Tattoo Books:
Must Reads for Tattoo Artists
Introduction
Tattoo Books are not only a great source for creating new tattoo ideas but also serve as guides for the beginners and inspirations for the professionals
In a world where tattooing is not considered an academic part of art education, tattoo books are a great source for learning this unique art form. In the realm of body art, tattooing stands as one of the most promising and expressive modes of creativity. It is the art of ink, where an artist manifests the idea and expression of another person onto their body using advanced tattoo machines and tattoo guns. Perhaps tattooing is one of the few arts where the artist’s canvas or medium is the skin of a living being.
Unfortunately, in many countries like Korea, Japan, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and several other regions, tattooing is still not encouraged. There is little to no evidence of tattooing being treated as a proper branch of art that could be learned academically at a degree level. In such a scenario, private tattoo schools, tattoo studios, experienced tattoo artists, and their professional experience, along with tattoo books and tutorials, are the primary means of learning this art.
There are various categories of tattoo books, including tattoo archives, chronicles, manuals, and guides related to tattoo history, origins, and cultures. Others focus on tattoo protocols, tattoo design ideas, or technical aspects such as tattoo needles, tattoo kits, tattoo supplies, and tattoo machines.
List of Must Read Tattoo Books
The Tattoo Textbook: Escape the Grind, Do What You Love, and Launch Your Kick-Ass Tattoo Career
Author & Illustrator: Shelly Dax
Goodreads = 4.2 / 5
Among the recommended books for beginner tattoo artists, this particular book ranks first in our list of essential tattoo books. It is a true textbook for any tattoo curriculum. Originally published in October 2019 by Garden of Ink, the author and illustrator Shelly Dax an experienced tattoo artist who runs her own tattoo school in Oregon, offers a practical approach for learners. She has also written another book titled How to Do Watercolor Tattoos: Painterly Techniques for Tattoo Artists.
This book is a perfect guide for those who want to start their journey in tattooing. Step by step, it is a complete textual and visual training book covering essential topics like sanitation, safety, techniques, tips, and craft skills. It helps artists understand how to make art for a living while using modern tattoo machines, tattoo inks, and proper tattoo supplies.
Published: 2019
Publisher: Garden of Ink
ISBN: 9781734185201
Pages: 238
Language: English
So what you going to read in this book
Table of Contents
This book includes twelve chapters, each covering different topics:
Introduction: So, You Want to Be a Tattoo Artist?
- What’s at Risk?
- Safety & Infection
- Skin
- Equipment & Supplies
- Machines & Needles
- Art & Design Fundamentals
- Color Theory
- Tattoo Ink
- Tattoo Technique
- Client Services
- Business & Marketing
- Conclusion
Basic Fundamentals of Modern Tattoo
Author: C.R Jordan
Goodreads = 4.25 / 5
This book is an excellent source of step-by-step guidance for beginner tattoo artists, making it one of the best among our list of highly recommended tattoo books. It explains basic and technical fundamentals of tattooing, including making a DIY tattoo machine, handling cartridges, needles, inks, and batteries, and maintaining hygiene and sanitation.
It also covers key tattoo techniques like lining, shading, and color selection. The innovative part is access to the interactive website TeachMeToTattoo.com, where readers can ask questions about tattoo processes, tattoo supplies, and tattoo equipment.
The author, C.R. Jordan, explained that while the book serves as a manual for artists wanting to enter the field, professional training under an expert tattooist remains essential. A comprehensive apprenticeship helps refine your craft before starting a professional career.
Published: 2009
Published: Tattoo Books Online LLC
ISBN: 9780615281476 (ISBN10: 0615281478)
Pages: 240
Language: English
The World Atlas of Tattoo
Author: Anna Felicity Friedman; Foreword: James Elkins; Contributors: Lars Krutak, Matt Lodder, Nick Schonberger, Sébastien Galliot, Ole Wittmann
Goodreads = 4.16 / 5
Another remarkable title is This Might Sting a Bit: Everything Your Tattoo Artist Forgot to Tell You & You Were Too Afraid to Ask by Anna Felicity Friedman, a researcher and teacher at the University of Chicago. This book provides readers with a deep understanding of tattoo art in the context of global geography. Divided into seven parts, it explores tattoo culture and the history of tattoos around the world.
Artists wanting to understand traditions and the evolution of tattoo designs will find this book invaluable. With more than 700 illustrations and works by 100 celebrity tattoo artists, it’s a comprehensive exploration of tattoo ideas, multiethnic symbolism, and hybrid design inspiration.
So what you going to read in this book
Introduction • Europe • North America • Central and South America • East, South, Central and Southeast Asia • Pacific Islands and Australia • Sub-Saharan Africa • Middle East and North Africa
Published: 2015
Publisher: Yale University Press
ISBN: 9780300210484 (ISBN10: 0300210485)
Pages: 400
Language: English
Japanese Tattoos: Meanings, Shapes and Motifs
Author: Yori Moriarty
Goodreads = 4.25 / 5
Besides a dark history regarding tattooing, the Japanese-style tattoo has become increasingly popular. Even today, tattooing carries a mixed reputation in Japanese culture due to its association with Yakuza criminal groups whose members tattooed their bodies to mark identity. Historically, tattoos were also used as punishment, with each design reflecting the nature of a crime.
