Rihanna has become a tattoo artist.

The 'Umbrella' singer - who had a gun inked under her right armpit earlier this year - visited New York's East Side Ink on Wednesday (01.07.09) and decided to leave a lasting impression on her usual tattooist Bang Bang.

Shop co-owner Yadira revealed: "We were all just hanging out, joking, laughing. Bang Bang decided that he wanted a tattoo from her."

Bang Bang drew the design he wanted - an Umbrella with an R under it - and Rihanna set to work inking it onto his leg.

Two other tattooists, Josh Lord and Patrick Conlon, also decided to get a permanent marking from Rihanna - who had never tattooed anyone before - and opted for the numbers two and three, in references to Rihanna's lack of
experience.

Yadira said: "We were all talking and laughing the whole time. Joking that she was a pro now. She was so sweet, easy-going, down to earth."

Josh added to America's OK! magazine: "I think it was spontaneous. And she was so nice, and so gorgeous and so charmed by her that we wanted one too.

"It's a pretty nerve-wracking thing to do your first time. We were amazed how well she kept her cool. By the third one, she was good. I'd hire her. If her career doesn't work out, she's got a back-up."

However, it has been claimed Rihanna has broken the law by making the impromptu decision to pick up the needle.

In New York, tattooists need a licence to work - which Rihanna does not have.

It is alleged the 21-year-old singer could face three misdemeanour charges, resulting in fines of $300 for the first one, $500 for the second inking and $1,000 for the last one.

The New York City Health Department said: "Only licensed tattoo artists can administer tattoos in the city according to the City's Health Code. We are sending someone down to follow up on this."

However, there has been no complaint made about the incident, meaning Rihanna is unlikely to face any legal difficulties."