In a recent episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, veteran tattoo artist Tim McCarthy shared how he entered the profession with a homemade machine built from a motor and a guitar string — a far cry from today's sterile studios and regulated equipment.
McCarthy's journey began decades ago, long before modern safety protocols became standard. He described how early tattooists often had zero formal training and relied on improvised tools. "I made my first machine out of a motor and a guitar string," McCarthy recalled. "There was no instruction manual. You just figured it out."
Over the years, the industry has undergone a dramatic transformation. Today, tattoo artists must follow strict hygiene standards, use single-use needles, and often complete apprenticeships. McCarthy credits these changes with making tattooing safer and more respected. "What we did then was risky, but it taught us the craft from the ground up," he said. "Now, safety and artistry go hand in hand."
The episode also touched on common mistakes artists make, including the pressure to deliver quick results and the importance of proper needle depth. McCarthy emphasized that tattooing is as much about patient care as it is about ink and design.
For aspiring artists, McCarthy advises focusing on fundamentals and respecting the body as a canvas. "Your first machine doesn't have to be expensive, but your commitment to learning must be real," he said.