Anyone can be a tattoo artist - but not everyone has it in them to be a great tattoo artist.

While there are many different routes to take within this industry, we have noticed a few common traits among the most popular, skilled and respected artists (like our sponsored artists, for example..) so if you want to know what it takes to be a great tattoo artist, read on!

Artistic Ability

There’s a common misconception that tattoo artists are all naturally talented at drawing. But even for the most adept artists, there’s no substitute for practice.

Anyone can learn to draw if they put the time, effort, and concentration into the act. Most apprentices will start with the basics, filling sketchbooks with circles and squares until they’re dreaming in basic geometry, but the learning doesn’t stop once you start tattooing.

Practise on paper, on fruit, on synthetic skin. Fill your flash sheets. And never stop trying to be a better artist than you were yesterday.

Product Knowledge

The modern tattoo industry has moved a long way from sticks with blades attached - knowing the ins and outs of how your tattoo machine and power supplies work is as important as knowing where to add coolant in your car. These expensive machines need maintenance!

Of course, the internet is filled with information - some of it right here! - to help if you want to learn something new. But generally speaking, if you want to be taken seriously in this community, you need to know your stuff.

People Skills

Ours is a people-based industry, and we spend all day every day dealing with human beings from all walks of life. If you’re just starting out in your tattoo career, the way you treat people will make a huge difference to your ongoing success.

When you’re world-famous with a bunch of awards, you can get away with being a bit more distant from your clients. But for most artists, the ability to make people feel welcome and comfortable in your studio will earn you a good reputation and repeat custom.

Self-Awareness

Is there an area of life where humility isn’t important? It’s important to be honest with yourself about your current skill level, as it’s the only way you can improve in the future. But at the same time, you’ll need to know your own worth so you aren’t underpaid.

Knowing your weaknesses gives you the chance to get better, so try to take criticism on board - at the same time, you need to develop confidence in your art and understand that you won’t make everyone happy.

Understanding your skill level is the key to booking the right project, with the right customers, for the right price.

Hard Work and Dedication

Did we mention before that this job is bloody hard? As an apprentice you’ll face a long road towards tattooing, spending up to a year as a studio assistant and practising your drawing skills before even picking up a machine.

Even once you’re established and tattooing daily, you might face long days of work, with more drawing and designs to do when you get home. Not to mention dealing with difficult clients, promoting your work on social media, and keeping your files, equipment and schedule organised.

Plenty of people want to be tattoo artists, but aren’t willing to put in the time and effort it takes to be great. This isn’t just a job but a vocation for most of us - so why wouldn’t you want to be great at it?