How To Become A Tattoo Artist 2025: My Story

[@ehdub13]

Thank you for stopping the gate keeping. Times are changing, and working for free to apprentice for a year to 2 years isn't plausible anymore. You don't have to struggle to learn to tattoo. I'm 30 and finally taking the plunge after years and years of "you'll never be able to do that"

[@jamesmichael9341]

I’m 30 as well and I’ve been grinding for about 6 months at home. Let’s get this shit 🙌🏼💕

[@emberbarnett7411]

Inspiring dude. I’m 25, I’ve been drawing since I could pick up a pen. I’ve been so scared to get into it because of the gate keeping.

[@AzureHour369]

I honestly think artists are afraid of not being the gods in their fields anymore. Its pretty pathetic, and its why people gate keep. Truth be told if you can put something on someones skin that they would without a doubt pay for, you can tattoo.

[@lals383]

You think I’d be able to learn. I’ve haven’t truly drawn since Hs and after that it was a bunch of graffiti style words. So idk if I got what it takes.

[@jak3brap10]

How are you doing? I work full time and have a family and don’t make the time to practice, but always had a natural talent at drawing/art. Want to do it but lack enthusiasm. I’m 30 too and just feel it’s too late. But hope it’s gone well for you..

[@truckdrivermm]

I'm 3 months into tattoo101 accelerator paid program. My parents weren't supportive when I first told them what I wanted to do. Finally at 50 yrs of age I get to start this journey. I've tried learning on coils first time went good 2nd time went downhill real quick. So I got 2 pen style machine with adjustable strokes and one rotary style machine with adjustable stroke cams. Like these videos that Instructor Brandon puts out. Answers some questions of mine and packed with good tips. The program is going good and I can tell my drawings are improving. But I'm hard on myself to keep me pushing forwards.

[@Tattooing101]

Hey Mike, I'm glad the program is going well for you! Looking forward to seeing your progression over the next few months man.

[@leogirl77]

That’s awesome! I went into permanent cosmetics tattooing and medical tattooing. And now going into tattooing. I started about 5 years ago @40 years old. It’s never too late to start something new!!! Well done and all the best!

[@leogirl77]

@@Tattooing101 you’re awesome Brandon because you’re honest and encouraging

[@brileysbloodd]

do you know where i can get the tattoo machine for pens? i’ve been trying to find one but dont know what to look up that wont show me only tattoo machines..

[@jasonbailey9187]

Keep it up! I bet you're doing way better than you think. It's never too late to start working to make dreams come true.

[@spidey_things]

I wanted to be a tattoo artist when I was a kid, it was my dream job, but I talked myself out of it because I thought it wouldnt be realistic for me. But now after working retail for a couple of years and some food industry jobs, I want to become one. I've been drawing almost every day, and I've already designed a few tattoo designs (have been for years) for friends and family. And now I'm designing some for myself, and I'm being a bit hopeful since I'm already designing a flash sheet lmao. I'm going to talk to the tattoo place I go to next time I'm in to finish my tattoo about apprenticeships

[@Foolish_FlameIgnis]

Never thought I would see the day where professional artists call drawing drawling. Your story is beautiful and inspiring.

[@Tattooing101]

😂 I blame it on my dyslexia

[@raymondjohnson98]

My crazy story.... I have been drawing since kindergarten..took art class in high school and got first tattoo at 16 and learned alil from the guy.. I started tattooing (self taught) at 22 yrs old in 1996 (old school for sure) Not ever having a mentor and things being alot different back then hurt me in away and I never got as good on skin as I was on paper. I left tattooing and became a Barber (still an artist in a way) but I am wanting to come back to tattooing now at 49 because I'm super excited and how much it's changed and how much info is out now. Heck there was no such thing as KZbin when I was slinging ink.. so I enjoy you young guys that can teach an old dog like me.

[@Optamist0504]

Fam. First and foremost thank you for sharing what they won’t. I have been a victim of hoarded knowledge and the psychological effects on a person. I am currently in College for graphic design and I know that college isn’t for me but im not sure if thats the path for me so I’m just pushing through. My wife and I are artists and we both had an epiphany that we want to do tattoos and see where it takes us and I’ve on you all channel faithfully since. Thanks bro

[@christinamaria8554]

Finally!! came across someone who actually makes everything clear when explaining things , as a starting up tattoo artists, your teaching me alot 🙌 thank you 😊 ♥️

[@Allhaildogmaw]

You're really giving me hope. My story is very similar, but mine includes a 15 year hiatus from the industry. You're giving me a little bit more confidence that I'll succeed and really push my artistic boundaries. Traditional and digital art is my jam, but it isn't as demanding for progress as tattooing feels.

