Let's Talk About Scratchers

[@ContainedFire]

You literally sound like you have a PhD in Tattooing. Super sharp insights and really comprehensive information. I don't even have tattoos, but your channel is too interesting not to watch!

[@JamesWithee]

thanks man. I'm still pretty new to the game myself though. Been doing it for 6 years. So masters, not PhD lol

[@drewphifer4684]

I love how you speak like a professional yet use profanity at the same time

[@nonyabigness]

Drew Phifer lmao omg me too

[@zerofox3075]

Love this dude...he sounds like a professor then starts cussing like a sailor out of nowhere...love it! Don’t change bro✊🏽

[@supernova7848]

Saif Fox 😂😂😂 true ! Love it

[@sabruckus]

Does it say something about me that I didn't even notice the cussing until I read this comment? XD

[@andypayne2743]

Same. I love the presentation

[@ishax7597]

Love how grounded and genuine you keep your advice - Speaks volumes about the amazing quality of your character as an individual. Meanwhile, your incredible work speaks for itself! Keep it up!!

[@JamesWithee]

thank you

[@MrBigChops]

James Withee • Great videos. What’s your Instagram?

[@IndigobluBeauty]

That scratched baby tattoo 😩🤣🤣🤣

[@JamesWithee]

It's one of my favorite tattoo fails ever haha

[@amandamarklandyoga]

I have seen the horrible scratched baby tattoo floating around the Internet before. It’s pretty common on lists of bad tattoos. I can’t even imagine what the parent of that kid felt when they looked down at that shit and saw that the “artist” had turned their baby daughter into a demon! Lol. Seriously. It looks like the tattoo version of the baby would bite off your fingers! I would be so pissed if someone gave me such a shitty tattoo! ...But that’s what you get for letting your boy give you a tattoo in the basement because he’s “bomb at portraits.” Yeah right. 🙄😆🤦‍♀️

[@jequirity1]

That's fucking dope

[@samantharoberts9414]

I wanna show my appreciation for this video. I am a aspiring tattoo artist. I hate the term scratcher bc of the sterotypes involved. I cannot afford an apprenticeship right now. I am a mom of four kids but have been drawing for years and am currently learning how tattoo at home with friends who are professionals teaching me what they know. I don't do drugs and keep everything as sterile as possible. Even set up a room in my house specifically for tattoos only. Unfortunately because of my anxiety issues I don't see myself in a shop anytime soon but it really warms the soul seeing professionals who started off like me. Thanks for the encouragement.

[@ZlatanIbrahimovic-uc2js]

Are you good now?

[@teacheraprilrogers]

I am so impressed with your videos. I stumbled upon them by accident. Have no idea how. My 14yo son has Type 1 Diabetes and I ageed at 16 he could get a tattoo medical alert/ piece of art that honors that part of his life. I too will be getting my first tattoo that day in honor of all the crap my kid goes through. I have learned so much from your videos. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@JamesWithee]

thank you for sharing, april! i'm trying to put forth an effort to make these videos better every time i post one. stay tuned

[@teacheraprilrogers]

@Alex M James I would love to see a picture. You are a true warrior. My son was diagnosed 2 years ago right before his 12th birthday. My great was a T1D as well as a cousin of my father. We are so lucky to live in the time we do to have all the great devices available to make life more managable.

[@onlyhalfbad333]

Kitchen Wizard. That's a new one for me. 😂

[@Marco.91]

I literally got my sleeves in a kitchen but they look nice

[@sherylmcneill7811]

Sounds like meth cook. 😂

[@sbentsen2714]

XD hahaha

[@Adebobbyblack]

@@Marco.91sure thing buddy 😂

[@michaelr.4878]

You raised a good point in the video that not enough people talk about. There is a growing trend of people that just want coverage. Like you said, they will go to scratchers because they there is no way they could get the huge amount of work done in the short time frame they desire by a reputable artist (both b/c of the time involved and the money). These people just want coverage. Not only do they not care about the artist's skills, but in a lot of cases, they don't even care what the tattoos are. 'Give me something evil or mean looking'. These people/this trend drives me absolutely crazy. ...it is almost like since tattoos aren't as shocking as they once were, these people think that they need a body suit to get the same 'shock value' that ppl used to get from a normal piece. I think that this theory also explains the face tattoo trend in a lot of cases as well. SOO many things disgust me about tattooing these days. But it is more so the people that the actual art. I really wish that things would go back to how they were..like pre 2000's. But that will never happen. hehe

[@JamesWithee]

i agree with what you said, especially about the shock value of a giant amount of tattoos / face tattoos. all these dumbass kids running around with tattoos on their neck and forearms but looking all dumb and bare bodied when they take their shirt off lol. as far as wanting things to go back to the way they were, i can't speak on it because i started tattooing just 6 years ago. i think that tattoos are just better quality overall now because of all the discoveries we're making regarding what the medium is capable of.. i'm thankful that old schoolers paved the way to make it what it is today

[@gctdonyre]

Traditional media definitely helps (learning to draw what you see, and learning basic color theory, composition, etc...). Doesn't matter if you have the latest Wacom tablet, or the finest brushes, or the finest tattoo machine money can buy. If you don't have the fundamentals, the tools are useless.

[@JamesWithee]

Facts

[@rebelsyell8832]

Great comment

[@suga8160]

I love the fact that you admit your mistakes but like you say you knew what you wanted to become a professional and did what you needed to. I don’t think I have ever thought of going to scratchers. My first tattoo was very important to me so I went a well known shop and all my tattoos have been done by the same guy.

