How toTattoo Practice Skins

Hey all! The other day I got the the opportunity to do my first tattoo! It was on an artificial practice skin, but either way, it was awesome. Another notch on the belt towards becoming a Tattoo Artist.

My teacher, tattoo artist Jason Dunn picked out a Peony Flower from his Flash Book and told me to get it ready to go. I put the stencil on the practice skin, and Jason walked me through proper Tattoo Machine set up. He explained to me proper needle depth, how hard to run the tattoo machines, how to hold them, etc...I also checked out a DVD by Dean Deakyne called, "Introduction To Skins". It was a really good instructional video on professional techniques. He works with Mom's Tattoo Skins.

I feel like I learned a ton about how to put a clean line in the skin, as well as proper color blending. I had a blast laying down the ink . Of course it is probably nothing like the real thing, but I highly recommend you new bees like me to try it out.

Here we have a picture of what I was able to do so far. Let me know what you guy's think. I can't wait to finish it and get on to another one.

Here are a few tips that I have learned about tattooing these practice skins for other apprentices out there:

1. Make sure that the skin is very lubed up with ointment so that the ink will not stick to it too much.

2. Use alchohal and green soap or "stencil stuff" to make sure the pattern will stick properly.

3. Remember, that black will not be as dark on these practice skins as it will be on a real tattoo.

4. Always keep your machine straight to achive the perfect line. Holding the machine on an angle will only cause it to blur or be too light.

5. Another good way to practice is to tape the skin to a roll of paper towels to simulate an arm or leg.



Mikey Bonez

Top 5 things a Tattoo Apprentice Should Never Do

Being a tattoo apprentice, and learning new things every day, you are bound to mess up every once in a while. The mistakes are what teach you what you need to know. BUT, there are some things a tattoo apprentice should NEVER do.

5. Never handle unsterilized equipment. Biohazard

4. Never get a tattoo machine, or power supply wet.

3. Don't ditto the pattern backwards.

2. Don't hit on your teacher's girl (or boy).

1. Don't make your teacher look bad in front of a client.

I have personally already made some of these mistakes, they do happen. I'm just trying to make it easier on you and your teacher by making you aware.

Thanks for reading,
-Mikey Bonez

The Importance of a Strong Tattoo Portfolio

Before even attempting to find a tattoo apprenticeship, I would definitely recommend putting together a decent portfolio of your finest artwork. If you don't have anything to show, you're probably not going to be taken too seriously. Gathering the courage to approach a Tattoo Artist is only the first step to becoming a Tattoo Apprentice.

I tried to put a lot of variety into my portfolio. Not only did I display my own personal style, I tried to draw a lot of Tattoo Flash. Sacred Hearts, Skull and Cross Bones, Roses, Traditional Japanese, etc...I also tried taking on drawings as if they were actually tattoos. Its funny how the simplest drawing becomes an unexpected battle.

Basically, have confidence in your portfolio and have an open mind. Be ready and willing to learn. Oh yeah, be ready to work :)

Heres an article I read by Karen L. Hudson at about.com. Hope this help you guys out.

Mikey Bonez

Sitting in on a Japanese Leg Sleeve Tattoo

Every once in a while when I'm not scrubbing toilets, cleaning tubes, and Jason feels generous, I get the opportunity to sit in on some tattoo action. Today is my day!!

Today I got the opportunity to sit in on a full Japanese Leg Sleeve Tattoo. The process takes a lot of knowledge, planning, and hours. Jason also explained the importance of color saturation, color selection, and proper color blending. I'm pretty sure he makes it a lot easier than it actually is, but I can't wait to try for myself anyways:)

The tattoo is really starting to come to life. The customer can't wait to see the end result, and neither can I.

Till next time,
-Mikey Bonez

How to Survive a Tattoo Apprenticeship

Hey, my name is Mikey (aka Mikey Bonez) and I'm going to be taking you on my journey from Tattoo Apprentice to Tattoo Artist. I'm determined to turn my dreams into reality, and I have a feeling it's gonna be a tough road.

After making my rounds to every tattoo shop in my neighborhood and getting turned down I found the light at the end of the tunnel. After talking to artist Jason Clay Dunn on the phone he graciously gave me the opportunity to come in and talk to him in person.

He grilled me on my sincerity and dedication, and after a long serious talk, he agreed to give me a shot. Since then I've been working my butt off every chance that I get, and taking in as much as possible.

I already feel like I'm learning a lot and I cant wait to share all the ups and downs on my journey to success. Make sure to subscribe to my blog for upcoming rants, raves, talks, and discussions on my life as an apprentice, or as Jason likes to refer to me as "The Student".

Mikey Bonez