So You Want to Get a Tattoo Apprenticeship

There are a lot of people who aspire to be a tattoo artist, but sometimes the biggest hurdle isn't even the apprenticeship itself, it's getting ready to find yourself a tattoo apprenticeship. What I mean by that is simple, there isn't one place aspiring tattoo artists can look to to figure out if they're even ready for an apprenticeship or what to even look for in a mentor. I'm not an expert, I'm still growing as an artist, but there are many things I wish I knew before I got my apprenticeship. So hopefully this can help some of you make educated decisions on how to navigate your entry into the industry!

Getting Started: The Importance of a Tattoo Apprenticeship

First things first, definitely get yourself an apprenticeship! It's incredibly valuable and it's the most effective way to learn essential skills and hygiene practices necessary to become a successful tattoo artist. Finding a shop/ artist to take you on as an apprentice might take some time, but it’s sooooooo worth the effort.

Something to keep in mind: Becoming a tattoo artist demands a significant investment of both time and money (tattoo supplies are EXPENSIVE ). If you're currently in a position where you can't commit to either, it might be wise to hold off getting a tattoo apprenticeship until you're ready. Instead, concentrate on honing your artistic skills and preparing yourself for the financial and time commitments involved. Once you're in a better position to fully invest in your tattooing journey, you'll be better equipped to make the most of your opportunities and succeed in this demanding field. And please, PLEASE, for the love of everything, DO NOT start tattooing on people’s skin until you fully understand the hygiene practices of tattooing. Ideally, no one should be tattooing without the guidance of a mentor and an official license, but I know people are going to do what they want. So, consider this my piece of advice.

Why am I stressing this? It’s pretty simple: you don’t know the risks involved when you start tattooing your buddies. You could cause serious damage—from using improper techniques that might cut the skin to not understanding hygiene practices, which could expose your client (or even yourself) to infections or diseases.

Understanding the Apprenticeship Process During your tattoo apprenticeship, you won’t just be learning how to tattoo; you’ll also be helping out around the shop as part of your training. Some mentors may not allow you to tattoo on skin until after a year of apprenticeship, while others might have different timelines.

There is no standard method in the industry, so the pace at which you progress will depend largely on your mentor's practices and expectations!

Choosing the Right Mentor

As a newbie, it's crucial to carefully screen potential mentors because unfortunately, the industry is full of individuals looking to exploit naive beginners.

Some mentors may have their own approach, but it typically takes more than a year to be considered a fully-fledged tattoo artist. When searching for a mentor, start with artists you admire or have been tattooed by. Get tattooed by an artist you respect, ask them questions, and gauge their personality and teaching style. Building an organic relationship with the artist before requesting a Tattoo Apprenticeship is crucial. Key Questions to Ask Potential Mentors

• What is your teaching style?

• What is the estimated time commitment you expect from an apprentice?

• What does a typical day look like for your apprentices?

• What specific skills and techniques do you prioritize in your training?

• How do you handle mistakes or setbacks during the learning process?

• What are your expectations regarding shop duties and responsibilities?

• Will I have the opportunity to work on live skin during the apprenticeship? If so, when?

• How do you provide feedback and assessments?

• What is your approach to hygiene and safety practices?

• Are there opportunities for creative input and personal artistic development?

• How long have your previous apprentices taken to complete their training?

• Do you provide any formal certification or recognition upon completion of the apprenticeship?

• Can you provide references from previous apprentices?

  
  

the Moment You’ve Been Waiting For: How to Land a Tattoo Apprenticeship

Landing an apprenticeship can be tough, and there’s no single path to success. But I can equip you with the tools you need to stand out when your opportunity comes along. Here are two things you can do BEFORE you start looking for your apprenticeship:

Build a Strong Portfolio:

First things first, if you haven’t started yet, focus on building a solid portfolio (Both digital and physical.) Your portfolio is your visual resume, so you want it to be impressive. Showcase your best work, especially pieces that demonstrate your drawing skills, understanding of anatomy, and your unique artistic voice. Make sure to include a variety of styles to highlight your versatility—potential mentors want to see that you can handle different challenges and adapt to various tattooing techniques. Don’t be afraid to show off your creativity and attention to detail; this is your chance to make a strong first impression.

But here’s the thing: your art skills need to be above average. You don’t have to be Leonardo da Vinci, but most tattoo mentors aren’t there to teach you how to draw—they’re focused on the technical aspects of tattooing. The better your art, the better your chances of impressing a mentor who can help you refine your skills and transition them into the world of tattooing. So, invest time in honing your craft because the stronger your foundation in art, the smoother your journey into tattooing will be.