[@fmfdocbotl4358]

I had a military buddy do a military piece on me. He had been doing ink since he was a teen, so over 20 yrs. The reason he did them in his home is because of his PTSD. He had a chair, all the equipment and even an autoclave to sterilize his shit. It's one of my favorite pieces, he did a better job than one of the shops I went to to get a piece done. I have seen some terrible scratcher tattoos though for real

[@logicvs.everything7230]

There are plenty of artists who have an office in their home, it's more about training and cleanliness if I'm correct, and there's nothing wrong with that. I hope you and your buddy are doing well!

[@shayanpal8077]

Hooyah Doc, the tattoos I've gotten during shore duty in the barracks never have been the best quality but they all hold a special place in my heart.

[@ava.and.jasper]

Don't understand why you don't have more subs, this is like the only place I've ever found such honest advice/opinions on tattoos

[@superboyprime6863]

"Kitchen wizards" for some reason this one made me crack up and I love it

[@michaelr.4878]

Kitchen Wizards performing their miracles with their guitar strings. 'All I need is a guitar string, a small motor, a pen, a battery and a bent spoon. Gloves are optional. Bring all of that stuff over with you and let's get crackin'...bro'.

[@JamesWithee]

don't forget the 30 pack of natty ice lol

[@Kweerdaddy]

I’ve seen a bunch of your videos and I have to say, you have an incredibly mature and fair point of view on most things. I can tell that you give your opinion like its law because your opinions come from experience and reason. I love your videos.

[@JamesWithee]

Thanks man that means a lot. A good portion of the things I say in these videos are opinions that I've thought about and developed over a long period of time. That's why it's easy for me to film without scripting and it still makes sense

[@lindapriest9779]

I love this channel, it really shows how people can turn their lives around! Well done to you. I know I don’t know you, but you help restore my faith in humanity and however bad things look, hard work, determination and a great personality will get you a long way! X x x

[@mattharris2398]

Gotta start somewhere

[@NM-qs1ck]

Could you do a video on body changes affecting tattoos, like gaining muscle mass or losing Weight? Or one on general tattoo placement? Great videos man! Hope to schedule a session with you before you get too famous lol.

[@JamesWithee]

sure i will. ppl ask about this one a lot

[@Impossibly-Possible]

He already did look it up. Called why teenagers shouldn’t get tattoos or something

[@lkjonez13]

@@Impossibly-Possible yeah but your body changes throughout life. Pregnancy, gastric bypass, plastic surgery etc.

[@HollowedCrow]

Jimmie M need it

[@Wouldyoujust_]

Aw c'mon, who doesn't love a good basement banger 😂 On the real though, I'm married to an award winning tattoo artist, and I wish to GOD there were these kinds of videos around when I was a wee teenager (it's been a minute, no KZbin back then). I have a delightful tramp stamp from when I was about sixteen that I wish I could shave off. The scarring, the absolute THICCness of the line work... It's a prime example of kitchen wizardry. I don't even want to cover it though. I use it to show my nieces and nephews that THIS is what you get when you let some dork in a dirty apartment tattoo your shit.

[@JamesWithee]

Lol no mistakes in life, only lessons 🙏

[@Wouldyoujust_]

@@JamesWithee Truth 😂❤️

[@bethanyfury1209]

'Basement.banger.'- that is all 😁

[@Wouldyoujust_]

@@bethanyfury1209 Basement Banger by a Staph Slinger. How can you go wrong?! 😂❤️

[@Wouldyoujust_]

And don't get me wrong, I have some amazing work now. My husband is the shit, and I have a chest piece by Steve Byrne (look him up, it's beyond worth it) that I'm particularly proud of, among other things. But we all have to start somewhere! I really do wish we had the easy access reference shit folks do these days though. I don't think there's ANY excuse for a shit tattoo in 2018. One serious rule of the tattoo game is YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR. I wish I'd have known that in the mid/late 90's, lmao.

[@barkbarkbarkwoofbark]

I know this video is old as hell but I just wanna say I've been binging your videos and you're awesome! You don't hesitate to say the facts while still being kind about it. I'm a scratcher that's just been practicing on myself and fruit (after taking the BBP courses, learning as much as I can about proper equipment, sterilization, etc). I've always done fine art but was scared of getting an apprenticeship, your vids have really helped me gain that confidence to go out there and try it. I appreciate that youtubers try to teach tattooing techniques but they all say something different and like you said, it really doesn't replace teaching in person. Thanks for all ur info and the time you put into videos!

[@Alejandro218]

Man I fucking love your videos as a 2 year tattoo artist I have learned alot from you and I am talking about morals and responsibility about being a tattooer, thank you man.

[@Beast9894]

Goddamn James, you're such a boss. Just continue to be yourself man you will be famous one day I believe it

[@nickj12]

That baby tattoo!!! I almost hollered. Damn, that shit is tragic!

[@wesleyalistairearnshaw1223]

Thank you for all your information on receiving certification for blood born pathogens, this is something I have been having issues attaining due to the lack of institutions providing such certification in my country.

[@psychicgregorytheloveguru7123]

I did apprenticeships with three different guys in the 1990"s, The first guy only cared about how much I read the Bible and if I was saved. He didn"t teach me much about tattooing. The second guy wanted a lot of money up front, I gave it to him and then he left town. The third guy treated the apprenticeship like the movie fight club, That you you had to beg him, pay him a lot of money and he was still going to treat you like absolute shit. The tattoo industry needs to grow up.

[@mchandler91]

i never really understood why would get a permanent change to your body that wasn't as good as it could be.

