that and say stuck up, gatekeeping tattoo artists are the reason scratchers exist… Nobody wants to do free labor for years, scrubbing toilets doesnt teach you how to tattoo. Most other professions you can get on the job training, or take classes and you can get a job in that field. You dont have to be someones slave for years.
When I was 21, I bought some tattoo supplies and started tattooing my friends at home. I knew almost nothing about tattooing at this point, but somehow I grew very interested and fell in love with the idea of expressing my art in other ways than painting and drawing. I’ve been a professional tattoo artist for 6 years now, and glad I had the crazy idea to buy those random supplies.
I doubt the tattoo industry is dying. Tattoos are more accessible to more people than ever before. Some people probably just don’t have enough extra spending money to afford them right now. But as a Gen Zer, I would never let some guy tattoo me in his dorm room. I’d happily save my money for quality work instead.
I’m not a tattoo artist and have never touched a tattoo gun but I’ve followed tutorials and tattoo articles- What happened to tattooing on bananas and oranges first or even the fake skin can buy cheaply? Everytime I see a first timer tattoo on themselves and on other people, I basically start screaming and cringing.
I have been subscribed to you for a while now and recently watched a Kirk Fagan article where he reviewed tattoo influencers tattoos and had you on it. I have always liked your tattoos but he showed your leg pieces and I have to say they are absolutely awesome! Kirk thought they were also! I love your articles keep up the great work and keep getting them sick tattoos! ❤
Great article as always friend! Tattooing has always been a finiky business, its a luxury item for the average person so when the economy takes a hit tattooers are the first to feel it. The scratchers are not helping but the strong tattooers will always survive. When i got into tattooing it was right after the ’08 recession. Times were tough for tattooing and i can remember the shop i was working at having ZERO WEEKs. (Five Tattooers and Zero tattoos) As Tattooers we either eat Ramen Or Steak. Right now its Ramen Time for most
Spot on observations Celle. As a painter and former tattooer I have enjoyed strong sales for the last 12 years. My last painting sold in Dec 2023. It’s never been harder to sell paintings. But I hear art sales are down across the board. My plan is to just stay busy and tough it out. Really enjoy your website. Best of Luck.💟
i think it’s a matter of the industry evolving into something new. I’m a young gal that got her first tattoo after following local independent artists on IG. I figure this is the direction the industry is going with more reliance on social media for finding the right client to artist partnerships. For me, tattoos have been about the art or “end product” which i think make me drawn to non-traditional avenues of tattooing. That being said, I agree that there probably needs to be more regulation with these products because as I’ve been told every time I get tattoos, it’s an open wound being worked on and that can lead to health risks if done improperly. I think tattooing/getting tattooed is more accessible than ever which is definitely a recent development in the industry. I feel it’s overall a positive change… but with any change, it can be a tough transitional period
I’ve wanted tattoos since I was about 10, I’m 20 now and only have one I did myself and I love it so much. I did lots of research, bought the supplies, and did a stick-and-poke on my bed in 2 sessions. I’m an artist already so drawing a stencil and using skills I already have was really fun. It turned out really good imo, I’m not sure if I’d do it again because of how tedious it is, but I plan to get more tattoos when I finally save enough. I think tattooing at home is really fun and a lot more personal than a shop because you did everything yourself
my husband (we are millenials) only has two tattoos, and one was done when he was 16 by a fellow teenager in his basement lol. Ironically, I actually like that one more than the professional tattoo he has on the other arm. It reminds me of the “abstract” style with a lot of wispy lines. Honestly impressed that some random kid did that as one of their first pieces ever.
