Uncover Lies About Being a Tattoo Artist in Chicago
If you’ve ever considered becoming a Tattoo Artist in Chicago, you’ve probably encountered a barrage of myths and half-truths that could make you second-guess yourself. From needing to be born with a natural gift for art to living a chaotic, rock-star lifestyle, there’s a lot of misinformation out there. But, like believing you should never eat before swimming (spoiler: you can totally eat before swimming), most of these are myths! Let’s look at some of the most common myths about becoming a Tattoo Artist in Chicago and set the record straight.
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1. “You Need to Be Born with Artistic Talent”
Let’s start with the big one: the myth that you must be born with magical artistic talent to become a Tattoo Artist. You know, the idea that you should emerge from the womb holding a sketchbook and a pencil. A knack for drawing helps, but it’s not a requirement. Many incredible Tattoo Artists began with stick figures, just like the rest of us. The truth is that tattooing is a craft that anyone can learn with dedication, practice, and proper mentorship.
Artistic skills can be developed over time. It’s less about innate talent and more about honing your skills and understanding art fundamentals – like line, shape, shading, and color theory. There are countless ways to improve your art, from online tutorials and art classes to Ink Different’s Foundational Arts and Skills program, where we’ll help you build the base. The bottom line? If you can draw a halfway decent smiley face, you have what it takes to start your tattoo journey in Chicago!
Looking for a guaranteed job offer as a Tattoo Artist? Start your tattoo apprenticeship today!
2. “All Tattoo Artists in Chicago Live the ‘Rock Star’ Lifestyle”
If you believe the myths about becoming a Tattoo Artist in Chicago, all Tattoo Artists are rebellious rock stars who sleep all day, tattoo all night, and live on the edge. Reality check: Most Tattoo Artists lead ordinary lives, much like the rest of us. Think less about Ozzy Osbourne in the ’80s and more like your friendly neighborhood Tattoo Artist who loves their craft, a good cup of coffee, and a Netflix marathon on Sunday.
Sure, some Tattoo Artists have a wild side, but the truth is that success in this field comes from dedication, discipline, and professionalism. It’s not just about being able to draw a skull with a rose through it while riding a motorcycle – it’s about perfecting your skills, building a client base, and continually learning. Most Tattoo Artists in Chicago spend their days in the studio, working hard because tattooing is as much a profession as an art form.
Did you know our tattoo school, Ink Different, has locations in several exciting cities across the United States? We do! We have locations in Brooklyn, Los Angeles, Orange County, Chicago, Tampa, Miami, Philadelphia, St. Louis, Atlanta and Connecticut.
3. “Tattooing in Chicago is Just a Side Gig”
One of the most persistent myths about becoming a Tattoo Artist is that tattooing is just a side hustle – a gig you do on weekends to earn a few extra bucks. This couldn’t be further from the truth! Tattooing is a full-fledged career with the potential to make a substantial income. Many Tattoo Artists make a comfortable living that rivals other professional careers.
The earning potential of a Tattoo Artist can vary depending on experience, location, and reputation, but plenty of artists make six figures annually. The tattoo industry is a billion-dollar business that continues growing, with more people getting inked yearly. Whether you’re in a big city like Chicago or a smaller town, there’s a demand for talented Tattoo Artists. So, don’t believe the myth – tattooing can be a lucrative and fulfilling full-time career.
In Illinois, the numbers speak for themselves—tattoo artists earn significantly more than many might expect, especially compared to other professions. Teachers, with their 4-year college degrees, make an average of $45,146 annually, and accountants, with the same level of education, earn about $66,210 per year. Meanwhile, tattoo artists, who complete an 18-month apprenticeship, bring in an impressive $103,548 annually. That’s 129% more than teachers and 56% more than accountants! It’s clear that tattooing isn’t just a creative passion—it’s a career with serious financial rewards, busting the myth that it’s a low-paying profession in cities like Chicago.
Looking for information for parents of young Tattoo Artists? Continue reading about parents who want to help their children become Tattoo Artists.
In Illinois, the numbers speak for themselves—tattoo artists earn significantly more than many might expect, especially compared to other professions. Teachers, with their 4-year college degrees, make an average of $45,146 annually, and accountants, with the same level of education, earn about $66,210 per year. Meanwhile, tattoo artists, who complete an 18-month apprenticeship, bring in an impressive $103,548 annually. That’s 129% more than teachers and 56% more than accountants! It’s clear that tattooing isn’t just a creative passion—it’s a career with serious financial rewards, busting the myth that it’s a low-paying profession in cities like Chicago.
Looking for information for parents of young Tattoo Artists? Continue reading about parents who want to help their children become Tattoo Artists.
4. “Tattoo Artists Only Need to Know How to Tattoo”
Think being a Tattoo Artist is just about knowing how to tattoo? Think again! Tattooing is an art that involves much more than just wielding a tattoo machine. A successful Tattoo Artist must master various skills, including understanding skin types, managing hygiene standards, knowing color theory, and even basic anatomy. How a tattoo looks can depend on skin tone, texture, and how the body will age over time.
