Career Post - Tattoo Design
- heidip2209
- Dec 8, 2025
- 2 min read
A path I could get involved in is making designs for tattoos, permanent, or if I chose to learn to use tattooing machines. I work with pen a lot, and some tattoo designs intrigue me as a type of art I could get into, but the practice may require me to step out of my comfort zone.
In this career path, I would have to have deep knowledge of fine arts and or graphic design. If I were to go further than just making designs, then I would have to learn skin anatomy, hygiene standards and techniques, as well as develop and showcase a versatile and well made portfolio. You also need to be able to communicate with clients and have good tattoo techniques that show on the skin well for a long period of time, since it will appear and age differently than traditional or digital art.
No formal degree is needed, but art courses, including health courses (about the spread of blood-born and other infections, and other health issues) are required. College degrees in art will be useful in being seen as credible and a good designer, even if it is just a basic degree, and the inclusion of health training will make sure you are reliable to the costumer.
Some states require CPR and first aid to be a necessity, and the number of require apprenticeship years to become certified depends on the state.
The average salary in this industry is $59,718 per year, 4 to 5,000 a month.
After building a portfolio and passing health exams, you need to secure a mentor, as the industry requires intense training before working on real human beings, especially by yourself. These mentors can be found through social media and or local tattoo shops, or even at conventions. The possible mentor will need multiple years of experience and be reputable, as well as see your portfolio as good.
Professional apprenticeships can be costly (the average is $5 to 10,000, with some high end apprenticeships costing more). Again, requires descent portfolio and some health training, but no high college degrees to train. Typically lasts 2.5 years, 45 hours a week. Has risk of being stingy and negative to personal life.
Tattoo schools, most requiring minimum 360 hours to graduate, can cost from $5 to 15,000, and more with added fees. In person schools can take time off of adult life, and don't always teach advanced skills.
Comments