Collect designs you like and practice recreating them. Tattoo artists often have to borrow from the designs of others, and this is a great way to get used to it! Work on transitioning from pencil to pen, which has a more permanent feel.
Alternatively, draw your designs at an angle, so they’re in a certain perspective.
Ask them for what they want and then practice crafting your own designs for them. See if they like what you come up with! This is what tattoo artists do every day.
Mix your henna dye and collect the applicator for your henna. Apply it to the skin of your practice subject in the design desired. Note any improvements that could be made and ask for feedback.
You may want to start your weighted practice by attaching about 80 grams (3 ounces) to a drawing utensil.
If you’re doing an apprenticeship, your mentor may have a machine for you to practice on. You might also rig a pencil to your tattoo machine and practice drawing. This way you’ll develop comfort and familiarity with machine and clip cord. While a cheap machine is great for personal practice, don’t use your practice machine on clients.
Coil tattoo machines Rotary tattoo machines Pneumatic tattoo machines Shader tattoo machines Liner tattoo machines
You can even watch YouTube videos if you want more practice.
Bananas Melons Grapefruits
Be useful for starting out and getting a feel for your tattoo machine. Provide you with practice for building your hand strength.
Pig skin can be bought expressly for the purposes of tattooing online, but as many butchers end up throwing it out, you might find a cheaper more plentiful alternative at your local butcher.
Going to deep into the skin with your tattoo machine can lead to unnecessary pain for your client, and a possible risk of infection. [7] X Research source
Next, try giving out free tattoos to clients. Many people are willing to get a tattoo for free from a novice so you can get some experience.