This book provides a deep insight into Japanese tattoo culture, tracing the evolution from Yakuza to Irezumi, showcasing the cultural acceptance of tattooing as body art. It presents traditional and historical Japanese tattoo designs and motifs such as dragons, phoenixes, koi fish, tigers, and Buddhist symbol elements, often recreated using dynamic tattoo ink and rotary tattoo machines today.
Written by Yori Moriarty, a professional tattoo artist who owns Only Tat2 Studio in Spain, the book illustrates mythological, floral, and folkloric tattoo elements that continue to inspire modern tattoo artists.
So what you going to read in this book
A short history of Japanese tattoo art; Water; Mythological animals: Phoenix. Kirin. Orochi. Dragon / Ryu. Lion / Shishi; Real animals: Hawk / Taka. Carp / Koi. Goldfish / Kingyo. Raccoon dog / Tanuki. Tiger / Tora. Catfish / Namazu. Fox / Kitsune; Characters from mythology and folklore: Daruma. Enma-o. Fudo Myo-o. Fujin and Raijin. Hannya. Hyottoko and Okame. Kintaro. The Seven Lucky Gods. Nio. Oni and Shoki, the Demon Queller. Tamatori-hime. Tengu. Tennin; Historical characters: Benkei. Bokuko. Chojun. Cho-o. Chosei. Dankeiju. Ensei. Genshogo. Hakusho. Rishun. Rochishin. Setsuei. Shishin. Shuki. Sosei. Toko. Jiraiya; Flowers; Shunga; Yokai; Protective amulets and talismans: Hoshu. Takarazukushi; Epilogue; Gallery of original designs; Glossary
Published: 2018
Publisher: Promopress
ISBN: 9788416851966 (ISBN10: 8416851964)
Pages: 240
Language:English
The Tattoo Dictionary
Author: Trent Aitken-Smith ; Illustrator: Ashley Tyson
Goodreads = 3.7 / 5
Another valuable resource is a tattoo dictionary, which serves as a database of popular tattoo symbols and meanings. It tells the story behind more than 200 tattoo types, their history, and significance, perfect for beginner tattoo artists wanting to learn tattoo vocabulary or for enthusiasts planning new tattoo ideas.
Written by Trent Aitken-Smith and illustrated by Ashley Tyson, this sourcebook includes over 2,000 tattoo designs, from traditional tattoos and tribal art to modern realism tattoos. It’s a visual archive that highlights the craftsmanship of renowned tattoo artists like Friday Jones, Guy Aitchison, and Spider Webb.
Published: 2016
Published: Mitchell Beazley
ISBN: 9781784722548 (ISBN10: 1784722545)
Pages: 257
Language: English
Tattoo Sourcebook
Compile by : TattooFinder.com
Goodreads = 3.79 / 5
This is a sourcebook encompassing more than two thousands tattoo designs ranging from classical, historical, traditional, mythical, contemporary, lettering, symbols, tribal, aesthetic and modern. It is a high quality visual treat for its readers and tattoo enthusiasts. It is an across the board learning and inspiration for both beginners and professional tattoo artists. The book archives the tattoo designs of various tattoo artists from all around the world including some American and non-American tattoo artists like Friday Jones (who tattooed Penelope Cruz, Queens of the Stone Age, Angelina Jolie and Robbie Williams), Guy Aitchison, Joseph Patrick O’Sullivan famously known as Spider Webb, Furmanov from Kazakhstan, Edge from Croatia, Hudson Assis from Brazil.
The book is organized into 32 thematic sections, making it easy for readers to explore the history and symbolism of specific styles or motifs that interest them. Each section of the book features high-quality images of tattoos, providing inspiration and ideas for those considering getting inked. With its huge collections of designs, you can consider it as an archive or log of tattoo ideas. This book has total 4 editions all are in English.
Published: 2008
Publisher: Harper Collins
ISBN: 9780007289943 (ISBN10: 0007289944)
Pages: 520
Language: English
Tattoo Lettering Bible
Compiled by: Superior Tattoo
Goodreads = 4.25 / 5
The Tattoo Lettering Bible focuses on the science and style behind tattoo lettering, exploring fonts, colors, and artistic detail. It showcases both classic and modern fonts through detailed visuals, helping artists master text tattoos and creative tattoo designs.
Published: 2014
Publisher: Wolfgang Publications
ISBN: 9781935828921 (ISBN10: 1935828924)
Pages: 128
Language: English
Vintage Tattoos: The Book of Old-School Skin Art
Author: Carol Clerk
Goodreads = 3.86 / 5
Other related titles from Superior Tattoo include Superior Tattoo Bible (Series), Into the Skin: The Ultimate Tattoo Sourcebook, and Tattoo Designs: Butterflies and Roses. These books also profile iconic artists such as Sailor Jerry Collins, Don Ed Hardy, and Horiyoshi III, providing insights into traditional tattoo machines, ink techniques, and tattoo styles.
