Like any other business, running a tattoo shop or a tattoo parlour isn't easy. It is a very competitive industry to be in. To become successful in this industry, one must have passion, perseverance, and determination. But the main factor that will impact a tattoo business is its tattoo artists. 

Being a successful tattoo artist does not happen overnight, heck it doesn't even happen in a year! Skills should not only be learned but mastered. Artists should also familiarise themselves with the equipment, and other tools to be used before, during, and after the tattoo process.  

Here are 5 traits a tattoo artist should have to excel in this field. 

1. Artistic Ability 

Even if you're not a natural-born artist, certain skills, techniques and styles can be practised and mastered to improve your existing abilities. People who love tattooing and have passion for the art are most likely to succeed in this field. Like a painter with a canvas and paintbrush, a tattoo artist has a tattoo machine and the client's skin.

2. Attention To Detail 

This skill is one of the most important things a tattoo artist needs to master. Artists should learn to keep an eye on even the most minor details when working. Listen carefully to what your client wants and keep in mind all their requests.

3. Curiosity 

Nothing is constant except change, this is also applicable to the tattoo industry. New tools and techniques are developed year after year. Keeping up with new techniques, trends, and new tools is important to survive in the industry. This is where curiosity helps big time. Just because an artist knows a lot, doesn't mean they need to stop learning and finding out new things. Artists should be curious, read magazines, attend trade shows, learn other countries' tattoo culture, and speak with other experts. This will not only keep them up to date, this will also help them become a better artist than they were before. 

4. Work Ethic 

Every professional needs to follow proper work ethics, yes even tattoo artists. This will definitely help them earn respect in the industry. People will see them as someone who's reliable, trustworthy, and efficient in their craft.

5. Adaptability 

The road to becoming a successful tattoo artist requires being able to adapt to your environment. Tattoo artists should have the ability to work with all kinds of people.  Clients and other tattoo artists or tattoo owners will have different opinions, and ideas. You need to be able to relate to them, and communicate with them in a professional manner.  

As I have mentioned earlier, a lot of changes happen day after day. New tools and equipment are introduced by different manufacturers. Different inks are being developed, and trends change from time to time. As a tattoo artist, you have to be able to adapt to these changes or else you'll get left behind. 

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