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How to Become a Blacksmith

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If you’re artistic and creative and like to work with all kinds of metal by joining, tempering, welding, hammering, and finishing, and want to learn both design and metallurgy besides basic metal- working skills, then this may be a career field worth checking out.

1. Learn the Basics of Blacksmithing

When most people think of blacksmiths, they picture a man dressed in a dirty black leather apron leaning over an old anvil pounding out a sword or hammering horseshoes for the likes of Buffalo Bill and Wyatt Earp.  However, making and properly fitting horseshoes is actually only one branch of blacksmithing, known as farriery.

Today, the field of blacksmithing has seen a resurgence, mainly because of the ‘do-it-yourself’ trend that began in the 1970’s.  There are now dozens of organizations, clubs, and books available to educate the budding blacksmith, architects, interior designers, and the public about this art form. In fact, modern blacksmiths often refer to themselves as ‘artist-blacksmiths’.  Back in 1973, the Artists Blacksmiths’ Association of North American had 27 members; in 2013 it had nearly 4,000.

A blacksmith or metalsmith is a professional who creates and repairs objects from steel or wrought iron by forging or shaping the metal using hammers, tongs, chisels, etc. “Black” in the term blacksmith refers to the metals that develop a layer of black oxide as they are forged. ‘Smith’ is from ‘smite’ or to hit, which means a blacksmith is literally someone who hits black metal. Blacksmithing is a highly-skilled trade where artisans create fine art and custom metal pieces for clients, galleries, museums, businesses, etc.

Some blacksmiths specialize in industrial work, making items like security grills for windows and doors and fire escapes.  Or, they may concentrate on architectural or artistic work like furniture and iron railings and gates. Individuals who are self-employed usually specialize in artistic work and sell their wares to galleries, or show their pieces at fairs and craft shows.

On any given day, a blacksmith will work with a furnace or forge to heat metal. They will shape and bend the metal using hand tools or power tools, like grinders, drills, and hydraulic presses, and work with different kinds of metal, like wrought iron, steel, bronze, brass, and copper. They will join metal together using welding methods and apply finishes to metal or other mediums. The tools all blacksmiths use typically include a furnace or forge where smelted iron is heated to be easily formed and worked, an anvil, tongs, hammers chisels, and other tools to shape, flatten, cut, or weld iron into the desired object.

2. Learn Essential Skills & Techniques

Master the Tools of the Trade

Most of the tools blacksmiths use are simple; consisting of hammers, chisels, and power tools. Whereas, the true expertise lies in the skills and techniques used by the blacksmith.  Beside technical ability and practical skills, blacksmith’s need good hand-to-eye coordination, problem-solving skills, math skills for measuring and making precise cuts and calculations, and creative and design skills.  Blacksmiths and artist-blacksmiths must have a thorough knowledge of metals and other materials, outstanding creativity, customer service, and interpersonal skills. Manual dexterity, attention to detail, the ability to work alone or with minimal supervision, physical strength, and motor coordination are also key skills and abilities needed while on the job.

It is possible to become a successful blacksmith without a formal education, but make no mistake, honing the trade takes years of education and study.  Although blacksmiths are in less demand than in ancient times, mainly because of assembly lines and industrial machinery, blacksmiths still create durable and beautiful metalwork as artists. Few colleges offer a bachelor’s or master’s degree in blacksmithing or metalsmithing, but there are a number of trade or vocational schools that offer courses which can help an aspiring blacksmith with training and provide basic introductory information like the history of the trade, basic terminology, and introduction to tools, etc.  Coursework typically includes a combination of both traditional and modern practices, which upon graduation, students will have a full range of knowledge and skills.

If you choose to enter a postsecondary degree program as an artist-blacksmith, you will learn both traditional and contemporary blacksmithing practices, but also experiment with materials, learn how to manipulate metal, think creatively, and explore new ways to combine metal and other materials to make art.  Studio time is supported by lectures and seminars that tie together both professional and creative practices. If offered, ‘Master’ classes focus on the refinement of skills. Students are expected to work independently and will usually have the opportunity to produce a body of work for exhibition at a school-sponsored gallery showing. Coursework may also include writing a business plan and marketing strategy, as well as a dissertation.

Students in most every program will find a mix of theory and hands-on courses. They will learn forge welding, hot carving, tool making, cutting and much more. They will also gain the experience to create a variety of metal products, including custom railings, hardware, furniture, garden décor, and home decoration/art.  Commonly, coursework also includes drafting, studio operations, self-promotion, and entrepreneurial skills, like portfolio design and marketing.

During college or while attending vocational or trade school, students should take advantage of all internship opportunities, if they exist within the program. Internships are a good way to gain experience, establish mentorships and contacts within the industry, and learn new hands-on techniques not taught in the classroom. Following an education, many blacksmiths will enter into an apprenticeship under the guidance of a professional blacksmith/mentor.  It usually takes years to fully understand the business of blacksmithing, as well as add additional skills to your resume, but like internships, apprenticeships are great ways to gain experience, and unlike internships (although not always), apprenticeships are often paid-to-work.  During this time, you might do ‘grunt work,’ such as sweeping floors, cleaning equipment, running errands, and sorting metals into bins. But, no matter how menial the work, you will be gaining invaluable experience that will help later when applying for a full-time position.

To further gain exposure and experience in blacksmithing or metalsmithing, taking classes at community centers, local art workshops, and historical centers can broaden your knowledge and help you find a niche in the field, such as industrial metalsmithing or making decorative artwork like door ornaments or furniture. Most often, classes with be offered at all levels; beginning, intermediate and advanced. Read magazines about blacksmithing or artist-blacksmithing and browse the Internet to keep on top of what’s going on in the blacksmithing world. After accumulating years of experience and knowledge on the job or through continuing education, a blacksmith might even become an instructor at a school that teaches the various niches within the field of blacksmithing.

3. Typical Duties and Tasks, Working Conditions

A blacksmith completes many duties while on the job, including:

  • Choosing which type of metal is appropriate for the product or device
  • Reading and interpreting drawings, plans, and sketches
  • Prepares a work sequence
  • Works with a team on large products/projects
  • Identifies and selects machines and equipment and tools
  • Operates equipment, such as reciprocating, band, and circular saws, welders, etc.
  • Cuts templates and traces features on workpiece material
  • Rough-sizes preliminary cuts so that the layout conforms to the specifications of the job
  • Uses layout tools, including protractors, dividers, and rules
  • Performs heat treating procedures using coal, electrical and gas forges or furnaces
  • Forges metal, brass, copper, and other metals using a variety of hand tools
  • Inspects final products
  • Uses welding equipment and finishes

Most blacksmiths who work for a company or corporation work full-time. If you are a self-employed artist-blacksmith, your hours will vary depending on if you are commissioned to complete artwork or furniture for a client, or are busy in your studio.  Blacksmiths might also specialize in making and repairing horseshoes as a farrier, or work in a museum. Industrial blacksmiths typically work in engineering or mining sites. The work is physically demanding no matter where you work, and involves heavy lifting, working next to hot furnaces or forges, swinging hammers, or operating power tools.  There are also a number of other careers requiring similar skills and interests, like a welder, ironworker, industrial maintenance mechanic, sheet metal worker, boilermaker, and tool and die maker.

There are also many organizations for aspiring blacksmiths and artist-blacksmiths to check out, including Blacksmith Depot; Blacksmiths Journal; Artist Blacksmith Association of North America; and National Ornamental and Miscellaneous Metals Association.

Additional Resources for Blacksmiths

New Jersey Blacksmiths Association
Northwest Blacksmith Association
California Blacksmith Association
Arizona Artist Blacksmith Association
Ocmulgee Blacksmiths Guild
Blacksmith Guild of Central Maryland
Central Virginia Blacksmith Guild
American Bladesmith Society
Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths
British Artist Blacksmiths Association (BABA)
SEMTA

Additional How-to-Become Guides for Craft & Fine Art Careers

If you are considering a career within the industry of Craft or Fine Art, check out these additional how-to-become guides to learn about similar career options in the field.

How to Become a Floral Designer
How to Become a Graffiti Artist
How to Become a Painter
How to Become a Screen Printer
How to Become a Sculptor
How to Become a Tattoo Artist
How to Become a Woodworker

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How to Become a Floral Designer

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A floral designer is a professional who uses plants and flowers to create arrangements for weddings, funerals, banquets, and other occasions. You need a creative eye, artistry, and a love of working with people at some of the most emotional times of their lives to thrive in this position.

1. Learn the Basics of Floral Design

Floral designers cut and arrange dried, live, and silk flowers and various types of greenery to create decorative displays. In this job, you will work closely with customers to select flowers, ribbons, containers, and other accessories to make up their floral display. You may grow the flowers yourself or order them from a wholesale flower distributor. The floral industry is a time-sensitive one since flowers do not have a long lifespan once cut from their growing source. You also need to keep in mind that flower arrangements are for events that take place at a specific time. So, meeting deadlines and being flexible and adaptable are traits floral designers must have to succeed.

People who do well in this career tend to share certain personal attributes and skills. Some of these include:

Artistic Ability:  You need a strong sense of style and the ability to coordinate colors, decorations, and different types of plants and flowers for an aesthetically pleasing design.

Creativity:  While artistic ability can sometimes be taught, creativity tends to be more of an inborn trait. As a floral designer, you use the skills you have learned to create designs appropriate to the occasion. You must be open to new ideas since trends can change quickly.

Time Management:  Floral designing comes with a sense of urgency because the displays need to be completed on time for the special event. You need to consistently meet deadlines, or you will lose business and damage your reputation.

Excellent Communication Skills:  You interact with customers and suppliers every day and need to know how to get your message across to each. With customers, you will explain different options for a floral design as well as how to care for the plants and flowers after the event. Since you will place orders with suppliers, you need to communicate exactly what you need and ask questions to ensure you understand what to expect in your order.

Attention to Detail:  You must be careful about all the details that go into completing a customer’s order. If a customer orders roses and you mistakenly ship carnations, you will have an unhappy customer that will not return to place another order or recommend you to friends and family.