Im so happy that its being more open and the stigma of how to start tattooing is changing, being a woman i had an apprenticeship and it was terrible and it made me walk away for a few years bc of the constant discomfort and discouragement. 4 years later i taught myself with my former knowledge and grew from there using content and help from a mentor and 4 years later im now in an accredited studio and i love my career, but it has become almost an epidemic of the wrong way to tattoo and not being informed and clean but it is not hard to put the effort to educate yourself thru free content by really good tattooists and artists. Its not easy and the problem is everyone who thinks it is. Your skin is a the biggest organ on ur body and it takes alot of knowledge and caution to understand what the risks and problems that come with tattooing a wound into someones skin. I have been lurking for a while on ur website,celle great article 🤌 and keep being an awesome artist and person! ❤
People are only thinking about the art aspect when they take this on I think. They aren’t considering the other things you have to know about to do this properly. It is not just the art or the tattoo you can mess up, but you can give your homie life long issues, infections, blood borne pathogens. You can get your friends and yourself severely sick. Not only that, but they won’t know how to clean anything properly, what types of cleaner to use (because alcohol isn’t enough guys) and how to protect porous items. Much less disposal of needles and biohazards, you might make mom dad and grandpappy sick. Or your kid brother that likes to dig in the trash. It’s not gatekeeping. I used to think that. Since I’ve started, I agree with Angel Rose – this is a responsibility and it should not be gifted to those not willing to put in the effort to learn everything needed to do it safe. There are so many chances of contamination and infection or worse. It’s not worth it. Get into the industry the right way and see if it’s right for you before you make life long alterations to yourself or your friends. -A tattoo artist
This “you have to suffer for you art/craft/skill” is found in every industry and it’s so toxic. Are there things you can learn and be taught by a skilled mentor or teach absolutely 100 but there are so many talented and skilled artists who at bad teachers. My biggest hesitation with “scratchers” (and piercers tbh) is the hygiene aspect. one of my medications is via injection and the nurse was adamant on teaching me proper technique and sent me he with several pamphlets for needle swap programs and safe disposal guidelines. that’s my biggest concern bc infections genuinely could get someone killed
I honestly kinda disagree regarding there not being a right/wrong way to learn to tattoo. I fully accept apprenticeships aren’t an option for everyone, but tattooing people isn’t a right or need. I am sure plenty of self taught artists do try to learn proper hygiene and safety practices, but many don’t or try but don’t have the correct information. Tattooing involves so many risks, how many of these self taught artists are learning proper pathogen information, what to do if someone passes out during a tattoo, what to do if someone has an allergic reaction, what legal protections should look like, etc. Pretty much every skilled trade/career requires either spending money on a degree at a college/university/trade school or paying for an apprenticeship with either money or labor. I myself have done a lot of “unpaid labor” in costuming for theater in exchange for the opportunity to learn, I get that not everyone has such opportunities, but for something as risky as a tattoo, it really is important to learn properly and more laws realistically should be in place. No one has the right to permanently scar or even potentially seriously injure someone for the sake of learning. Tattoo apprenticeships should be more accessible/inclusive, but the solution to that shouldn’t be forgoing all formal training.
Every industry evolves, sometimes for the better and sometimes for the worse, and the only way to ever survive is to adapt. From an outsider’s perspective this seems like a great way to break down barriers and prejudices that previously existed in people’s minds about getting tattoos, and maybe this could bring an entire new batch of potential clients who never would have even considered tattoos in the past.
It’s all fun and games until one of them gets sued because their “client ended up in the hospital from sepsis or dead”. Then they’ll cry and sob how it’s unfair and they don’t deserve it. Like you are glorifying an incredibly unsafe practice that will have lasting damages. Hell, I went to a professional tattoo studio where I’ve been tattooed many times but my leg got infected (issue with the second skin plus legs are notorious for infection) and had to do multiple rounds of antibiotics and was warned if the next round didn’t clear it I had to go to the ER. It’s just not worth the risk!
i agree that the internet enables diy’ers to do what they may not have done before but to me its more like instead of giving up on a wish you do it yourself. like theyre not being stingy it was never in the budget. also i cant help but strongly feel the irony of other commenters (here and elsewhere) saying that they’ll regret these cheap sleeves when they’re older like huh where have i heard that before… 🦋
My problem is that the majority of scratchers don’t understand their fundamentals. Many are going to go with the cheapest materials they can find and cleanliness is a concern. Just because a tattoo comes out looking ok, doesn’t mean there aren’t problems with the technique. I also feel that many people in this scene didn’t acknowledge how there are people who do use it as a method of SH. I don’t think it’s bad for people to teach themselves, but I don’t think you should be able to tattoo people without going through some kind of oversight. (Which is what an apprenticeship usually is)
As for the question about why people are getting tattooed less…money is a big part of it. At least where I am, artists are raising their rates (and understandably so!) but at the end of the day tattoos are a luxury, a little treat, and the cost is just getting too high. And I’m seeing new artists charging way too much (like $250/hr for a first year artist) and there’s just no way I personally would pay that.
