Tattoo Meanings And Why People Get Inked + A Guide For The Future Tattoo Artist

Published by Paul-Anthony Surdi at October 7, 2022

Becoming A Tattoo Artist Means It’s Important To Know The Meanings Of Tattoos And Why People Get Tattooed

Are you an aspiring Tattoo Artist? Are you wondering about tattoo meanings? And why do people get tattooed? Then we’re here to help! As a future Tattoo Artist, remember that while you can learn about the meanings and why people get tattooed online, you can NOT learn how to tattoo online. Therefore, what you need more than anything is a real tattoo school. You need a tattoo apprenticeship program that is live and in person.

What Do You Learn As A Tattoo Apprentice?

What is a Tattoo Apprenticeship? A tattoo apprenticeship is a way for aspiring Tattoo Artists to learn everything they need to know from an established Tattoo Artist.

Skills And Knowledge That You Will Learn During The Tattoo Apprenticeship:

Personal Safety, How To Prevent The Spread Of Infectious Diseases
Work Station Sanitation
Knowledge Needed To Pass Bloodborne Pathogen Test
Knowledge And Skills Needed To Pass Local Licensing Requirements
Drawing Like A Tattoo Artist: Creating Designs That Can Become Beautiful Tattoos That Last A Lifetime
Color Theory
Professional Business Skills: Customer Service And Client Follow Up
Professional Marketing Skills: How To Market Yourself As A Tattoo Artist And How To Command Top Dollar For Your Work
How To Build A Tattoo Portfolio, Both Physical And Digital
Current Trends In Tattooing
Machine Control
Machine Matainence
How To Tattoo: Create Impeccable Line Work And Shading On Tattoos That Heal Perfectly
Tattoo Composition And Image Compositing Strategies
How To Use Modern Technology To Create And Implement Tattoos
Tattoos Meanings And The History Of Tattooing
Shop Management
The Business Of Running A Profitable Tattoo Studio

Why Do People Get Tattoos?

People Getting Tattooed

Now that you are clear on “what” is a tattoo apprenticeship let’s dive into tattoo meanings and why people get tattooed.

Tattoo Artists and tattoo studio owners point to many reasons their clients come in for tattoos. Therefore, listening to customers and understanding their ideas are crucial for Tattoo Artists.

Everyone who wants to become a Tattoo Artist should be aware of this. The apprentices in the tattoo schools learn how to make tattoos according to the client’s visions. Tattoo Artists should learn clients’ reasons and motivations, especially when it comes to creating long-term and loyal clients.

Why Do People Use Tattoos As A Form Of Self-Expression?

A tattoo is a permanent piece of body art, so the meaning behind it will stay with the person for the rest of their life. This is why so many people choose to get tattooed in order to express their thoughts and feelings, to commemorate certain events in their lives, and to give their loved ones a way to connect with them for the rest of eternity. We’ll get to tattoo meanings, yet first, let’s look at the common reasons why people get tattooed.

Some Of The Most Common Reasons And Motivations For Getting A Tattoo:

Personal History – Firstly: motivations. These often come from people’s personal beliefs. It includes something that is very close to them, which they have chosen to get tattooed to show the importance of it in their life. Examples: someone’s zodiac sign, pet’s name, favorite flower, or a symbol of an important life event like the birth of a child, getting a record deal, or some form of significant achievement.
Inspirations from social media and pop culture – Secondly, some people who want to get a tattoo are inspired by what they see online. Instagram or Pinterest are often sources of tattoo ideas. Examples: watercolor tattoos, tiny tattoos, and pet paws.
Idolizing someone – Thirdly, some tattoo studio clients have been motivated to get a tattoo of someone they are very fond of, or they think of as their idol. This includes their favorite writer, a rock star, or a film star. Examples: Marilyn Monroe portraits tattoos, the Rolling Stones logo tattoos, etc.
Individuality – Also, Tattoo Artists’ clients often say that getting a tattoo makes them feel unique, as it is something different for them, something that is their very own. It impacts how others see them and how they see themselves.
Spiritual belief – Some people believe tattoos can be their lucky charms and that tattoos can have positive effects on their good luck and positive energy, for example, a four-leaved clover or praying hands.
Showcasing the body – Some clients feel that tattoos make them more attractive. People who invest a lot of time in their physical fitness and physical appearance often feel like tattoos take their visual appeal to themselves and others to the next level. Examples include full sleeves for bodybuilders or under-bikini tattoos.
In the memory of someone – Tattoo Artists have done lots of tattoos in memory of deceased persons who were very close to their clients. Tattooed clients have said that this made them happy and that this made them feel that the person is always with them. Memorial tattoos could present many symbols that depict their feelings about the deceased person. Some examples include portraits, dates of loved ones’ birth and/or death, and/or their name.
In tribute – Finally, some tattoos are in honor of someone who is a hero to the wearer. Example: name of a person who rescued a family from a fire.

