Being a tattoo artist is a rewarding and potentially lucrative position. There is quite a bit that you need to know about this profession before you can become a master of it. The more you take the time to learn, the quicker you will become a recognized pro. Here are 5 very handy tips that every tattoo artist needs to know.

1. Make Sure to Use the Right Equipment

One of the most important things that you will need to make sure of is that you always use the right equipment. This also means that the ink, needles, tattoo artist chair, and other items need to be of the absolute highest standard. You want people who come to you to be reassured that you are an expert in everything that you do.

2. Solicit the Opinions of Others

It’s more than okay not to know everything. Being willing to admit you don’t know it all is the first sign of being able to grow as a tattoo artist. It’s also okay to ask for critiques of your work and technique from peers and customers. Doing so is a good way to find your weak spots so that you can work on improving them.

Knowing what people think about your work is a good way to know exactly what your strengths are. It’s also the best way to find out what you could or should be doing differently. You always want to know how best to stand out as an individual in the tattoo world. But you also need to live up to the industry standard.

3. Work on Developing a Portfolio

One of the best things that you can do to promote yourself as an artist is to build your portfolio. This is the place where you can show off all of your skills as an artist. It’s also the place where you can show a potential customer the wide range of your abilities. The more styles and genres you can be master of, the better.

4. Pay Attention to the Latest Trends

It’s important for you to know what the latest tattoo trends are. You need to know them so that you can adapt to them. After all, if they become the biggest thing in the industry since sliced bread, you’re going to be called upon to master them. It’s always good to know what people expect from you.

5. Get Yourself on Social Media

Do you have a page for your work on sites like Deviant Art? This will be the place where you can show the world exactly what you can do. It will also be a great venue to advertise your position as a tattoo artist. These types of sites are ideal for getting your name out there and developing a large and loyal fan following.

You should also be advertising yourself and your work on all of the major social media network sites. Places like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and the like are the perfect venue to show off your work. You can also include all of your professional contact info so as to solicit visits from your fans.

The Time to Upgrade Your Game is Now

There is no time like the present to make something better of yourself. Being a tattoo artist brings many rewards as well as many challenges. You can use these handy tips to better yourself as an artist. Making use of them will also give you the mindset you need to satisfy the demands of your public. It’s up to you to use them to the fullest.