Honestly I’m torn because I think this has always been a thing. People just have phones now and we’re exposed to it more. People back in the 2000’s had to go to some shady shop or someone’s house to get a tattoo for cheap or to get a free tattoo because their friend worked there and they weren’t always the best. Also this seems to be a trend in multiple similar jobs like hair stylists and nail techs because everyone is doing it to escape the 9-5 and don’t have proper training or licenses.
The old heads complaining about scratchers sound like a bunch of entitled Karens who don’t know the history. Tattooing has a long and rich history, largely stemming from indigenous cultures that were looked down upon. Most tattoo artists were self taught back in the early nineteenth century with tattooing only becoming popular amongst Americans during the 80s (mostly being vilified prior). Also I’d imagine the people who want scratcher artwork and the people who want photo realism or inked sleeves are two entirely different demographics. I’d hope that more professionals advised safety highlighting health risks and best practices instead of whining.
I live in a college town, and when I got my latest tattoo, my artist and I were talking about how there have been a bunch of new shops (WAY too many) opening in our town, run by self taught, Amazon machine armed amateurs, because apparently our health inspector isn’t too picky when it comes to handing out certificates. But my artist said it isn’t hurting their studio, because their clientele is mostly the older, seasoned, less spontaneous type of people anyway (mostly by appointments, few walk ons) so they aren’t dumb enough to go to those type of places. -but my artist HAS had an increase in COVER UP work from these studios.
Current generation of scratchers is rebelling against the tattoo industry and tattooed veterans, not society standards or views on tattoos. Very bad for the image of tattooing as a whole, but it’s obvious they don’t care. So I don’t care when they will inevitably get stereotyped and looked down upon for their very poor decisions, like poorly done face/neck/hand tattoos and just cheap looking sleeves. May affect future jobs but more importantly, future relationships. I know what it’s like to be poor and want more tattoos and make bad decisions. I’m nearing the completion of a body suit. Tattoos are very permanent and serious, and that’s what I love the most about it.
I have been into the art of tattooing since I was about 13. I started an apprentiship when I left school until my mentor came in one day and said he had to leave town😅 Now at 50 I have picked up a machine again and have been tattooing on fake skin and tattooing myself. I’ve always been into art and love tattooing and have collected pieces on my travels. It seems alot easier to get supplies now. Back when I first started, you couldn’t buy anything unless you were recognized as a tattoo artist. I think the economy is playing a huge part in the slow down of clients for artists. Just got to get through the next few years. Love your articles, keep it up. Cheers from NZ 🦋
Its self harm imo, those really really badly done “tattooing myself everyday until I get famous” a better name would be “watch a depressed teen/young adult self harm everyday and no one say anything.” I can’t even watch this type of content, because I just get this overwhelming sicky feeling that they’re going to hate themselves in a few years and hate their body so much. Just like I hate mine from self harm all over my arms and legs that I mostly did during their age. I didn’t think about the future at all when I was doing it back then, and now I’ve got the first arm covered up and hopefully about to start on the first leg. But it’s been torture in the mean time, it’s even made me want to kill myself many times. And I just get this horrible feeling that these really really shitty scarred tattoos they’re doing all over their body are no different to my generations cutting themselves. But at least mine got skin grafts and coverup’s. God knows how you cover up those!?
I don’t think it’s dying out necessarily. I think people are tired o f the prices and the scams etc going on in the tattoo world. I think you can’t blame the DIY’ers who are scratching. You’re getting something semi permanent on your body so why not get these things and do it yourself or have your friend do it instead of using a studio. I have seen more and more people complaining about the gatekeeping as well such as “earning” your tattoo’s. Don’t blame amazon because you refuse to adapt to a newer market. how about offer that style in your studio for a cheaper price? or possibly hire someone who is willing to do it. There’s a lot to unpack here but I see both sides of the fence here. Thank you as usual celle for reporting.