Do Tattoos Have To Have Meanings? Does A Tattoo Have To Mean Something?

People often ask Tattoo Artists for advice and for their opinion. It is a part of their job but the choice of a tattoo, in the end, is always the client’s responsibility. Reasons to get tattoos are infinite, but many hold the belief that tattoos should have meaning. But is this true? Do tattoos need to have a deep meaning?

Short answer: “No” and no one has to explain his or her body art or reasoning behind their ideas. Tattoos are special and unique to every client and custom-made to their taste. However, if you want to go to a Tattoo School and become a Tattoo Artist, you need to know the most common tattoo patterns and their meanings.

The Most Known Meaningful Tattoo Ideas:

Butterfly Tattoos – Butterflies usually symbolize transformation and growth. It’s a whimsical design with a sense of fantasy and freedom because of the insect’s colorful wings. It could symbolize maturity and new beginnings as well.
Semicolon Tattoo – It has evolved into a very important symbol over the years. Because Project Semicolon launched in 2013, the punctuation mark is now a sign of solidarity for those dealing with mental illness and support for individuals who have lost a loved one because of suicide. It’s also a symbol of encouragement for those going through depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
Lotus Flower Tattoo – It is a perfect flower to flaunt as a message to yourself to “rise above your struggles.” It’s a perfect tattoo idea for people who just experienced something really painful or difficult in their life, and it will serve as a reminder that they have overcome those challenging tough times.
Dragonfly Tattoo – The spiritual meaning of dragonflies is the light of God. It also means looking within and dancing – just like a dragonfly. To a warrior and fighter, a dragonfly tattoo represents agility, power, speed, victory, and courage. It also symbolizes rebirth, immortality, transformation, adaptation, and spiritual awakening.
Rose Tattoos – It means love won or lost has been popular throughout the ages as a symbol of the highest level of passion. Beauty is in balance with emotion with this flower, and no other can replicate its beauty and historical significance. The color of a flower’s flakes can affect the meaning and expression of the tattoo.
Growling Wolf Tattoo – This symbol is the perfect defense against threats and a reminder that wolves will do anything to protect themselves and their loved ones, honorable and strong protection against bad that is significant for many.
Swallow Birds Tattoo – Many sailors tattoo the swallows because they believe that swallows will provide them with protection that will ensure their safety while they are on the sea. Many people who travel a lot, use their swallow tattoos to seek protection and safety while they are on the road.
The Ampersand Tattoo – This symbol, also commonly referred to as the “and” symbol, is a simplistic design that can signify a great many things. Traditionally the ampersand tattoo meaning can be interpreted as representing union, togetherness, marriage, friendship, or an attachment to a person, place, or concept.
Infinity Tattoo – An infinity sign can represent unlimited possibilities, everlasting love, and an unbreakable bond. It could represent the soul that lives forever.
Eagle Tattoo – The huge majestic bird, flying high in the sky, is a symbol for many people of freedom. An eagle tattoo can represent the need to be safe and secure in their adventures through life. For so many countries, the eagle symbolizes the final reach and attainment of freedom through sacrifice.
Spider Tattoo – It can represent wisdom, fertility, harmony, and balance. Spiders in nature create a variety of unique and beautiful webs to capture their food.
Snake Tattoo – It symbolizes the changing seasons of life and the cyclical nature of the universe. Historically and across cultures, serpents represent fertility and a creative life force. Since they shed their skins, they are apt symbols of transformation, rebirth, healing, and immortality.
Globe Tattoo – A tattoo of the world as a globe, or as a map is a very popular tattoo amongst travelers. World tattoos show that you are interested in traveling and seeing what the world has to offer.
Dandelion Tattoo – It can represent resilience and rebirth. Whether they’re a golden yellow or a fluffy white, dandelions are undoubtedly a flower rich in symbolism. Some represent purity and innocence, recalling our childhood memories, and others symbolize the desire to move on from the past.
Lion Tattoo – It usually symbolizes strength, bravery, courage, and fearlessness. Whether rendered realistically or stylized, the lion represents strength, courage, fearlessness, and wisdom. Many cultures feature lions in their texts, both sacred and secular, and carvings and paintings of them can be seen all over the world.
Sun and Moon Tattoo – This kind of tattoo is a representation of two opposing powers – life & death, good & bad, femininity & masculinity. Just like Jin and Jang.
Feather Tattoo – The feather represents freedom, trust, honor, and strength, among other things. Owl’s feathers represent wisdom and knowledge.

