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ONLINE TATTOO TRAINING

Online Tattoo Course

Learn online. Choose Full Course or flexible Pay As You Go.

  • Full Course: R14,000.00
  • Pay As You Go (Part 1): R1,540.00

Part 1 is not the full course. Pay for later parts only when you are ready—no subscription or commitment. Payment-method fees may be added at checkout; review the total before paying.

Full Course and Pay As You Go terms

Choose your course option

  • Full Course: R14,000.00
  • Pay As You Go (Part 1): R1,540.00

Pay As You Go is flexible: pay for each next part only when you are ready. There is no obligation to purchase subsequent parts, and choosing Part 1 does not commit you to later payments. Part 1 is not the full course and does not by itself qualify you for the full-course certificate. The Full Course option covers the full course. Choose your option using the selector above.

Price range: R1,540.00 through R14,000.00 incl. VAT

Tattoo practice on synthetic skin using a tattoo machine

Learn tattooing step by step with recorded lessons, practical exercises and support from the Skinart team. Explore the curriculum below, then choose the Full Course or start with Pay As You Go Part 1.

Course information and categories
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Build your skills through practice

You do not need to arrive as an accomplished artist. Tattooing involves technique, careful replication and consistent practice. Build your skills gradually as you work through design, equipment, linework, shading, hygiene and professional practice.

Video preview
Skinart instructor Gary

Meet your instructor

Gary teaches Skinart's tattoo, piercing and body art courses. Review the course curriculum and lesson examples to understand the training offered.

Your course questions, answered

Course International Accreditation
How long does the course take
How does the tutor service work
What are the pre-requisites
What is the lesson format
What payment options are available
Will this course help me get employment
How do I learn the practical skills
Training validation
CPD Standards Office accredited activity logo

 

Verify

CPD Accredited Course

Gain industry recognition with our CPD Accredited tattoo course. View the CPD Standards provider listing for Skinart Trading and its recognised training activities. Course recognition does not replace local permission to practise.

BAQA logo

 

Verify

Course recognition and registration

Review BAQA’s information about course recognition and ask through the Student Chat Portal about any registration requirements before enrolling. Course completion does not by itself establish professional registration or permission to practise.

Earn your certification and start your career with confidence.

Practise on synthetic skin

Follow the recorded demonstrations and practise on synthetic skin as you develop control and confidence. This gives you a place to repeat exercises and review your progress before moving on. Practice skin is a learning tool; it does not replace the hygiene knowledge, training and local requirements involved in working with clients.

Roses, bird and feather tattoo exercises on synthetic skin
Moon and lettering tattoo exercises on synthetic skin
Skull and rose tattoo exercises on synthetic skin
Cherries, flowers and feather tattoo exercises on synthetic skin
Skull and bird tattoo exercises on synthetic skin
Lettering, flowers and feather tattoo practice on synthetic skin

Equipment for your practice

Optional tattoo equipment set in its carry case

(Optional Extra)

Need equipment? Explore the optional tattoo equipment set, or check the course requirements before choosing your own supplies. Equipment is a separate purchase unless your selected offer explicitly includes it.

More Info

Student work

Student work: shaded landscape tattoo on an arm
Student work: fine floral tattoo behind an ear
Student work: red chilli pepper tattoo
Student work: colourful grinning cat tattoo
Student work: watercolour bird tattoo
Student work: colourful sunflower tattoo
Student work: detailed tattoo on the side of a torso
Student work: shaded rose tattoos on a forearm
Student work: puzzle pieces and forest tattoo on a forearm
Student work: ornamental portrait tattoo on a forearm
Student work: rose and lettering tattoo
Student work: child portrait and lettering tattoo
Explore our studios and in-person training

OUR STUDIOS

Gateway Shopping Mall

Skinart Gateway studio entrance and interior

Established in 2024, this studio represents our continued growth and commitment to innovation in the industry.

Pavilion Shopping Center

Skinart Pavilion studio entrance and interior

Established in 2007, the Pavilion studio stands as a testament to our lasting presence and reputation.

uShaka Marine World

Skinart uShaka studio entrance

Explore the uShaka studio through the in-person training option. Confirm its current facilities and availability with the Skinart team before arranging a visit.