[@Nayz13]

I’m the same, I had to give up because I needed to pay my rent and the shop was quiet, I’ve always regretted it and looking back into it now that the government here has cracked down on bikers running the shops, it really put me off, such an abuse of power.

[@jasonbailey9187]

I went to a shop yesterday for some new ink and to ask questions. I had already watched a few of your videos and fully expected a lecture or worse. The guy was blunt but nice about giving me info. He said exactly what you say in your videos about how shops will treat you rough and gatekeep people. He encouraged me to keep painting and drawing while practicing on grapefruits. I know it might be a rough road, but I won't give up just cause people are a**holes lol. Thank you.

[@zsoltunterweger9367]

Awesome story, I can feel some parts of that, not necessarily with this kind of career, I was the same with music, and instruments, people throw you the critics like "you should stop, you sound bad" kinda gives you that determination to show them you will be one that doesn't sound bad after a while. Thank you for sharing, I'd love to find such an empathic artist around my area, I could go to and grow with.

[@lindseypyles7756]

i’ve always been an artist and i’ve always wanted it to be apart of my job bc it’s truly what i love doing but i’ve been told by so many people in my life that i NEED to go to i NEED to do this and along the way i’ve just lost my passion and now i don’t even know what i want to do anymore but it always comes back to this and i think i’m done listening to what everyone says and just follow what i want

[@BossMovesOfficial]

You're a legend bro. Thank you for taking so much time to help others, I've already learned a ton of invaluable things from you about tattooing and I've only just begun 🙏

[@edwardlowery5846]

Thanks man, I’ve been going the wrong way all my life with this I did my first tattoo on myself at 10 years old I always had a deep passion for it and I appreciate you sharing your story with us it’s inspirational.have a good day. Sincerely Ed Lowery

[@ЭстебанПантера]

At 10 years old? I guess it was the time of your serious ass whooping 😅

[@Inked_juaneno]

Tattooing 101, I'm a 30 year young aspiring tattoo artist. In the process of buying my first machine. Exited AF and looking forward to this journey. Your videos are informing and definitely give me the confidence I need for when I start practicing on fake skins. Stay up homie

[@maroussia4428]

I’m 19 and I’m gonna start tattooing I’m doing course where I’ll get a certificate etc. I did 2 studies but they both weren’t for me I’m so happy that I can finally do what I want now and my parents support me 🙏🏻 I wanted to do it before but everyone said I wouldn’t be able to do it. I’ve been practicing and everything is going well ❤️

[@Noemi.tattoos]

I’m 19 too and I’ve been wanting to start tattooing , any tips you have? and did you get your license now? (Since it’s been a year since this comment)

[@Janessa-Belle]

Im glad I’m not the only one who experienced getting shut down by shops- this video was so helpful and encouraging! Thank you for sharing it with us❤️

[@marianaoliveira7675]

Thank you for all the knowledge you share, it's a BIG deal! I also went through a situation where my mentor was giving me all the wrong tips, and now I'm looking for a tattoo shop to accept me :) so it's really nice that you've shared a similar story 😊 cheers! 🍻

[@Tattooing101]

I’m glad I was able to help!

[@tmadden4951]

Self growth isn't something all people do. So thank you brother for your direction

[@demilove7571]

I'm learning how to tattoo and you SPEAK TO ME ! I felt you when you said you react well with criticism to make you better... and how you wanted to jump in once you learned the fundamentals.... wish me luck :')

[@MaëlysMONTANT]

Thank you for sharing your story I am starting tattoo since 2 month and progress is so good thanks to your videos verry blessed to have your videos thank you so much

[@JROCK1987]

Bro. Thanks so much for this video. I bought two machines almost 13 years ago to start my dream career. Making art and tattoos are my passion. After practicing for what seemed like forever on fake skin and fruit I tattooed one of my friends for free. I showed another tattoo artist who I considered a friend at the time and he made me feel like I was the worst artist alive. I felt so dumb and worthless I never picked up the machines again. All these years later and countless tattoo designs drawn I finally am going to give it another shot. Idk why people need to gatekeep so hard. But now that I think about it I should have been emboldened by that other artist and not discouraged. Thanks to your video and that constant voice in my head telling me to pursue tattooing I’m look for an apprenticeship again. Cheers!

