When Does Tattoo Artist Asnd Sketch?

4.5 rating based on 159 ratings

The process of tattooing involves a complex journey from initial consultation to the final tattooing. The artist’s goal is to deliver a masterpiece in itself, and this involves drawing the design on paper. There is no set time for this process, but it depends on the client’s desired outcome. It is important for the tattoo artist and client to agree on the final result, which can involve hours of work and effort.

To turn your ideas into tattoo sketches, you must find the right tattoo artist who understands your style and is skilled at transforming thoughts into art. Sketching is an essential skill that helps translate complex ideas into beautiful, coherent designs. A tattoo is like a house, with the sketch being the architectural plan, the stencil being the foundation, and the tattoo being the final product. The tattoo artist begins the sketching process with a wealth of reference materials and experimenting with different compositions, sizes, and styles.

Most artists do not share tattoo designs until the day of the appointment due to scheduling constraints and the fact that many clients have taken designs drawn for them and had other artists tattoo the designs. This is normal, as they are drawing for clients every day, and scheduling doesn’t always allow for designs to be done in advance. Some clients prefer to design a piece a day prior to the appointment, as it can take a few days straight for large or intricate designs.

Cancellations can happen, and tattoo artists usually do all drawing the night before the appointment to keep the design fresh in their mind for the appointment. It is also common for clients to wait at least six months between the design they have in mind, sketched out, and discussed with their tattooist.

In conclusion, tattoo artists must translate their ideas, concepts, and client preferences into a visual before any ink touches a client’s skin. To develop your tattoo drawing skills, it is essential to identify the “flow” of the body, draw tattoos that flow with the shape of the body, and develop your tattoo drawing skills.

Useful Articles on the Topic
ArticleDescriptionSite
Should a tattoo artist sketch the design before the day?No, it’s actually pretty normal. I, too, prefer to design a piece a day prior to the appointment. The reason behind it is that if that …quora.com
How long do I have to wait for my Tattoo drawing?And for really large or intricate designs, it can possibly take a few days straight (depending again on the design and on how much the artist …theblackhattattoo.com
I love my tattoo artist but she has a habit of not showing me …The majority of artists don’t share tattoo designs until the day of your appointment – they are drawing for clients every day so scheduling …threads.net

📹 How To Tattoo If You Can’t Draw

How To Tattoo If you Can’t Draw? If you want to become a Tattoo artist but can’t draw very well, this video will provide you with a …


How Do I Become A Tattoo Artist
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How Do I Become A Tattoo Artist?

Cada estado tiene sus propios requisitos de formación y licencias para artistas del tatuaje. Si eres nuevo en el tatuaje, considera realizar una pasantía con un profesional antes de abrir tu propio estudio. Convertirse en un artista del tatuaje requiere un conocimiento profundo del arte y el diseño, así como desarrollar habilidades de dibujo e identificar un estilo único. Comienza estudiando arte y los elementos básicos de diseño para establecer tus habilidades. Existen cursos disponibles a través de proveedores educativos aprobados como IBMS, que pueden costar unos pocos cientos de dólares.

Para convertirte en un artista del tatuaje, debes completar la secundaria, asistir a una pasantía y obtener una licencia. Con la licencia en mano, podrás postularte a trabajos en el campo. Un artista del tatuaje aplica arte corporal permanente y necesita dominar pasos esenciales, obtener la certificación en patógenos transmitidos por sangre y construir un portafolio eficaz que muestre tus diseños. También es crucial elegir un estilo que te apasione.

La carrera de artista del tatuaje combina creatividad, habilidades técnicas y expresión personal. A menudo, se recomienda realizar prácticas informales con un artista experimentado, ya que esto proporciona una experiencia directa y aprendizaje en un entorno profesional.

Además de la habilidad artística, se requiere dedicación y ética de trabajo, y aunque puede ser desafiante y competitivo, con la formación adecuada y compromiso, puedes construir una carrera exitosa en el mundo del tatuaje. Este artículo es una guía integral que abarca todos los aspectos necesarios para alcanzar tus objetivos como artista del tatuaje, desde la educación y entrenamiento hasta las expectativas salariales y el desarrollo profesional.

