Tattooing is a blend of creativity and precision. As experts at Vlad Blad, we’ve helped countless artists go from first strokes to full-time professionals. The right tools, habits, and mindset make all the difference. This guide covers what you really need to know to start strong — and stay safe.

Contents

1. Essential Workspace Preparation

A clean, organized setup isn’t optional — it’s essential. Disinfect your space, use gloves, barrier wraps, and single-use materials. Practice setting up your station with the same focus you'd have for a real session.

Vlad Blad machines are built with hygiene in mind — smooth surfaces, sealed motors, and easy-to-wrap frames for safer sessions.

2. Choosing Your First Tattoo Machine

Your first machine should be reliable, ergonomic, and beginner-friendly. Avoid cheap knockoffs — they’ll slow your progress and hurt your confidence.

Custom Avenger 3 Pro Custom Avenger 3 Pro
Avenger 2 Pro Series Avenger 2 Pro Series
Avenger 3 Pro Series Avenger 3 Pro Series
Custom Avenger 2 Pro Custom Avenger 2 Pro
  • Go for rotary or pen-style machines — less tuning, easier to control.
  • Vlad Blad Ultron Pen and Avenger 2 offer smooth performance, low vibration, and versatility — perfect for beginners learning linework, shading, and color packing.
Ultron Pen Ultron Pen
Ultron 2 Series Ultron 2 Series
Ultron 3 Series Ultron 3 Series
Custom Ultron 2 Custom Ultron 2
Custom Ultron 3 Custom Ultron 3

3. Practice with Purpose

Use fake skin, fruit, or practice pads to build muscle memory. Focus on steady hand movement, consistent depth, and pressure control. Don’t rush to tattoo real skin until you’ve nailed the basics.

Let the machine work — your hand should guide, not force.

4. Core Tattooing Techniques

  • Lining: Clean, confident lines require grip control and proper angle (45–60°).
  • Shading: Soft, layered motions work better than forceful packing.
  • Color packing: Use slow, overlapping passes for solid saturation.
Vlad Blad machines are known for consistent stroke and control — ideal when you're still building skill.

5. Safety and Hygiene

Tattooing breaks the skin barrier — and poor hygiene leads to infections or worse.

  • Always use fresh needles, covers, and gloves.
  • Sterilize surfaces before and after every session.
  • Educate yourself on cross-contamination and client consent.
A clean setup earns respect. A careless one kills trust.

6. Tattoo Aftercare

Good tattoos can heal badly without the right aftercare. Teach your clients:

  • Gently wash the tattoo, apply thin layers of ointment, and avoid soaking or sun.
  • Don’t scratch or peel.
  • Use breathable film, not plastic wrap.
Offer written or digital aftercare instructions to look professional and protect your results.

7. Branding and Marketing

Even as a beginner, you should be building your presence.

  • Post clean photos on Instagram or TikTok.
  • Share sketches, process shots, and healed work.
  • Be consistent and professional in your responses and presentation.
People don’t just follow art — they follow you.

8. Building a Solid Portfolio

You don’t need 100 tattoos — just a strong, clean selection of your best work.

  • Include clear, well-lit shots of fresh and healed pieces.
  • Organize by style or technique.
  • Add original sketches or flash designs to show your eye for composition.
A strong portfolio can open studio doors — even for newcomers.

9. Continuous Growth

Learning never stops. Seek feedback. Watch tutorials. Attend seminars. Ask questions. Surround yourself with artists who push you forward.

  • Track your progress with photos.
  • Practice with purpose — each session should focus on improving one thing.
Vlad Blad machines are built to grow with you — from first lines to fine detail.

Conclusion

Tattooing is a journey — and you're just getting started. With patience, safe practices, and the right tools, your potential has no ceiling. At Vlad Blad, we’re here to support every step — because great art deserves great tools.