Many tattoo artists experience imposter syndrome, doubting their skills and wondering if others will notice their flaws.

Self-doubt in tattooing can creep in whether you are an apprentice, taking on your first full back piece, a few years in and worrying about healed results or scrolling through Instagram comparing your work to other artists with thousands of likes.

Tattooing is high stakes! Every tattoo is permanent and personal, and your name is tied to it forever. Clients expect your best tattoos. You expect your best work. That pressure can push you forward or make you question everything.

What Imposter Syndrome Looks Like in Tattooing

Even experienced tattoo artists face self-doubt. Common signs include:

  • Doubting yourself before every tattoo: even when you have created incredible art so many times!
  • Downplaying your skills: calling a great sleeve "good skin" or crediting the client's cooperation rather than your technique.
  • Turning down big opportunities: not showing up for guest spots, conventions or competitions because you feel unready.
  • Comparing yourself online: believing everyone else's tattoos are cleaner, brighter or sharper.
  • Avoiding healed check-ins: worrying your work did not hold perfectly.

Liverpool-based blackwork artist Simon Mora says, "When you care deeply about your work you tend to focus on what could have been better and ignore what you did well. The key is to remember that everyone has a place in the art world; you’ve worked hard to end up where you are. You do belong, no matter what the internal voices say". Simon has over ten years of experience under his belt: you are not alone!

Why Self-Doubt Is Not Always a Bad Sign for Tattoo Artists

A bit of doubt can keep you sharp! It drives you to aim for better linework, smoother blends and cleaner colour packing. Some of the best tattoo artists in the world feel imposter syndrome but they do not let it stop them.

Erin Larkin, a talented tattoo artist hailing from Glastonbury with an Art Nouveau style, shares a deeper perspective: "Imposter Syndrome is inevitable. As an Artist, a Creative, and Tattoo Artist this is something we all will experience. But how we look at it is under our control. Remember that you're doing what you do for a reason. Regardless of how you feel, you matter. Your work matters and positivity impacts so many people, which is a huge blessing to bring you out of your imposter headspace. Imposter syndrome makes us stronger. In times of anxiety, doubt, and stress, accept it and face it. Do not turn away. The fact you keep going proves you're strong to not let these thoughts affect your focus. Breathe. Take a pause. Have something that makes you feel calm if it does get too much. Even write down how you feel. Then get back to doing what you do best. You got this."

Tattoo Artist Confidence Tips

Look at Your Old Work

Pull up tattoos from when you started and compare them to your current work - seeing your progress over time is a huge confidence boost for tattoo apprentices and experienced artists alike.

Pay Attention to Healed Tattoos

Fresh tattoos might look great in photos but healed results are the real measure of your skill. Following up with clients will show you just how strong your tattooing really is!

Talk to Other Tattoo Artists

Sharing experiences with peers helps you realize that other tattoo artists feel the same doubts. Knowing others face imposter syndrome too can be liberating.

Cut Back on Toxic Comparisons

Follow only artists who inspire you! Social media shows the highlights not the full story so do not let comparison hold you back.

Keep Learning Without Hiding Behind It

Training is important but do not let "I just need to learn more first" stop you from taking on new tattooing challenges. You learn most by doing.

You Belong Here: Managing Imposter Syndrome as a Tattoo Artist

Imposter syndrome will show up from time to time. The key is not letting it take over.

Keep pushing. Keep creating. Your art leaves a mark that goes far beyond skin!