[@JamesWithee]

same

[@mchandler91]

I go out of my way and save up to get the best tattoos i can.

[@miafranco7821]

Being tattooed comes with so many experiences. Experiences with quality of tattoos, prices, artists (artist and their egos/diva attitudes), placement, skin types, etc. I have some amazing tattoos and I have some shitty ones. It happens. Experience explains your 'why-have-something-that-isn't-as-good-as-it could-be'. When you go to get a tattoo for the first, second, or even third time, you aren't aware of the different dimensions that go into getting a tattoo. You learn along the way as a tattoo connoisseur/collector. As simple as it is: it happens

[@mchandler91]

I live in Australia so tattoos cost a lot more then $70

[@nicknoyb8067]

Gotta practice somewhere 🤣🤣🤣

[@AdversaryOne]

Not sure why I started getting recomended your videos but I do enjoy them. One of my reasons for never having a tattoo is; tattoo artists "practice" by making permanent marks on live people. Their sketchpad and learning phase is on someone forever. That's insane. How anyone settles for anything less than a world renown (or damn near) tattoo artist, is beyond me. Also, how anyone can sleep at night knowing they've destroyed someone's skin forever, is beyond me. My gut wrenches a little from looking at my earlier work on paper. I couldn't imagine how I would feel if that was someone's skin. I understand that you never stop learning and everyone has to start somewhere but I wouldn't want a rookie tattoo artist the same as I wouldn't want a rookie brain surgeon. The stakes are just too high, imo. I know a few people with bad tats done by "scratchers". One went back and got it covered up after 20 years (probably because of me clowning), another has line work that looks like the YOLO example you showed and the other is kinda smudged names and dates scribbled all over his arms, looking like some jail tat shit. Ya'all crazy.

[@JamesWithee]

I've laid awake at night beating myself up for ruining people's tattoos in the beginning.. I took every failure to heart and the self loathing is real. I've also driven home from oil painting classes all red in the face screaming at myself like a psycho in my car because my work wasn't getting to the level I expect of myself fast enough. Ironically, I don't think the people with the ruined tattoos or the canvas I was painting on were as worked up about it as I was. Being an artist is hard, regardless of the medium. But if you don't hate yourself, you're not doing it right. Lol

[@t-rod9858]

The 6 dislikes are either people who got work done by a scratcher or scratcher themselves

[@Mysasser1]

Prison... Gotta go back through your videos.

[@averageamerican8737]

I work out of my house, been tattooing for 15 years worked at several shops and got tired of paying for booth space and shop fees ..fuck that im out here killing it and making more money than i did at a shop i don't have to share my income with the shop or uncle sam...we all start as scratchers, experience will change all that if your serious about it and learn the trade

[@VenusAD]

Another great video! I love how you didn't just dismiss the scratchers all together, since some of them might honestly be trying to get better, they just don't know how. Oddly, it seems to me that some of these people just legit don't have an art background and don't realize what they're doing is just...not good. I would love to see a video, even just a mini one, on tattoos in other languages (i.e. not-roman letters). Recently a friend of mine got song lyrics in hangul, but when she showed me, I noticed there was absolutely no spacing between the words, which I know can change the meaning of some of the sentences. :/ I'm curious to learn how tattoo artists approach tattooing in a language they don't even know. It seems to me like just a bad idea, but what does one do if they don't have an artist around them that actually knows that language? Do artists ever do their own research to make sure it comes out perfect?

[@JamesWithee]

Lol maybe I will make a video about this. I have a funny story to tell

[@lukedorrington7455]

Another problem especially in the uk which creates a lot of scratchers is getting a tattoo apprenticeship is near impossible, I’ve literally approached artists to enquire about apprenticeships or even how I might go about getting one and actually had artists stare through me like I wasn’t even there or just walk away a lot of artists I’ve met are arrogant and for that reason I’ve even considered the scratcher route myself

[@vinceluu]

Hi James! Can you possibly make a video in the future about tattoos and people who work out a lot? I'm mainly concerned about potential distortion and warping.

[@darreneffle4118]

I Appreciate your video and point of view. I was blessed to have been taught in the 90s by a mutual friend of mine on the basic of sterility, machine tuning, needle jigs , needles , line work and shading. Back then I wasn't sure if i was going to tattoo full time it wasn't huge like now. I started a painting business instead. I still tattoo occasionally for family and friends. I think one topic overlooked by all is the lack of humility majority of really good artist have. Sure they can charge big bucks but why should we pay for their ego?. I will never fawn and bow down to any tattooist that can't solder a needle or tune a coil. Just cause the can trace doesn't make them a good artist. I blame a lot on media in general for the glitz and glamour of the tattooist. All People have amazing skill sets when there is passion and time spent mastering said skill. And even through all that our skin will never stay looking great. We age grow and wrinkle. Your tattoo will not look the way it does now in 30 to 50 yrs. So the collector is left with blotchy wrinkled ink and only memories.