Independence:  Although you may work at a company and as part of a team, there will be many times (probably most of the time) that you will be required to work independently and develop your own unique way to doing things with innovation and creativity. This is especially true if you won your own shop or freelance.

Concern for Others:  Floral designers often work with clients who are facing hardships or emotional times in their lives. Being sensitive to other’s feeling and being understanding can be very helpful.

As a floral designer, you may take orders from customers over the phone, in person, or over the Internet. If your employer sells to a worldwide customer base, you need to prepare flowers for shipment to various climates, worldwide. It’s vitally important that you know the unique properties of each type of flower and plant you sell so you can advise customers on its care. For instance, carnations can last outside of water for many hours, but other flowers will wilt more quickly. Some flowers and plants are poisonous to certain animals, like lilies, which are toxic to cats. It is also essential that you know which types of flowers and plants blend well together and which do not.

Designers must know the average size of each flower and the different color varieties, and they must be able to communicate to their customers how to care for each variety of flower or plant, including when and how much to water the arrangement, and what the ideal temperature is for the arrangement to last as long as possible. Floral designers will process newly arrived flowers, cut and mix flower food solutions, and sanitize workspaces.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, most floral designers work for florists, grocery stores, nondurable goods merchant wholesalers, sporting goods stores, or lawn and garden supply stores.  In 2014, about one in four floral designers were self-employed.

2. Develop Your Skills & Personal Style

Most floral designers have a high school diploma and learn the skills they need on the job, and through apprenticeships or internships. Additionally, some flower shops offer entry-level and management courses to new and existing employees. Designers pursuing a career in floral design do not need to earn a postsecondary degree. That said, completing a degree or certificate program will increase an applicant’s job opportunities and chance for advancement.

Some individuals will opt to earn an associate degree (AA or AAS) in floral design, horticulture or floristry.  Coursework includes general education classes, as well as hands-on course working with flowers and other tools of the trade, as well as plant and flower identification, concepts of floral design, advertising techniques, training working in a greenhouse, and a variety of business courses.

People who are self-employed in the floral industry are the most likely to have completed a formal education. Working alongside an experienced floral designer either as an apprentice or in an internship is the best way to gain experience in this field. Some of the entry-level tasks you can expect to complete include:

  • Tying bows and ribbons
  • Cutting the stems of plants and flowers to an appropriate length
  • Taking orders from customers
  • Learning the proper care and handling of different types of plants and flowers
  • Basic flower arrangement

In addition to taking courses or earning a certificate in floral design, you can pursue the Certified Floral Designer credential offered by the American Institute of Floral Designers. This voluntary certification helps you stand out as an expert in your field. You need to demonstrate a strong grasp of floral design knowledge that you gained through previous education and on-the-job training to pass the certification exam.

After you have been on the job for a while, you will learn in-depth information about dozens of types of plants and flowers and their growth properties. This gives you the skills you need to create more complex floral designs on your own.  Some designers have long-term contracts with restaurants and hotels to replace older flowers with new arrangements on a recurring basis.

But, the one thing about creative jobs, including floral design, is that you should always be open to learning new techniques and skills. Whether you are a seasoned designer or just starting out, to flourish in this field designers must also have active listening skills, time management and analytical skills, coordination, manual dexterity, problem-solving skills, an understanding of all equipment and materials needed to do certain work, and sound writing ability.

3. Build Your Experience & Learn to Market Your Business

You need a lot of practice with floral designing to become an expert at it. If you decide to take classes at the local level, your instructors can provide you with more information on obtaining employment or finding your first customers. Some programs may have you volunteer several hours at a greenhouse, flower wholesaler, or retail business to gain real-world experience.

It can be slightly more challenging to make industry connections when you get your first job in the floral industry just out of high school or after a career change. To gain credibility as a floral designer, ask family or friends if you can create a display for them free of charge. Take photos of each display you make and analyze it to help improve and grow as a designer.

Once you’re confident in the quality of your work, take pictures of your most attractive or challenging displays and place them in a personal portfolio. Prospective customers or clients will see that you can create floral displays using a wide variety of flowers, plants, and decorative materials. This helps to establish you as an expert floral designer.

Additional Resources for Floral Designers

Floral Design Associations
Society of American Florists
International Floral Design Association | IFDA
Floral Designers Society (Singapore)
Texas State Florists’ Association
Australian Association of Floral Designers

Additional How-to-Become Guides for Craft & Fine Art Careers

If you are considering a career within the industry of Craft or Fine Art, check out these additional how-to-become guides to learn about similar career options in the field.

How to Become a Blacksmith
How to Become a Graffiti Artist
How to Become a Painter
How to Become a Screen Printer
How to Become a Sculptor
How to Become a Tattoo Artist
How to Become a Woodworker

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How to Become a Graffiti Artist

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There’s something about the whiff of aerosol paint lacquer that is both weird and wonderful but only to artists who claim the of a tunnel as their canvas. If you don’t mind venturing into uncharted territory with a spray can as your paint brush, a career as a graffiti artist is for you.

1. Learn the Basics of Graffiti Art

There are two different types of people in the world – someone who walks by graffiti art on an old billboard, on the side of a dilapidated building, or other public environment and thinks, "I sure hope they catch whoever did that, this type of thing is so disrespectful." Then there is someone else who walks by the same piece of art and thinks, "I wonder how the artist got up on the side of that highway overpass? That is so cool."  If you happen to fall into the latter category, and you can’t help but walk through a city street and see a canvas everywhere you look, then you just might be an ideal candidate for becoming a graffiti artist.

Defined as "drawings, paintings, or other markings on surfaces in public places," graffiti art is a form of art that dates back centuries. Although many people think "graffiti art" only rose to prominence in the 1980s, it's actually a concept that has its origins in the ancient Greek and Roman societies. One could argue that it goes back even further to the days when cavemen were telling stories via paintings on walls. Though today's methods may be new (including spray paint and permanent markers), it's actually a medium founded on some of the oldest principles of art that have ever existed.

Though many people often associate graffiti artistry with breaking the law, this isn't nearly as true as one might believe. While it's true that graffiti can often be seen on public buildings, on private property, and even on the outside walls of train cars, this isn't always the case. For every gang that uses a spray paint "tag" to claim their territory in a major metropolitan city, there are ten people who truly love expressing themselves via graffiti as an art form who are not breaking the law in any way.

The fact of the matter is that the legal distinction between "illegal graffiti" and "graffiti art" (or "street art" as it is sometimes called) can all be summed up in one simple little word –permission. If a graffiti artist spends hours creating a beautiful work of art on the side of a building they don't own and doesn't bother to write up an agreement with the appropriate people ahead of time, that will likely be considered vandalism or criminal mischief in a court of law. If that same artist gets in contact with the building owner, tells them what they want to do and writes up an agreement, suddenly they're expressing themselves in one of the purest forms of art that exists today.

2. Learn Essential Techniques & Build Your Skills

A Formal Education May Provide Surprising Benefits

As with other types of artistic professions, higher education is not a necessary requirement for becoming a graffiti artist – although it is absolutely recommended for a number of important reasons. Most graffiti artists do seek out some form of postsecondary education in an effort to build their skills and develop a personal brand. Attending an art school can also help graffiti artists become more comfortable with the use of spray paint and similar tools, all of which will be their main form of artistic expression moving forward.

If an artist chooses to enroll in a certificate or diploma program, he or she can expect to take classes in concepts of visual arts, fundamentals of drawing, introduction to computer graphics and basics of visual studies. An associate degree in art includes coursework in art history, introduction to ceramics, fundamentals of painting, and foundations of 3D art. Bachelor’s degree programs build on what is learned previously through classes or experience and may include classes in contemporary issues in art, typographic methods, advanced color and space, and methods for moving images.

In addition to taking art classes covering a wide range of different techniques, all of which can play a role in the development of a graffiti artist's personal style, many educational institutions also cover the history of the medium itself. Though modern day graffiti art first became popular in the 1980s, it actually originated in the late 1960s in New York City and even called "New York Style" graffiti.  In fact, the concept of "tagging" also originated here.

Personal branding is important in graffiti art in particular, as the concept of "tagging" as a type of signature is quite popular. This is true in terms of perhaps the most famous graffiti artist working today – Banksy – an anonymous graffiti artist of unverified identity. Banksy has a unique visual style all his own and is someone who should be actively studied in an effort to learn and grow in the field.

In lieu of a formal education, there are dozens of workshops, online classes, youth organizations, and graffiti artists’ blogs and websites where an aspiring graffiti artist can pick up tips and learn new techniques. However, the opportunity to internships available while in college cannot be overlooked.  Internships provide valuable experience, and give students a way to make contacts and create mentoring relationships.

3. Build Your Brand

A Strong Portfolio Is Essential for Every Artist

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, graffiti artists fall under an umbrella category of "craft and fine artists" – also referred to as people who use a variety of different artistic materials and other techniques to create art, both for sale and for general exhibition. The key thing that they have in common is that they're creating art for an aesthetic value instead of a functional one – although in terms of graffiti art, in particular, is an idea that is very much up for debate.

There were 50,300 craft artists employed in the country throughout 2014 (though not all of them were graffiti artists and over half of them were self-employed). The job outlook in this area is expected to rise at a rate of two percent between 2014 and 2024, which is actually slower than the national average.

Professional graffiti artists can obtain gainful employment in a wide range of different areas depending on their interests. Many city officials, for example, employ professional graffiti artists in an effort to cover up or remove illicit art in public places. City officials actively seek out talented, popular artists to paint over lewd or otherwise illegal drawings with something that is much more acceptable for their towns, cities, and public places.

Despite popular belief, it is entirely possible that a professional graffiti artist won't spend the majority of his or her time on the streets at all. Instead, they will find themselves in a traditional studio environment, much like other artistic professions like painters or sculptors. Most graffiti artists create art on legal canvases for sale or for exhibition and many profit from collectors and other hobbyists who take an active interest in the profession.

With a unique visual flair and a strong personal brand, it is also possible for a professional graffiti artist to be employed by an advertising agency to create engaging campaigns that strike a chord with younger audiences. Coca-Cola, MTV, and even software giant Microsoft are all examples of major companies with advertising campaigns that have heavily featured graffiti art in the past.

