Foundation Fine Line Tattooing

About Course

Fine Line Tattoo Foundation Training

This fine line tattoo course is foundation-level training for artists who wish to learn black and grey fine line tattooing in Libby Wells’ signature style.

The course is suited to artists looking to expand their skill set by adding fine line, black and grey tattooing to their existing practice. Applicants are expected to submit a high-quality portfolio demonstrating strong artistic ability. All portfolios are reviewed as part of a selective assessment process to ensure the course is a good fit for each participant.


Course Phases & Learning Structure

Phase One: Theory & Guided Practice

This phase is delivered through the online learning portal and includes:

  • 12 modules

  • Over 60 structured lessons

  • Practical exercises and self-assessment tasks

This stage is designed to build a strong understanding of fine line tattooing principles, technique, and artistic approach.


Phase Two: In-Person 1-2-1 Masterclasses

Participants attend one-to-one workshops with Libby Wells, focused on reviewing and developing practical skills on live models over three days.

  • Sessions may be taken consecutively (ideal for overseas students) or spaced over a three-month period

  • Emphasis is placed on hands-on learning, observation, feedback, and skill refinement

  • Each day includes guided review and goal-setting to support progress


Phase Three: Case Studies & Ongoing Development

Participants complete case studies within their own workspace.
All work is submitted for review, with personalised feedback provided to support continued development.


Completion is typically expected to take between 6 months and 1 year, depending on individual pace and availability.


Course Philosophy

This training has been developed over several years by Libby Wells. Her techniques have been carefully broken down and rebuilt into a clear, modular learning structure, offering a strategic and in-depth approach to fine line tattooing.

Libby’s teaching reflects a holistic approach to learning, combining detailed theory with practical application across a broad range of topics relevant to fine line tattoo artists.


Entry Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • A minimum of 5 GCSEs (A–C), including Art

  • Submission of a professional artist portfolio (minimum of 10 pieces)

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Course Content

Welcome to Foundation Fine Line Training
A welcome to your training plan

  • Welcome
    03:38
  • Shopping List
    00:00

Health and Safety
The topics covered in this Module, Equipment, Setting up, breaking down, Hygiene and Safeguarding.

Tattoo Theory
The Topics covered in this Module are What is tattooing?, fine line FAQs and Protectionism.

Business Management
The Topics covered in this Module are Insurance, licencing, Booking in, Client Experience and Conflict avoidance, waste removal, premises options, building online presence.

Design
Art Language, Artist study, finding textures, tattoo design intro, procreate and contouring

Stencilling
The Topics covered in this Module are, hand stencilling and Digital Stencilling

Skin
The Topics covered in this Module are Skin tones, Difficult skin, skin healing, skin tones, difficult skin, aftercare and split session work.

Equipment
The topics covered in this Module are needles, machines, positioning your client, wrapping a machine, 3rl compare and printers

Techniques
The Topics covered in this Module are, Etching, Etching pt2, Etching pt3, Stippling, Stippling pt2, Stippling pt3, Creating Depth, Seamless Transitions, Gradients, Stretching and Value choices.

Clients
The Topics covered in this Module are Client profiling, Body Language, Attitude and Pain management

Aftercare
The Topics covered in the Module are Aftercare routine, Healed results, and Complications.

Personal Management
The Topics covered in this Module are, Mental Health, Artist wear and tear, rival assault and Shadow Work.

Trouble Shooting
The Topics covered in this Module are, Troubleshooting and what went wrong?

Summary

Phase 2
Introduction into the next phases of the Foundation Fine Line Tattooing course

Case Studies

Action Exercise
Complete this lesson's activities before attending the in person workshops, you will need to bring the latex with you

DEMOs
Footage of tattooing