So You Wanna Be a Body Piercing Badass in Washington?
Ever dreamt of wielding a tiny, sterilized sword and adorning folks with sparkly bits of metal? Well, my friend, you might have what it takes to be a body piercer in the majestic state of Washington! But before you swap your sweatpants for scrubs, there's a little more to it than just a love of shiny things (although that definitely helps). Buckle up, because we're about to navigate the exciting, occasionally hilarious, world of becoming a licensed piercer in the Evergreen State.
Step 1: Sharpen Your Skills (Not Literally... Yet)
While wielding a piercing gun might seem glamorous, it all starts with solid knowledge. Here's what you'll need to get that brain prepped for piercing greatness:
- Bloodborne Pathogens Training: This ain't rocket science, but it's super important. You'll need to understand how to stay safe and avoid nasty bloodborne diseases. Think of it like learning Jedi mind tricks, but for keeping yourself and your clients healthy.
- Anatomy 101: Those ears and noses you're about to decorate are more intricate than they seem. Brushing up on your anatomy knowledge will ensure you're placing piercings in the right spots, avoiding nerves and blood vessels (yikes!).
Pro-Tip: There are tons of online courses and in-person workshops available. Do your research and find something that fits your learning style!
Step 2: Find Your Piercing Guru (A.K.A. Apprenticeship)
Nobody becomes a piercing Jedi overnight (or should we say, "Jedi Knight with a Nose Ring?"). You'll need to find a seasoned piercer to take you under their wing as an apprentice. This is where the real learning begins! Here's what you can expect:
- Shadowing: You'll spend a lot of time observing your mentor at work. Watch how they interact with clients, handle sterilization procedures, and (of course) perform piercings. Basically, you'll be the ultimate piercing groupie.
- Hands-on Training: Eventually, you'll graduate from shadowing to supervised practice. Get ready to pierce some (fake) ears and noses on mannequins before moving on to the real deal.
Remember: Finding a good mentor is crucial. Look for someone experienced, patient, and with a kick-ass reputation.
Step 3: Become a Licensed Piercing Machine (Finally, the Shiny Part!)
Once you've completed your apprenticeship (which can take anywhere from a few months to a a couple of years), it's time to get officially licensed by the Washington State Department of Licensing. Here's the lowdown:
- Meet the Requirements: You gotta be 18, have that bloodborne pathogens training certificate we mentioned earlier, and be ready to show off your apprenticeship experience.
- Pass the Test: There's a written exam to ensure you've got the theoretical knowledge down pat. Think anatomy, sterilization procedures, and all things piercing safety.
- Pay the Fee: Because, well, gotta fund those shiny new licenses somehow!
Don't worry: The Department of Licensing website has all the details you need on applications, fees, and exams https://dol.wa.gov/professional-licenses/tattoos-body-piercing-body-art-and-permanent-cosmetics.
So You Think You Can Pierce? FAQ
How to Find a Piercing Apprenticeship in Washington?
The best way is to reach out to reputable piercing studios in your area. Many shops advertise apprenticeship opportunities online or on their social media pages.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Licensed Piercer in Washington?
There's no set timeframe, but most apprenticeships take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years.
How Much Does it Cost to Become a Piercer?
Costs can vary depending on apprenticeship fees, training courses, and licensing applications. Budget somewhere between $1,000 and $5,000.
What are Some Important Qualities for a Piercer?
A steady hand, good communication skills, a passion for body art, and the ability to handle nervous clients (because let's be honest, needles can be scary!).
Is Being a Piercer a Good Career Choice?
If you love the creative side of body art, enjoy interacting with people, and don't mind the occasional late night, then piercing can be a fun and rewarding career!