[@Tattooing101]

You got this man! Don't let other people get you down, just keep practicing and working on building your skills

[@JROCK1987]

@@Tattooing101 thanks so much!

[@PeterPan-rl1jd]

you sound like a sincere and kind person. I appreciate you sharing this.

[@lechuugaa9983]

I just started tattooing and I found this channel ! It’s so amazing 🔥 I’ve binged watched so many videos! You already know we liking every video & commenting for the algyyyyy 😎 love your story !!

[@Tattooing101]

thank you im glad you are enjoying them

[@stacieg4377]

F the tattoo shops. Last one that I went to had an artist with outdated equipment and gave me a blowout bc he literally doesn’t understand basic skin/ muscle anatomy. Looking back now I would have trusted the approve better!!!

[@rocco3377]

Great video man. I am just getting back to tattooing, and I love your videos. I got out of it a few years ago cause i was stuck in a rut. But watching your videos has helped inspire me to push my artwork and better my skillset. Thx o7

[@sebastianquattrocchio6484]

Thanks for the video man. I love tattoing and i have had hard times learninguntil this this day. The old times noone helped you and you had to even weld your own needles. I have coil machines and are dificult to use and heavy. I am now thinking in tattoing again with more mature wiew and some knoledge but having to learn technique again a lot for sure

[@jocelynanell6904]

I can definitely relate to your college part and the rest of your story. Great video very helpful advice.

[@zachwhitley9655]

Never really go to hear that side of things, but this was super encouraging and very well said. Love what you're doing here, and can't wait to learn more from you.

[@esounce9255]

Man, just started to be a little risky knowing tattoo is my dream job and always has been. I was a apprentice plumber for a bit . Had legal issues. I'm 22 .. struggling , don't have anyone .. no one believes in me have severe mental health problems just got out of an active addiction of 3 years , 7-8 months sober .. don't know where to start so i started on fake skin ... its been 1 month or so .. have sterile colors coming in tuesday getting ready to draw on myself and real skin .. really hope my journey goes well . Leaving this here for the future . Thank you for reading .

[@SuperSuperswag101]

Goodluck brother, I am 22 as well and am in my final semester of college and I’m realizing I’ve been working towards something I don’t give a rats a** about lol it’s time for us to dedicate ourselves to this and seeing someone my own age made me feel better

[@jackfaciale]

amazing story of the mentor .... which is the exact same on this side of the planet as i ran into some shops here °0° ... super old school guys

[@Ha-je3qw]

Thanks for sharing ur amazing story, I just started to tattooing as well . Keep making ur video please, very helpful to learn from !!

[@kashalexander5095]

Thanks for the feedback and the story, I personally don't have those issues, but I've been drawing ever since I can remember and finally I've been able to buy my own machine so I'm starting now as a self learner!

[@GarrickKirk-xr1bp]

Thank you bro, I needed to hear this 💯👂🏽 this year gonna be my year 🔥🎨

[@gregorysaddler6648]

I was thinking about my life and I looked this video up thank u I need to follow my dream and passion

[@florenciajerez8108]

Thank you for this video, I also sometimes struggle to believe that I'm a good artist or that i could make money out of this but in the past I've won awards or sold paintings to different contries..now I'm back on track just bought a new pen machine and I'm trying to save as much money as I can to quit my other job and fully dedicate to tattoo. I did around 11 tattoos by now, but last one had been 1 year ago until last week :o this time I'll focus 💪🏻

[@Christinaviento]

Your videos are super helpful and gives me *a perfectionist* lots of hope for pursuing my dream, thank you so so much! ❤️ Your mission on this planet is not only to be an artist but also a mentor for millions of people with the same dream that you had❤️. Super grateful for your content and of you as a mentor, thankyou man ❤️ also sorry for my english, love from Finland 🤘🏼

[@Tattooing101]

Thank you so much I’m so happy I’m able to help you and everyone out

[@d2shoots]

Love this! I used to tattoo 10yrs ago but gave up due to being discouraged.. I jus ordered new equipment && imma blast my body upp lol

[@Mr.Perez22]

Thank you so much for sharing your story! It really inspires me to do it

[@Bre.Created]

👏😊 Thank you for sharing your story. It's nice to hear how other artists chose their paths.

