Image of career: Tattoo Artist

Tattoo Artist

Overview

Tattoo artists design and apply permanent ink onto skin, transforming ideas into beautiful body art.

Description

  • Discuss with clients their design expectations and tattoo placement.
  • Design custom artwork from scratch or adapt existing reference images according to client preferences.
  • Set up sterile equipment, prepare client's skin, and carefully apply the tattoo using a tattoo machine.
  • Clearly explain aftercare instructions to clients.
  • Maintain a clean and sterile studio and equipment after every client session. 

Entry requirements

  • No formal qualifications are required.
  • A strong and original portfolio is key to landing an apprenticeship. 

Salary

$3,000 – 9,000

/mo

Salary ranges are estimated based on public information found on Singaporean job portals, including MyCareersFuture, MySkillsFuture. Updated as of 2026.

Trivia

A Nepalese pioneer nicknamed "Johnny Two Thumbs" was one of Singapore's first tattoo artists, spending the 1950s tattooing sailors at his Bras Basah Road shop. The studio that bears his name still operates to this day.

What to expect

Singapore has no licensing or regulatory requirements for tattoo artists. Without qualification needs, most people in the trade learn through an apprenticeship rather than a course.

Soft
skills

Client Communication

Able to understand a client’s vision and clearly communicate to manage their expectations.

Patience and Endurance

Capable of working for long periods and repeating intricate work without losing focus or compromising on quality.

Composure

Ability to remain calm for hours while working in close proximity with a client.

Tattoo Technique

Able to operate a tattoo machine with precision, steadiness, and consistency.

Design and Illustration

Able to draw and adapt custom designs according to the different body types or parts.

Sterilisation and Hygiene

Familiar with setting up and maintaining a clean and sterile workstation.

Hard
skills

Frequently asked questions

While there is no licence or regulation for tattoo artists in Singapore, reputable studios still follow hygiene standards set by the National Environment Agency.

Your course of study is not important. Studios will look at how you draw, the consistency of your linework, and whether your style suits their shop. Being self-taught is not a barrier if your artwork and skill holds up.

Usually 1-3 years, depending on the studio and how quickly you pick up the skills needed.

Earnings vary significantly. Most tattoo artists are paid per piece or on a commission split with the studio. You might be lowly paid during your training phase.

Many tattoo artists may hold another job in the early stages, as apprenticeships are usually unpaid or give a low salary. Over time, as they build a steady clientele, tattooing might become their full-time career.