Do Tattoo Artists Charge For Sketches
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

Do Tattoo Artists Charge For Sketches?

The practices related to sketch fees in tattooing vary significantly across artists and studios. Established artists often complete a design without additional upfront fees, charging the total post-tattoo application. New artists, however, typically require a non-refundable deposit before creating sketches. Many artists include the cost of design work within the total price, while others charge separately for the sketching phase. Generally, when commissioning an original design, artists might waive design fees after collecting a deposit.

The hourly payment model is standard, factoring in the artist's expertise level, design complexity, and studio location. Tattoo artists often operate as independent contractors rather than traditional employees, meaning sketch fees contribute to their income, particularly when they design the artwork themselves.

Most artists do charge for design work, either as a standalone fee or incorporated into the overall tattoo price. The charge may vary with the design's intricacy and the artist's reputation. Smaller tattoos typically incur a flat fee, while larger ones are priced at an hourly rate; for instance, an artist may charge a minimum of $80 for smaller tattoos and around $100 per hour for ones requiring more time.

Furthermore, many tattoo artists charge based on the time commitment, meaning larger tattoos that demand more effort will naturally cost more. Tattoo prices generally start around $100 per hour, especially for detailed work. If a design requires over an hour of drawing time, artists commonly impose a drawing fee between $50 and $100, reflecting the time and effort invested.

It’s noted that fees vary widely; some artists might charge from $25 to $60 for design consultations, with professionals aiming for no less than $50 per hour. Ultimately, a clear understanding of pricing nuances is essential for anyone seeking tattoo services, considering how artists plan their fees based on drawing, consultation, and tattoo application time.

Will Tattoo Artists Draw For You
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

Will Tattoo Artists Draw For You?

Most tattoo artists take pride in creating their own tattoo flashes and designs, relishing requests for artistic interpretations of ideas or existing references. It's advisable to have your tattoo artist design your tattoo, as they are more familiar with their own work and understand the complexities of transferring designs from paper to skin. Utilizing tools like Procreate can expedite the drawing process, but it's essential to note that artists may not show their artwork before the appointment due to concerns about art theft or excessive public sharing.

For those seeking inspiration, there are collections of tattoo designs available from professional artists, which can either spark your creativity or serve as stencils for immediate tattooing. A key guideline is to ensure you like at least 95% of the artist's previous work, as agreement on the subject isn't as crucial as appreciating the tattoo style itself. Additionally, artists should be open to making modifications to cater to your preferences.

The skills involved in tattooing differ notably from traditional drawing, requiring an understanding of the body’s contours, how ink ages over time, and the various skin types. Unlike paper, skin acts as a dynamic canvas, necessitating specialized knowledge. Engaging with these aspects will help artists stand out in the industry.

It's important to recognize that while many tattoo artists can draw or paint, they have their own limitations. Some may excel at replicating existing designs rather than creating original art. Clear communication about your desired tattoo is vital for artists to translate your vision into reality.

Finally, while artists may complete their drawings just before your appointment to keep the design fresh, it is essential to compensate them for both the design work and drawing time, as working on a design should not be expected for free. Always respect copyright laws by ensuring you have permission when using another artist's work.

How Much Do You Tip For A $500 Tattoo
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How Much Do You Tip For A $500 Tattoo?

Tipping for tattoos typically ranges from 15% to 20% of the total cost, depending on the quality of the work and customer satisfaction. For artists who exceed expectations or provide exceptional service, tipping can increase to as much as 25%. Various online calculators help compute this; for example, a $500 tattoo with a 15% tip results in a $75 tip. The tipping process involves determining the tattoo's base price and assessing personal satisfaction levels. A generous tip for a $500 tattoo is $100, but suggestions can vary widely based on individual experiences and shop policies.

Tattoo tip amounts can generally be calculated by considering the overall cost. For smaller tattoos, tips range from $14 to $50, while half sleeve tattoos generally receive tips between $80 and $125. Full sleeve tattoos often see tips around $160. Specifically, for a $100 tattoo, a customary tip would be $15 to $20. For a $200 tattoo, tips might fall between $30 to $40, and for a $300 tattoo, $45 to $60 would be typical. However, tipping etiquette is subjective, as some people tip less while others are more generous.

