How do I become a tattoo artist?
Here is the response I use courtesy of the A.P.T. :
I do not answer this question any further! So pleasedo not email; me in regards to this.

Thank you for writing APT. We are an educational non-profit whose primary purpose is the education of artists in the practices of infection control. As such, we don't deal with teaching tattooing. That being said, I'll give you what advice I can. Tattooing is traditionally an apprentice based art. Apprentices serve at approximately three years before they are considered professional artists. Our organization advocates that those who wish to learn follow this route rather than some of the other available options. You are making permanent, often visible changes to another human being and if proper procedure isn't followed, could be jeopardizing that client's health and emotional well-being. By taking advantage of the knowledge of an experienced, professional artists, you will avoid many costly mistakes. In recent years, schools have opened that claim to teach tattooing. Many of these schools will turn you out in a matter of months. It is an option, but a poor one. Apprenticeships can cost you money and you may have to sign a contract regarding your future business practices. This is not unusual. You are being provided with a powerful earning tool. Just as in any other profession, you need to pay for schooling. First, you should put together a portfolio of your artwork. Designs that are similar to tattoo flash would be most appropriate,though anything that shows your skill with composition, color and line would be good. Second, you should make appointments to talk to the artists in your area. You should be willing to wash floors and scrub toilets. Many of these artists feel that they have "paid their dues" and will expect you to do the same. Once you have obtained an apprenticeship, the course of your education varies. You should receive instruction on infection control from day one. From there, you will learn about the tools of your trade, customer relations and maybe a bit about art as it pertains to skin. Some teachers are very formal and others informal. Best of luck. Please feel free to write if you have any questions. Katrina Hegge APT, Inc. http://safetattoo.com

One frequently asked question WE get is, "Hey how much for a 2 inch sun" or maybe something like
"STOP THY BLASPHEMY, HEATHEN I REBUKE THEE" well I guess that last one wasn't really a question.
DO NOT send E-mail like that, we haven't got time to price a Tattoo -(100 bucks),
or 'RANT BACK AT YOU', however if you do have something else to say, not covered here,
we wanna hear from YOU.