If you’re about to join the community, you might have already heard questions like “Do I need tattoos to be a tattoo artist?” or “Do tattoo artists need to have tattoos?”
Indeed, this has been a heated debate for ages with opposing opinions. I’ll share my view on this as a longtime tattoo lover in today’s post.
Do Tattoo Artists Need To Have Tattoos?
No, it’s not a must. Most tattooists have tattoos on their own skin, but there are also some ink-free individuals.
For example, do you remember Jamie Davies, who was on Ink Master with no tattoos?
Jamie Davies, a candidate in the 2nd season, stirred controversy among competing tattooists and the judges by remaining a tattoo virgin. With 17 years of expertise, experienced artists such as Oliver Peck and Chris Nuez chastised him for not having any tattoos.
They believed that a tattooist should get himself tattooed on their own body to grasp every facet of tattooing better.
Would You Trust An Artist Who Doesn’t Have Tattoos?
Of course, although a tattooist with virgin skin is rare, the decision to go ink-free can’t logically affect their skill.
Many people believe that a tattoo artist who isn’t brave enough to work on their skin is unreliable. There may be some truth to it, but in my opinion, it’s mainly about subjective preference and leaving the results to stand for oneself, as with everything else.
When selecting somebody to do your tattoo, it is reasonable to base your decision on the tattooist’s experience and the beauty of their artwork.
The ability to comprehend and create a complicated tattoo and create perfect tattoos with excellent effects is not defined by whether the tattooist tattooed themselves or not.
Tattooists should be evaluated on their prior work and what their customers comment about their skills and expertise. Anybody who is uneasy with a tattooist who doesn’t have any tattoos on their body will have a pool of different experts to select from.
Can You Be A Tattoo Artist If You Can’t Draw?
No, but the good thing is that you may learn if you’re not. Many artists have more refined skills, yet anybody can study drawing.
Designing tattoos doesn’t have to be challenging, and many of the quick tattoo ideas that most tattoo artists work on are simple designs.
Overall, quick designs will consist of a basic sketch to which you may subsequently add colors. You will, however, require a solid technique, and there is no better class than from a professional tattoo artist.
Most practitioners do not want to take on the added burden of instructing a trainee. However, the chances that they give you a shot will be much higher if they see proof of your artistic skill.
5 Things That Make A Good Tattooist: What Are The Rules Of Tattooing?
1. Give Customers A Pain Estimate Of Where The Tattoo Is Going
This will help customers find the right location for their tattoo and pain tolerance. A good tattoo artist will tell you how painful a spot can be if they think you might not be able to handle the pain tolerance along.
2. Never Tattoo Those Who Are Drunk Or High
We’ve all watched films and TV programs where a person acquires a tattoo while extremely high. Of course, the design they wind up with is terrible, and they have immediate regrets the following day.
However, in reality, a tattooist will never ink somebody drunk or high. A competent tattooist will make sure you’re making a wise selection because the tattoo will stay with you for the rest of your life. Furthermore, they would never ink somebody drunk or high since that customer may wind up bleeding and fainting.
- Further Reading: Drinking Alcohol Before & After Getting A Tattoo
3. Teach Clients About After Care
One of the most important things after getting a tattoo is aftercare. However, learning how to care for your tattooed area isn’t something you’ll want to check up on the internet.
A professional tattooist will teach you how to treat your tattooed area, how long the recovery procedure will last, and what you can do to assist in the tattoo healing phase. He would advise you not to overlook the recovery procedure since it might destroy the tattoo and leave you with a scar.
4. Know How To Say No To Clients
Tattooists usually specialize in one or two areas. For example, a few practitioners may excel at colorful designs, while others excel at realistic ones. If a professional tattooist isn’t confident in the style you’re looking for, they’ll notify you.
It’s not that they don’t like to do it for you; it’s just that they are aware of their limitations. Furthermore, they may be willing to refer you to some other artists they trust who can perform the job. However, there are no tattooists who can tackle all the styles properly; thus, they may say no to your request.
5. Don’t Judge What Customers Want To Get
Many customers prefer to get designs that are significant to them and symbolize things in their life, while some will acquire a tattoo simply because they enjoy that design. An experienced tattooist will not judge the design you choose to get inked.
They will never pass judgment on your design, even when it’s something ridiculous that you’re joking about with your buddies. Instead, they understand that inks are works of art and will be eager to assist you in getting a masterpiece that you like forever inked on your skin.
Wrapping Up
If you’re asking me, “Do tattoo artists need to have tattoos?” I would undoubtedly say No. For me, whether they are ink-free or not, their skills and ability are the critical factors.
How about you? Tell me what you think about this topic in the comment section below.