For larger tattoos, such as a $1000 piece, tipping at least $200 is reasonable. The key is to reflect your satisfaction through the tip, keeping in mind the size and detail of the tattoo. Although the standard practice often involves a minimum of 15%, many people opt to tip on the higher end of the scale for outstanding work.

If you’re looking for a concrete tipping guide, here’s a simple cheat sheet: for a $200 tattoo, a tip between $30 to $40 is appropriate; for a $500 tattoo, aim for $75 to $100; and for a $1000 tattoo, consider tipping $200 or more.

Ultimately, while tipping isn't mandatory, it's a gesture of appreciation for the artist's skill and service. Many customers feel that offering at least a $20 tip signifies gratitude, which stands as a mark of respect for their craft. Overall, tipping varies widely, but the common consensus is to start around 15-20% of the total bill, adjusting based on personal experiences and the complexity of the tattoo received.

Is It Rude To Not Tip A Tattoo Artist
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

Is It Rude To Not Tip A Tattoo Artist?

Tipping your tattoo artist is considered polite, similar to tipping other service providers like waiters or hairdressers. While tipping is not mandatory, a common guideline suggests a tip of 15-20% of the total tattoo cost, which is a way to express appreciation for the artist's skill and time. The specific amount may depend on many factors, including the quality of the artist's work and individual client circumstances, as financial situations can vary greatly.

A pertinent question is whether it is rude not to tip after receiving tattoo work. Opinions are divided; some argue that it may not seem polite to withhold a tip, given that tipping is widely expected in the service industry. However, certain scenarios might justify not tipping, such as if the quality of work was unsatisfactory. It’s crucial to gauge the service experience before deciding against a tip, as under-tipping may send an unintended negative message and potentially affect future services.

When planning your tip, note that a general expectation is to give between 15-25% of the total tattoo cost. For instance, with a $250 tattoo, a tip would typically be between $37. 50 and $50. Cash is often preferred for tips, ensuring that the entire amount directly benefits the tattoo artist. Communication with the artist before and during the tattooing process can help avoid misunderstandings and enhance your overall experience.

Understanding the social norms surrounding tipping in tattooing can clarify whether it feels appropriate to tip. It’s seen as a way to support artists, who often depend on tips to supplement their income. As Sinatra mentions, "A tip is never expected. It is always graciously appreciated." Therefore, if you enjoyed the service and feel satisfied with the tattoo, tipping is a courteous way to acknowledge the artist’s hard work. However, many clients choose to reserve their tip until after healing, ensuring they appreciate the final result.

In general, maintaining a reputation as a decent tipper can aid in achieving positive interactions with tattoo artists, fostering a supportive environment for both parties. Ultimately, it’s about expressing gratitude for a job well done, while recognizing that opting not to tip could lead to a less favorable perception from the artist. In cases where the service was substandard, however, clients may justifiably forego tipping.

How To Practice Tattoo Design
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How To Practice Tattoo Design?

To become a skilled tattoo artist, it is essential to practice drawing and tattooing on various surfaces and understanding design. Artists can begin by applying stencils onto themselves or friends and tracing them with a non-toxic marker to adapt to drawing on the body's curves. This method helps familiarize oneself with the tattoo design process before moving on to real tattooing.

Next, practicing on fake skin is crucial. This simulates the real feel of tattooing and enables artists to learn about machine vibrations, needle depth, and essential techniques such as line work, packing, and whip shading. Although some beginner tattoo designs seem simple, they may be surprisingly challenging. To aid in this quest, resources like guides to easy tattoo designs can provide inspiration and features a variety of designs along with tips for improvement.

Aspiring tattoo artists should begin by selecting existing designs they admire and attempting to recreate them without tracing, as sketching frequently is vital. Mastery of various styles comes with experience and repetition, so artists should actively collect and practice different designs. Basic drawing exercises, particularly emphasizing line work, are foundational skills for tattoo artists. Ultimately, daily practice can significantly impact the quality of tattoos produced.

Despite the existence of tattoo schools, many budding artists find their value limited and realize that true mastery requires extensive practice beyond any formal education. For effective practice, it is recommended to use tattoo practice skin and stencil paper, as these surfaces provide a realistic tactile experience compared to human skin.