Beyond artistic talent, a graffiti artist, like all artists, must have a number of abilities and qualities to succeed in such a creative field, which include passion for art and for the graffiti art world specifically, the courage to take risks and grow in the field, an entrepreneurial attitude, focus, willingness to push themselves to learn new techniques and also learn from their mistakes, enthusiasm, flexibility, self-discipline, and natural talent.

Additonal Resources for Graffiti Artist

Graffiti Heart
Positive Street Art
Graffiti USA
Off the Wall Graffiti

Additional How-to-Become Guides for Craft & Fine Art Careers

If you are considering a career within the industry of Craft or Fine Art, check out these additional how-to-become guides to learn about similar career options in the field.

How to Become a Blacksmith
How to Become a Floral Designer
How to Become a Painter
How to Become a Screen Printer
How to Become a Sculptor
How to Become a Tattoo Artist
How to Become a Woodworker

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How to Become a Painter

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When people hear the word painter, they often think of someone who beautifies the walls of houses, offices, or malls with store-bought paint. But what about the talented artists whose works grace the walls of galleries and museums? If you’re ready to take the leap into the art world as a painter and explore what it feels like to have your art admired by the masses, then a career as a painter might be for you.

1. Getting Started in Painting

Learn the Basics

Painters create representations of the world around them, hoping to evoke an emotional response with their work. Highly regarded and successful artists, Wyland and Banksy, are considered cutting-edge painters; creating oversized paintings outdoors in urban and metropolitan areas, while early pioneer artists like Vincent Van Gogh and Leonardo da Vinci chose smaller venues to express their artistry. Today's painter is free to explore a future creating work as large as outdoor murals and graffiti, or as intimate as a small canvas.

A painter creates works of art on a variety of surfaces, from traditional canvas, wood, and paper, to the sides of buildings. They typically use watercolor, acrylic, or oil paints to complete their work, and may combine different types of paint as well as other materials, such as sand or grit for texture. Painters may work on single pieces or a series, and may work for a museum, a company, or independently.

A career as a painter is extremely competitive, and in order to rise to the top of your field, you should find assistance or backing within the professional art world. As an insular society, the art world is fast moving, lifting up and then dropping popular artists at a rapid rate. Your personality and social skills may end up as important as your actual artistic talent. While trying to find success within the art world, many painters rely on pedestrian but reliable jobs in commercial arts or teaching to pay the bills.

2. Master the Fundamentals & Grow Your Skills

Anyone with artistic talent can become a professional painter, and through sheer luck, become a great success. However, becoming an overnight sensation as a painter happens rarely and to very few artists. For most painters who made their mark in the artistic world, practice and preparation were key to rising to the top of their field. Since painters today must also do much of their own marketing and promotion, it would be prudent for aspiring artists to combine studies in both art and business or marketing to make a good living as a painter.

Professional painters rely on their own artistic talent, but like in most art fields, training and exploration of various methods and techniques must also be learned and cultivated. The best way to begin this training is with a degree in fine art. While formal training isn't absolutely necessary to find success as a painter, it's always wise to learn the basics of your art before attempting to branch out on your own.  Painters learn and improve their skills through repetition and practice. Even in art, practice makes perfect. In fact, most fine artists pursue postsecondary education, which improves not only their skills and technique, but also their job prospects.  Many colleges and universities, as well as private art schools, offer degree programs in fine arts.  Useful courses may include art history, studio art, 3D art, figure painting, color theory, geometry, physiology, and electronic imaging.

A bachelor’s or master’s degree in fine arts is typically necessary for management or administrative positions in private foundations, teaching positions at the college level, or positions in the government. In order to teach at a public school, an artist must also have a teaching certificate in addition to a bachelor’s degree. Internships, gallery shows, and apprenticeships are great ways to gain experience while in school. Interning at a local art gallery or museum can give aspiring painters hands-on experience, which looks good when commissioning your work, and gallery shows give artists an opportunity to get their paintings in front of an audience or other professionals in the field.

Once an artist learns the technical side of the art world, he or she should investigate the social side of the art world. Becoming a regular part of the local artists’ scene is crucial to getting your name as well as your work known. If your goal is to show your work in galleries, getting to know local gallery owners is a natural step to take. Professional painters should also develop a thick skin, as rejection of their work is a matter of course. As in all the arts, taste is subjective, and the only way to find patrons for your work is to keep showing it until someone sees it and likes it.

3. Build Your Portfolio & Resume

Portfolio

Every painter needs a professional portfolio — a collection of his or her best paintings to show potential patrons and clients. Building a portfolio will probably be an important part of your degree program, but it's also important that you continue to build on it; to show your artistic growth. Your portfolio provides visible evidence of your talent and expertise, as well as your taste and artistic style.

Resume

While everyone loves to discover a brand new artist, most people still look for education and experience when searching for a reliable painter to commission. While you work on your portfolio and develop your personal style, making a living working in the arts is a great way to add experience to your resume. Work with community activists to create murals in growing city centers, take a job painting portraits of pets and families, do commercial work for advertising agencies, or contact publishers to create paintings for book covers. Every piece of art you do gives you experience in the field and puts your work in front of the public eye.

Your Horizons

Get creative when it comes to selling your paintings. Rent booths at regional or nationally-recognized art fairs. Offer your paintings for auction at one of the dozens of fine art auctions found online. Sites such as Paddle 8 auction off fine art from well-known painters such as Wyland, Andy Warhol, and Paul McCartney. With thousands of buyers around the world, online auctions are a ready audience, and often offer a much larger variety of art than any gallery can show.

Most working painters make a living from a variety of other sources: commissioned works, paintings to be sold in galleries, speaking fees, teaching, and commercial works. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median wage for fine artists, including painters, was about $45,000 in 2015.  However, the job outlook is expected to be slow, around two percent, mostly due to a sluggish economy. When patrons have more money, they can afford to invest in more art, so a painter's income is often directly tied to the state of the national economy. The amount a painter earns also depends on a wide variety of other factors, such as popularity, reputation, the availability of other income sources related to painting, and the geographic location where a painter lives and works.

Additional Resources for Web Painters

Master Painters Association
Master Painters Australia
Master Painters Association
Painters Guild

Additional How-to-Become Guides for Craft & Fine Art Careers

If you are considering a career within the industry of Craft or Fine Art, check out these additional how-to-become guides to learn about similar career options in the field.

How to Become a Blacksmith
How to Become a Floral Designer
How to Become a Graffiti Artist
How to Become a Screen Printer
How to Become a Sculptor
How to Become a Tattoo Artist
How to Become a Woodworker

Additional Guides

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How to Become a Screen Printer

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Screen printing is a creative field that allows an artist to work on a variety of projects with diverse materials, making it an excellent career path for those who may want to dabble in commercial art but enjoy a bit of variety in their day-to-day work.

1. Learn the Basics of Screen Printing

The art of screen printing was first used by the Chinese over 2,000 years ago. Although technology and techniques have changed since then, screen printing is still used today in a variety of artistic and commercial applications. Though typically related to the apparel industry, screen printing is incredibly versatile. In addition to t-shirts, hats, and clothing, screen printers also work to create designs on everything from coffee cups and diverse types of merchandise like posters, banners, and other large displays.

The screen printer’s main task is to create unique items with vibrant and customized printed designs. Aspiring screen printers should be creative individuals with an eye for design and color. Screen printers will often have to create their own unique and eye-catching designs, so some experience with or interest in design work is also helpful for those who are interested in this career. Most of the work that screen printers accomplish requires them to work one-on-one with individual clients, businesses, and organizations. This makes it important for aspiring screen printers to also develop customer service skills.

There are three types of environments where screen printers typically work. Some screen printers work independently. While this option allows for the most creativity and flexibility, it also requires the individual to have the determination and self-discipline to both work as a screen printer and business owner. Screen printers can also work for a small screen printing company that offers services to individuals and businesses in the immediate area. Yet another option is to work for a large apparel or merchandise factory. This requires knowledge and experience with industrial screen printers.

Whether you are working on a simple project that requires only one color logo printing or a more complex project with intricate designs and multiple colors, it is important for screen printers to be able to take the client’s idea and bring it to life on the chosen canvas. This requires attention to detail and knowledge of what is and isn’t possible when it comes to printing on different materials.

2. Advance Your Skills & Technique

At its core, screen printing is a simple process that involves pushing paint or ink through a mesh screen onto a substrate or canvas. The screen printer uses a stencil to create the images, logos, letters, and any other designs that will later be printed onto the canvas. Though anyone can learn how to screen print, skilled screen printers work to perfect their technique and effectively manage the screen printing process in order to create more intricate designs on a variety of different materials.

Professional screen printers may perform any or all aspects of the screen printing process. This can include coming up with the design concept, drafting the design, developing the stencils, mixing and loading inks, cleaning and maintaining machines, and storing the finished products. Screen printers who work independently or run a small screen printing business will also need to learn basic skills that come along with running a business such as managing employees, maintaining a budget, marketing the company’s services, and other administrative tasks.

In addition to learning the ins and outs of the screen printing process, professional screen printers also need to be able to handle repetitive tasks with careful precision. Mixing the chemicals used in the screen printing process and creating accurate stencils for design requires patience, organization, attention to detail and dexterity. Screen printers working independently or for smaller screen printing businesses will also need to become familiar with screen printing equipment in order to learn to identify and troubleshoot any technological and mechanical issues that may arise.

A formal education is not a requirement to become a professional screen printer. However, a degree or career experience in a related art career can help aspiring screen printers gain the skills they need to become professionals. Some schools offer courses in screen printing that can help you learn printing techniques and gain hands-on experience with the process. Other courses in fine art such as illustration or graphic design can also help aspiring screen printers learn the basics of color and design, which will lend well to the screen printing profession. It may also be helpful for aspiring screen printers to work as an apprentice in a screen printing shop. This role will not only allow you to gain hands-on experience as a screen printer, but you can also learn the ins and outs of how the business operates.

3. Develop Your Personal Style

The screen printing industry is rather large, and it can be hard to stand out among your peers. Whether you are planning on starting your own small screen printing business or looking for a position with an established screen printing company, it is important that you can differentiate yourself from others in the field. The best way to do this is to find what type of screen printing you excel at and market yourself as a specialist. This is where a portfolio can come in handy. By having a portfolio or samples of your work, you can show perspective customers or employers your strengths when it comes to screen printing.

