Today we’d like to introduce you to Blanca Barajas.
Hi Blanca, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
As far back as I can remember growing up I’ve always been creating art. Most of the time it was drawing, painting, sculpting and even playing music. Those were the foundations of my love for art. As I continued to grow older I realized that the art I created would always bring me a sense of happiness. By the time my first son (Maysin) was born, for his first birthday I decided to attempt to make a 3D type cake. It turned out better than I expected and at that point I realized how much not only did I enjoy making custom sculpted cakes. I was actually really good at it. I then took my art skills and defined them through cake art. I slowly throughout the years developed a pristine skill set as a cake artist. I developed a large clientele and at that point I decided to officially open my own bakery. I’ve successfully have ran my own bakery for 10 years now. However, I still wanted to learn and grow as an artist. So I then decided to advance my artistic career and focus more on my drawing and design abilities. I then took on a tattoo apprenticeship at a local tattoo shop in Fort Worth (Sleepy Hollow tattoos). I can’t say that time had been easy because just when I was months into my apprenticeship I found out I had cancer. It was the most scariest time in my life and I was unsure what was going to happen. However after finding the right doctors I was able to set a plan out to beat cancer. I took a couple of weeks off to have a few major surgery however the moment my doctor gave me my release, I couldn’t wait to get back to working at the shop. I never let my cancer stop me, I wanted to be there so bad and I wanted to show everyone how serious I wanted this opportunity. I was even working up at the shop during my chemo treatments, I didn’t want anything to stop me. I appreciate everyone up at the shop during this time assisting me with anything I needed. I’m so grateful for all the artists at the shop for continuing to guide and teach me for those 2 years. I never want to stop learning and growing as an artist so I’m ecstatic for this opportunity to be where I’m at today. Currently I’m at Monarch Tattoo and I can’t thank Alex Sedaca enough for welcoming me back to Southside Fort Worth area. This small community means so much to me and being able to create such lasting friendships and building up the community is everything to me. We have some big events planned for the Southside area so be on the look out. I want to honor the tradition of tattooing but with a sprinkle of my own personal espooky/weird style to it. I put my heart into everything I create and I hope to create an environment where my clients love coming to see me. Being able to create permanent art for someone is very special to me. I want my art to be a one of a kind experience for my clients. A place where they can be themselves, let the weird out and get something beautiful.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Smooth was never an option for me. While I was apprenticing I had to go through cancer treatments all while be a single mom of 2 boys. I definitely don’t know what I would have done without my boys there helping me through it all. The early morning appointments, long nights at the shop and splitting my time between at home with my boys while at the shop will always be a difficult time. However, looking back now I wouldn’t change it. Also, being a woman in the tattoo industry has its own challenges as well. The tattoo community can be more male dominate. However, that doesn’t bother me much as I know I will be able to push past any adversities and will focus on my art in order to grow as a tattoo artist. And I’m looking forward to adding to the tattoo artist community with everyone. I’m a very proud Mexican American/Chicana and I do not shy from the fact that my creations are inspired by my families heritage. I don’t let any of those difficulties affect my overall outlook of my capabilities and my success. When I experience such despise, I use that negativity to my benefit and I manifest my own future in a more positive manner. My story is honest, I’m just a hard working chingona trying to make it professionally through my art.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Custom. Detailed. Timeless.
I specialize in black and grey tattooing, with a focus on clean execution, fine detail, and timeless design. Whether you’re looking for realism, bold, or custom concepts, every piece is designed with intention and crafted with precision. I’m most pleased with the tattoo any of my clients walk away with knowing they’re proud of. I hope what sets me apart from others is knowing that you’re going to get a well executed tattoo in addition to a delightful experience. I hope everyone leaves my chair knowing they have a new friend they can trust.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Starting out as a tattoo artist is exciting, challenging, and deeply rewarding. In the beginning, the hours can be long, the learning curve steep, and the pressure to grow your skills and confidence can feel overwhelming—but don’t let that discourage you. Stay patient with yourself, stay committed to your craft, and seek guidance from artists you admire. Every line, every mistake, and every breakthrough shapes you into the artist you’re becoming. It won’t always be easy, but if you lead with passion, humility, and respect for the art, the journey will be worth every step.
Pricing:
- $150 hourly rate. However I do offer flat rates as well.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @Blanquitatattoos
- Other: Gmail: blanquitatattoos@gmail.com