[@breeavila7946]

The ending made me so emotional, thank you!

[@michaelkonopka9607]

Loved your personal story ,your origine story ,very inspiring!!!!

[@elvisghazal9617]

Respect to you brother. You got me inspired 🙏🏽 best of luck on your new shop

[@Naomi-of3tz]

Could you do a video on things you remember first ever drawing and go over how you created a portfolio? Materials, references, how you created your own style, thoughts on tattooing other peoples art/artist theft, and just the beginning journey? I'm very curious on tattooing, starting from scratch. I have no background in artistry, but I'd personally like to understand deeper how the whole process goes when you want to build yourself up. I don't think I'd want to be a tattoo artist, but the beginning processes of making a "sketch book" of possible future tattoos/ stencils. Please make a detailed video! I'd love to see it and learn more from you!. I know it's a bit taboo to show that journey, and I haven't found anyone doing videos on it. If anyone has links to these sorts of things, that'd be great to!.

[@uservolgan]

Thank you! This video really motivates me

[@xiii.i]

Thank you so much! This gave me some courage to start tattooing after high school!

[@furmans24]

I’m so glad that I found this channel!!! Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and your story!!! I’ll be glad to get some details about the course pls.

[@Tattooing101]

Thanks Stas, you can check out details for our course here: learn.tattooing101.com/artist-accelerator-salespage

[@JT-fs5qh]

Love your videos I’m watching and learning trying to get into tattoo because love tattoos and different art work that can be done so trying watch videos get started I’m in Kentucky trying build my portfolio before start reaching out to shops your videos is defiantly helping hope can have easier time once get apprenticeship

[@RodriquezHoward-v8z]

I'm going to learn as much as I can

[@ms.misery7885]

I wanna drop out too but I have my mom to think about, but I'm still gonna do the best to grow my skills in the meantime ❤️

[@tonemcmaster7076]

amen brother. i'm still looking for that one person to give me a shot. i'm from pa. and all the shops seem like a tight nit family and if u don't know someone they don't wanna even hear you.

[@L.O.C.1990]

Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience it’s been very helpful for me, I’ve been going through your videos and you have a lot of informative content. Very appreciative 💯

[@sophithomson3215]

I’ve set myself a five year plan! I already sell art and I’m a massage therapist😂! But being tattoo artist is like my dream job!! I am a good artist already but omg tattooing and designing a piece is totally different!! Getting my drawing first then slowly building up a sick portfolio These vids are so helpful!

[@antipatriarchy]

i had that with muay thai training. as a black belt judoka and wanting to go mma, taekwondo and muay thai experience of years, and international level sports. i had a way more versatile approach than many trainers and trainees. and indeed these grow resentment. and these surely [ mostly macho boys trainees to be honost ] cant stand when you grow way faster than them. and quickly become a 'misfit danger in the ring' to them. eventhough you are the nicest in the room and the only without a big mouth.

[@jeremycarrigan9044]

Great attitude man!

[@ArtistikNoxiovs1]

Oh man 😮. This story just gave me more encouragement! I have a story for you! I would like to speak with you about my goals with art, and tattooing. Is there anyway to communicate with about really how to do tattooing and great artwork?

[@lynn_ferenc]

Love to hear your story 😊

[@andrewjackson597]

Awesome man!

[@lnicoffel8397]

Thank you so much for your videos :)

[@arefehizi]

If i wanna be a good artis i have to learn of a good teacher?!!! Im confused and i luv this job so much I hard work but idk uk...

[@nekobae403]

I just turned 15 and i sketch alot but i realized school wasn't a place for me to grow and reach the peak of what i was meant to be and that is a tattoo artist.. Being a teenager my family said to rethink and stuff they dont really support me and ill respect them and finish all my studies then persuade being a artist... I dont have a mentor so i dont know anything about the field of tattooing i would love to have some advices and guidance

[@tessa8202]

always loved art & want to possibly pursue tattooing but i dont have the stillest hand 😅

[@Tattooing101]

Practicing linework drills will be extremely helpful in learning how to pull a straight line!

[@qnpfr5656]

Thank you so much for sharing your story!! It teaches me in many ways😭

[@johnnydelatorre5766]

Thank you from Riverside

[@JosephRondi]

Damn, I felt that one part when “they told you so” 😪

[@juliusmurray3179]

What if I lost my ability to draw I feel . Does that make much more time while you trying to learn how to draw again but also learning to tattoo?

