Hi Im new to this

[kaju1]

I plan on getting started with tattooing. My questions are; How do you get started?, What do you practice with?, and what materials should a beginer purchase?

Thanks for the help people.

[Anonymous]

Well u came to the right place , we kinda covered some of this in the FAQ section under (dont know where to start) . It would be good to check with ur state health department to find out if u need licensing in ur state , some states like here in Oregon u can get into big trouble if u get caught tattooing without a licnense . Second thing to do is to check around to find someone to apprentice under , tht would be the best hands on way to learn . If u cant afford an apprenticeship , or u cant find anyone who is willing to do it , then think about buying some videos . I havent seen any of the ones listed on Needlejacks site , but it looks like they cover most everything . WHat state do u live in ?

[olboys]

they sell practice skins, but they are alittle high.about 10.00 for a 6 by 6 if you have a local flooring store they sell a membrane that is close too the same texture as the p.skin there both made from gum rubber.they use it on some indoor basket ball courts.

[TheNewJack]

yea im thinking about starting in this tattooing business...I live in Chicago...so im guessing you need a liscence? Not sure. Do they have any starter kits for the newbies like myself??

[oz tattoo]

New Jack- they have starter kits, but be warey. I started out with one of these & all I'm still using is the clip cord & footswitch- I upgraded my power supply, my inks (probably the worst part of purchasing a kit in my opinion- my inks didn't even have a brand labeled on them!) and my machine. Start out with disposable tubes- I started with round needles- 7's, 8's and 9's, and still like them best. I practiced on fruit- too juicy- and practice skin, which gives you at least a good feel for the machine, but is nothing like true skin. My first piece was to fill in a pre-existing outline & that was a great starter- try to find anyone who needs a touchup on a tribal piece or a simple solid coloring. And practice on your own skin- you won't spread around a bad name for yourself if you work on hidden areas of your body- fuck up someone elses body & you'll get a bad rap- oh, and READ, READ, READ. Learn about your machine before you start- I underestimated all there was to know about it's functionalities- there is a lot more than what meets the eye!

[Papa Gee]

I would recommend reading every word posted on these forums then following all links contained herein for additional information. You'll probably learn more here than most people do in a years apprenticeship. I know I did.





I almost forgot. Buy all your tattoo related needs from NeedleJack Tattoo Supply. Show your support for these forums.