Emphasizing the continuous drawing of tattoos on paper, artists should familiarize themselves with key elements such as lines, fillings, shading, shape, and composition. To enhance skills, artists can also include temporary tattoos as an alternative practice method with friends or family. Observing designs in tattoo books can inspire and inform their approach to colors, shading techniques, and overall design aesthetics.

In addition, aiming for a well-rounded portfolio of unique pieces is encouraged, wherein aspiring tattoo artists must actively seek to build their artistic skills. With sustained effort and a focus on consistent practice, aspiring tattoo artists can lay the groundwork for a rewarding and fulfilling career in the tattoo industry.

How Do I Transition From Drawing To Tattooing
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How Do I Transition From Drawing To Tattooing?

Transitioning from drawing to tattooing is heavily reliant on practice and adaptability. Begin with tools like fake skin or fruit to familiarize yourself with the tattoo machine. Every accomplished tattoo artist started as a novice, and it’s crucial to embrace patience as you refine your skills. Composition and layout play crucial roles in tattooing, similar to illustration. The nature of tattooing can sometimes offer less flexibility than freelance work due to shop hours and client schedules, particularly while navigating the apprenticeship phase.

For those interested in becoming tattoo artists—such as individuals moving from design businesses—the apprenticeship process may raise concerns, especially regarding the financial implications of working full-time without pay. Each step in tattoo artistry, from initial consultations to the execution of a tattoo, contributes to creating a unique masterpiece. Understanding the common challenges can help prospective tattoo artists effectively prepare for their journey.

Drawing forms the foundation of tattooing; hence, mastering it is crucial before progressing to more complex skills like skin handling, machine operation, and ink understanding. Essential qualities for aspiring tattoo artists include artistic talent, a strong work ethic, cleanliness, and financial savvy. While it may seem that tattooing offers a good income and increased creative freedom, it's vital to recognize that drawing remains the core skill required.

Tattooing is not merely a continuation of drawing but rather an evolution of artistic expression. It's important to develop the ability to create designs that compliment the body’s shape, commonly referred to as identifying the "flow." Mastering these skills through practice will ultimately bridge the gap between two-dimensional art and tattooing, enhancing both technique and creativity. Drawing proficiency, along with adaptability, forms the bedrock of a successful tattooing career.

How Often Do Tattoo Artists Judge Your Body
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How Often Do Tattoo Artists Judge Your Body?

Tattoo artists are known for their non-judgmental attitudes towards clients, understanding that having doubts is preferable to regretting a tattoo. Despite ongoing societal debates about perceptions of those with tattoos, studies indicate that many people view tattooed individuals as less attractive compared to their non-tattooed counterparts. However, younger generations, tattoo artists, and individuals with tattoos themselves tend to be more accepting of body art. This raises questions for those visibly inked, particularly women, regarding how often they face negative judgments.

While some tattoos may carry challenging connotations—such as gang affiliation or offensive imagery—most people with tattoos are not judged solely based on their body art. However, societal stereotypes persist, often fueled by cultural and religious interpretations. For example, religious texts, such as Leviticus 19:28, discourage body modification, yet many religious individuals choose to get tattooed. The ongoing fascination with tattoos, amplified by celebrities and public figures showcasing their body art, contributes to a growing acceptance among fans and millennials.

Nevertheless, tattoos can still invoke stereotypes and assumptions about an individual’s character or professionalism. Concerns about how a tattoo might impact future employment, especially in conservative fields, often weigh heavily on individuals. Despite these considerations, tattoo artists strive to make the experience positive for their clients, offering care instructions and addressing concerns about healing.

Furthermore, there is a plethora of misconceptions surrounding tattoos, including common mistakes made by clients. Tattoo artists see a variety of carings and encounters, yet their interactions are typically professional, albeit informal. On a practical note, hygiene practices such as blood precautions are crucial during tattoo procedures. Ultimately, the relationship between tattoos and perceived beauty remains complex, reflecting not just individual choices, but broader cultural dynamics.

Do Tattoo Artists Sketch First
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

Do Tattoo Artists Sketch First?