[@ChristianAviles-c6v]

Hello, my son wants to be a tatto artist, he’s 19 years old, can you recommend a training school in California?? If there is such a thing or is it all mentoring by someone else.

[@annagutkin]

I have been having such a hard time finding a place to give me a shot. I'm trying to not let the drive go away, but it's discouraging.

[@eve-il]

did u ever find a place ?

[@boris.k9767]

Tnx u brother 💪💯

[@wiscored88]

How do you improve your artistry?? I used to draw constantly, i wasnt great, but i was pretty good, also I absolutely love the American traditional style, is it possible to make money just off that??

[@dbaldwin71]

what certifications/degrees do I need to be one?

[@marabstracto3215]

thank youuuu

[@gracepadelsky1161]

Trust me my mother tells me that I shouldn’t make it a main job for my life. I should make it a side job idk how to feel about that tho

[@somebb]

Thanks for the info. I'm 41 right now and am getting into tattooing... again. I used to tattoo from the ages of 15-19 with a home made gun. Won scholarships based on my arework on canvas but at 19 I gave up and got a "real job" and I lost patience with drawing. I havent drawn since.

[@philippevanier5054]

Thanks !!!

[@laisa8819]

Thanks

[@sutton_trout]

Where in PA are you from??

[@Tattooing101]

Central pa

[@jordanfortier3246]

Can I be an apprentice for you. That would be siiick

[@sif4310]

you are super cute and handsome!

[@timothynewport2088]

U know what tattoo shops still treat you like an idiot... they'll never change

[@watkinstheredneckoutlaw5183]

Hey Brandon I have been seeing and hearing about your online apprenticeship I live in Arkansas and was just curious if Arkansas accepted the online apprenticeship to become a licensed artist

[@robertanderson4318]

How olds too old to start tatting? What’s your thoughts. Let’s say the person has 25 years of illustration and painting in. And has just started scratching the surface.

[@Tattooing101]

We have students in their 50s that do very well. If you have a base knowledge of illustration and painting it will make the transition to tattooing a lot smoother for you

[@dannyvance4695]

I don't work in a shop . Lol most of my ppl and old and disabled so I go to their homes

[@gilliancook249]

I've got a rotary pen

[@bflico]

👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@gilliancook249]

Brandon help please 🙏

[@justincredible6815]

I can’t imagine how ppl survived before the internet… I wouldn’t know how to figure out anything 😢 Praise the almighty google and KZbin

[@fluffynose1732]

Yolo swag yolo swag yolo swag thanks for the content however I’m not sure doing sking bong bing yanno that avocados are not for meat add ins dude

[@Tattooing101]

I don’t understand that language

[@gnothiseauton8684]

You sound British - can really hear a twang in there

[@-Nikoli-]

Stop being lazy and changing your video titles to 2023, its sad

[@Tattooing101]

💋

[@HARLINSVIKINGLIFELNC]

Bro! I Appreciate you! , and I appreciate your story. Your a Great Mentor, instructor, teacher, and Coach ! Please keep up the Great work you do, and please keep making AWESOME Videos. We Need your help and advice, . I need your help and advice. LIKE you been drawing all my life. I've been told countless times I need to pursue tattooing or do something with my artwork. Shameful to say I'm 45 now and decided to take up tattooing. I understand Tattooing and drawing on paper are 2 totally different things.. but I have everything I need to start Tattooing. No I don't have a shop yet.. but hopefully eventually I'll get there. Im really interested in making some $$$$ though. And becoming very successful. That is the final plan and accomplishment, other then just having a love and passion for art. But being able to support my family doing it is my main priority. I don't have the highest priced tattooing machine out there..but as far as right now, I purchased the Dragonhawk Mast tattooing pen. Not knowing a damn thing about all the different tattooing machine brands? I hope the one I got will be sufficient for now. Though they didn't! even send me the instruction booklet with it.? # right off the bat! that was frustrating. Needless to say.

[@brandonpadilla1953]

I feel like I’m struggling with the healing process a lot

[@JWMCMLXXX]

I walked away from a cool tattoo apprenticeship to go to graphic design school. 25 years later I’m back here lookin over the fence heh

[@kivere8181]

Me trying to figure out if this guy has an English accent, an American accent, or an Australian accent- 🧪🦠🔭🔬🤔

[@Tattooing101]

I’m from usa

[@kivere8181]

@@Tattooing101 okay tnx