[@fastesteddiealive]

I was a scratcher for a decade. Making lots of money on the side tattooing out of my house. Then I became a professional tattoo artist over night when I got a job at a tattoo shop n poof no more scratching. Then I quit the shop n back to sir scratch a lot I guess. The only difference was where I was tattooing. Not the quality of my tattoos because I wasn’t any better at the shop or worse back at home. I even got a girl a four page spread in tattoo magazine w my scratches reaching a goal I set when I got into tattooing by getting my tattoos into a magazine. I’d have taken any lame offshoot magazine but it was official tattoo magazine. I hadn’t tattooed in 2-3 years at that point but my decade of hard work paid off after the fact. Pretty cool moment. I don’t tattoo right now. But I can always go back to it. It’s a skill I have and if I need a job I can go to shops n try to work there or tattoo people at my house to feed my kids which I have had to do many times n saved my ass to help w rent or whatever. When the guy who offered me an apprenticeship moved outta town n the only other tattoo artist I knew at the shop he left told 19 yr old me 5k for an apprenticeship or I’m on my own, I didn’t have 5k. I got together what I could, bought equipment n started charging 100 bucks a session after my fifth tat and people loved it. Got hired as a full time artist at the next shop I went for an apprenticeship at because my portfolio was better than the 3 other artist dude had working at the shop currently and I was on my way, to working from home again because it was the old bait n switch and instead of tattooing the millions of clients the dude promised me I was tattooing my own clients charging three times as much to give him half n make the same amt about after taxes while having to clean his windows and watch him try to force himself on any chick that wandered thru the front doors. The tattoo industry is full of crooks. They will lie and try to mislead you or scare you out of doing what you think you would like to try. I’ve seen the best artist be horrible tattooers and artists that were just ok but could trace good be great tattoo artist. Don’t let anyone get in the way of your dream. Use common sense when it comes to the cross contamination stuff and don’t be a dumbass do some reading up on it and use disposable stuff to be safer. Which they didn’t have when I started n I’d pay a tattoo shop to let me use their autoclave n since dude was a pill head he let me cause he needed money. U don’t need that these days. U can buy stuff online like I couldn’t and you can look up stuff on utube and literally learn direct lessons from some of the best artists alive. I just could ask one dickhead who had one style nothing like mine art or tattoo application wise. Start on yourself and if you don’t completely suck tattoo friends of friends not family or your best friends. U don’t want to have to see your crappy first tats forever on people you love. Get tattooed and pay attention. Try to mimic what they do, ask questions but not too many. But the fact this guy said a great tattoo artist can work from home but a scratcher in a shop is a professional because of the setting or environment i don’t believe is correct. A scratcher is a scratcher even if they work at Miami ink. But what do I know, I’m just a self taught scratcher. This is a great channel though and this guy is super smart and knowledgeable. I’d listen to him before me but I’d also listen to your own heart because I’d have way less tats, money and ability to tattoo if I listened to every shop owner that shot me down. I get the whole hazing aspect but don’t let anyone treat u like shit or use you for an apprenticeship. They will try. And be extra cautious if You are a female. It’s a cold game @fastesteddieonearth on ig if u want to see a few tattoos I did and shoes I design for inspiration or so u can say I suck. Up to u.

[@vincentkimbolar8952]

I've been tattoing friends for like 3 months and i overwork the tattoo on one of my friend, I stop for like 2yrs in that 2yrs of not tattooing i study arts not all but some of them and i draw in a daily basis and one day a friend of mine offer his skin he ask me if i can tattoo him at first i said, no but when he show me some of his tattoo from a pro tattoo artist i said to my self i can do better.. now i been tattooing for 6 months i know if you grade me i'll drop to be a hahaha. I'm doing this full time and professionally tattooing at home and hotels. i'm happy with the outcome of my work and i'll improve my work in years to come, and hopefully I find a way to get in a respectable tattoo shops.now I'll grind like there is no tomorrow.. I watch all your video james and it really helps alot you're such a inspiration. There is a screeing here in my town it's like a tattoo group should i sign up or not, I'm hesitating coz i see some of there members works are not so good if i rate it 3/10 I'm not saying my works are 10. what do you think? bear my english. Greetings from Philippines.

[@JamesWithee]

You sound like you have the proper ambition and motivation to get where u want to be. I don't know what a screeing is though. Did u misspell?

[@vincentkimbolar8952]

screening is like they will look at your portfolio and if i pass I'll be in the tattoo group.

[@JamesWithee]

@@vincentkimbolar8952 ah okay. That's a tough one. They don't have anything like that where I'm from. You'll have to make the decision on your own. If it will get you more business or give you an opportunity to gain knowledge from other artists, go for it. Sometimes you can learn some things even from artists that aren't as skilled as you

[@vincentkimbolar8952]

I think you're right, I'll sign up I can learn from their experience thank you very much!! Cheers!

[@Inyourfang]

Thank you for that video. I didn't learn tattoo with an apprenticeship, but I gave myself the possibility to improve by talking with tattoo artist and even learn for one month with a Chinese incredible tattoo artist in Beijing. I'm still not a professional, my work isn't perfect, but I'm doing my best to give the best tattoos I can. I'm drawing everyday for 1 year now and I see my improvement everyday as well. I buy art books, I visit conventions, I draw and I'm taking inspiration by talking with and visiting other tattoo artists. Maybe that I'd still be considered as a scratcher, but I hope that I'll be able to accomplish my goal by living from my passion, and this kind of video just gives me even more motivation. So one more time, thank you for this video !

[@ayannachristina8006]

I come from a family of tattooed people and I’m young so I only have 2 myself but I’ve really appreciated all of the information in your videos I’ve seen so far and I’m confident that this new knowledge with help me make educated choices about what I put on my body. Thank you and great job!

[@MsNaijaPrincess]

I really appreciate the way you structure your videos by outlining what you’re going to be talking about at the beginning and recapping at the end. It’s a great way to present info and I’m learning a lot.