In addition to these artistic and technical skills, Tattoo Artists often handle their own scheduling, marketing, customer service, and finances. Being a Tattoo Artist is like running your own small business. You have to manage your clients, keep your workspace sterile, source quality materials, and even file your taxes. It’s not just a job but a career requiring a well-rounded skill set.
Learn more about the profession on our website or read how to change careers and become a Tattoo Artist!
5. “You Learn to Tattoo from YouTube”
We’ve all tried to pick up a new skill from a YouTube tutorial or two, right? From fixing a leaky faucet to mastering the art of sourdough bread, YouTube has its place. But when it comes to tattooing, you can’t just watch a few videos and start inking away. Tattooing is a highly specialized skill that requires hands-on experience, not just a Wi-Fi connection.
Tattooing involves a delicate balance of pressure, precision, and understanding of human skin. It’s a skill that can only be learned under the watchful eye of an experienced mentor. There’s also a safety aspect to consider – tattooing involves needles, blood, and the risk of infections. That’s why professional training and apprenticeships are essential. At Ink Different Tattoo School, we provide the hands-on experience, mentorship, and knowledge necessary to ensure you’re learning in a safe, supportive environment. Trust us, your cousin doesn’t want to be your first tattoo client after watching a five-minute tutorial!
6. “You Have to Be a Rebel to Be a Tattoo Artist”
Here’s a fun one: the myth about becoming a Tattoo Artist is that to be a Tattoo Artist, you must be some kind of rebellious renegade with a penchant for breaking all the rules. In reality, Tattoo Artists come from all walks of life. Some are rebellious, but others are laid-back, introverted, or even downright nerdy. The common thread? They all share a passion for art and expression!
Tattooing is a form of art that welcomes everyone – from the quiet Tattoo Artist who loves to sketch in their room to the outspoken creative who enjoys being the center of attention. There’s no “type” of person who makes a great Tattoo Artist; it’s about your dedication, creativity, and willingness to learn. So, if you’re not a leather-wearing, Harley-riding rebel, don’t worry – you can still be an incredible Tattoo Artist in Chicago!
7. “Tattooing is Just Drawing on Skin”
A myth about becoming a Tattoo Artist is that some folks think tattooing is just like drawing… but on skin. While there are similarities, tattooing is far more complex than putting pen to paper. Skin is a living, breathing canvas that changes, stretches, and ages. Tattooing requires understanding how to work with these variables. Different body parts have different skin types, and Tattoo Artists need to know how to adapt their techniques accordingly.
Then there’s the needle – or, more accurately, the tattoo machine. It’s a tool that requires finesse, control, and practice. Imagine trying to draw a perfect circle with a vibrating pen while someone keeps moving the paper – it’s a little like that! Tattooing is both an art and a science, a delicate dance of creativity and precision.
Why Choose Ink Different Tattoo School for Your Tattoo Journey in Chicago?
At Ink Different Tattoo School in Chicago, we’re here to help you bust these myths and provide the comprehensive training you need to succeed. Our program isn’t just about teaching you how to tattoo – it’s about giving you the tools and knowledge to thrive in this exciting industry. From the first time you pick up a tattoo machine to the moment you complete your apprenticeship, we’re with you every step of the way.
Our tattoo apprenticeship is designed to be hands-on and personalized to match your pace and style. You’ll learn directly from seasoned mentors with years of industry experience who are passionate about sharing their knowledge. You’ll have the chance to practice on synthetic skin and actual clients, always under the supervision of experts who can provide immediate feedback and guidance. Plus, we go beyond the technical skills – you’ll learn how to handle clients, manage your business, and market yourself effectively in Chicago’s competitive tattoo industry.
Guaranteed Job Offer – No Myths Here!
The guaranteed job offer is one of the best things about joining our program. Yes, you read that right! When you complete your Ink Different Tattoo School apprenticeship, you’re not just handed a certificate and a pat on the back. We offer you a guaranteed job at one of our professional tattoo studios. That means real-world experience, a built-in network, and the chance to start your career with confidence in a city like Chicago.
We believe in investing in our apprentices because we know they’re the future of the tattoo industry. That’s why we take the time to nurture your talents and provide a platform where you can grow. We aim to ensure that when you finish our program, you’re not just ready to tattoo – you’re ready to excel.
Learn in English or Spanish – ¡Tú Eliges!
Inclusivity is a big part of what makes Ink Different Tattoo School unique. We understand that language should never be a barrier to achieving your dreams. That’s why we offer our Spanish services at several locations, including Austin, Chicago, Brooklyn, Tampa, and Miami-Fort Lauderdale. Whether you’re most comfortable learning in English or Spanish, we’re here to support you. You’ll join a diverse community of mentors and tattoo apprentices driven by a love for tattooing. So, feel free to express yourself in whichever language you prefer – we’ve got you covered.
Are you ready to start your journey with Ink Different Tattoo School? It’s time to leave the myths about becoming a tattoo artist behind, learn from the best, and join a community committed to your success. Reach out to us today and take the first step toward becoming the Tattoo Artist you’ve always wanted to be!