As with nearly every type of artist, screen printers can benefit from professional networking. Whether you want to work independently or with a screen printing company, it is vital to gain hands-on experience and training with a seasoned professional. One of the best ways to do this is by learning from or working under a screen printing professional in your community. Network with local screen printing business owners and ask about opportunities to watch the artists at work or even become an apprentice at the shop. This is a great way to learn more about the business and gain hands-on experience with the screen printing process.

In addition to networking with local screen printing business owners and others in the field, it can also be helpful to expand your network to learn from others outside of your local community by joining relevant organizations and attending tradeshows. The American Screen Printing Association is a global organization of screen printers that provides guidance and networking opportunities as well as training and certification for aspiring screen printers. The Specialty Graphic Imaging Association also provides networking opportunities and educational resources for professionals in the industrial, garment, graphic, textile, electronics, packaging and commercial printing fields. This organization can provide great opportunities for screen printers to make connections in complementary fields.

Additional Resources for Screen Printers

American Screen Printing Association
SGIA: Graphic Community
Federation of European Screen Printers Associations
Chicago Printers Guild

Additional How-to-Become Guides for Craft & Fine Art Careers

If you are considering a career within the industry of Craft or Fine Art, check out these additional how-to-become guides to learn about similar career options in the field.

How to Become a Blacksmith
How to Become a Floral Designer
How to Become a Graffiti Artist
How to Become a Painter
How to Become a Sculptor
How to Become a Tattoo Artist
How to Become a Woodworker

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How to Become a Sculptor

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It takes more than talent and enthusiasm to make it as a sculptor. It takes the kind of individual who recognizes (and can tolerate) the ups and downs of the job. As in most art fields, a career as a sculptor can be fulfilling, fun, and frustrating all at the same time. You must be tough-skinned and able to take criticism and rejection while maintaining the drive necessary to forge your own career path.

1. Learn the Basics of Sculpture

A branch of fine arts, sculpting is three-dimensional art made from molding, casting, welding, and carving a variety of mediums, including stone, metal, wood, clay, and other materials.  This art form has been around for thousands of years but is just as relevant today in the form of digital sculpting as are the pieces created in 230,000 BCE or earlier, like the Venus of Berekhat Ram (oldest known Stone Age sculpture).

Today, contemporary artists work with a number of non-traditional forms of sculpture, including light, sound, ice, and kinetic sculpture, as well as 3-D modeling. 3D modeling, and more specifically, digital sculpting, is a new form of sculpture where users interact with a digital model, much like when modeling clay.  Users pull, pinch, push, and twist “virtual clay” to create a sculpture.

Precious materials like gold, jade, and silver are typically used to craft expensive, often smaller sculpture, while more common and less expensive materials, such as hardwoods, ceramics, and wax are used for wider purposes.  Many sculptors, while carving out their own niche, have found new ways to use everyday materials, such as Pablo Picasso who used bicycle parts in his famous sculpture entitled, “Bull’s Head”, or Nathan Sawaya, who builds larger-than-life sculptures out of Legos; exhibiting them in museums around the world.

2. Pursue a Degree or Formal Training

Learn Fundamental Skills & Hone Your Artistic Ability

Sculptors are highly-creative fine artists who create three-dimensional art in a wide variety of mediums. The term three-dimensional refers to the three dimensions of space – depth, breadth, and length, and is distinguished from other art, such as drawing and painting, which are two-dimensional.  The sculptures artists create can be large, like the seated figure of Abraham Lincoln enshrined forever within the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC, or they can be small, like Jonty Hurwitz’s tiny human sculpture that is so tiny it cannot be seen by the naked eye. A sculptor can sculpt, chisel, carve, and cast with a variety of mediums, or choose to specialize in just one.

It goes without saying that the main requirement for being a sculptor is artistic ability.  But, as sculptors function as both the designer and craftsman, you will be carving or chiseling and modeling pieces with your hands, you will also need manual dexterity.  You may operate hand tools, chisels, pliers, or scissors. You may need to know how to weld metals and assemble and cut more pliant materials.  Sculptors might specialize in the design of one specific kind of sculpture, such as freestanding sculpture or relief. You may have a modern eye, or want to design pieces like the old masters.  You may be known for sculpting pieces that involve lighting or flowing water, or for making intricate smaller bronze or silver pieces, or larger-than-life statues for display as landmarks.

And, because you may also be in the business of self-promotion, you may need business and marketing skills in order to sell your work.  The ability to communicate ideas creatively, flexibility and adaptability, organizational skills and the ability to work in groups or independently are also skills a sculptor needs to have to succeed.  The ability to make keep observations, sometimes quick decisions, and accept criticism are also essential skills. Sculptors must have an appreciation of aesthetics and have a keen eye for even the smallest details.  Form, expressiveness and imaginative content are all concerns of a sculptor and should be honed and practiced to perfect, cultivate, and improve their craft.

Other than earning a high school diploma, a college degree is not required to succeed as a sculptor. In fact, many famous sculptors have no formal training. Take for instance, John Martini, whose work is shown in galleries and museums throughout the US, or Michelle Post, who apprenticed with printmaker Stefan Martin to learn the detailed techniques of wood engraving and has worked alongside other artists who, over the years, have assisted in her artistic growth.

So, before entering this field, aspiring sculptors should do their research and explore all their options to determine if a formal education is worth the time and money, or if chiseling out a living as a self-taught artist is realistic.

Self-Taught vs. Formal Education

Self-taught sculptors are not confined by the constraints of formal art training and education, but are normal, everyday people who chisel, carve and mold great art. In that way, they are just like, and can possibly better relate to those who purchase their art.  Conversely, college can leave individuals with mounting student debt. Especially when some four-year programs at top fine arts colleges can cost upwards of $100,000.

Today, the Internet can be a self-taught artist’s greatest ally. It has never been easier for sculptors to establish themselves and attract a fan base than now, regardless of education. And, a greater number of artists are making it on their own using the power of a personal website and social networking. By posting photographs of your work online, word about your art can spread very quickly. Likewise, an apprenticeship can increase an artist's marketability, and although positions with professional sculptors may be hard to find, artists can search for opportunities through local community centers or cultural centers.

A growing following of your art can also give your self-esteem a boost. After all, you determine what your sculpture should look like or represent, and how you present yourself, instead of what the art world teaches it should be. Plus, there are no rules governing what you sell your art for, where you sell your art, and what it should look like. That’s pretty liberating for most artists.

In addition, just because you haven’t obtained a formal education, doesn’t’ mean your art can’t garner high prices.  Many artists without formal training experience high levels of success, including hosting their own shows and participating in museum exhibitions. During a show, you may ask people what they think about a particular piece, what they are looking for, or if they would consider commissioning your work.  Use any feedback to hone your craft or explore new techniques.

Developing a plan to attract new collectors, establishing an online presence (Pinterest and Instagram are great venues), and cultivating relationships in the field can all help a sculptor’s business. Asking for referrals to show your work in a public place or business and attending art shows or joining arts organizations are also great avenues for self-taught sculptors to explore.

Earning a Degree

Although a degree from a college, university or private art school is not required, many sculptors complete a formal education, and most agree a degree outweighs the cost and time it takes to complete. Some sculptors even go on to earn a master’s degree in fine arts, with a concentration in sculpting. During school, sculptors can gain practical experience by shadowing professionals in the field or completing internships. Many schools also offer portfolio classes; providing instruction on how to create a professional portfolio. A portfolio is typically what employers look at first when deciding to hire a sculptor or show their work in a gallery. Coursework in a bachelor’s of fine arts (BFA) program includes art, art history, sculpting techniques, stone carving, mold-making, figure modeling, casting and more.

In the final two years of a BFA program, student’s have the opportunity to choose electives, which expose them to other methods of sculpting, such as the use of fabric, metal, wire, glass, or a combination of materials. Students are also advised to take business and marketing classes they will likely need when promoting and selling their art.  Many students will also participate in training sessions and complete continuing education classes to stay in tune with the newest advancements in the world of sculpture.  Students who wish to teach sculpture (or any art course) in a public school will also need to obtain a teaching certificate in addition to their bachelor’s degree.

Some graduates will go on to earn a master’s in fine arts (MFA), with a concentration in sculpture.  Although curriculum varies by school, most MFA programs last two years, with a focus on the theory and practice of modern sculpture. MFA programs also include many hours of studio work. Many programs require students to complete a thesis in the form of a student exhibition of his or her sculpture(s).

  • There are many other reasons to attend art school, among them:
  • The opportunity to learn from the masters themselves. Many art professors are accomplished in their field and have their artwork displayed publicly.
  • Personal mentors and alumni that give students the opportunity to connect outside of the classroom.
  • Access to equipment. No doubt, attending school gives students a big advantage when it comes to using state-of-the-art equipment.
  • The structured environment of college helps students stay focused and motivated.
  • Studio space. Many art schools and universities have individual studio space for students to produce their artwork.
  • Exposure to art shows and exhibitions give students the opportunity to showcase their work on a regular basis. Some shows are open to the public, which gives their art an even greater opportunity to be seen by art collectors, critics, and potential employers.
  • Community. Having peers critique your work is invaluable to an individual’s growth as a sculptor. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals can lead to new ideas and techniques.
  • Networking opportunities are there for the taking as students participate in workshops and lectures and meet local artists, which can lead to job opportunities and career advancement.

Many art schools also teach skills that can be used to further a sculptor’s career, such as how to market and price their work, or even run a small business.  Students need to know how to speak in public, and they need writing skills for presenting their work, and critical thinking skills. They provide an environment conducive to producing great art.  That said, students should research different programs offered by colleges and universities, or private art schools to find the one that offers them the best program in sculpture and fits their career goals.

3. Build Your Business

One of the best reasons to become a sculptor is that it allows you to do what you love, and can make going to work much less monotonous and much more exciting. To many sculptors, keeping a day job to pay the bills is fine, as long as you have time set aside to go to the studio or warehouse to carve, chisel, mold, and assemble materials into works of art. Sculptors who have already made a name for themselves do get paid rather well, especially if they are commissioned to work on large projects.