[@woshafer]

Thank you James! You really got me thinking. I started an apprenticeship a few years ago and about 1 year in the shop it was at closed. Since then I refused to work on anyone else and just finished what I started on my thigh. I'm glad I know proper setup and tear down, but have been pissed I never made it passed line work and color packing. Lol, I was in denial about being a scratcher. I'm going to take your advice.

[@wolfbane69234]

Your videos have helped give me the confidence to set up a tattoo appointment and helped show me what to look out for in terms of trying to find a tattoo artist. I feel like I've managed to find a really good artist and I'm really excited for my appointment. Thank you so much for your videos, they are very informative!

[@bethanyfury1209]

I had no idea there was a name for this.....I am not opposed to getting someone who works out of their house if the person is professional. Many artists are between shops or looking for an opportunity. Awesome video.

[@Shishiranshoku]

It's really tough to start, though. I'm 28 years old, have a family to support. I can't afford a nonpaid apprenticeship... So I've learned the basics from a tattoo artist, and now I'm practicing at home. I'm not comfortable actually tattooing a person right now, but I do want to get to that point. I'm enrolled in a course about bloudborne pathogens and hygiene for tattoo artists and piercers, but an actual apprenticeship will probably not be an option for me.

[@tamcar04]

OH HELL NAW!! THEY DID THAT BABY DIIIIIIRTY!!! 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤦🏿‍♀️

[@VioletArt]

I’m what you called “scratcher” but not by choice, sometimes you love tattooing so much that you start with what you have, I didn’t know anyone who knows how to tattoo, I want to tattoo in a Studio but is so hard to get an apprentice on my country, the only way to get it is paying part of the rent of the store and I can’t afford that because I don’t have so many clients yet! Is not that easy to get the exchange of knowledge for work in here, in every store they will ask you for money, they won’t let you clean the store in exchange for knowledge, so I’ve been tattooing from home for 1 year and a half now, I’m not a begginer, I know how to tattoo but I know I still have to learn a lot things because I can’t learn everything by myself. I don’t have enough clients to afford paying part of the rent on a tattoo shop, and I want to become a professional so bad but no one wants to give me the opportunity, what would you advice me?

[@AndrewGoodmanToo]

I’m just learning this now, but I guess I’m a scratcher. For me personally, it was never intended as a way to make money. I still haven’t made a single dollar from tattooing. I started because I have small dumb ideas for tattoos that for me personally mean a lot but aren’t worth the price of even the cheapest tattoo at the jankiest shop. I don’t have a lot of money but I have patience and a desire to learn the craft. I’ve technically tattooed 4 people aside from myself and two of them I regret doing. No infections or anything but they were done with sewing needle and thread. As is typical of most scratchers and they are complete garbage. At this point I only ink myself, that being said I only have given myself small line work tats. Because of videos like yours and others I’ve found online, I realize that it is something I’m passionate about. But I want to do it correctly. Ive stopped tattooing myself and others indefinitely. I am now just focused on practicing drawing. Learning about different styles. I appreciate your take on scratchers and I hope to be back in these comments one day to tell you I did what I wanted, made this a career.

[@WhizWit.]

I got my first tattoo done by a scratcher, it actually wasn’t terrible but I recently got it covered by a awesome professional and my new artist. Much respect bro, true words, you speak.

[@thepauljisexperience641]

Damn time to find local fine art classes. Thanks.

[@Briidotcom]

I have never gotten a scratcher tattoo but I know plenty of people who have and I sometimes wonder why people do that so thank you for explaining it 😊

[@wrightsrrt871]

Scratcher is someone who can't apply ink correctly leaving tattoos that fade from not placing the ink at right depths hence scratching just the surface where it falls out. I as well was tought in prison by an lifer who was into tattooing 30 plus years but he had guards who brought in coil machines and he used both home made machine and professional machines. I watched this guy tattoo for 6 months before I even was allowed to start tattooing numbers and letters. Now I'm 14 years In and still tattooing at home but I'm about to build an private studio soon cause soon I'm going to shut down my handyman buisness and transition back to full time tattooing again. I appreciate your videos and your right bbp is very important and being clean. Even if you tattoo in kitchen make sure you deep clean the whole kitchen even if it's an counter 10 feet away or even 20 feet.

[@vaideswarana3223]

Bro you are awesome. I love watching your videos. The thing I like about your videos is the way you talk and explain everything. Keep doing what your doing. I truly believe you deserve more subscribers.

[@1browneyedcutie15]

I had a friend who's brother wanted a tattoo of some clouds so he went to this guy and we were in a kitchen at someone's apartment that was the 1st red flag. Then he couldn't draw out the tattoo on paper and was just like I'm just going to go ahead and freehand it, that was the second red flag. He still let him do it and it looked like flower petals that kids draw! After it was done he was hyping it up asking everyone what they think and I was the only one that told him the truth, it wasnt good.

[@JamesWithee]

Lol the truth hurts more than the tattoo in that case

[@1browneyedcutie15]

@@JamesWithee I believe it did hurt him, but hey he wasn't touching my body. Lol!

[@JPAcuna3]

Ouch, maybe i'm some sort of scratcher at this point. I do have artistic formation tho, i studied fine arts and i'm a painter, but i was only a couple months as a tattoo apprentice, since that shop was too slow and i didn't have much instances for learning really. Still, i have a real desire to learn and go pro, so i'll go looking for another apprenticeship, and this video is actually a deciding factor for that specifically.

[@JamesWithee]

Like I said, everyone starts somewhere man. I'm not judging. If tattooing is your dream and you are willing to work for it then you'll make it eventually

[@woshafer]

James is right. I have to look at myself and decide whether I'm gonna stay a scratcher (who only tattoo's himself) or look for another apprenticeship. I think it's almost worst being 1/2 done then never starting at all!

