Bhubaneswar, Sept. 15: Fans can go to any length to show their love for their stars. Where some love collecting pictures or autographs, there are also a few who like getting their idols' faces inked on them. With tattoo business flourishing, many are flocking to studios to get faces inked on their skin.

Unlike other tattoo motifs, portraits are very personalised. A person who chooses to do it has a solid reason for picking that specific portrait. Therefore, it is extremely important for the artist to get it right.

A workshop on making such portrait tattoos was conducted in the city today by Hyderabad-based tattoo artist Amin Sultan Hajiani. Around 15 young artists from across the state took part in it.

The event was organised by local another tattoo artist Om Acharya at his art studio - Skivas - at Patia.

"Tattooing as an art has gradually turned into a business. More youngsters are experimenting with designs. A number of people want to get the portraits of their loved ones or favourite stars inked on them. Consequently, the demand for portrait tattoo is also rising," said Om.

Stencilling, the right methods of shading and how to prepare the blueprint of the design were focussed on at the workshop. The inking process of a portrait was also demonstrated by the artist.

"It is extremely important to understand the picture a client wants because there is no scope to rectify mistakes here. It is also important to know the proper needle configuration required while making portraits," said Amin, who has been in the industry for 12 years now.

"I could see a lot of excitement among the youngsters to take up tattooing as a profession. Such workshops should be organised often so that artists from various places are able to come together and learn new things about the art," he said.

Instructions on proper use of tattoo aftercare products such as rubbing alcohol and vitamin A and D ointments were also given by the expert. An interactive session was also held where the participants expressed their concerns about tattooing.

"Making portrait tattoos is not that easy and requires expert training. The workshop helped me clear myths surrounding it. I want another one to be organised again after a few months so that we can better our skills," said Rajesh, a participant from Rourkela.

Moreover, to create awareness among artists on the need to adopt infection-free practices, Om is conducting a series of workshops for the budding enthusiasts who are entering the industry.

"It is extremely necessary that artists are aware of the advanced tattoo-making techniques that lowers the chances of skin infections," said Om.