Explore the tattoo curriculum

  • Introduction to the Fundamentals of Tattooing
  • Files and Folders Provided
  • An Introduction to Tattoo Art
  • Using Themes
  • Different Art Styles
  • The 12 Most Popular Themes
  • Brief History of Tattoos (Parts 1 & 2)
  • Licensing Requirements
  • Town Planning
  • Running a Home Business
  • Health and Safety Regulations
  • Contact Your Health Department
  • About Licensing and Registration
  • Public Health Concerns, Including Covid-19
  • Designing Tattoos: Overview and Purpose
  • Microsoft Image Composer Setup and Usage
  • Creating and Simplifying Designs Quickly
  • Assignments on Tattoo Design (1, 2, 3)
  • Stencil / Trace Methods and Applications
  • Rules of Placement
  • Applying a Trace on Skin and Practice Materials
  • Introduction to Coil and Pen Machines
  • Building and Assembling Coil Machines
  • Coil Build Discussion, Tips, and Cartridge Conversion
  • Maintenance: Quick Tune, Test Run, and Wrapping
  • Linework and Technique
  • Packing Black, Black Work, Tribal and Mauri
  • Soft Shading: Black and Gray Tattoos
  • Color Tattoos: Traditional, Watercolor, and Realism
  • Special Techniques: Script, Font, Minimalist, and Fur Tattoos
  • Understanding the Human Skin and Needle Depth
  • Sterilization and Cross Contamination
  • Tattoo Aftercare Instructions
  • Workstation Cleanup
  • Photography and Social Media Skills for Tattoo Artists
  • Your First Practical on a Model
  • Final Words and Certification

Study at your own pace

Work through the recorded lessons, assignments and practice at a pace that suits you.

10+ hoursRecorded video training

No fixed deadlineTake the time you need to complete your course

Your starting point and how regularly you practise will shape your progress. Course access ends once the course is complete and your certificate has been issued. Support from the Skinart team continues for life.

Certificates

Example certificates are shown below. Select an image to view the available preview.

Example Skinart tattoo training certificate

Accredited Tattoo Certificate

Complete the course requirements to receive your Tattoo Training Certificate. The certificate records completion of the training; keep building your practical skills and portfolio as you progress.

Example Skinart bloodborne pathogen training certificate

Accredited BBP Certificate

You will also receive a Accredited Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) Certificate, ensuring you are trained in hygiene, safety, and infection control for the industry.

Preparing to work with clients

Before offering tattooing services, check the requirements for your intended premises and activity with your local municipality. Ask its environmental health team what approvals, inspections and hygiene requirements apply. Completing a training course does not by itself approve your premises or authorise you to practise.

Testimonials

Video preview
Video preview

How to enrol and get started

Choose the payment option that suits your budget. The Full Course and Pay As You Go options let you start differently; Part 1 is the first part of the course, not the complete qualification. Review the selected offer and its terms before placing your order.

  1. Select Your Payment Option: Choose between Pay As You Go or Full Course. After selection, click Add to Basket.
  2. Optional Equipment: After adding your course to the basket, you’ll have the choice to include our optional equipment kit. Note: Equipment is only needed from Part 4 of the Pay As You Go course. You may order it later or use your own.
  3. Proceed to Checkout: Complete the online checkout form. We recommend selecting Direct Deposit (EFT) as the payment method.
  4. No Immediate Payment Required: You will receive an automated PDF invoice with our company and banking information. No upfront payment is required to place your order.
  5. Deposit to Get Started: - If you selected Pay As You Go, just pay for Part 1 to get immediate access to your training. - If you selected the Full Course, you can pay a R5,000 deposit to unlock the first 40% of your online theory training.
  6. Continue Your Training: - Pay As You Go: Purchase additional parts as you progress. You can order the equipment later when you reach Part 4. - Full Course: Once the balance is paid, you’ll unlock access to the online practical training and receive your certificates upon completion.

Pay As You Go does not commit you to buying later parts. Course refunds are subject to the refund policy shown on this page, so please read it before paying. If you need help choosing, message the Skinart team through the Chat Portal.

Prefer in-person training?

Looking for extra hands on training?

Map of South Africa

We provide in-person training in the following areas:

  • Hillcrest, KZN
  • Boksburg, GP
  • Pretoria West, GP
  • Kuilsriver, WC
  • + More Areas
In Person Option

Questions before you choose?

Use the Student Chat Portal for help with course options, equipment or your training. Existing students should sign in so the team can find the correct course and account.

Open the Student Chat Portal Return to course options

Tattoo Articles

See all Tattoo Articles

Course access and lifetime support

You may take as long as you need to complete your course. Course access locks once the course is complete and the certificate has been issued. You receive lifetime support from the Skinart team.

Course refunds

You may request a course refund within 30 days of purchase. If you have done more than one lesson, you are not eligible for a refund under this policy. Logging in, accessing the course, or doing only one lesson does not by itself make you ineligible. This policy does not affect your applicable statutory rights.

Pay As You Go

Pay As You Go is flexible: pay for each next part only when you are ready. There is no obligation to purchase subsequent parts, and choosing Part 1 does not commit you to later payments. Part 1 is not the full course and does not by itself qualify you for the full-course certificate.

Equipment

Equipment is supplied only in South Africa and New Zealand. Check your selected offer: an equipment kit is not automatically included with every course.

Read the course policies and terms.

What you will learn

Learn tattooing step by step with recorded lessons, practical exercises and support from the Skinart team. Explore the curriculum in the Overview tab, then choose the Full Course or start with Pay As You Go Part 1.

  • Tattoo fundamentals: history, styles and professional practice.
  • Design and stencils: creating designs, placement and stencil application.
  • Tattooing techniques: linework, shading, colour packing and realism.
  • Equipment: coil and rotary machines, setup, maintenance and safe handling.
  • Hygiene: sterilisation and prevention of cross-contamination.
  • Working with clients: business basics, pricing and client care, alongside the local requirements that apply to your activity and premises.