If shops want people to continue to do apprenticeships with them, then they need to go with the times and start paying their apprentices instead of scamming them out of free labor. If you want me to run your shop, clean, do the bookings, help with the customers and that often full time, you need to pay me. And no, teaching me alone is not enough.
I’m an anxious person and I have a couple tattoos – money right now is definetly holding me back from making an appointment because tattoos have gotten more expensive, but I also have to say that alot of the tattoo ick articles by the artists that came out made me even more nervous. Things like I can’t bring a second person with me because they will annoy the artist, if I don’t really like the design at first I’m probably insulting the artist now, also possibly having to pay more for the time they need to redesign it, etc. the thought of getting a tattoo is so akwarkd now that I’d rather get a scratcher tattoo by somebody who has been practicing for a while and have a chill and actually fun session.
tattoo artists are struggling to book appointments because now there’s shops on almost every corner and sometimes multiple on a single block on top of the economic crisis we’re working with. it used to be hard to find a reputable shop. now there’s shops all within 2 minutes of each other at almost all times, sometimes closer. almost every shop ive gone to or even just out and about in public i hear one of the senior artists go on a story about how they started tattooing their friends in their parents or friends house with sewing needles before they were able to get an apprenticeship or open their own shop. the fact that there’s a bigger spotlight on those at home artists doesn’t mean they started the trend of being self taught tattoo artists or worse, having unsanitary practices, it just means we see it more now than we ever have before. history isn’t being made, it’s repeating itself with a wider audience. they didn’t have tiktok to show everyone their at home tattoos back then like we do now. they also didn’t have shops so close to each other to allow other artists to blame the slowing of their careers on them. the more shops that open, the less bookings each shop is gonna see. the lack of sanitary practice when doing these self taught tattoos is nothing new not in the last 3 years, not in the last 5 years, not even just the last 10 years. there’s just a bigger spotlight on these home artists than there ever was before.
to be honest, it’s up to anyone to choose how and what they want to get tattooed, some designs can be horrible to some and great to others. I do, however, feel bad for the people getting scrathy tattoos for a trend and regretting them soon after, due to the design, infection or permanent health consequences.
Let’s be real here, tattoos are still a really lucrative business and more and more people are getting into it not using gate kept front door but windows, cellars and even pipes and vents 😅 so some slurs are being created to separate rightful artists who went through internship, bullying and no or very poor payments for months/years, from scratchers/self taught artists. Do I really need to wash dishes, order food, make coffee, wash floors, toilets and pick up laundry for the tattoo shop owner to learn tattooing? No, I don’t think I have to. And I mean, things change and evolve, everyone can search for their place in the world. Although, hygiene and safety should always come first so I will never support risky tattooing at home without gloves, proper sterile tools and using safe, approved inks. Just use fake skin for learning. And the tattoo industry is completely unregulated in most countries, except for certified inks, proper sterilization and medical trash disposal. There’s no such thing as a license so everyone can teach a tattoo and everyone can do it
Tattooing at home with a machine off of Amazon has been a thing for years now, it’s definitely not a tik tok thing. The number of people ( young people to be exact) might have gone up recently because of tik tok, but as soon as the infection and “i had to go to the ER and spend a few hundred dollars” articles start going around, I think the numbers will get down again
“Scratchers” are not the reason tattooing is “dying” maybe because tattoo shops charging $300+ an HOUR is outrageous and how expensive things are people have no choose of doing things themselves from building house, fixing things on vehicles, to tattooing/piercing, thanks to the government for making being alive extremely hard these days (remember this when you vote in the fall!)
As an older member of Gen Z, I have always loved the look of tattoos and have ideas for a few that I want to get eventually (my father even has a tattoo and he’s in his 50s), but I’m willing to wait when I have the money for them because I want a professional to do it. I have some artistic skill myself, but no where trust myself to tattoo myself, thus I never see myself going the way of the others of my generation and buying tattoo machines on Amazon. I definitely think why tattoo artists are not getting as many clients as they used to is, the older generation of tattoo artists aren’t willing to start advertising themselves on social media, thus not getting the attention of my generation since we are chronically online, while the newer generation of tattoo artists are still getting a good amount of customers because they do advertise on social media.