A sculptor can find work with a company, a museum, a commercial art studio, and many other places of employment. They may also do freelance or be hired as a contractor for a number of different clients. They typically work in large spaces, such as warehouses or large studios where they have room for their materials, as well as their finished artwork. Some sculptors share a studio space, where they also display their work for sale.

Sculptors create commissioned work for private collectors, museums, public places, businesses, and arts organizations. They may also teach the sculpture arts, create reproductions and models for the television and film industry, or restore historical works of art displayed in churches or museums. Many sculptors are self-employed and sell their art to galleries, local or state government agencies for display in parks or other public spaces, or to private collectors. Other career paths a sculptor might pursue, include working for industrial and product design companies, cultural institutions, theaters and performing arts venues, event planning firms, or retail stores. Sculptural pieces can take weeks, months or even years to complete, and many companies won’t pay until the work is completed to their satisfaction. For his reason, many sculptors, even those with many years of experience, will often keep other jobs. Sculptors who are self-employed can usually set their own work hours but must be flexible and meet deadlines.

Salary

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics lists an average annual wage of $49,380 for fine artists, which includes sculptors. The lowest ten percent earned $20,020, and the highest ten percent earn more than $97,000. Payscale reports the average hourly salary for a fine artist which includes sculptors to be $20.43. Wages fluctuate greatly depending on geographic location, education, years of experience, company, and reputation. Freelance sculptors earn more or less, depending on the client.

Additional Resources for Sculptors

World Sculptor’s Associations & Societies – Sculptor.org
Association of Sculptors of Victoria
Resources for Sculptors | Sculptors’ Society of BC
National Sculpture Society | The Sculpture Resource
Royal British Society of Sculptors
Texas Sculpture Association
Prairie Sculpture Association
Northwest Stone Sculptors Association
San Diego Sculptors Guild

Additional How-to-Become Guides for Craft & Fine Art Careers

If you are considering a career within the industry of Craft or Fine Art, check out these additional how-to-become guides to learn about similar career options in the field.

How to Become a Blacksmith
How to Become a Floral Designer
How to Become a Graffiti Artist
How to Become a Painter
How to Become a Screen Printer
How to Become a Tattoo Artist
How to Become a Woodworker

Additional Guides

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How to Become a Sketch Artist

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If you’re an aspiring artist considering career options, and sketching with graphite, charcoal, or similar mediums are your preferred tools, a career as a sketch artist could be the perfect fit.

1. Learn the Basics of Sketch Art

In most cases, the term, "sketch artist" refers to someone who creates sketches for law enforcement. Realistically, however, a sketch artist is anyone who creates images using sketching techniques. Sketch artists can look at a subject and draw it as close as possible to the original on paper or another similar surface. They must have great hand-eye coordination, artistic talent, steady hands and the ability to make realistic drawings come to life.

Sketch artists had used their talents long before the camera was invented to record history, the proceedings in a courtroom, capturing an author’s vision within the pages of a book, caricatures of adults and children at fairs, and in the advertising and newsrooms of newspapers and magazines. Some artists display their sketches on the walls of art galleries or museums. Of course, many artists also use sketching to "rough draft" their ideas before using their chosen medium.

Sketch artists may be employed within an architecture firm creating sketches of buildings and homes, or employed by a police department or correctional facility drawings pictures of victims and the surroundings of a crime scene. They construct drawings of people’s features from victims or witnesses’ descriptions. Some sketch artists teach while others enjoy working in the field with scientists or cartographers.

2. Develop the Appropriate Technical Skills

The arts are unlike many other career fields in that there is usually no educational requirement. That doesn't mean you shouldn’t attend classes, pursue a degree, or hone your craft. Aspiring artists should view education as a learning experience and an opportunity to learn the specific techniques and skills they'll need to both compete professionally and improve as an artist. In other words, it's not so much about the degree as it is about the knowledge and ability you'll gain through coursework, internships, apprenticeships, and mentoring opportunities.

Many sketch artists complete two or four-year degrees before they begin their career. Art, unlike other careers, is something that evolves over time. So, it's important for artists to continually practice their craft, take seminars and classes that will help them develop new techniques, etc. Fortunately, there are a lot of opportunities to continually extend your education through online courses, seminars, and local events.

In order to succeed as a sketch artist, no matter the career field, individuals must have a thorough knowledge and understanding of a number of skills, which include:

  • Perspective; how basic three-dimensional shapes are represented on a two-dimensional surface
  • Proportions; the relation of size between the various objects in a scene
  • Composition; the placement or organization of visual elements
  • Anatomy; the study of the human body, how they work and how the different parts are put together
  • Lighting; values, shadows, light and dark, which often expressed with shading
  • Edges; split silhouettes and shapes to increase the feeling of depth
  • Gesture; the art of rendering movement in a static drawing
  • Concept; new ideas, original thought, how things work and the creation of new processes
  • Style; aesthetic taste, which often depends on history, society, etc.
  • Communication; ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’ – storytelling through pictures

Sketching is like a muscle; your craft will get better with practice and use.

With forensic and courtroom sketch artists, artistic ability is essential. But, just as important is the ability to listen and communicate on all levels. There are classes and programs available for forensic artists and those who work with law enforcement. Those courses can give you a foundation that's relevant to the field beyond only artistic ability.

Skills you'll need as a forensic or courtroom sketch artist include:

Accurate Technical Skills:  With this type of sketching, accuracy is key. It's important to develop a high level of proficiency in depicting the human form and, especially, portraits. Forensic sketch artists typically work with limited information and it's imperative that they can adequately capture facial features, often without any subject present to replicate.

Communication Skills:  For artists working with victims to create a composite sketch, communication skills are important. This might mean hearing some very disturbing intricacies of a crime. It's important to develop methods to communicate with victims that will give you as much information as possible. Most people don't have a concept of how to accurately describe facial features. Artists must develop ways to ask questions that will give them a better understanding of the whole composite, as well as specific features.

Strong Stomach:  Sketch artists and courtroom artists will often hear very graphic information that may be disturbing. You'll want to consider whether or not this type of environment will be suited to your personality and fortitude. People who work in these fields often get a high sense of satisfaction in contributing to the justice system. but the work can sometimes take a toll emotionally.

3. Pursue Formal Training

Sketch artists can work with a number of mediums, but most often they will sketch with graphite or colored pencils. It's important to master the skills involved in sketching. This includes learning techniques to better capture proportions and replicate facial features. It also includes technical skills involved with using an array of sketching and shading techniques.

Before you consider going into any field as a sketch artist, you must have a firm mastery of the tools sketch artists use. Art students will have the advantage of working with their instructors to better understand the various techniques and concepts. In this way, there's a second set of eyes helping you recognize where you need to improve, your strengths and weaknesses, and your progress over time, which are all essential to developing your talent. It's difficult to judge your own work with clarity.

For the sketch artist, there are often courses devoted entirely to life drawing, and there may be specific programs for forensic or courtroom sketch artist. You may also work independently, sketching in public, capturing life as it happens the way you may need to do in a courtroom setting.

Although a degree is usually not a requirement for employment as a sketch artist, aspiring sketch artists should consider obtaining an associate or bachelor’s degree in Art & Design from a college, university or private art school.  Some employers require a degree, while others require a degree and experience.  Of course, if you choose to freelance and branch out on your own, your talent may be the only requirement to obtain clients or show your work. But, some clients and companies that contract your work will prefer you hold a degree as a sign of determination and mental stamina.

At the bachelor’s degree level, students can narrow their focus with a concentration in drawing or sketching.  If you plan to teach at the elementary, middle, or high school level, you may also be required to also earn a teaching certificate.  If you plan to teach at the post-secondary level, you will want to enroll in a master’s program, which also helps further refine and develop your skills and techniques.  Coursework at all levels may include life drawing, painting, human anatomy, art history, and visual organization.

While in school, you will also have the opportunity to intern or become an apprentice under a professional in the field you wish to pursue.  The connections you’ll make can give you invaluable experience and time to further hone your craft.

4. Build Your Portfolio & Pursue Professional Development

Another benefit for those who pursue an art or fine art degree is that it allows you time to build your portfolio. Over the course of your studies, you'll create numerous assignments and have the benefit of choosing to include the best representations of your work. Of course, artists can develop a portfolio independently, but the details of what goes into creating a professional portfolio can often only be learned in class.  As your sketching skills progress, you will also want to update your portfolio with more recent works to better represent your skills and progress. And, your portfolio will be the most compelling reason for future employers to hire you, regardless of the career field you pursue. Think of your portfolio as an extension of your resume. Include your best samplings in different mediums. If your interest is in forensic sketching, include any samples of your work in the field, and other portrait work that can represent your skill.

As a sketch artist, it's likely that you will work in a freelance capacity at some point in your career, although most forensic artists work directly for police departments. In either case, it's important to consider your personal brand. If you use social media, have a website, or use any form of communication to contact prospective employers and colleagues, you should always conduct yourself professionally.

Forensic sketch artists can make excellent money. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, fine artists (which loosely includes sketch artists) earn a median annual salary of just over $45,000.  Employment for fine artists is projected to grow only two percent between 2014 and 2024, which is much slower than many career fields. That said, overall employment as a forensic or courtroom artist should remain steady. This is true in part because courtrooms do not allow cameras or cell phones to be used during proceedings, making courtroom sketches the only images available for widely reported cases. And, as will all career fields, salary varies depending on location, company or industry, years of experience and education.

There are other possible avenues to use sketching skills professionally. Many artists sell sketches privately to clients or through local craft fairs. These rates can vary. Some artists work with live subjects, sketching people who sit for them. In these cases, salary is often paid by the hour or will be contracted as a one-time fee.

Professional Development

A career in the arts doesn't have a finish line. There is always room to grow and advance. For the sketch artist, some of your professional career growth will come in the form of networking and building connections. For the forensic sketch artist, this might mean developing relationships with local law enforcement or even working directly for the police department. Often there will be coursework available through forensic associations, so it's beneficial to stay involved in these associations even after you've completed all available classes.