Who the course is for

The course offers structured learning for beginners, artists developing their tattooing skills and practitioners reviewing their techniques. You do not need to arrive as an accomplished artist; expect to practise and complete the required exercises.

Study, practise and complete your course

Work through the recorded lessons at your own pace. Allow additional time for assignments and practice. Complete the course requirements to receive your Tattoo Training Certificate. Course access ends after completion and certification; lifetime support from the Skinart team continues.

Choose your starting point

Compare the Full Course with Pay As You Go Part 1 using the course selector. Part 1 is not the full course. Later parts are optional purchases when you are ready. Review the full course, payment, equipment and refund terms in the Overview and course-option sections before buying.

Return to course options or ask through the Student Chat Portal.

Choose your course option

Full Course, Pay As You Go (Part 1)

169 reviews for Online Tattoo Course

  1. Zev Lewis (verified owner) –

    Understanding needle angles made my work so much smoother.

  2. Magnus Malik (verified owner) –

    Well worth the time and money.

  3. Ali Vasquez (verified owner) –

    Very detailed and professional.

  4. Sanjay Al-Farsi (verified owner) –

    Really enjoyed this!

  5. Johann Andersen (verified owner) –

    Gary is an incredible teacher!

  6. Valentina Dimitriadis (verified owner) –

    Dreams coming true!

  7. Jin Sharma (verified owner) –

    It covered everything I needed!

  8. Sipho Rodriguez (verified owner) –

  9. Lerato Zhang (verified owner) –

    This will help me get more clients!

  10. Zev Castillo (verified owner) –

    I finally feel ready to work!

  11. Min-Jae Kaplan (verified owner) –

    This course made me rethink my entire tattooing approach.

  12. Mika Moreau (verified owner) –

  13. Jose Santos (verified owner) –

    This gave me the push I needed to chase my dreams.

  14. Layla Smith (verified owner) –

    I see a HUGE improvement in my work already!

  15. Tamar Volkov (verified owner) –

    This training gave me the confidence to go pro.

  16. Matteo De la Cruz (verified owner) –

    This training helped me set up my tattoo business.

  17. Hiroshi Two Rivers (verified owner) –

    I went from hobbyist to professional tattoo artist.

  18. Isabelle Runningwolf (verified owner) –

    Gary is an amazing instructor.

  19. Dimitris Singh (verified owner) –

    Learning about machine tuning was super useful.

  20. Eliyahu Ivanov (verified owner) –

    I learned so much from Gary!

  21. Fernando Darwish (verified owner) –

    Now I actually understand tattoo needle groupings.

  22. Takoda Petrov (verified owner) –

    I can’t believe how much I learned.

  23. Hadar Rosenberg (verified owner) –

    Gary made everything so easy to understand.

  24. Luningning Rossi (verified owner) –

    My dream of becoming a tattoo artist is now a reality!

  25. Levi Choi (verified owner) –

    So proud to be a part of the Skinart family.

  26. Benedicto Reyes (verified owner) –

    I can finally call myself a professional tattoo artist.

  27. Dakota Al-Farsi (verified owner) –

    So easy to learn with Gary.

  28. James Gomez (verified owner) –

  29. Omar Friedman (verified owner) –

    Best course ever!

  30. Jose Ortega (verified owner) –

    My tattooing skills improved massively!

  31. Andres Castillo (verified owner) –

  32. Levi Andersen (verified owner) –

    Such a fun and rewarding experience!

  33. Olivia Taylor (verified owner) –

    Best instructor ever!

  34. Maria Choi (verified owner) –

    Fantastic course.

  35. James De la Cruz (verified owner) –

    This is only the beginning of my tattooing journey!

  36. Freya Cohen (verified owner) –

    Super helpful.

  37. Hassan Tanaka (verified owner) –

  38. Tamar Chen (verified owner) –

    I feel like a real pro now!

  39. Omar Torres (verified owner) –

    Best decision ever!

  40. Mika Castillo (verified owner) –

    Learning proper ink depth changed everything!

  41. Dakota Harris (verified owner) –

    His passion for tattooing is inspiring!

  42. Santiago Abramson (verified owner) –

    So excited for what’s next after this training!

  43. Anika Darwish (verified owner) –

    Absolutely incredible!

  44. Kofi Anderson (verified owner) –

    So motivated after this!

  45. Angelica Katsaros (verified owner) –

    I now know how to talk to clients professionally.

  46. Emma Whitefeather (verified owner) –

    I finally mastered shading techniques!

  47. Deepak Nikolaidis (verified owner) –

    Exceeded my expectations.

  48. Isabelle Nkosi (verified owner) –

    Impressive!

  49. Tariro Kobayashi (verified owner) –

    Great mix of theory and practice!

  50. Zev Tshabalala (verified owner) –

    This gave me a head start in my career.

Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.

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