Tattooist and body piercer

As a tattooist, you'll:

• speak with clients about their chosen design and how it can be done
• check that clients understand that their tattoo will be permanent
• copy the design onto the customer's skin, either by drawing freehand or using a transfer
• follow the design outline with an electrically-operated needle, which injects ink under the skin
• make sure all equipment is sterilised and clean after each job
• give clients advice on how to care for their tattoo as it heals

As a body piercer, you'll:

• talk to your clients about the type of piercing they want
• explain the piercing procedure and point out any risks
• advise on suitable types of body jewellery
• sterilise the piece of jewellery and the area to be pierced
• dispose of the needle after piercing, following health and safety guidelines
• show the client how to care for their piercing and what to do if there's a problem

• design skills and knowledge
• the ability to work well with your hands
• concentration skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to use your initiative
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You must register both yourself and your premises with your local council for a tattoo, piercing and electrolysis licence.

You'll also need to be vaccinated against hepatitis B.

You can get into this job through:

• working towards this role
• specialist courses run by private training organisations

With experience, you could become self-employed. This could mean 'renting a chair' in someone else's studio. With a business plan and sufficient funds, you could open your own studio and employ other piercers or tattooists, or rent out space.