tattooist

The work

Tattooists, also known as body artists, apply permanent images onto people's bodies. They use needles and ink to draw images, symbols or words onto the skin.

The work of a tattooist involves involves:

• advising clients as to what may or may not be suitable
• making sure clients understand that tattooing is permanent, and that the chosen design is exactly what they want
• drawing or placing the chosen design onto the customer’s skin using either a freehand design or a transfer
• following the lines with an electrically operated needle, which injects ink under the skin
• using different shapes and numbers of needles depending on the type of tattoo
• keeping up to date with the latest fashions in tattoos
• following strict hygiene and health and safety procedures.

Tattooists normally work in tattoo studios or parlours. Their premises must be registered by the local environmental health department.

Hours and Environment

As a tattooist you are likely to work a five- or six-day week, including Saturdays.

Studio hours are usually 9am to 5pm, but you may schedule your work into short sessions during the day because of the required level of concentration and attention to detail.

Skills and Interests

To be a tattooist you need to:

• have a flair for design and a good appreciation of detail
• have good hand-eye co-ordination and a steady hand
• have high standards of cleanliness and be constantly aware of the need for hygiene
• have a knowledge of health and safety
• be a good communicator.

Entry

It is usual to get in to this type of work through an apprenticeship. You should approach a local registered tattooist who may agree to take you on. You can get details of registered tattooists the Tattoo Club of Great Britain  - see Further Information below for contact details - or from the Environmental Health Department of your local council.

You must be registered by the local Environmental Health Department - it is illegal to work as tattooist without being registered.

Training

An apprenticeship can last from one to three years and you will be expected to buy your own equipment and sterilising units. It will take you about five years to become fully competent and able to carry out the various styles of tattooing.

If you are just interested in ear piercing you can do the Vocational Training Charitable Trust (VTCT) Level 2 Certificate in Ear Piercing.

You can do the VTCT Level 3 Certificate and Diploma in Body Piercing and Body Art (Tattooing) through a small number of private organisations. If you do these qualifications you will need to make sure that you have practical training in a studio so that you can be considered fully trained. Contact VTCT for details of the courses - see the Further Information section for contact details.

Opportunities

There are tattoo studios in towns and cities around the UK. Some of these are part of beauty salons offering other similar services such as body piercing.

Many tattooists are self-employed.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Earnings will depend on your personal talent and ability, and the reputation of the studio or parlour.

A trainee might earn £10,000.
An experienced tattooist can earn around £15,000.
Those owning their own studio might earn around £30,000.

Further information

3rd Floor
Eastleigh House
Upper Market Street
Eastleigh
Hampshire
SO50 9FD
Tel: 023 8068 4500 389 Cowley Road
Oxford
OX4 2BS
Tel: 01865 716877

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