Research Like Your Life Depends on it: Preparing for Your Tattoo Apprenticeship

If you're reading this, you're already on the right path! Before you dive into the world of tattoo apprenticeships, it’s crucial to do your homework. Researching everything you can about tattooing will give you a solid foundation and help you make informed decisions.

Understanding the tattoo industry—from its history and different styles to the latest trends and equipment—will not only make you a more knowledgeable candidate but also show potential mentors that you’re genuinely committed and serious about your craft. Knowing the ins and outs of tattooing will also help you ask the right questions and engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.

Additionally, research can help you identify reputable studios and mentors, ensuring you choose a Tattoo Apprenticeshipthat aligns with your goals and values. It will also prepare you for the challenges ahead, giving you insights into common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

By investing time in learning about tattooing, you’ll not only enhance your skills but also demonstrate your dedication and enthusiasm, setting yourself apart from other aspiring tattoo artists

Ways to Secure a Apprenticeship:

• Visit Local Tattoo Shops: Drop by different tattoo shops, say hi, and ask if they’re looking for an apprentice. Meeting people face-to-face can really help you stand out. It might take a bit of time, so stay persistent and don’t let any rejections get you down. If you really like a particular studio or artist, keep in touch even if they turn you away initially. Sometimes they might not be ready to take on an apprentice at that moment, but checking in from time to time and building a relationship can pay off in the long run.

• Network with Tattoo Artists: Make it a point to attend tattoo conventions, art shows, and events where tattoo artists gather. These are fantastic opportunities to immerse yourself in the tattoo community and network with industry professionals. By engaging with artists and other enthusiasts, you can build valuable connections that may open doors to apprenticeship opportunities. It’s not just about meeting potential mentors—it's about becoming an active part of the community and showcasing your passion and dedication. Your presence at these events can help you make a memorable impression, increasing your chances of finding the right apprenticeship fit.

• Get Tattooed by Potential Mentors: If there’s an artist you admire, getting tattooed by them can be a fantastic move. It’s a great opportunity to pick their brain and get their advice on breaking into the field. Use this chance to discuss your interest in an apprenticeship and show your dedication to the craft. Even if they aren’t looking for an apprentice at the moment, they might know someone who is. Just be mindful of timing and approach—make sure you’re forming a genuine connection and not coming off as pushy. If the artist seems uninterested or busy, it’s best to let the conversation flow naturally and respect their space.

• Tattooing Schools: Tattoo schools can be a viable option for aspiring artists, offering structured learning environments where you can gain foundational knowledge and skills. However, it’s crucial to approach these institutions with caution. I personally attended a tattoo school, and while it provided me with the basics, the experience fell short of what I was promised. The program was poorly organized, and the class size was much larger than ideal, leaving little opportunity for individual attention.

  
  

  Many experienced tattoo artists argue that tattoo schools are not the best route for learning the craft, preferring traditional apprenticeships instead. Despite this, if a tattoo school is your best option, it’s important to proceed carefully. Research the school thoroughly—check its reputation, curriculum, and reviews from former students. Make sure the instructors are experienced and that the class sizes are manageable to ensure meaningful learning opportunities.

  
  

  The key is to avoid falling victim to a scam. A school can market itself as the premier place for learning, but the true measure of its value lies in the quality of education and the practical experience it provides. If you decide to go this route, ensure that the program genuinely meets your needs and expectations to set yourself up for a successful career in tattooing.

Conclusion

Getting a tattoo apprenticeship and becoming a tattoo artist involves more than just passion; it requires careful preparation and dedication. To secure an apprenticeship, focus on building a strong portfolio, researching potential mentors, and understanding the demands of the industry.

Remember, a successful tattoo career demands both time and financial investment. If you're not ready to commit fully, spend time honing your art skills first.

Whether you opt for a traditional tattoo apprenticeship or a tattoo school, thorough research is key. My own experience showed me the importance of being cautious with tattoo schools. They can offer structured learning, but not all deliver as promised.

Overall, my journey as a tattoo artist has been incredible, but it’s definitely not for the faint of heart. With three years in the industry, I’m still finding my footing. Even though I’m still fairly new, I’m dedicated to establishing myself and continuing to grow. Remember, it might take some time to get started, so be patient with yourself.

Stay passionate, stay dedicated, and build those connections. With a bit of persistence and enthusiasm, you’ll be well on your way to making your tattooing dreams a reality. Keep pushing forward and embrace the journey—it’s all part of crafting your unique path in this creative and vibrant field!

Until next time, Tokša ake. — Gnaski