[@thefishx7991]

I'm ones of those people on the grind, I want this to be my career. I look at the flaws in my art and always look for room to improve

[@thetobaccoguy1751]

I got my first tattoo in a kitchen when I was in my early 20's. Thankfully, it was only lettering and dude actually did a decent job. Everything since has been a artist with 20+ years experience.

[@tylerhubert895]

Agreed with everything up until he said that "if you don't intend to make it your profession then put down the machine." Let me just say that the word professional and profession are not fully interchangeable. People can be professional in a non profession. People can also not be professional in a profession. You can be a professional in your hobby of tattooing. Tattooing can be a hobby and does not necessarily mean they will be messed up tattoos. But atleast fully submerge yourself in different techniques and ways to find what works best for you while learning to correctly tattoo. And while there is a lot of bullspit on KZbin, it can also teach you fundamental things and practices. It's not so black and white. Just always be fully upfront with the people you tattoo about your capabilities and what you are comfortable doing. Take a bloodborn pathogens course. Not just the test, the whole learning course and retain it. Watch KZbin and see what some set ups look like. Always keep in mind not everything you see is correct and use your judgment. If something seems too easy its probably bullspit. You can never be too careful with cleanliness.

[@osiris2426]

Fucking golden content. Professional and straight to the point. Keep up the great content my man. 💯

[@aa1chris82]

Dude please do the apprentice tips video. Every video ive seen on the subject is saying different things and i feel like you're the best at explaining everything tattoo related

[@nicolealaniz4634]

Always great topics in raw and real view from you. I love your channel.

[@FarkyBionic]

Hey, you are probably the first professional tattoo artist that I've heard share a different opinion about unprofessional artists. I mean, I'm a tattoo artist and hearing other professionals talk about scratchers, I often feel offended and angry but listening to you I can actually agree with you for the most part. For me, I tried getting an apprenticeship for years before I bought a machine but my issue is that I judge the industry very critically but I am from Jamaica and there are not a lot of artists here that are very good. There are a few but not everyone is willing to take on an apprentice here. Everyone basically has to start from nothing and often times start from cheap amazon or ebay tattoo kits. I guess what I'm saying is that as a "scratcher" aiming to become a professional I have to figure this out on my own unless I am going to migrate to the States because I am not going to get an apprenticeship from someone that I do better artwork than lol

[@JamesWithee]

hey man like i said i don't judge. in your situation you gotta do what you gotta do. i always had a saying when i was looking for my apprenticeship.. if they won't let me in through the front door i'm coming in through the window. if you truly want to become a professional and well respected artist nothing can stop you. good luck on your journey

[@FarkyBionic]

@@JamesWithee thanks man

[@johnkren2636]

I am a scratched, thanks for not shutting all over us first off. And I do have a certificate in bloodborne pathogens. I only became a scratched cause apprenticeships in my area are about 5 grand. So yeah, most of my technique is trial by fire on myself, but I'm out here busting my ass trying to be a professional. So in that respect, thank you for encouraging and once again, not completely dumping on us scratches who are trying to get somewhere with it.

[@JamesWithee]

i know your struggle bro. if you're meant to make it, then you will. keep grinding

[@TravisLikesTurtles]

the biggest issue I have with scratchers is just people who don't know any better and get a bad tattoo. also, health concerns obviously. but that's just awful. tattoos are super important to the people who have them and it's such an "underground" industry that people don't know a lot about. some people think anyone who owns a machine can do any tattoo and it's just unfortunate for the people who have to wear crummy work. love a good party tat that's safe and consensual and know what i'm getting into. but just appreciate you for opening up and educating on this industry that is so unknown still. props brother, much love

[@JamesWithee]

Turb0 Talks I agrees and appreciate what u said. Part of the reason I started this channel is because of how clueless I was when I first started looking for info about tattoos. Seems like an easy problem to fix but no one has bothered to put it all out there yet. My hope is that after it’s all said and done I cause more ppl to get good tattoos that otherwise would’ve gotten bad ones. Also fame and money.

[@juliamaxfalcon5483]

LOVE the recent frequent uploads!

[@wesleyalistairearnshaw1223]

Again thank you James for all the information, just passed my BBP training through Pro trainings and received my certificate. Hopefully this helps me get into a reputable shop like yours soon.

[@JamesWithee]

nice job. no one becomes a professional overnight. getting educated on cleanliness is a good step in the right direction. glad i could help

[@wesleyalistairearnshaw1223]

@@JamesWithee definitely been a huge help in gaining this certification in order to show my dedication to the profession. I definitely made my fair share of mistakes since i began my tattoo journey in 2013, served a year and a half of apprenticeship but couldn't continue due to unforseen circumstances and being stuck in a country with no actual professional tattoo shops has made it difficult to progress but with videos like yours and other reputable artists has definitely motivated and kept me focused on bettering my fine art knowledge along with techniques, thank you and please don't stop educating the many of us that do take the profession as serious as you do.