For the courtroom sketch artist, networking may include any of the local media outlets, although you'll likely work in a freelance capacity. Developing ongoing relationships with the editorial or production staff of a newspaper or magazine can be beneficial to learning about upcoming trails, or having your work displayed on the editorial page or in connection with a story.

Sketch artist may also want to consider continuing education courses, or simply enrolling in a local art program to further your skills and learn new skills and techniques.  YouTube has some fascinating tutorials that can further teach aspiring sketch artists new shading techniques, how to use a grid system to frame a picture, and how to use light and perspective to bring a portrait to life.  There are also clubs, artist’s associations, and online classes that can all help sketch artists improve their drawing techniques or help steer their focus to a new or different career.

Additional Resources for Sketch Artist

National Society of Artists ~ NSA – Painting ~ Drawing ~ Photography
Society of Illustrators
Graphic Artists Guild
Art Directors Guild: Art Director, Digital Artist, Graphic Artist, Illustrator
Society of Illustrators, Artists, and Designers (SIAD)

Additional How-to-Become Guides for Craft & Fine Art Careers

If you are considering a career within the industry of Craft or Fine Art, check out these additional how-to-become guides to learn about similar career options in the field.

How to Become a Blacksmith
How to Become a Floral Designer
How to Become a Graffiti Artist
How to Become a Painter
How to Become a Screen Printer
How to Become a Sculptor
How to Become a Tattoo Artist
How to Become a Woodworker

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How to Become a Tattoo Artist

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If you love art and design and have a passion for tattoos, becoming a tattoo artist can be a rewarding career. Like many creative trades, pursuing a career in tattooing isn't easy. The cost and time commitment to get a job as a tattoo artist is significant, but the payoff has the potential to be so much more.

There's more than one path to become a tattoo artist - the one you choose depends greatly on what type of artist you want to be, your finances, talent, and the opportunities available in your area. However, there are some common steps all aspiring artists must follow to improve your skill level, acquire knowledge of the trade, and master the art of tattooing. Here's how to get started.

1. Learn How to Draw

The key to creating a great tattoo begins with a visually appealing drawing, so it's essential that you focus on improving your drawing skills and illustration techniques before you even think about designing tattoos or attempting to practice tattooing. Here's how you can get started.

Practice Drawing On Your Own

The first thing you can do to get started is to begin drawing on your own. Keep a sketchbook and a pencil handy to draw in your free time; you don't need anything else to take that initial step. Draw things you see, things you think, and things other people describe. Get a feel for whether you truly enjoy drawing and creating art, especially art for other people. Since you'll be drawing requests most of the time, it's important that you're comfortable creating art that meets the specifications of others.

Study the Work of Famous Tattoo Artists

A great way to get a feel for the art of tattooing is to study the work of notable tattoo artists. Find famous artists with different types of art styles and explore what they've been able to create with ink and a tattoo gun. See what jives with you and what the market feels like for the kind of tattoos you want to do. Popular tattoo artists include Mirko Sata, Chris Nunez, Miya Bailey, Gerhard Wiesbeck, Frank Carrilho, Rit Kit, and Stanislaw Wilczynski.

Explore Different Art Forms

If you enjoy art but aren't sure what kind of art you really want to do, be sure to try out plenty of different forms prior to making a decision. Create fine art, contemporary art, abstract art, and even things like t-shirt designs and logos. Before you get too far into the idea of becoming a tattoo artist, make sure it's the type of art you like to do most.

2. Get an Art Education

If you're serious about a career in tattooing, it's important to seek out opportunities to become a well-rounded artist. It's important to be realistic about your financial situation and to assess your skills as an artist so you can make a decision about whether to pursue a traditional art degree, training at a master tattoo institute, classes at a community college, or the self-taught route. The bottom line is, the more time you spend developing your skills, the better artist you will be. Tattoo artists aren't required to have formal education or even a high school diploma, so this step is a big decision. Weigh the pros and cons of each.

Take Art Classes at Your Local Community College

Taking art classes at your local community college is the most affordable way to get an education in art, however, it's not as robust as formal education at a tattoo school or university. Here, you can learn many basic design concepts and sharpen your skills by practicing creating art for a wide variety of applications.

Earn a Degree in Art

If you desire a traditional education in the arts and have the financial means to do so, consider going to a university that has a good arts program. You're unlikely to find a program specifically for tattoo artists, so look for a school that offers a degree in design, illustration, graphic design, digital arts, performing arts, or commercial art. A degree program can also help you develop a strong background in the arts, including art history and studies,

3. Establish Basic Design Skills and Knowledge

While considered by many to be a less traditional art form, tattooing still encompasses all the basic tools of design. It's important that you have a robust knowledge of how different design elements work together and how they impact each other, regardless of whether you choose to obtain an education or go the self-taught route. You should:

Learn the Basic Elements of Graphic Design

Whether you obtain an education in art or develop your drawing skills through experience, it's critical to master the basics of graphic design. You'll need to learn the theories of line, shape, texture, color, value, and size. You'll also need to learn how to apply those theories on paper to create the image you want, how to stencil, and eventually, how to execute your designs on human skin.

Learn the Principles of Graphic Design

Other essential skills to master are the principles of graphic design, such as balance, alignment, repetition, proximity, contrast, and space. These principles help to build the foundation of art itself and no drawing is complete without them. How each manifests differs greatly from piece to piece, so it's crucial to develop a strong ability to manipulate these principles in a wide variety of ways.

4. Build a Portfolio

An art portfolio is by far one of the most important tools in a tattoo artist's belt. It allows prospective mentors to quickly look at your best work, so they can decide if your particular art style is what they're looking for in an apprentice. How you put your portfolio together impacts the impression it has on your potential mentors, so make sure you:

Create a Professional Portfolio

Your portfolio should be both attention-grabbing and professional looking. Don't use an old binder you found lying around or a single manila folder for all your art. Instead, use a new three-ring binder with sheet protectors, or have the pages matted. The outside of your portfolio should look sleek, uniform, and inviting.

Include the Right Work

Put 25 to 100 completed drawings and tattoo designs in your portfolio; these can be either copies or original works. Make sure that the pieces you choose to include do an excellent job of showcasing your versatility as an artist. Include a few examples of work you have completed in black and grey, even if your strongest work is typically composed of colorful illustrations. Even if the piece may not necessarily translate well into a tattoo, it will demonstrate that you have strong technique and have the talent for designing tattoos.

Avoid Common Mistakes When Creating Your Portfolio

While it may seem obvious, it's important to mention that there are a few things you want to steer clear of when building your portfolio, including:

Copying the work of other artists. This is plagiarism and could result in legal action depending on the laws in your area. At best, the tattoo shop will know that you've submitted plagiarized art and won't accept your application. At worst, you could be declined and your reputation ruined before you even get started.

Submitting photos of tattoos you've done.If you're not already a professional tattoo artist, don't include photographs of tattoos you've given no matter how good you believe they are. First, tattooing without a license is illegal. Second, it shows that you're not willing to take the health of your clients and the art of tattooing seriously. It also tips them off that you may have some bad "scratcher" habits that need to be ironed out, making it more challenging to mentor you.

Create an Engaging Portfolio

Be sure to create a portfolio potential mentors want to look at by:

Writing a cover letter and including your resume. Your resume highlights relevant education and experience, and a cover letter addresses your potential mentor by name. Including these give your portfolio an instant feel of professionalism.

Including only completed work. If you have a lot of sketches but few finished pieces of art, wait to create your portfolio until you have more to put in it. Use finished work only for your portfolio, but feel free to include some copies of what the piece looked like at various stages during the drawing phase.

Memorize a few talking points about each piece. You'll likely be asked a few questions about your art. Get comfortable talking about a few main points for each piece included in your portfolio, so you're prepared no matter which piece your prospective mentor wants to discuss.

Leaving your business card. Unless you have an appointment at the tattoo shop, the artist may not be able to review your portfolio right away. Leave a business card with your name, contact information, and a link to an online portfolio where your artwork can be viewed at their convenience.

5. Work with an Established Tattoo Artist

Once you're confident about your drawing skills and ability to design attractive tattoos, it's time to gain hands-on experience and to start applying the techniques you've learned in a real-world environment. Tattooing isn't something you can learn from a book; it's critical to work with a mentor who has been tattooing ideally for many years and who is willing and able to take you under their wing. Here's what to keep in mind when finding a tattoo artist to work with:

What to Look for In a Mentor

It's important to do your due diligence when searching for a tattoo artist to apprentice under. Look for an artist who:

Works at a reputable tattoo shop. Make sure they abide by basic hygiene guidelines and have plenty of clients. Avoid tattoo shops who seem to be empty, who can't tell you about their hygiene practices, or that you just get a bad vibe in.

Has mentored an apprentice before. Mentoring is difficult even for the most seasoned tattoo artist. Look for someone who has taken an apprentice before, so they have a better idea of what works and what doesn't.

Who can challenge you. The artist you choose to mentor you should be able to challenge you, hold you accountable, and push you past your limits. Don't choose a mentor who seems too easy-to-please; a laissez-faire approach won't help you in the long run.

How to Approach a Shop About an Apprenticeship

When you approach a tattoo shop about an apprenticeship, the impression you make matters. You should:

Do your homework. Learn as much as you can about the shop you want to apprentice at. Familiarize yourself with each artist's bio and portfolio, as well as any other key details about the business.

Make face-to-face contact. Don't just call the tattoo shop and talk to someone on the phone. Get your face in their minds by showing up and saying hello. Drop by in the afternoon on a weekday when it's least likely to be busy.

Treat everyone you meet with respect. The person you see working the front desk may be an artist covering for the receptionist while they're out to lunch, or they may be tight with all the artists there. Treat everyone you meet like their opinion of you can make or break your apprenticeship; chances are, it can.

The Cost of a Tattoo Apprenticeship

Very few tattoo apprenticeships pay; rather, the reverse is usually true. There are some free apprenticeships, but most have a cost. Free apprenticeships at reputable tattoo shops are the most competitive and difficult to get, and most cost around $5,000. In rare cases, they may be as high as $10,000 depending on the skill and reputation of the artist you're apprenticing under. Most artists who begin a tattoo apprenticeship need to have a side job to sustain themselves financially while they complete their tattoo training.

