Are you thinking about becoming a Tattoo Artist but not sure how long it takes to finish an apprenticeship? You’ve come to the right place! Tattoo apprenticeships are a crucial step in becoming a professional Tattoo Artist, but the timeline can vary depending on the type of apprenticeship, your commitment, and your mentor. Let’s break it down and answer the big question: How long does a tattoo apprenticeship take?
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In tattoos, an apprenticeship is like going to college... but with way more ink and less homework (though your drawing skills will be tested). It’s hands-on training where you learn everything from the basics of tattooing to advanced techniques. Think of it as your backstage pass to the tattoo world, where you’re guided by a seasoned artist (aka mentor) who teaches you the ins and outs of the craft.
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This is where things get interesting. The average tattoo apprenticeship can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months. It’s not a quick course you can cram into a weekend. An apprenticeship can even stretch to 2 years, depending on how intensive the program is and how fast you learn.
But d—every hour you put in is worth it! The more time you spend learning, the better prepared you’ll be when you finally start tattooing solo. Plus, it’s not just about mastering tattoo techniques—it’s also about learning safety, hygiene, how to run a studio, and working with clients. These are all crucial skills that take time to develop.
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.
Every apprentice is different, and so is every apprenticeship. Some programs are designed to be more intensive, allowing you to dive in full-time and finish faster. Others may take it part-time and enable you to work at account for the type of mentorship you receive—some mentors will push you to the next level as soon as you’re ready, while others may prefer a more gradual, steady progression.
The timeline can also vary depending on the shop’s workload, how often you can practice, and your availability. Some apprentices complete their training part-time, especially when balancing other jobs. It’s important to understand that, no matter the speed, the quality of your apprenticeship matters most source.
Looking for information for parents of young Tattoo Artists? Continue reading about parents who want to help their children become Tattoo Artists.
A typical tattoo apprenticeship is split into three stages:
If you’re eager to complete your apprenticeship quickly, you might wonder if there’s a way to expedite the process. While it’s feasible to finish an apprenticeship in less than a year, it's not advisable to rush. Tattooing is an art that demands time, patience, and practice to master.
Some schools and studios offer intensive programs that can be completed more quickly. However, ensuring you’re still getting the whole experience, including proper mentorship and sufficient hands-on practice, is essential. Quality over speed is critical when it comes to apprenticeship sources.
Here’s a reality check—most tattoo apprenticeships are unpaid. Yep, you read that right. Some apprentices even pay for the opportunity to learn from experienced mentors, particularly in highly competitive studios.
The reasoning is simple: you’re being trained for a career that can be incredibly lucrative in the long run. Once you’re a full-fledged Tattoo Artist, you can potentially make an impressive income. According to ZipRecruiter, the average income for Tattoo Artists in the U.S. is around $64,000 per year, but it can go much higher depending on your location and reputation source.
Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship, congratulations—you’re officially a Tattoo Artist! Most tattoo studios will offer apprentices a position after they finish their training. If not, you can branch out and find a spot at another studio or even start your own.
The good news is that, as a Tattoo Artist, your skills are in demand. The tattoo industry has been booming in recent years, with approximately 47% of millennials now sporting tattoos, so there’s no shortage of potential clients.
Ink Different At Tattoo School offers comprehensive and supportive tattoo apprenticeships. Our program is designed to meticulously provide you with everything you need to succeed in the tattoo industry—from mastering technical skills to understanding how to run a successful tattoo business.
Our apprentice With us, you can be confident that you're receiving top-notch education and mentorship. Our apprenticeships typically last between 12 to 18 months, but we also offer intensive programs for those looking to immerse themselves fully. These are perfect for aspiring Tattoo Artists who want to learn faster without compromising the quality of their education. Our mentors are top-tier artists who are committed to seeing their apprentices succeed. We don’t just train you and send you on your way; we build a foundation that ensures you’re prepared for long-term success.
Absolutely! At Ink Different, we’re proud to offer programs in Spanish in cities like New York City, Chicago, Tampa, Greenville, Orlando, and Miami-Fort Lauderdale. In fact, if you’re fluent in Portuguese, we’ve got you covered in Dallas and Orlando, too. Diversity and accessibility are at the heart of what we do—because great art knows no language barrier.
One of the best perks of completing your apprenticeship at Ink Different Tattoo School is our guaranteed job offer. That’s right—when you finish your apprenticeship, you won’t just leave with new skills and confidence but also a job offer!
We believe in our apprentices and want to set them up for success, so we’re so proud to offer this guarantee. It’s our way of ensuring that your time and effort are rewarded with a promising career in tattooing.
Tattooing is an incredible career that offers both creative freedom and financial stability. Whether you’re into the art or the lifestyle, a tattoo apprenticeship is the best way to turn your passion into a profession. At Ink Different Tattoo School, we support you from your first sketch to your first solo tattoo.