So, You Want to Become a Tattoo Artist—But What’s the Price Tag?
You’re serious about starting your tattoo career, but one big question keeps coming up: How much does it actually cost to become a tattoo artist? The internet is full of different answers—some say you need to spend thousands on a traditional tattoo apprenticeship, while others claim you can learn on your own with a cheap machine and some fake skin.
The truth? Becoming a tattoo artist requires an investment—whether in time, money, or both. But what you spend (and what you get in return) depends entirely on how you choose to train. Do you go the unpaid shop apprenticeship route? Enroll in a structured program? Buy equipment and try to teach yourself? Each option has its own costs and risks, and not all of them actually prepare you for a successful career.
If you want to get the best return on your investment, you need to understand where your money (and effort) is going. Let’s break it down.
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Breaking Down the Costs of Each Tattoo Training Path
1️. The “Free” Tattoo Apprenticeship Route
Many aspiring artists look for apprenticeships at tattoo shops in hopes of learning under an experienced artist. While this is the way tattooing has been taught for decades, it’s not as simple as walking into a shop and asking for a spot.
Typical Costs:
- Free (some shops charge for apprenticeships)
- Years of unpaid work before you actually start tattooing
- Equipment costs: Many shops require tattoo apprentices to buy their own supplies
Time Investment:
- 1-3 years before tattooing clients
- No structured timeline—training depends entirely on the mentor’s willingness to teach
The Risk:
- Many traditional apprenticeships focus more on shop duties than tattoo training. You may spend months—or years—cleaning stations, answering phones, and setting up for other artists with no guarantee you’ll ever get to tattoo.
- Some apprenticeships charge high fees upfront without a clear structure or training plan.
So, what is the real cost of becoming a tattoo artist? Your mental health? Your free labor? There should be an alternative that allows you to pursue your dreams without sacrificing your sleep.
Looking for a guaranteed job offer as a Tattoo Artist? Start your tattoo apprenticeship today!
2️. Teaching Yourself Tattooing (The DIY Route)
Some people try to skip tattoo apprenticeships altogether and learn tattooing on their own. They buy a machine, watch YouTube videos, and practice on fake skin—or worse, real skin without proper training.
Typical Costs:
- $500 – $2,000 for a basic tattoo kit and supplies
- $0 for training—because you’re relying on free online tutorials
Time Investment:
- No structured timeline—you learn at your own pace (which can take years)
The Risk:
- No formal education on safety, skin anatomy, or tattoo technique—leading to bad habits, poor technique, and potential cross-contamination risks.
- No hands-on mentorship—you’re on your own when problems arise.
- Shops will not take you seriously. If you apply for a tattoo job without a structured education, you will likely be rejected.
Is your safety and your client’s livelihood the cost you’d pay to become a tattoo artist? Or are you willing to go further to follow the proper steps?
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. Other Tattoo Schools: Short Programs with Limited Value
Some tattoo schools promise to teach tattooing in as little as 72 hours, while others offer more extended programs (up to a year) but lack sufficient practice hours. Many students graduate from these programs without the real-world experience to land a tattoo studio job.
Typical Costs:
- $5,000 – $20,000 for tuition.
- Additional costs for equipment, licensing, and travel (which aren’t always included in tuition).
Time Investment:
- 72-hour crash courses to 1-year programs.
- Not enough hands-on practice—some programs provide fewer than 100 hours of tattooing, which is not enough to be job-ready.
The Risks:
- High costs with little return – Many schools focus on collecting tuition fees rather than providing comprehensive training.
- Lack of hands-on practice – Some programs focus too much on theory, leaving students unprepared for real tattooing.
- No guaranteed job placement – Graduates often struggle to find work after completing these programs, requiring additional apprenticeships to gain real experience.
If you’re considering a tattoo school, always check how many actual tattooing hours are included—a program with too little hands-on practice won’t prepare you for a real career and represents a higher cost to become a tattoo artist in the long run.
Looking for information for parents of young Tattoo Artists? Continue reading about parents who want to help their children become Tattoo Artists.
4. The Ink Different Tattoos Apprenticeship Route
At Ink Different Tattoos, we believe in a structured, professional, and hands-on approach that prepares you for a real career. Unlike traditional apprenticeships, where you might wait years to get tattooed, our program is designed to get you tattooed sooner while learning under real industry professionals.
Typical Costs:
- Less than $15,000 for full, structured tattoo training
- All necessary equipment, mentorship, and hands-on experience included
- No unpaid labor—you’re here to learn, not clean for free
Time Investment:
- Structured training with a clear roadmap
- Guaranteed job offer upon completion
The Benefits:
-Start tattooing much sooner than a traditional apprenticeship.
-Learn directly from professional tattoo artists in real studios.
-Receive structured training in technique, hygiene, business skills, and portfolio building.
-Graduate with confidence—and a guaranteed job offer.
For those who want to go beyond an apprenticeship and train with top-tier industry professionals, we now offer the Master Mentorship Program. This advanced training is designed for tattoo artists who want to refine their skills, develop their artistic style, and learn from some of the most respected names in tattooing.