[@93baby38]

Damn as of lately i been feeling depressed after losing alot of friends and family through the years and almost losing my little brothers through gun violence. And i been telling myself to keep pushing forward and work work work to get that big house and secure future. But damn all that is taking its toll on me i dont even enjoy life i feel like a robot. So i bust out the tattoo machine i bought from amazon and tattoo my knee cap to feel some pain and express some art cause i use to be into drawing heavy in my younger years. And the last 5 months i just been researching on how to tattoo and whats the right way to go about it and come to find out im looked down upon already😂 im not even thinking about money i just really want to do something that i love and can sink hours of time into and seem just like minutes cause im invested in it. I did a couple tattoos on my legs and practiced good hygiene and aftercare from the knowledge i gathered online (now knowing i probably shouldnt believe none of it) but man ima have to start from the basics and pick up a sketch book and put in the hours into my drawings and work on that portfolio. I really want to be a professional tattoo artist not to sound corny but damn this shit really cured my depression and give me drive. I got alot to learn and a long ways to go but this the only thing i thought about where the money not even the motivating factor.

[@Rncfbnx]

I know a couple artists who work in their home, but they have a whole room set up for tattoo work. I have not heard of any infections. My guy, who works in his home and is filipino had a shop in the philippines with his brothers. When he moved here, he had the experience, but the pay for being an artist wasnt that high and he wanted all the money for himself, not just a cut of it. Which is fair, who wants to work for someone wnen you can work for yourself and have all the profit. He has an IG and his page is full of his work. Been tattooing for about 30 years. All my tattoos are from him and i get compliments everytine i go out. I simply tell people who are interested his IG and my work is done.

[@jeffreyfahrenhorst-kitchen3582]

Thanks man for taking the time

[@Wjyndigo]

When I was 19 and just wanted tattoos, I had 2 scratchers mess me up. I am currently getting them reworked as a 30 year old.I wish I had tattoo knowledge back then. But now I know real artists and gained knowledge.

[@ryanstroh2963]

I would love to be a tattoo artist but I have a tough time drawing a stick man. I think there are several things that can't really be taught, just taught how to improve upon. Drawing/artistry is one of them. If you have 0 vision or how to put that vision thru your hand to paper, good luck. But having the talent or the basics naturally, it can definitely grow.

[@tattoogado91]

LOVE YOUR VIDEOS BRO!! YOUR BLUNT HONESTY CRACKS ME TFU 😂😂😂

[@logicvs.everything7230]

If you're inrerested, could you please do a video talking about tattoos and skin, meaning what healthy skin for a tattoo is, how acne interferes with a tattoo, psoriasis, scarring, etc? There is very little information on the subject available and even very little of that is from people who know about tattoos. Thank you for such a unique and well-structured channel.

[@JamesWithee]

you're welcome! i'll probably make a separate video about all of these things

[@callenanderson4060]

Even if the topic doesn’t apply to me, I like watching your videos. Always good to learn more about the industry. Keep up the good work James 👍🏻

[@DatMaddahFaka]

I'm a scratcher..but I'm glad theres a few categories of it. Sanitation and cleanliness was my biggest priority throughout my whole time of it and if I felt uncomfortable I wouldnt do it. Drawing/sketching was never my issue, though I am limited of it, and I wouldnt take a job I know that's out of my league. I'd even advise to go to professional. But overall this is a field I would love to progress in and become better at.

[@midnightdarkchocolate]

Kitchen Wizards... umm that’s sounds like their cooking meth😂

[@lengarion]

When I wanted my tattoo done, professional artists refused to do it. It's my first and so far only tattoo, and it's on my earlobe. I waited a year before I made the decision to get it, but was told that this could not be done as a first tattoo - not something visible in the face area. So I went to someone who was willing to do it, and I'm still very happy with it. It's also a very simple design, which surely helped. Would I have preferred to have it done professionally? Yup. Did I want to "prove" that I can have a visible tattoo before getting the only one I actually wanted? Nope. Maybe this is specific to Germany? Idk. This was also 7 years ago, the location seems to have become more common since then?

[@karvast5726]

Many artist refuses to do it and it only seems fair you go somewhere they will do it and if you are happy with it and they did it safely that is all that matters

[@sytheopath1241]

@5:40 I agree with that part. I see alot of people with arms full of shitty tattoos. And it shows that they probably dont value good artwork as much as someone who has nice work and is willing to invest good money into their sleeve

[@yaoguaife1741]

I've definitely toyed with the idea of being a tattoo artist, because I like art and I do art for a living. I'd be interested in seeing a video on how to start an apprenticeship, because I'd like to be part time in a shop!

[@BajaChick]

I somewhat agree ... I mean yes if you are tattooing people just for a quick buck or for favors... that’s a big no no in my opinion. But for those (like me) that love the art and love tattooing try to gain knowledge through some one with professional experience . Sadly it’s taking me a while cause I am a full time stay at home mom so I don’t have the freedom to take so much time to dedicate myself fully to tattooing. I do what I can when I can and learn from a friend that works at a shop . Yeas I tattoo myself from home but I do it with the help of a tattoo artist ...

[@AliHasSpoken]

For someone who someone who doesnt seem to have a background in medicine you sure are accurate as hell with all of your explanations, good shit man.

[@et5895]

Awesome! Another video!

[@JamesWithee]

back to back like the cover of lethal weapon :)

[@Phuma_]

Im the 1st type of scratcher. I really took what u said here seriously. And i do want to become good and professional at tattooing. My passion is art. I was a graffiti artist in my young days and always kept busting bombs. I like letters. My friends all would tell me to start tattooing n i would just ignore them. I work warhouse and i never thought i could become a successful tattoo artist and make that my job. I never thought i could work my dream job i thought i was stuck to my forklift and 9to5 daily routine. But Call me a scratcher i will master this art one way or another. Then i will go to those who didnt believe in me ad i will show thm they were wrong.