The creative process of tattoo artists is centered around transforming ideas into unforgettable body art. This journey begins with the artist sketching a design on paper. The duration of this process varies depending on the client's specifications. In my personal experience, most of my tattoos are derived from my original artwork, crafted by the same artist. I present my sketches, and he adapts them into his unique style, creating a collaborative masterpiece.

From the first consultation to the final tattooing, each phase contributes to the creation of an exceptional piece of art. The time tattoo artists invest in designing before the actual tattooing is crucial, as it defines the final outcome and enhances the overall experience. Although some artists finalize their designs just before or on the day of the appointment to avoid wasting time on potential cancellations, this does not diminish the significance of the preparatory work.

The initial step in this process involves a consultation where the client articulates their vision. The artist will trace the desired area, and subsequently create a sketch. This sketch acts as a template for the tattoo, ensuring the client can visualize the final product. Such practices have historical roots, as tattooing itself has been an essential aspect of human expression for millennia.

Finding the right tattoo artist is crucial; they should resonate with your style and be adept at interpreting ideas into captivating visuals. Clients frequently share reference images or themes to guide the tattoo artist in creating the design. However, it is customary for artists to withhold finalized designs until the appointment day, as scheduling often confines them to drawing for multiple clients. Moreover, there have been unfortunate instances when designs are replicated by other artists after being shared prematurely.

When preparing for a tattoo, artists typically prefer to draw as issues arise – the timing remains flexible. This practice minimizes waste in the event of cancellations while ensuring that the final design is tailored to the client’s immediate needs. Tattoo artists can offer design previews at the appointment, which strike a balance between anticipation and anxiety for clients.

Additionally, many artists engage in preliminary drawing exercises to refine their skills before commencing actual designs. These activities help them loosen up creatively, making the process both enjoyable and productive. A key takeaway in collaborating with your tattoo artist is to communicate openly; never hesitate to suggest changes or revisions to the design. This collaboration strives to yield a tattoo that embodies your vision and minimizes the margin for error, ultimately resulting in a work of art that you’ll cherish.

How Long Does It Take For A Tattoo Artist To Sketch
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How Long Does It Take For A Tattoo Artist To Sketch?

The time required for initial tattoo designs varies greatly based on the complexity and size of the tattoo, ranging from mere minutes to several days for more intricate work. The actual tattooing session can last anywhere from 15 minutes to several hours, with most artists working 5 days a week for over 8 hours daily. This schedule does not account for essential preparatory work like design, drawing, and ordering supplies, making their 'work day' extend beyond traditional hours.

Typically, clients don't see the tattoo sketch until the appointment day, allowing for last-minute adjustments. On average, initial design times can take around 5 days, although some clients may forget to check in, potentially requiring reminders via email. If there's no response after multiple attempts, it may suggest that the artist isn't interested in the project.

Due to variations in artwork, it is difficult to provide an exact quote on tattoo duration; however, a Tattoo Calculator can give estimates based on key factors such as color, size, and detail level. Different sizes and designs will require different amounts of time: small tattoos usually take under an hour, palm-sized tattoos can take 1-3 hours, hand-sized tattoos up to 5 hours, and full sleeve tattoos may take between 6-10 hours. For detailed tattoos, small simple designs might require 30 minutes to 2 hours while intricate patterns could take 1-3 hours.

For medium tattoos (4-6 inches), sessions can be extended, sometimes spanning an entire day of around 7-8 hours or more, depending on the client's endurance. In general, the time taken for tattoos can range significantly; simple designs might take about 30 minutes while complex, custom tattoos could take up to 4 weeks to finalize.

Most artists prepare sketches close to the appointment date, which could add to the anticipation and anxiety of clients. Seeing the tattoo at the last moment can provide a mix of excitement and nervousness. The tattoo design process itself is crucial, and by engaging in formal training sessions or classes, aspiring tattoo artists can significantly enhance their skills over time. It's important to note that hourly rates for tattooing can vary widely among different artists and studios, often contingent on factors such as experience, geographical location, and unique shop policies. The path to becoming a professional tattoo artist commonly involves 1 to 5 years of unpaid apprenticeship to learn essential skills.

