Introduction to Etching Tattoos
A course by Marco MatareseTattoo Artist
A course by Marco Matarese, Tattoo Artist
Transform the art of etching into impactful tattoos and learn to design, prepare, and tattoo classical-style art
Etching tattoos are a modern adaptation of this ancient art form applied to skin. This tattoo style breathes new life into classical imagery by using black ink and fine line work to create volume and contrast. Marco Matarese, tattoo artist and founder of studio PURO, is the king of this technique.
In this course, learn the basics of the etching technique and how to do a shoulder to elbow tattoo from scratch, from searching for references to the final line on skin. Tattoo classical-style pieces with fine lines and turn your creativity into permanent art!
What will you learn in this online course?
14 lessons & 16 downloads
Tools and materials
4 minutes, 27 seconds
Pictorial sources and etching tattoo
9 minutes, 10 seconds
The search for references
4 minutes, 3 seconds
Adaptation of the sketch to the anatomy
7 minutes, 58 seconds
From drawing to stencil
13 minutes, 35 seconds
Scan the transparency and print the stencil
3 minutes, 23 seconds
What's included in this course?
Start the course by getting to know Marco Matarese and hear about his background as a painter and professional tattoo artist. See some of his sources of inspiration and how they have influenced his style.
Next, go over some basic concepts to get you prepared for the final project. Marco walks you through all the tools and materials you need for tattooing before introducing you to the art of etching to help you understand how it can be adapted to ink. Then, see your teacher's approach to searching for reference images to find the best design for your tattoo.
Once you've chosen an image, find the most ergonomic position for the design on your client's arm. Then, modify it on paper highlighting the outline and learn how to perfect it in Photoshop. Now it's time to prepare and print your stencil and get ready to tattoo!
Before you get to work, Marco shows you how to set up an orderly and sterilized workstation and prepare your tattooing machine. Learn how to apply your stencil on skin, ink the outline and primary lines, and add shading to give your design the classic etching look.
To finish up the course, Marco teaches you about good practices for tattoo aftercare.
Recommended software & tools for this course
What is this course's project?
Do a shoulder to elbow etching-style tattoo inspired by a classic ornamental frieze design.
Projects by course students
Who is this online course for?
Anyone who wants to learn how to tattoo using the etching technique.
Requirements and materials
Knowledge of design will be helpful, but not necessary.
As for materials, you need pencils, tracing paper, a computer with Photoshop, transfer paper, a tattoo bed, a tattoo machine, ink caps, and a variety of other materials Marco will specify during the course.
Reviews
- 4 months ago
Um curso muito bom, para quem quer começar na tatuagem gravura. Valeu muito a pena!
- 4 months ago
Um básico bom.
- 7 months ago
Tiene talento para crear y enseñar
- 9 months ago
Marco es un excelente profesor, quieras o no seguir su estilo. En mi caso, el estilo que me gusta es este pero no sabia el nombre, aprendi muchísimo en este curso, y combinado con el arte abstracto, artístico barroco y surrealista, tengo mi estilo definido...
- 10 months ago
Ho trovato il corso molto ben strutturato e spiegato, con immagini molto chiare, specialmente durante la fase di tatuaggio. Marco è davvero bravo. Avrei gradito qualche indicazione in più sugli aspetti tecnici ( settaggio potenza nelle varie fasi, inclinazione macchina ecc) ma questo perché sono una principiante.
His artistic background helped him catch people's attention and, thanks to social media, he quickly built up a following and a line of clients interested in his style. Over the years, he has honed his skills and become an expert in the etching technique–an adaptation of this ancient art form applied to skin.
Content
- U1
Introduction
- Presentation
- Sources of inspiration
- U2
Etching
- Tools and materials
- Pictorial sources and etching tattoo
- The search for references
- U3
The etching and stencil design
- Adaptation of the sketch to the anatomy
- From drawing to stencil
- Scan the transparency and print the stencil
- Stencil application
- U4
The etching tattoo
- Preparing your workstation and tattoo machine
- Inking the stencil
- Inking the outline
- Shading for etching tattoos
- Tattoo aftercare
- FP
Final project
- Introduction to Etching Tattoos
What to expect from a Domestika course
Learn at your own pace
Enjoy learning from home without a set schedule and with an easy-to-follow method. You set your own pace.
Learn from the best professionals
Learn valuable methods and techniques explained by top experts in the creative sector.
Meet expert teachers
Each expert teaches what they do best, with clear guidelines, true passion, and professional insight in every lesson.
Certificates
PLUSIf you're a Plus member, get a custom certificate signed by your teacher for every course. Share it on your portfolio, social media, or wherever you like.
Get front-row seats
Videos of the highest quality, so you don't miss a single detail. With unlimited access, you can watch them as many times as you need to perfect your technique.
Share knowledge and ideas
Ask questions, request feedback, or offer solutions. Share your learning experience with other students in the community who are as passionate about creativity as you are.
Connect with a global creative community
The community is home to millions of people from around the world who are curious and passionate about exploring and expressing their creativity.
Watch professionally produced courses
Domestika curates its teacher roster and produces every course in-house to ensure a high-quality online learning experience.
FAQs
Yes, the course is designed for those who already have a basic artistic education but want to deepen their knowledge of specific etching, botanical, and ornamental tattoo techniques.
It’s helpful to have some drawing, painting, or decorative art skills. No prior tattoo experience is required, but good manual dexterity and familiarity with artistic tools are recommended.
You’ll learn how to design, transfer, and create etching-style tattoos using mixed techniques, adapting designs to anatomy and optimizing materials, tools, and digital processes.
Yes, the course includes specific modules on using Photoshop to edit references, prepare clear stencils, and tailor images to the client’s body shape.
You’ll need access to drawing tools, tracing paper, a thermal printer, Photoshop or similar software, a tattoo machine, disposable needles, and skin preparation materials.
Yes, the course covers hygiene procedures, skin prep, post-tattoo care, and the use of protective devices like adhesive second skin.
The course teaches how to analyze, simplify, and position designs ergonomically to fit anatomy, even when working around existing tattoos.