Understanding Tattoo Apprentice Contracts

Typically, you'll be required to sign a contract with the tattoo shop you have an apprenticeship with. A contract is a legal document that sets forth the responsibilities and expectations of both parties and provides protection for either party if one does not meet their contractual obligations. The contract outlines how long your apprenticeship will last (usually a year), how much you will pay, what your daily and weekly responsibilities are, what you should expect to learn from your mentor, and if you'll be required to work at the shop for any length of time after your apprenticeship is complete. Consider having an attorney review your contract prior to signing to ensure your interests remain protected.

6. Complete an Apprenticeship and Learn the Trade

Before you can begin tattooing professionally, you'll need to complete an apprenticeship to learn the trade. This can be done with your mentor, or you can look for a tattoo shop that is advertising an opening for an apprentice. When starting a tattoo apprenticeship, you can expect:

A Large Upfront Investment

Beyond the cost of your apprenticeship, you'll also need a number of basic supplies to work with, including tattoo guns, sterile equipment, art supplies, and more. Be prepared for a significant upfront investment to become a tattoo artist.

To Learn How to Design Tattoos

While tattoos are art, not all art can be a tattoo. You'll need to learn how to design tattoos so they look nice on the body and last for as long as possible without the need for a touch-up. Where on the body the tattoo is placed, how large the tattoo is, and how detailed it is all impact what it will look like over time. Poorly placed tattoos with too much detail for the size will heal unevenly, causing the ink to spread and lines to become blurred.

To Learn How to Operate a Tattoo Machine and How to Work with Ink

Ink and flesh as an artistic medium can be quite challenging to work with, and no two bodies are exactly the same. As you apprentice, you'll learn how tattooing differs from other mediums, how to operate a tattoo machine, and how to work with ink to create art that looks good on the skin.

To Learn Hygienic Work Practices

Because tattooing is a body modification that punctures the skin and draws blood, there's a certain standard of hygiene that must be met for both the artist and client's safety. You'll learn how to create a sterile work field, how to keep your tattoo machine clean, when to change gloves, and more. Remember that reputable artists take hygiene very seriously; ask to review an artist's hygiene practices before agreeing to apprentice under them. In fact, it's an excellent idea to get a tattoo by the artist you want to apprentice under when possible.

To Learn Professional Business Skills and Customer Service

Most tattoo artists need to learn at least some professional skills like how to balance a ledger, process payments, and interact with clients. Apprenticeships that offer training on more than just tattooing and teach the essential skills needed to operate and/or manage a tattoo shop are ideal. This is especially true if you want to start your own tattoo shop at any point in your career.

To Work for Free for at Least a Year

It's common for an apprenticeship program to be unpaid and you should expect to do a lot of free tattoos, so it's important to have enough savings set aside or to have another source of income so you can make ends meet. You can plan for a year, but in some cases, your apprenticeship may be longer.

7. Obtain Additional Pre-License Certification and Training

After your apprenticeship, you'll need to get a few certifications and/or go through specific training courses to meet your state's tattoo licensing requirements. Depending on your state, you may also need to take classes in disease control, health and safety, and other basic health care concepts. These include:

A Blood Borne Pathogen Certification

Since the canvas of a tattoo artist is human skin it is essential that they follow strict health and safety guidelines. Preventing blood borne pathogens from being spread and working to preserve the health of the client and the artist will be a focal point of your training. You will be required at some point during, or after your apprenticeship program, to become certified in how to prevent the spread of HIV, Hepatitis C, and other infections while creating a tattoo, and you'll need to be able to show proof of blood borne pathogen certification upon request.

Training on Skin Diseases, Communicable Diseases, and Disease Prevention

Many blood borne pathogen certification programs require you to go through classes or seminars on disease management before you can become certified, while others simply require you to pass a test that demonstrates your knowledge. As a tattoo artist, you should have a robust knowledge of the types of diseases that can be spread through tattooing and how to prevent them.

8. Get Licensed

You've made it! You're educated, skilled, and experienced, and you're ready to start tattooing on your own. Next, you need to:

Check Your State Requirements

Licensing requirements often vary by state. For example, tattoo artists in Oregon must complete no less than 360 hours of training with an approved tattoo artist and 50 tattoos, as well as pass a written exam and skills assessment to become licensed. In other states, only the shop needs a license. Review your state's requirements for licensure, as well as the requirements for any other state you plan to tattoo in. Like healthcare, you can be licensed to tattoo in more than one state as long as you meet that state's requirements.

Apply for Licensure

After you've met any necessary prerequisites, you'll need to apply for your license. Often, this is simply filling out a form with your local department and paying a fee, however, this too differs from state to state.

9. Buy Your Own Tattoo Equipment

Each tattoo artist tends to have equipment preferences. Perhaps you like a particular style of a tattoo gun, or you need to use nitrile gloves instead of latex due to an allergy. Usually, tattoo shops require an artist to furnish their own supplies, so you'll want to invest a few basics to start out with, growing your collection as you gain more experience.

The Basic Equipment Every Tattoo Artist Needs

You'll need at least two tattoo guns that you like using, an ultrasonic, tubes and grips, sterile needles for lines and shading, green cleaning soap, spray bottles, small plastic cups for ink, gloves, and other supplies needed to keep your area clean. Expect this equipment to cost a few thousand dollars or more depending on what you get.

10. Start Your Career

The very last step to becoming a tattoo artist can often seem like the most daunting. If you're here, it's time to finally put yourself out there as a tattoo artist, either on your own or at an existing tattoo shop. Here's what to do next:

Apply at a Tattoo Shop

Once you're licensed, you're ready to apply for any job you want as a tattoo artist. If you're not under contract with the tattoo studio you apprenticed with, look for openings at local shops you want to work at. Or, drop off your resume and portfolio for consideration; often, tattoo shops will hire new artists when they like someone's work, even if they don't have a formal employment ad posted.

Open Your Own Studio

If your dream is to open your own tattoo studio and work for yourself, why not start early? Begin looking into what you need to open your own shop, such as rental space, furniture, and extra equipment. Evaluate your competition and your target market and if needed, relocate to an area where you're likely to get more business.

Want to Become a Tattoo Artist? You Need Less Than You Think to Get Started

If you want to learn how to become a tattoo artist, you really need a lot less than you think to take the first step. In all honesty, all you need is a piece of paper and a pencil to start drawing. Then, the rest can come piece by piece over a few years. You can consistently hone your skills in your free time, no matter where you are in the process of becoming a tattoo artist!

Additional How-to-Become Guides for Craft & Fine Art Careers

If you are considering a career within the industry of Craft or Fine Art, check out these additional how-to-become guides to learn about similar career options in the field.

How to Become a Blacksmith
How to Become a Floral Designer
How to Become a Graffiti Artist
How to Become a Painter
How to Become a Screen Printer
How to Become a Sculptor
How to Become a Woodworker

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How to Become a Taxidermist

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Taxidermy is an interesting career that allows artists to work with one of the most unique mediums possible – dead animals! Those who have an artistic eye and a knack for working and crafting with their hands may find this is quite a rewarding career.

1. Learn the Basics of Taxidermy

Taxidermy is an art form where the practitioner preserves dead animals by crafting models from their preserved skin. Many taxidermists work to create models that are similar to the animals in nature, while others create hybrid or fantasy creatures made from different animals’ parts. Taxidermy is a meticulous craft that requires attention to detail as well as an artistic vision.

Taxidermists must also be familiar with animal anatomy and have skills in carpentry, woodworking, tanning, molding, drawing, sculpting, and casting. In addition, this field allows individuals to take their artistic skills and vision to preserve animals for art and educational purposes.  You will need to be familiar with fur and feather texture and coloring and must have strong hand-eye coordination. However, taxidermy is not for the squeamish. Taxidermists must be okay with getting a little messy, as this career involves dealing with dead animals and preserving the skin.

Taxidermists are not required to have a formal degree. However, like most artistic career paths, taxidermy requires in-depth training and hours of practice to become skilled. If you want to work as a taxidermist in the US, you will also be required to obtain a license and/or federal permit (although regulations vary by state).  Some states require taxidermists pass an exam detailing regulations in various categories, such as mammals or birds.  Consult your state’s department of natural resources to verify licensure requirements and obtain information prior to starting out.  It should also be noted that taxidermists who plan to work on migratory birds must apply for a federal permit through the US Fish and Wildlife Service, in addition to obtaining a state license.  In addition, although professional certification isn’t necessary to work as a taxidermist, professional certification through the National Taxidermist Association (NTA) can help you get a job or show your commitment to the field.

Many taxidermists complete an apprenticeship to learn the craft from someone who specializes in the various types of taxidermy. Those who want to become taxidermists may also benefit from earning a college degree in biology, business, or fine arts before working on their craft-specific training with a professional taxidermist.

Like many other artistic professionals, taxidermists can work in a variety of different environments such as established taxidermy shops or museums and other scientific establishments. Many taxidermists work full-time, while others may choose to pursue their interests on a part-time basis, as the amount of work is often dependent on the season. For those who want to make taxidermy a full-time career, it is helpful to have some business experience or knowledge, especially if you plan to open your own shop.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics does not list salary information specifically related to taxidermy. However, it does list salary information for fine artists (which includes painters, sculptors, and illustrators).  On average fine artists earned about $25.00 per hour or just over $50,000 per year.  The BLS also lists Leather and Hide Tanning and Finishing Industry wages of $14.14 to $17.30 per hour.

2. Master the Process

Knowledge of Anatomy & Attention to Detail Are Essential Components

A knowledge of animal anatomy is important to the taxidermy profession. For the most part, taxidermists work to create realistic models of animals. For this reason, a taxidermist must have in-depth knowledge and understanding of the anatomy of the species of animals they may choose to specialize in; like birds or fish. An understanding of animal anatomy allows a taxidermist to successfully recreate the look and feel of a natural animal.