Learn more about the profession on our website or read how to change careers and become a Tattoo Artist!
Costs to Consider When Becoming a Tattoo Artist
Beyond training costs, there is more to consider a cost to becoming a tattoo artist.
- Equipment & Supplies – A professional tattoo machine, inks, needles, and other supplies can cost anywhere from $1,000 – $5,000 depending on quality.
- Health & Safety Certifications – Bloodborne pathogens training and licensing requirements vary by state, but expect to spend $50 – $500 on certifications.
- Building Your Portfolio – To land jobs at top studios, you’ll need a professional-quality portfolio, which means investing time in developing your unique tattooing style.
- Networking & Travel – Attending tattoo conventions, seminars, and workshops is essential to growing in the industry and making connections.
So, What’s the Best Investment?
When comparing the costs and risks, the Ink Different Tattoos apprenticeship program is the best investment for your future.
Here’s why:
-No more wasting years working unpaid before tattooing.
-You learn in a structured, professional environment with real mentors.
-Also, you will gain the hands-on experience and business skills needed to make money as a tattoo artist.
-You receive a guaranteed job offer after completing the program—eliminating uncertainty.
For those who need flexibility, we also offer three training options:
1️⃣ Virtual Tattoo Apprenticeship
- Learn foundational skills online before transitioning to hands-on training.
- Great for those who want to prepare before committing to an in-person program.
2️⃣ Traditional Tattoo Apprenticeship Program
- Structured hands-on training inside a real tattoo studio.
- Led by professional tattoo artists, covering all aspects of tattooing.
3️⃣ Master Mentorship Program
- Advanced training with top tattoo artists like Robbie Ripoll, Liz Cook, and Joey Tattoo.
- Ideal for those who want to refine their skills and build their reputation.
How Much Should You Pay for Tattoo Training?
The key takeaway? While tattoo education requires investment, choosing the proper training saves you time and sets you up for a successful career.
If you want to avoid:
Wasting years in an unpaid apprenticeship with no structured training
Spending thousands on a program that doesn’t prepare you for the industry
Trying to teach yourself and developing bad habits
Then investing in a real tattoo apprenticeship program is the smartest choice.
Why Ink Different Tattoos is the Best Place to Start Your Tattoo Career
At Ink Different Tattoos, we believe that becoming a tattoo artist shouldn’t be a mystery—it should be a straightforward, structured journey that helps you build confidence and skill. Unlike traditional apprenticeships that can leave aspiring artists waiting years to tattoo, our program provides a direct, hands-on learning experience with real mentorship from professional tattoo artists. Whether you’re just starting or looking for a way to transition into the industry without wasting time, our structured approach ensures every apprentice gets the guidance, support, and hands-on training needed to thrive.
A Tattoo Apprenticeship That Actually Teaches You How to Tattoo
Our tattoo apprenticeship program is designed to do what many traditional apprenticeships fail to—actually teach you how to tattoo. Instead of spending years scrubbing floors and setting up stations while hoping for a chance to learn, you’ll be tattooing sooner under the guidance of experienced mentors. We take a step-by-step approach that covers everything from machine handling and tattoo techniques to business skills and client communication. Whether you choose our Virtual Tattoo Apprenticeship, Traditional Tattoo Apprenticeship, or Master Mentorship Program, you’ll receive comprehensive training that prepares you for the real world.
A Guaranteed Job Offer: Security & Success in Your Career
One of the biggest fears aspiring tattoo artists have is “What happens after my apprenticeship?” Many programs leave apprentices to fend for themselves after training without job security or a clear career path. At Ink Different Tattoos, we do things differently—when you complete your apprenticeship, you’ll receive a guaranteed job offer. That means no uncertainty, no scrambling to find a shop that will take you in, and no unpaid work while you wait for an opportunity. You’ll be able to start your career immediately, tattooing real clients and refining your skills in a professional environment.
We Speak Spanish & Portuguese!
At Ink Different Tattoos, we’re committed to making tattoo education accessible to many people. That’s why we offer Spanish-speaking support at our New York City, Chicago, Tampa, Greenville, Orlando, and Miami-Fort Lauderdale locations. If you feel more comfortable learning in Spanish, our mentors and training materials will help ensure you get the most out of your apprenticeship.
We also provide mentorship at our Dallas and Orlando locations for those who speak Portuguese. Whether you speak English, Spanish, or Portuguese, we aim to break down language barriers and help talented artists enter the industry with the right training and support.
Master Mentorship Program: Train with the Best in the Industry
For those who want to take their tattoo skills to the next level, our Master Mentorship Program offers advanced training with some of the most respected artists in the industry. Imagine learning from Robbie Ripoll, Liz Cook, or Joey Tattoo—artists who have built incredible careers and are ready to pass down their knowledge to serious tattoo artists. If you’re committed to excellence and want to stand out in the competitive world of tattooing, our Master Mentorship Program is the perfect next step.