As a Body Piercer of 6 years and a Permanent Makeup Artist, there is some truth to this article. Social media has become such an integrated part of our jobs, it’s ridiculous. If you can’t keep up, you sink. As well as the Economy going in the shitter, inflation, and the fact that it’s an election year, it seems that almost every shop in the country is feeling it to some degree. People are scared to spend money and I can’t blame them, because I am too. In regards to scratchers, the issue is Hygiene and risk of transmitting blood borne pathogens or infections due to unsterile environments. Just know the risks that you are subjecting not only yourself BUT OTHERS to as well. I will say as a Body Piercer, I hate seeing people online giving themselves piercings at home because there’s a lot more that goes into getting a new piercing besides just stabbing a hole in yourself. I had to spend YEARS learning Human Anatomy, Blood Borne Pathogens and Safe Piercing in order to do this job. It’s not for me, it’s for your health and safety.
I met a former tattoo artist when I went to a mental hospital for six weeks at the beginning of the year. From the creative therapies I choose the one that was more about painting and when I showed the Pokémon that I was painting he asked me if I wanted to learn tattooing. He brought some old needles he still had at home (still in their sterile packaging but some were past the dates) and I bought ink, gloves, vaseline, second skin, disinfectant spray that doesn’t hurt and one of the plastic pens to hold the needle and the tape that sticks to itself. He said that I wouldn’t need gloves or that many other safety stuff but I did my research and I didn’t want anyone to get an infection. And then I started tattooing for the first time on his ‚practice leg‘ in one of our rooms. He said I had good linework especially for my first tattoo, I think I’m a perfectionist and it just helps in this case. Second one was already a self designed dino for my roommate and it was her first one and also my biggest tattoo so far. Then I also made two more smaller dinos that I put on my ankle and also on the ankle of the one guy I got along really well with. Then I did my first finger tattoo cause one of the girls (the whole thing is 18+ so don’t worry) asked me to do a star and it was the hardest one cause the skin moved a lot but she was happy with it. And last but not least a Mickey balloon for the roommate I had after switching room cause my other roommate was able to go home. She wanted to make her whole leg Disney themed so she asked me to do the first one two days before I moved out.
One of my good friends has been itching to tattoo me since he started some… ten years ago when he was still doing pigskins. He finally got to do one today as a belated wedding gift. He’ll be doing my wifes tattoo next time he comes out our way. I’m glad I gave him the time to practice his craft because he has only become an amazing artist over the last while (long time). Gave me a wicked traditional reaper holding a wilted flower, I love it lmao.
So I’m not tattooed and never was, but I have thought about getting them on and off since I was in my early 20s. I have always loved the look of (high quality) tattoos and have followed several tattoo artists over the years. I admire the craft and am a fan. But I have noticed that something has changed about the people I see walking around with tattoos. It used to be alternative and something that made you different, but now it is as you said, very middle class, almost gentrified. It probably does come down to the cost of living crisis. And to the parent-factor. Which means that tattoos in general may be less in demand with gen Z, but there is a good chance that gen alpha (or beta, gen z’s future kids) will be into tattoo culture. The trend pendulum always swings back.
i only have one tattoo but i still watch your articles, my artist was self taught i remember she did an sleeve on herself in high school with stick and poke and guns online and now she is a tattoo artist and does amazing beautiful work at age 22 i am really happy with the tattoo i got from her, tattooing absolutely isn’t a pic up and try thing
Being an apprentice anywhere means that you’ll have to do things you dont want to, I was an apprentice in engineering and it isnt pleasant but it seems to be the way of gaining respect from your elders (Not that I agree with it, Im just saying that its the case in other industries too) But the main thing is that because you’re not really paid a wage as an apprentice until you start getting money off your tattoos so it requires enormous privilege or working multiple jobs to be able to have the money to support yourself and under take these apprenticeships. Its something that cant really be afforded in this economy.
The traditional tattoo industry is honestly toxic. As someone that’s been getting tattoos since i was 14 and have done so in multiple countries with my first being in NYC. I have had some of the most terrible and triggering experiences of my life at tattoo shops with tattoo artists tuning me aways saying things like “your skin is too dark for my tattoo style”. I think the end of the gate keeping of tattooing is amazing, its honestly not as hard as they make it seem. It takes time and patience as with anything but it can be done. Proud to say I am one of those people that bought myself an amazon tattoo kit 2 years ago and haven’t been tattooed by anyone but myself since. Its been a really enlightening and spiritual experience for me getting to know myself and my body in a new way, while building my creativity and resiliency.
