If you are new to tattooing, curious about it, plan to seek an apprenticeship, or just need a refresh of the basics - this course is designed for you. This is one class in a four part series, each class is cumulative so attendance at all classes is recommended but not required. Lots can still be learned if you attend any single class in the series.
Fundamentals of Tattooing - On Supplies and Equipment is class one of four. In this class you will learn:
A brief history of tattoo machines and tools
A comparison of machine options
Exactly how a rotary machine works
How to properly set up and use a machine
The fundamentals of cartridges and inks
THIS IS NOT a class where the instructor or students will be tattooing on real skin. Your instructor will review safety protocols when using tattoo machines but will NOT be teaching Blood Born Pathogen information. It is highly recommended that students seek their own BBP certification before tattooing on real skin. THIS IS NOT an apprenticeship or the precursor to an apprenticeship at Toothpick. If you are in the process of seeking an apprenticeship this is a great class to a start learning fundamentals.
What to Bring:
If you own a rotary machine, please bring it to class that way you can learn to properly use your own machine. If you do not own a rotary machine one will be provided for you to practice with during class.
About your instructor:
Bella Chewning is a writer, artist, and the owner of Toothpick Art Studio. Having studied sculpture at university and having worked professionally in the arts ever since, Bella has now focused her practice on tattooing, writing, and community building under the roof of Toothpick - which opened in September 2025.
Sunday August 9th
2:00 - 5:30pm
Age Suggestion: 18+
ADA Friendly
$85/ticket
Please note all sales are final
If you are new to tattooing, curious about it, plan to seek an apprenticeship, or just need a refresh of the basics - this course is designed for you. This is one class in a four part series, each class is cumulative so attendance at all classes is recommended but not required. Lots can still be learned if you attend any single class in the series.
Fundamentals of Tattooing - On Supplies and Equipment is class one of four. In this class you will learn:
A brief history of tattoo machines and tools
A comparison of machine options
Exactly how a rotary machine works
How to properly set up and use a machine
The fundamentals of cartridges and inks
THIS IS NOT a class where the instructor or students will be tattooing on real skin. Your instructor will review safety protocols when using tattoo machines but will NOT be teaching Blood Born Pathogen information. It is highly recommended that students seek their own BBP certification before tattooing on real skin. THIS IS NOT an apprenticeship or the precursor to an apprenticeship at Toothpick. If you are in the process of seeking an apprenticeship this is a great class to a start learning fundamentals.
What to Bring:
If you own a rotary machine, please bring it to class that way you can learn to properly use your own machine. If you do not own a rotary machine one will be provided for you to practice with during class.
About your instructor:
Bella Chewning is a writer, artist, and the owner of Toothpick Art Studio. Having studied sculpture at university and having worked professionally in the arts ever since, Bella has now focused her practice on tattooing, writing, and community building under the roof of Toothpick - which opened in September 2025.