Artículo: How to Begin Your Journey as a Tattoo Apprentice
How to Begin Your Journey as a Tattoo Apprentice
Breaking into the tattoo industry takes more than talent. It takes dedication, discipline, and a willingness to start at the bottom. Whether you’ve always loved tattooing or you're just now considering it, the steps below will help guide your path.
1. Understand What a Tattoo Apprenticeship Involves
A tattoo apprentice is someone who learns under a licensed tattoo artist. This is not a quick course or a part-time gig, but an unpaid commitment that can last 1-3 years. During this time, you’ll watch, clean, prep, and slowly build the trust needed to work on real skin.
The commitment does pay off. The global tattoo industry was valued at $1.89 billion in 2022.1 There’s plenty of demand, but there’s also plenty of competition. Training properly sets you up for success.
2. Start with Art Skills and Tattoo Knowledge
Before you even walk into a shop asking for an opportunity, you need to show that you’re serious by learning how to draw.
You don’t need to be a master artist, but you do need a strong sense of design, shading, and line work. Practice sketching daily and study different tattoo styles. Learn about traditional, neo-traditional, realism, blackwork, and more.
Understanding tattoo history and techniques will also show potential mentors you’ve done your homework.
3. Build a Tattoo Apprentice Portfolio That Stands Out
A strong tattoo apprentice portfolio should include:
- Black and gray designs
- Full color work
- Line drawings and shaded pieces
- Flash sheets with original ideas
- A range of subject matter (flowers, skulls, animals, script, etc.)
Your portfolio should be printed and organized (not digital). Tattoo mentors want to see your discipline, not just your talent. They also want to see that you’re always working to improve—because better skills mean better client satisfaction. With 17% of people expressing regret over a tattoo, shops want artists who will minimize that risk.¹
4. Learn Hygiene and Safety Standards
Tattooing is an art form—but it also demands medical-level hygiene. Cleanliness matters as much as creativity.
As a tattoo apprentice, you’ll be expected to understand:
- Bloodborne pathogen standards
- Sterilization processes
- Proper disposal of needles and other supplies
- Cross-contamination risks
Many states require a certification in bloodborne pathogens before beginning an apprenticeship. Completing a class like this shows you’re ready to take the health side of tattooing seriously.
5. Apply and Interview for a Tattoo Apprenticeship
Finding a shop to take you in can be one of the hardest parts. Most reputable tattoo shops won’t advertise open apprentice spots. You’ll need to be proactive.
Here are a few tips on how to get into the tattoo industry through an apprenticeship:
- Visit local shops and get tattooed by artists you admire
- Follow and engage with artists on social media
- Ask questions respectfully and show your work without being pushy
- Be ready to start at the bottom doing cleanup and errands
- Accept feedback without ego
Shops receive many requests for apprentices. Being professional, consistent, and teachable helps you stand out.
6. Learn From Your Mentor and Stay Humble
Once you’ve landed a position, your learning truly begins. A tattoo artist apprenticeship is built around a mentor relationship. This person will train you in every part of the process.
Expect to spend long hours cleaning, setting up stations, booking appointments, and observing. Eventually, you’ll work on fake skin, then close friends, before tattooing clients under supervision. Treat this time as your foundation and let it shape you positively.
7. Stay Committed and Keep Developing Your Personal Style
Starting as a tattoo apprentice takes serious grit. You’ll face long hours, criticism, and slow progress—but that’s what builds real artists. Every sketch, every setup, and every client interaction shapes your future.
As you grow in the industry, both your art and personal style will evolve. Tattooing is a lifestyle, a community, and a culture. That’s why the way you show up matters, whether you’re in the shop or out in the world.
At Sullen Clothing, we design gear that speaks to all kinds of tattoo lovers. From artist collabs and themed drops to simple classic designs, our apparel is made to fit the grind and show off your passion.
Shop now and gear up for the journey ahead.
Sources:
- Scott Max. 23 Tattoo Industry Statistics to Know.