Should You Draw Your Own Tattoo Designs
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

Should You Draw Your Own Tattoo Designs?

Becoming a tattoo artist can be challenging, especially when it comes to creating unique tattoo designs. Many budding tattoo artists practice by drawing from seasoned professionals' work, as it helps them understand what translates well into tattoos. However, it's essential to remember that designing one's own tattoo is not frowned upon; in fact, it's a meaningful process for many individuals. Still, not every design can be tattooed, and artists may prefer not to replicate someone else’s work, so flexibility is crucial in the collaborative process.

Most clients approach tattoo artists with ideas rather than complete designs, as they rely on the artist's skill to bring their vision to life. It's common for tattooists to have a preferred style, and they appreciate clients who provide references, rather than dictating every detail. For those who wish to create their own design, combining stock images or sketching can be a fruitful approach.

Creating a personal tattoo starts with brainstorming ideas, followed by researching existing tattoos that resonate with the desired themes or symbols. One recommended technique is hand-drawing the design in layers, allowing for refining and comfort before presenting it to the tattoo artist. Clients should keep in mind practicalities like the meaning of the tattoo, its placement on the body, the budget, and ongoing maintenance when formulating their ideas.

Clients often find joy in the idea of having custom pieces based on their concepts, reinforcing the sentiment that personal expression is integral to the tattooing experience. The belief that, even if they later dislike the design, it remains a product of their creativity adds a layer of satisfaction. If the design is original and the client can demonstrate ownership (like proving their authorship), it increases the chances of the artist accepting and tattooing the design.

It’s perfectly acceptable for clients to collaborate in this way. Tattoo artists are accustomed to working alongside clients to achieve desired results. If someone is considering getting inked but feels overwhelmed, the exploration and creation of a unique design can be an enriching experience. Even if someone struggles with drawing, it’s their concepts and emotions that truly matter, and these can be captured through sketches or descriptions, aiding the tattoo artist in visualizing the final piece. Overall, crafting a personal tattoo can be a fulfilling journey that enhances the relationship between the client and the artist.


📹 HOW I LEARNT TO DRAW. Ask a Tattoo Artist

How i learnt to draw, and my tips for building your confidence at drawing! Please give me a thumbs up if you enjoyed this video …


15 comments

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • A tip my art teacher gave me whenever I got aggravated at my artwork was to never throw it out or destroy it because in years to come you’re going to wish you had it to compare it to newer work or rework it. Or you could always incorporate it into new pieces. It’s still a concept that is extremely hard for me to grasp since I am so overly critical of my work, but it’s great advice that everyone should hear at least once.

  • I NEEDED THIS. I love that you shared this fear. I’ve always been into drawing and painting though I fell out of it after high school. And after realizing that I don’t want to pursue a career in Nursing, I quit my CNA job and picked my drawing back up. I have such high expectations for myself and when I get it down on paper, I’d just hate it and I’d feel like “oh god, I’m never going to be as good as so-and-so, I can’t do this”. But as I’ve been drawing everyday for a couple hours I can feel the pencil in my hand just flowing much more easily. So happy I found someone I can relate to!

  • I drew all the time when I was a kid but I lacked extreme self confidence, I recently picked up the pencil after 16 years. My drawings suprise me because I picture it coming out as a child’s drawing and it comes out like I’ve been drawing for years. You’re so inspiring because I can tattoo on practice skins really well but I’m lazy about drawing lol

  • Thanks so much for sharing ! I’m currently Doing crap drawing’s trying to teach myself a and going into tattoo school in September. I’m incredibly intimidated b/c I know I’m not at the level the other students are but I’m grateful for the opportunity. Drawing everyday can be tiring but it’s slowing showing improvement

  • I really loved your article. You’re not afraid of saying that drawing sucks and is nerve wracking when you’re learning. I thought for a long while that maybe drawing was just not for me because everyone would be like “drawing is happiness” while I was getting increasingly frustrated with my errors. Thank you for your fresh point of view!

