Course Structure

Day 1: Introduction to Tattooing

Objective: Build foundational knowledge about the art and industry.

• Morning (Theory):

1. History of tattooing and its cultural significance.

2. Overview of the tattoo industry (styles, trends, ethics).

3. Health and safety regulations: sterilization, hygiene, and cross-contamination prevention.

4. Anatomy of the skin: how tattoos interact with different layers.

• Afternoon (Practical):

1. Introduction to tattoo machines and equipment: coil vs. rotary.

2. Setting up and breaking down a hygienic workstation.

3. Practicing machine control on practice skins.

Day 2: Design and Stencil Creation

Objective: Learn to conceptualize, design, and transfer artwork to skin.

• Morning (Theory):

1. Basics of tattoo design: line work, shading, and color theory.

2. Tools and software for creating designs.

3. Using reference images while maintaining originality.

• Afternoon (Practical):

1. Drawing exercises to improve line precision.

2. Creating stencils manually and digitally.

3. Transferring stencils onto practice skin.

Day 3: Tattoo Machines and Needle Theory

Objective: Deepen understanding of tools and needle techniques.

• Morning (Theory):

1. Machine mechanics: tuning and troubleshooting.

2. Needle groupings, configurations, and uses (liners, shaders, magnums).

• Afternoon (Practical):

1. Adjusting machine settings for various techniques.

2. Practicing needle depth and pressure on practice skin.

Day 4: Line Work Techniques

Objective: Master the foundation of every tattoo—clean and consistent lines.

• Morning (Theory):

1. Principles of clean line work.

2. Avoiding blowouts and overworking the skin.

• Afternoon (Practical):

1. Practicing straight lines, curves, and intricate designs on practice skin.

2. Simulating tattoos with linework designs.

Day 5: Shading Techniques

Objective: Learn shading to create depth and dimension.

• Morning (Theory):

1. Techniques: whip shading, stippling, and soft shading.

2. Adjusting machine speed and hand movements for shading.

• Afternoon (Practical):

1. Practicing shading gradients on practice skin.

2. Creating simple designs emphasizing shading.

Day 6: Color Theory and Packing

Objective: Understand how to work with colors effectively.

• Morning (Theory):

1. Understanding skin tones and color choices.

2. Mixing inks for unique hues.

3. Color packing vs. blending techniques.

• Afternoon (Practical):

1. Practicing color packing and gradients on practice skin.

2. Completing simple colored designs.

Day 7: Small Tattoo Design Practice

Objective: Combine line work, shading, and color techniques in small tattoos.

• Morning (Theory):

1. Review design preparation for small tattoos.

2. Discuss client interaction and consultation.

• Afternoon (Practical):

1. Tattooing small, pre-approved designs on practice skin.

2. Focus on precision and completing tattoos within a set timeframe.

Day 8: Advanced Techniques and Styles

Objective: Explore specific styles like realism, traditional, or neo-traditional.

• Morning (Theory):

1. Overview of advanced tattoo styles.

2. Techniques for intricate details, fine lines, and smooth shading.

• Afternoon (Practical):

1. Practicing style-specific designs on practice skin.

2. Experimenting with techniques like dot work, realism, or bold traditional.

Day 9: Live Model Practice (Supervised)

Objective: Transition from practice skin to real skin under supervision.

• Morning:

1. Preparing for a live tattoo session.

2. Consultation process: discussing design, placement, and aftercare with clients.

• Afternoon (Practical):

1. Tattooing a small design on a live model (under instructor guidance).

2. Feedback session to improve technique.

Day 10: Business and Portfolio Building

Objective: Equip students to start their tattoo career.

• Morning (Theory):

1. Building a professional portfolio and showcasing work.

2. Marketing and branding strategies for tattoo artists.

3. Legal and licensing requirements.

• Afternoon:

1. Students create a mock portfolio.

2. Q&A session and individual feedback.

3. Certification ceremony and course wrap-up.

Optional Add-Ons:

• Extended mentorship programs.

• Advanced workshops on specific styles like realism.