[@pilotkush80]

I always give half price from wat tattoo artist charge...10 years...bumps along the road...now im a machine builder....i just keep learning and dont worry about the hype....10 years....going harder than ever

[@elimae6274]

As a scratcher with the intent to become a professional? THIS VIDEO WAS SO FUCKIN HELPFUL THANKS SO MUCH !!

[@jeffreyritaga6063]

I consider myself a scratcher ,, I'm just started tattooing, but I believe I can get through it eventually 😉😉😉

[@vjmendozajr]

my opinion is only take someone who not only do you know personally but also if they do it in an actual shop under a real apprenticeship. even if it turns out bad atleast you know its sterile and you can look at it as being a big help in helping a friend with their dream. that can turn a bad tattoo into a cute uplifting story

[@2shadywitit546]

I agree wit u on what u saying BUT this whole scratcher term is out the door in L.A , I tattoo from home most of my boys that worked at a shop either have a studio or tattoo from home, n yes some home artist do pull out some fuckt up work but now wit this whole social media u can see the persons wero before anything, btw all my equipment is legit might tattoo from home but all my buddies have thought me right

[@HansWick]

We used to tattoo ourselves when we were teens, made machines out of pens and VCR motors

[@zaeshawn27]

Getting an apprenticeship is a lot easier said than. I have been to every shop in my area and some out of state that’s within a comfortable driving distance. All said I had a dope portfolio even got an offer on some of my drawings and designs for cash and a free tattoo. But seems to be no one wants or is not willing to work with me. I’ve called multiple times to the same shops and I have gotten the same answer. What advice can you give about that??

[@hectormartinez2419]

Be a scratcher make a name for yourself

[@zaeshawn27]

Hector Martínez. On the way!

[@hectormartinez2419]

@@zaeshawn27 hell yeah same here dont give up everyone starts somewhere

[@brandonproctor3639]

Awesome video man and I can definitely relate. I actually started at home but ended up getting an apprenticeship. The shop I work at, we do a lot of cover ups lol bc of a high number of people getting shitty tattoos. But I definitely empathize with some "scratchers" bc like you said, there's definitely different types and levels to "scratchers"

[@octoberwonderland9132]

I'm not gonna sit and lie I'm a kitchen wizard but I'm the first type of kitchen wizard I draw almost everyday and I only tattoo close friends and family members I have every intention of becoming a professional tattoo artist I love tattooing and everything about tattooing I go into shops as often as I can and show my portfolio I've been a kitchen wizard for two years but I've seen progression I've gotten bits and pieces of information from professional artist even though they werent apprenticing I don't charge anyone I've tattooed cause I don't think I'm at the level to actually charge ppl but this video really is inspiring cause I want to make a difference I have every intention of getting an apprenticeship once I have my portfolio completely finished

[@JamesWithee]

keep grinding. the more you care about getting better, the more likely you'll make it. there's a place for you in the world of professional tattooing if you want it enough. good luck

[@6-----gfd433]

Kitchen wizard 😂

[@tattoogado91]

"SCRATCHERS ARE A NECESSARY PART OF OUR ECOSYSTEM" 😂😂

[@noangel1087]

That lion looks like it was tatted with crayon

[@MiDeng17]

Honestly just need to know if you’re single because.... my Goodness!! 😍

[@JamesWithee]

I have a gf. She's amazing. Thanks though haha

[@lilspicytuna]

Yo let’s hear that prison story! 👏

[@Mysasser1]

That juggalo ish! 😸😹😸😹

[@JamesWithee]

lmao u wouldn't believe how many hatchet man tattoos scratchers do

[@mrcovert011]

James I want to see a video on what type of obligations a tattoo artist has after a deal is struck/agreed on as far as holding up there side of the deal so deposit is paid appointments are kept and artist has started with first needle poke? Should it come out the same?should it be as black as promised? Should it not be hazzy? Should their lines be clean? Spaces be even? No mistakes in the tattoo ECT.... All things leading up to the quality of what was talked about and them not milking the clock for biting off more then they can chew/ or past they're skill level? And what if it's not Turing out how the tattoo should? At what point should you say look it's not Turing out? Should you let the artist keep running with it trying to make it better? And why should the client pay for more if the artist can't deliver what was agreed or promised? Why should a client be at mercy for a artist to run up a clock because they don't have the skill set they say they do? At what point should you back out? Ask for a refund? Let the artist know your not happy? Not have to pay more for no delivery? And shouldn't the artist be confident in the hours quoted? Or price quoted? The client isn't the professional here what steps should they take after the job is started?

[@nickyhopkins852]

Another great vid James! Looking forward to your talk on getting an apprenticeship, would be cool if you could also cover what's involved once you land one. Cheers.

[@toshaparson6754]

Damn, he is fine. He has great videos.

[@LivingwithPerks]

The F-Bomb has been dropped. 😂

[@michaelfuller8700]

The Kitchen Magician

[@scottd.5705]

If you have advice you should make a video about gaining and losing weight with tattoos. I'm sort of overweight right now and I keep putting off getting tattoos because I don't know if I'll ever lose the weight, or maybe I'll end up losing it but then I might just gain it all back.

[@MidnightBootySnatchr]

I went from 85-ish kilos down to 53 kg when I became anorexic. I have a full sleeve and a bunch of others and have even gined weight back since then. It has not affected my tattoos one bit. Other might be different but I think your skin stretches back and forth with weight gain. Unless your losing several inches around your biceps (Or somewhere similar) weight gain/loss shouldn't affect your tattoos too much.

[@marielalomeli1842]

i'm ;looking foward for that next video !!! thanks james you're a cutie