The taxidermy process typically involves four or five major steps. First, the taxidermist will skin the dead animal and preserve its skin by tanning or by chemical processing. Then, the taxidermist mounts the skin on a grid, molding it to look like the animal in its natural form. Afterward, the taxidermist will install any artificial pieces like glass eyes to create the desired effect. The taxidermist may then label the work with any other important information if necessary, like if a fin is missing on a fish, or other oddity.

Before the taxidermist can begin the process and start working on the piece, he or she must consider the purpose of the piece. It is vital to understand where the piece is going after it is finished and what the client hopes to get from the piece. For instance, if a piece is going to be placed in an educational institution or a museum, it will most likely need to look as it would in nature. On the other hand, a piece completed for a person’s home or an art gallery provides a little more flexibility and room for creative license.

One of the most important skills that a successful taxidermist must possess is attention to detail. Taxidermy is a meticulous art that requires painstakingly detailed work. When it comes to taxidermy elements such as seam work, realistic features, or lifelike poses, clients want to know that their taxidermist is paying attention to any and all features that make the piece successful.

3. Build Experience & Seek Professional Development

No formal education is needed to become a taxidermist. That said, there are certificate and diploma programs available through some community colleges and trade schools.  These programs offer students training in artistic and technical areas of taxidermy and provide opportunities to work with professionals on authentic projects. Coursework may include learning the tools and techniques of taxidermy related to different types of animals, such as birds, small and large game and fish, state regulations, airbrushing and painting techniques. 

But, like any other artistic endeavor, taxidermy takes practice. Those who want to pursue a career as a taxidermist must seek out craft-specific training from an experienced professional taxidermist. Whether you volunteer your services to learn the trade, study under a professional in a formal program, or work as an apprentice at a taxidermist’s shop, you will want to have considerable training before you get your license and start seeking employment.

A strong portfolio is another important element for the taxidermist. Not all taxidermists are created equal. For instance, some taxidermists specialize in exotic animals like lions, tigers, and leopards, while others may focus on birds or insects. A portfolio of your work allows you to show potential employers or clients your quality of work while showcasing your specialty.

Networking is an important part of expanding your career opportunities, as well as getting the chance to learn from others in the profession. Join your state’s taxidermy association and attend taxidermy conventions when you can. At these events, you can learn new techniques, stay up-to-date with trends and issues in the industry, and meet other taxidermists who are working in the field. This is a great way to not only meet colleagues but also find mentors and potential employers.

Additional Resources for Taxidermist

National Taxidermists Association
United Taxidermist Association
Texas Taxidermy Association, Inc.
Wisconsin Taxidermist Association
Pennsylvania Taxidermist Association
North Carolina Taxidermist Association
Virginia Taxidermists Association
Guild of Taxidermists
The British Academy of Taxidermy

Additional How-to-Become Guides for Craft & Fine Art Careers

If you are considering a career within the industry of Craft or Fine Art, check out these additional how-to-become guides to learn about similar career options in the field.

How to Become a Blacksmith
How to Become a Floral Designer
How to Become a Graffiti Artist
How to Become a Painter
How to Become a Screen Printer
How to Become a Sculptor
How to Become a Tattoo Artist
How to Become a Woodworker

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How to Become a Woodworker

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Are you a serious craftsperson who likes to work with your hands? Does the loud noise of power tools, clouds of floating dust, and creative freedom sound like an ideal day’s work to you? If the answer is yes, a career in woodworking may be for you.

1. Learn the Basics of Woodworking

Woodworkers are artists who manufacture a wide range of products like furniture, cabinets, cutting boards, and tables and chairs using wood, laminates or veneers. Sometimes they combine other materials into the finished product, like ceramic tiles, glass, metals, and other hard or soft materials.

Despite the popularity of plastics, MDF (medium density fiberboard) and other materials, wood is still the product of choice for most people when it comes to the expectation of quality, value, and utility.  Today, many wood products, such as musical instruments and furniture are mass-produced, but trained woodworkers make custom-made products with their hands and their tools based on drawings and architectural designs.

When many people hear the word woodworker, the image of someone leaning over a workbench sanding a long piece of wood with his or her hands. However, modern woodworking requires training on highly technical machinery, such as CNC (computerized numerical control) machines.  Even woodworkers caught somewhere between modern equipment and a hand planer typically use CNC machines to fabricate large or intricate products.  If working for a large company, a lot of the work will be done on an assembly line or in various areas on the floor designated to complete a particular part of a project.   The tasks will be handled by different workers with very specialized training on each machine. For example, one machine might cut a large piece of wood into three sections, whereas another machine might take one of the sections and round each edge.

As part of the job, woodworkers prepare and operate saws, drill presses, routers, sanders, lathes, shapers, milling machines, and planers.  Often using a template, woodworkers measure and verify dimensions, cut, and shape wooden parts. Woodworkers stain or coat the wood products with sealers and topcoats, such as varnish and lacquer. But, they also often install hardware, fit electrical components and specialty products, such as metal trims and glass.

2. Important Qualifications, Skills and Training

In order to be successful in woodworking, there are skills absolutely necessary to know and master.  Many of these skills were once taught in high school’s all across the nation, but today, most woodshop classes have been suspended, and people must learn through college classes, apprenticeships, internships, from professionals, or by trial and error.

Woodworkers must have good hand-eye coordination to make precise cuts; math aptitude and computer skills (especially if working in manufacturing) to properly fabricate objects and furniture; mechanical skills to adjust and calibrate machinery; physical stamina and strength.  They must also be detail-oriented and have the technical skills necessary to understand and interpret drawings and manuals.  In addition, the following is important knowledge to acquire and cultivate:

  • Knowledge of the various tools for milling, sanding, boring, etc., and how to operate them safely
  • Complete understanding every project’s requirements
  • Ability to safely operate woodworking machines, including milling machines and saws
  • Prepare and set up machines
  • A good understanding of drawings, schematics, shop drawings, blueprints, and architectural drawings
  • Knowledge of various hand tools, drill bits, the drill press, hand drills, band saws
  • Knowledge of various woods; hardness, color, warping, knots, cracks, grain patterns, etc.
  • Knowledge of the different cuts; curved, straight, and how to cut a mortise or tenon and dovetail joints
  • Understanding about the various materials used in finishing; varnishes, stains, lacquers, and glosses.

A mechanical reasoning or aptitude is also essential, mainly because woodworkers work with such a variety of machines and tools.  A tool in the hands of an untrained or inexperienced woodworker is a recipe for disaster. Woodworkers should understand and be able to apply mechanical principles to solve any problems they may encounter. Critical thinking skills are important too as woodworkers may face unexpected problems that need to be handled quickly. In this way, woodworkers can use reasoning and logic to foresee any potential problems and develop solutions before mishaps happen.

Woodworkers use geometry, arithmetic, algebra, calculus, and statistics to measure materials and during the planning stages of projects.  On any given job, they will calculate sizes, dimensions, distances, and quantities of materials.  Computer skills and knowledge of relevant software also benefits woodworkers with job-estimating, project management, and basic spreadsheet or word processing.  Woodworkers should be detail-oriented, have good people skills, have steady hands, and physical strength, especially when lifting 100-pound sheets of plywood.

And, although a formal education is helpful, it is not necessary, and most woodworkers receive on-the-job training under the supervision of other more experienced workers.  However, because of the ongoing development and modernizing of woodworking machinery, many employers are requiring applicants to have at least a high school diploma, or a few years training in math (specifically geometry) and computer applications.  Many woodworkers will receive training by enrolling in a community or technical college.  Some may attend a university that offers coursework in furniture manufacturing or wood engineering. Individuals who have earned a degree can often move into management or supervisory positions, or go on to open their own woodworking shop.  Becoming a skilled woodworker can often take years, and knowledge of blueprints and work sequences takes training and practice.

If a woodworker wishes to advance in the field or to demonstrate competence in the industry, they may also choose to become licensed. The Woodwork Career Alliance of North America offers a national certificate program. The AWI, or Architectural Woodwork Institute sets standards for the industry and offers training programs for management and mid-management positions.

3. Types of Woodworkers & Typical Work Environments

Although the field of woodworking is growing as new technologies are introduced, there are basically four main types of woodworkers:

Furniture finishers may work with antiques or other wood pieces, and shape, finish, stain, seal, and apply top coatings to preserve, repair, and refinish wood furnishings.

Cabinetmakers typically make parts for cabinets or other wood products. They cut, shape and assemble parts, and also often design custom pieces. They may even install cabinetry.

Wood machine operators specialize in running machinery used in woodworking.

Woodworking tenders also operate machinery used in woodworking, including drill presses, routers, planers, and sanders.

Woodworker’s work environments vary depending on job duties.  If a woodworker is employed to handle and cut large heavy materials, he or she may work in a factory setting. Cabinet and countertop woodworkers typically work in large or small manufacturing plants. Some woodworkers work in sawmills, while other’s work out of home shops.  In 2014, there were just over 237,000 jobs for all woodworkers, with other wood product manufacturing employing 23 percent; wood kitchen cabinets and countertop manufacturing employing 21 percent.  Most woodworkers work a regular, full-time workweek.

Employment growth is also expected to be good for woodworkers who specialize in items used in renovation, such as moldings, cabinets, stairs, and windows. Firms that focus on custom woodwork should be able to compete against imports without the need to outsource jobs to other countries.

Additional Resources for Woodworkers

Woodworkers Guild of America: Woodworking Videos, Classes & More
North Jersey Woodworkers Association
Northeastern Woodworkers Association
San Diego Fine Woodworkers Association
Woodworkers Association of NSW
Orange County Woodworkers Association
Northwest Woodworkers Association
Gwinnett Woodworkers Association
The Woodworking Association of Pretoria
Guild of Oregon Woodworkers
Washington Woodworkers Guild
SAPFM – Society of American Period Furniture Makers
Society of Canadian Woodworkers
Alabama Woodworkers Guild, Inc.
Southern Alberta Woodworkers Society

Additional How-to-Become Guides for Craft & Fine Art Careers

If you are considering a career within the industry of Craft or Fine Art, check out these additional how-to-become guides to learn about similar career options in the field.

How to Become a Blacksmith
How to Become a Floral Designer
How to Become a Graffiti Artist
How to Become a Painter
How to Become a Screen Printer
How to Become a Sculptor
How to Become a Tattoo Artist