I’m torn. Now that I’m almost 36 and a mom.. I can see why older tattoo artists are giving warnings to the younger generation. I think some of the advice comes from a place of having a big ego but the ones where they talk about “don’t tattoo your face or hands” or “don’t let someone tattoo you in their basement” I can agree with. But having been a teenager myself who swore older people knew absolutely nothing about life (boy was I wrong!) I know there isn’t much you can tell young people. They just aren’t mature enough to fully understand and comprehend what they are doing. Part of me says let them make the mistakes. It’s 2024, if you don’t know the dangers of getting a tattoo done in some seedy motel or grungy basement.. that’s your fault. I think if someone wants to learn to tattoo.. do it to yourself. Don’t put others in harms way.
great article. scratchers are in no way to blame for lack of bookings, its the economy. there will always be a market for high quality tattoos just like there’s a market for scratcher tattoos. lockdown and trad gatekeeping oldheads are to blame for the rise of scratchers and i’m all for it. the eu scratcher scene is amazing atm and everyone i’ve met provides safe inclusive spaces unlike many trad shops
The only issue I have with scratchers is hygiene. It’s so dangerous. As someone who has dealt with si and sh though I completely understand not giving a shit. Thank you for mentioning this. I think there’s an element of harmful not caring by those who use these amazon tattoo kits at home in deeply unsanitary situations, even if it’s not intentionally sh. I hope those that do these at home tattoos do it safely for them and everyone around them.
i mean, i can understand from like…. the point of needing to use correct materials and sanitization and stuff, but it also sounds like a lot of tattooers just want to bully people into buying from them instead. like, if people like scratchers, get scratchers. If people want higher quality tattoos, get higher quality tattoos from reputable artist. but considering that must scratchers don’t even look the greatest, then saying that scratchers are stealing business… i mean, are local shops stealing business from celebrity tattooers? Are people that used to work in shops but now doing it from their homes stealing business from local shops? and idk, is whining and saying things like “your tattoos are a sign that you live with your parents” or “your scratchers are a sign that you’re poor” really gonna motivate people to want to come into your shops and get work done?
When I book an appointment for a tattoo I gotta wait weeks if not months. It absolutely depends on who you go to and the quality of work you yourself are satisfied with. I highly doubt it’s so bleak most artists can’t book more than a single appointment per week. If anything, there are more artists than ever, not less clients overall.
I’ve been wanting a tattoo for a really long time, but the problem is that there’s only like one tattoo artist in my area and you have to call them to even agree to make an appointment where you agree on when you’ll talk about the tattoo. Also, I’ve been hearing about the prices and even one ignorant design can cost a lot.
🦋I think I agree with Angel, I just don’t understand HOW Amazon is license to sell tattoo machines. And I am saddened to see what it does to the tattoo industry. As it stands on the one side I feel like there are more artists and access to tattoos than ever before, which feels like a good thing, on the other hand that also brings in a lot of people who just sorta kinda want to try it out with cheaper and poor equipment and absolutely none of the important knowledge, which frankly to a degree I’m fine with, but like… then just stick to fake skin or oranges or a scrap piece of leather for all I care. But be responsible and realize the damage you can permanently inflict to skin or just think about how long realistically you’d want to walk around with essentially a poorly done sketch on your body.
I’m much older and I got my first tattoos 34 years ago. People back then were often shocked because it wasn’t “normal” and was someting soldiers, sailors, bikers, and criminals did. I was none of the above. I am not into the gatekeeping aspect where I think that acceptance is watering anything down. I’m happy that I can now have tattoos that show in a short sleeve shirt, since I’m a university professor in a business school! I’m 52 years old with two grown, college educated children who grew up seeing their parents with tattoos. My 22 year old daughter and I are going to go get tattoos together for her birthday, the second year in a row. My 25 year old son doesn’t have any though. I don’t think independence is necessary tied to a specific generation.