Understanding tattoo meanings and why people get tattoos is very important for future Tattoo Artists. Of course, this does not make you a Tattoo Artist. Gaining this knowledge is just part of your journey to becoming a Tattoo Artist.

Get An Apprenticeship – Ink Different Tattoo School’s Tattoo School & Tattoo Apprenticeship Program

To learn everything you need to know to become a Tattoo Artist, you can apply for Ink Different Tattoo School’s Tattoo School and Tattoo Apprenticeship Program. Once you complete your apprenticeship at Ink Different Tattoo School, you’ll receive a Guaranteed Job Offer to start your career in one of our studios.

Why People In Different Industries Are Making A Career Switch To Tattoo Artist

Tattooing is a booming industry in the US. Therefore, the art of tattooing has gained immense popularity across various industries. Subsequently, it has led professionals from diverse backgrounds to make a career switch and pursue their passion as tattoo artists. With tattooing being recognized as a form of self-expression and artistic creativity, individuals from several fields are embracing the freedom that comes with becoming a tattoo artist. Finally, the growing demand for tattoos, coupled with the ability to earn a living, has made this profession highly appealing to professionals seeking a change.

As the tattoo industry continues to thrive, with an estimated worth of $1.4 billion, the opportunities for tattoo artists are only expected to increase. So, if you are inspired to embark on this journey, contact us at Ink Different Tattoo School to explore the possibilities and secure an apprenticeship opportunity that aligns with your aspirations.

Butterfly Tattoos – Butterflies usually symbolize transformation and growth. It’s a whimsical design with a sense of fantasy and freedom because of the insect’s colorful wings. It could symbolize maturity and new beginnings as well.

Growling Wolf Tattoo – This symbol is the perfect defense against threats and a reminder that wolves will do anything to protect themselves and their loved ones, honorable and strong protection against bad that is significant for many.

Swallow Birds Tattoo – Many sailors tattoo the swallows because they believe that swallows will provide them with protection that will ensure their safety while they are on the sea. Many people who travel a lot, use their swallow tattoos to seek protection and safety while they are on the road.

Infinity Tattoo – An infinity sign can represent unlimited possibilities, everlasting love, and an unbreakable bond. It could represent the soul that lives forever.

Spider Tattoo – It can represent wisdom, fertility, harmony, and balance. Spiders in nature create a variety of unique and beautiful webs to capture their food.

Snake Tattoo – It symbolizes the changing seasons of life and the cyclical nature of the universe. Historically and across cultures, serpents represent fertility and a creative life force. Since they shed their skins, they are apt symbols of transformation, rebirth, healing, and immortality.

Globe Tattoo – A tattoo of the world as a globe, or as a map is a very popular tattoo amongst travelers. World tattoos show that you are interested in traveling and seeing what the world has to offer.

Dandelion Tattoo – It can represent resilience and rebirth. Whether they’re a golden yellow or a fluffy white, dandelions are undoubtedly a flower rich in symbolism. Some represent purity and innocence, recalling our childhood memories, and others symbolize the desire to move on from the past.

Sun and Moon Tattoo – This kind of tattoo is a representation of two opposing powers – life & death, good & bad, femininity & masculinity. Just like Jin and Jang.

Feather Tattoo – The feather represents freedom, trust, honor, and strength, among other things. Owl’s feathers represent wisdom and knowledge.