  • I had the exact same issue with my life drawing tutor at college when i did my foundation in art and design as well as doing my degree. She told me i was no good at drawing but when i asked her to demonstrate the certain techniques she was asking us to do she wouldn’t ! Go figure. In the end i think it could have been more an issue with her teaching than a comment on my ability as i have heard the same stories from fellow artists. It still knocked my confidence though and totally put me off life drawing. All that said, i was 38 when i went back to college and had been a practicing artist for nearly 18 years at that point so i concentrated on the areas i enjoyed and learned a lot of new skills and put my big girl knickers on and put that negative experience behind me 🙂 Love your articles and wish i had taken up the offer of the two apprenticeships i have been offered in the past!! xx

  • you sir, you’re one awesome chick. I’ve been after a tattoo apprenticeship for over 2 years. i love art, what kind? painting, drawing tattoo style junk, calligraphy is a new hobby, just everything really. people like you, yes you, inspire me to push on and make my works better. not gonna lie… i got with a girl almost a year ago… and i haven’t been able to draw much, and i lost a potential shadow gig at a shop… HOWEVER I’ve been really hitting my books lately and making a time for me to draw. to sum it up, thankyou for this inspirational article. i would love to see some draw along vids, you may have some already… I’ll check out your website. IT’S MY BIRTHDAY! … and this is the first time i saw one of your articles. much love for the time and energy! stay weird my new found friend

  • Wow our stories are very similar. I’m a 3D artist (jewellery) who also went to art school which discouraged me from drawing. I co own a tattoo shop but I do the management side of everything. But I’ve recently decided I do want to tattoo but my drawing skills just aren’t there yet. Your article definitely made me feel way better. I’m going to practice every day and I’m feeling very motivated to try. Thank you for the encouragement.

  • i am currently taking a break from my apprenticeship due to health and this really lifted me up because i feel kind of dumb sometimes when you mentor throws new things at me and i’m like Ah… what? i don’t know how to do that. This really inspires me to continue to force myself through my frying pan sail boats and my sad spikey peonies

  • Just thought about what you were saying here, if you ever want to come up with an app how great would a randomiser be with lists of things like cat dog rose etc and styles like water colour, new school, black and grey, abstract. Because I’ve always found it hard to come up with things myself if someone tells me what to draw it’s a way easier starting point 🤩

  • I’m hoping to learn to tattoo after I graduate high school but I’m so busy with school and studying music outside of school and I don’t have a whole lot of time to focus on art. I try to draw every day but it usually just ends up being something really small that I feel doesn’t really contribute to my improvement. I can draw from a reference but I still can’t draw most things from imagination or memory. I’m working on it though, thanks for making articles like this to get people like me inspired 🙂

  • Hey Holly! I feel like my artist journey is so similar to your story… I am schooled in 3D art, but have recently decided to pursue 2d art and possibly tattooing. You’ve really inspired me to just go for it. When you mentioned the feeling of it being ” So far away” that really resonated with me, and it’s great to see someone who has overcome that! Thanks for sharing. <3

  • Great article Holly. Been a fan for awhile and this article spoke a lot of sense to me. I’ve only been drawing 4 months and I’m aiming to one day become a tattoo artist. It’s a struggle when you find something you really want to do and have to change paths and have to grind away and learn new skills. So it’s great having heard you have had a similar experience. Keep up the awesome articles and the amazing tattoos and thank you for the inspiration.

  • Really enjoyed hearing how you learnt your craft and prepared for the apprenticeship. You gave some really useful advice, which I think people could adapt for learning many new skills for life or work. You are a great example of what hard work and perseverance can achieve. The way you pushed yourself to go outside your comfort zone is commendable. I wish I had your confidence and willpower in making dreams a reality. 🦄

  • This is the article I needed to see! I’m graduating with my MFA in installation sculpture at the end of the month. A large part of me really wants to just draw and continue illustrations, but I’m in the same space you were where 3D has always been my world. Thank you for showing it’s attainable! Would love to know what products you prefer to use for your sketches!

Tattoo Test: Find Your Perfect Ink

What level of pain are you ready to endure?
The tattoo process can be painful. Let’s see your tolerance.

Latest Publications

Tip of the day!

Pin It on Pinterest

We use cookies in order to give you the best possible experience on our website. By continuing to use this site, you agree to our use of cookies.
Accept
Privacy Policy