i have to say, as someone who has been very poor with an inability to learn everything i wanted because of gatekeeping… and even though i don’ t own one… my body, my skin, my brain… don’t ever tell me what i am and am not allowed to learn, or do with my own body (though i understand at least fucking waiting before you do your friends, and having basic sanitary guidelines down). I learned nails and remedial hair on my own because i could’t afford cosmetology school, and wanted to look nice. Now I could pass the licensing tests for manicurists… except i can’t take it because of no school hours. but my nails look amazing
The difference for me is wanting to master an art and “i just wanna do something”. The latter giving “mistreatment of yourself” energy. Dont buy machines off Amazon. Invest in good stuff. Why hurry if youre so passionate? Tattooing is a Luxury and not a right. Do people understand what that means?
The game has changed massively now all tattooists cancelling each other out because of these bad scratcher artists destroying the art side of it trying to make a quick buck. You have tattoo training schools and online courses learn in 6 weeks then they open a scratcher tattoo shop but there will always be idiot customers who know nothing about art thinking they are getting a good deal with cheap work from them. You have cheap easy accessible tattoo machine and needles too so overall effecting the industry across the board as the real artists arnt as in high demand. The industry is terrible at the moment. Of course this is cost of living crisis too.
i know this is an old article and probably will get lost but I ordered a tattoo machine of Amazon to learn it but after a month I still a, too scared to tattoo real skin even knowing all the health procedures and all 😭I have a lot of tattoos myself and know how important is is so it just grosses me out how people just do it with no gloves????? What the fuck
I wanna add some more nuance to this subject. I am by no means a professional but I am an artist in general and I’m teaching my self how to properly tattoo. So there’s that. But imma say this, the industry is very gatekeeping and very hierarchy type. They feel like because they went through hazing everyone should too. And In My personal experience a lot of shops are very….anti black, racist, homophobic, transphobic and on top of that, can be very expensive depending on who you go to. In my situation I am black and queer and getting into tattooing was easy. I draw my own designs, I practice on my self and i have a few legit tattoos given my me. I understand the worries of this not being sanitary or what not but when ur doing it right I feel like it shouldn’t be a problem.
As someone who has been teaching themselves how to tattoo for about a year now, I definitely wish I could get an apprenticeship, but there are so many factors that did not allow me to get one, like not being in the best financial situation to get an apprenticeship, and living over an hour away from any tattoo shop, thankfully, a new tattoo shop opened up about 40 minutes away from me, so I’m definitely gonna try getting an apprenticeship there, but if things don’t workout there, I’ll still be trying my best to be a tattooer, Apprenticeship or not.
Interesting article. I spent nearly 2 years in an apprenticeship and it completely failed (nothing new, narcissistic mentor, me mainly doing front desk work instead of actually learning tattooing). Im back at a normal job and it is what it is. I have been playing around with the idea of in a couple of years when i have more time to buy a tattoo machine again and pick it up again as i know how to hygienically set up and break down, because I did really love it. Economy wise, it just cant be my main source of income and i don’t want to take that kind of financial knock again with no pay off.
I’ve scanned the comments quickly and haven’t seen anyone mention this, but I think another big part of the issue is that the market is so saturated nowadays. There’s a Treacle Tatts article where they watch an episode of Tattoo Rescue (or whatever it’s called) from I think 2013 and the guy shows them an old map of tattoo shops in the area, vs a new map with countless more. Plus in my small english town it feels like I notice a new one every month. When there’s too much choice and what you’re selling is expensive, people are gonna vote with their wallets and often go for places that either stand out or have built a good reputation. I recently got my first tattoo from a place out of town because they specifically opened as an inclusive environment for everyone, especially neurodivergent people, with stim toys and headphones. One of their tattoo artists is trans and the shop make a point of doing community outreach/support as well. TL;DR: With so many tattoo artists around nowadays, if you’re not filling your books, it might be time to either look inward or attempt a bit of a re-brand
I think it depends on the customer and artist. To be fair, I’m older and didn’t get tattooed for the first time until I was 42. I didn’t do it because it was cool, I just wanted something for myself after a rough life event. I walked in, picked flash off the wall, and took the first person available. Thus began my obsession with ink, that most of the people perusal this article are familiar with. However, the tattoo reality shows came out around this time. KVD was huge, as was Ami James for their shows. Then the competition shows began, and I started to understand what to look for in an artist, while perusal judge critiques. I didn’t look at books in a shop lobby anymore to pick out my artist – I went online and looked at not just their postings, but things they were tagged in that they maybe wouldn’t want to highlight as their representative work. But most of all, I was able to zoom into the line work and see if it was consistently clean, had blowouts, looked smooth, etc. Bad technique can’t hide from a good online zooming. Lol. But thanks to the competition shows, my standards went up. I began to understand the value of researching artists, SAVING MY MONEY for the best artist I could afford, and sometimes waiting for months to get the artist I wanted. I’m a big fan of instant gratification myself, but learned the hard way that the consequences are permanent with tattoos … If it’s going to be on my skin for the rest of my life, I want the energy behind it to be good, and I want quality.