So what you going to read in this book
The greatest show on Earth • Nautical & patriotic traditions • Girls hearts & banners • The good, the bad & the superstitious • The natural world • The decline of a golden era • The vintage revival.
Published: 2009
Publisher: Universe
ISBN: 9780789318244 (ISBN10: 0789318245)
Pages: 256
Language: English
The Tattoo Chronicles
Author: Kat Von D
Goodreads = 3.91 / 5
Kat Von D’s High Voltage Tattoo unveils the personal and professional journey of one of the world’s most celebrated tattoo artists. The book includes sketches, drawings, and final tattoo images that demonstrate her use of premium tattoo equipment, tattoo inks, and unique tattoo supplies. Her diary-style reflections offer inspiration for aspiring artists learning to combine technical skill with emotional storytelling through tattoos.
Published: 2010
Publisher: Collins Design
ISBN: 9780061953361 (ISBN10: 0061953369)
pages: 239
Language: English
Conclusions
In the absence of a formal tattooing degree program, tattoo books remain a valuable source of learning for both beginners and professionals. For aspiring tattoo artists, these resources provide technical knowledge, tattoo ideas, and creative inspiration, but they should be complemented by hands-on training using professional tattoo machines, tattoo guns, tattoo kits, and proper tattoo cream for skin regeneration and aftercare.
Professional training under expert supervision from a private tattoo school or tattoo studio is essential. Reading high-quality tattoo materials and practicing with authentic tattoo supplies go hand in hand to build a successful career in the tattoo industry.
Top 20 FAQs for “Tattoo Books: Must-Read Guide for Every Tattoo Artist”
- Why are tattoo books important for tattoo artists?
Tattoo books help artists learn design techniques, hygiene practices, and equipment use essential for mastering tattoo machines, inks, and needles. - What is the best tattoo book for beginners?
Tattooing A to Z by Huck Spaulding is one of the best for beginners, covering tattoo machines, ink application, and hygiene fundamentals. - Can you learn tattooing just by reading books?
Tattoo books teach the theory, but practical training with tattoo guns, inks, and human skin is necessary to become a professional artist. - What tattoo machine should I start with?
Beginners should start with a rotary tattoo machine because it’s light, quiet, and easy to use with tattoo cartridges and dynamic ink. - What are the most recommended tattoo supplies for new artists?
A complete tattoo starter kit with a machine, needles, grips, inks, and tattoo cream helps beginners start safely and confidently. - What are the key topics covered in tattoo books?
Tattoo books cover skin structure, pigment penetration, scarring, design fundamentals, color theory, tattoo machine handling, and business tips. - What’s the difference between rotary and coil tattoo machines?
Rotary machines use a motor for smooth operation, while coil machines rely on electromagnetic coils for power and traditional control. - How do tattoo artists prevent infection while tattooing?
Using sterilized tattoo needles, cleaning equipment, and applying aftercare tattoo creams helps prevent infection and ensures safe tattooing. - What are the signs of an infected tattoo?
Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, and pus discharge. Using quality tattoo inks and aftercare products minimizes the risk. - What tattoo ink is best for blackwork tattoos?
Dynamic Ink and Solid Black are top choices for bold, long-lasting blackwork tattoos with deep pigment penetration. - Are there tattoo books about traditional tattoo styles?
Yes, many tattoo books cover traditional and tribal tattoo art, showing the history, symbolism, and design process used by professionals. - Which tattoo books focus on Japanese tattoo art?
Books like Bushido Tattoo and Japanese Tattoo Art: Irezumi explore Japanese motifs such as dragons, koi fish, and mythological figures. - What are tattoo cartridges, and why are they used?
Tattoo cartridges combine needles and tips in a single disposable unit, improving safety, hygiene, and efficiency during tattooing. - How can I improve my tattoo lettering skills?
Books like Tattoo Lettering Bible help artists master font styles, line precision, and script designs for text-based tattoos. - What are the best realism tattoo resources?
Realism tattoo guides teach shading, color depth, and skin tone blending techniques using high-quality pigment inks and rotary machines. - How do tattoo pigments interact with skin tissue?
Tattoo pigments are inserted into the dermis layer, where they bond with skin cells and remain visible through the epidermis. - What’s the role of tattoo cream in healing?
Tattoo creams aid in skin regeneration, reduce irritation, and prevent scarring essential after every tattoo session. - Are there eco-friendly tattoo supplies available?
Yes, brands like TA2Gun focus on sustainable, premium tattoo products made for safe use and environmental responsibility. - How can tattoo artists stay updated with new techniques?
By reading the latest tattoo books, joining tattoo conventions, and using innovative tools like rotary machines and tattoo sprays. - When is the next tattoo convention in 2025?
Several tattoo conventions in 2025 will showcase new tattoo guns, inks, and sustainable supplies from brands like TA2Gun.