We had the good fortune of connecting with Danielle Daynos and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Danielle, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
Tattooing can be such a mental game, especially in the beginning of your career. As an apprentice at 6 Tattoo Studio, I’m still learning and that’s hard to keep in mind. As much as I want to be perfect as possible, I will still make mistakes. It’s all in the journey to getting better. Being too into your head about every single little thing will affect your work. It’s important o have a positive mindset and see everything as a learning experience.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I started off getting my degree from the University of Texas at Austin in Art Education. Went on to teach elementary school art and began to realize it wasn’t the fit for me. Spent months wondering why I was so unhappy despite having a stable career. Then when I was on vacation, I saw my favorite tattoo studio post that they were looking for apprentices. That was when I took the first step towards a new career.

It was really scary to think about at first. Especially as I plan on moving in the future and was unsure about leaving my job so soon for something I didn’t know much about (besides getting tattoos). Moving costs money and leaving something so stable was difficult! But one thing was for sure, did I want to spend more time in a job I was super unhappy in? Or one that could point me in the direction I wanted to go?

I went through their apprenticeship program and now I put art on people! It’s still so crazy for me to think about. In my art I definitely am still finding my way in terms of my style. So far I really love cute things and anime, but I’m trying to branch out and do more color and custom designs. I hope to grow more and more with every tattoo I do!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
This is probably so basic but I love the Carrolton area especially around the 99 Ranch and H-Mart plaza near Old Denton Road. So many cute things to be inspired by. From little trinkets to cool figurines from your favorite anime! There’s something there for everyone. And don’t get me started on the food. If you haven’t checked out these plazas yet you should. There’s two, one on each side of the highway. I definitely recommend trying some boba from Feng Cha if you go. I love the crème brûlée brown sugar milk tea, even if it makes my stomach hurt lol. If you’re Asian, or just lactose intolerant, you know what I mean!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Shoutout to Leo Gao and honestly everyone at 6 Tattoo Studio for creating such a great environment to learn in. I love coming into work everyday and creating art!

The other person I have to thank is my husband. Without him I wouldn’t have had the courage to pursue this career. He pushes me to be better everyday and I’m so thankful to have his support. Going through this experience has been so life changing and something I really see myself doing long term. I definitely encourage everyone to follow what would make them happy!

Instagram: dani.6tattoo

Other: Other Instagram is @danielle.makesart

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