I’ve started getting into tattooing a couple of months after the covid hit. I did it from home for 2 years. Posting on socials daily, tattooing fake skin, then tattooing myself, friends and clients, upgrading machines and equipment, learning, drawing and seeking apprenticeship. After 2 years, I’ve realized the market got so saturated I had slim chances of getting an apprenticeship. And there were a TON of (really great) artists tattooing at their apartments. I earned some money, but it didn’t even cover my rent most of the months (which was ok as I was just starting). Looking back, my tattoos were quite good, but I’m glad I made a switch last year. I went back to trade school to have more real chance of earning money. I still love art. A lot of people of all ages started getting tattoos and I feel it takes from the allure as it became normal and common. I have days when I want more tattoos and days when I think about lasering the ones I have.
🦋 I’ve gotten both professional tattoos and given myself tattoos. I think the diy culture probably doesn’t help the industry. But the biggest issue is greed. Artist are having to charge more to make up for inflation. But it goes beyond that. The insane charges, the overbooking, the impersonal experience. It’s not fun to get a tattoo anymore. The tattoo atmosphere is stale and like a clique. My last tattoo in a shop isn’t something I’m entirely happy with. The artist made me wait 40 minutes. Then finally got my stencil. Then had to stop and tell his next client he was running behind because I was a difficult customer and told them to go for a coffee. He then spent the entire time saying the tattoo they are going to get is dumb. It wasn’t fun. And he rushed through my ink.
It really hurts every time I see tattoo artists saying nobody wants to get tattooed right now, because myself and everyone I know wants to get tattooed so badly, but it’s all because of money.. I think the thought that people aren’t going to professional artists is due to people tattooing themselves or getting diy tattooed by friends is only a small niche, and for the most part everyone is just struggling to get by… and even people who do have a little extra income, with the cost of living it’s just a big gamble to spend your extra cash on pricey things like tattoos instead of saving it for necessities. Like in this economy the extra funds we do have, we’re not even free to spend because ANY extra expense that comes up is guaranteed to be big and drag down your budget, so it’s not an ideal situation to be getting tattooed on the fly. You have to make sure to save up for something you REALLY want instead of getting tattooed impulsively or quickly back to back, so I think people are still getting tattooed, but because of the economy just doing it more slowly and cautiously which leads to slower times for artists.
I believe there are different types of people who want to get tattooed. I got my first tattoo at 15 in a licensed shop (Cyprus in the 90s, they didn’t care about ID but then not a lot of teens got tattoos then) and I’ve always visited shops since. I research the artists I choose and I save up and pay for great work. This works for me, this is what I will always do when I get a tattoo. I know younger people who bought stick and poke sets and tattoo machines from Amazon and tattoo themselves and their friends and that’s how they got into tattoos. One of them has gone to an artist from instagram who started out as a scratcher and has guest spots at shops but works from home and this person was not cheap either. He told me that hitting up someone’s DM’s was easier and less stressful that contacting a shop. Other’s prefer that DIY look. Takes all sorts.
As a disabled tattoo lover who is trying to get into the industry to do work, tattoo artists can’t expect us to work for free for months, no one can afford that. I’d rather practice (ON FAKE SKIN TRUST.) then have to clean a shop for a few months to be allowed to start learning. I will never work for a company that expects me to work for free for months because I cannot afford that, I am disabled. I cannot work for free.