Tattooing is a job for many. For much less of those, tattooing is an art, a passion, a way of life. The great artists will tell you that just because someone has a tattoo gun and a folder full of flash, does not mean you should trust them with the job of permanently marking your body. Beyond the need of being a great artist, tattooers must be aware of (and follow) safe practices in order to prevent the transfer of blood borne pathogens and related diseases. The best and most traditional way of learning anything is to be taught by the real deal, by the best. Win the respect of a great tattoo artist, follow their instruction, draw, draw, draw, and draw some more, and in time, you too can become skilled in this trade. Apprenticeships can be a bit costly, do not generate money, are time consuming, and often invovle menial tasks beyond tattooing. It's the bottom of the totem pole, but it's the best place to start to win the respect of fellow tattooers and to become a legitimate artist yourself. Be prepared to work hard, be determined, and you will make it.