What’s the Best Tattoo Apprenticeship in the Midwest?

Published by Paul-Anthony Surdi at December 16, 2024

Where Can You Find the Best Tattoo Apprenticeship in the Midwest?

What Makes a Tattoo Apprenticeship “The Best”?

An excellent tattoo apprenticeship isn’t just about learning how to tattoo—it’s about transforming you into a confident, creative professional who can thrive in a competitive industry. Tattooing is more than technical skills. It’s about creating meaningful art, building trust with clients, and understanding the business side of the trade. The best tattoo apprenticeships combine all these elements, giving you the tools to succeed from day one.

The right tattoo apprenticeship program ensures you’re trained by experienced mentors who guide you in refining your skills and discovering your unique tattoo style. It also emphasizes safety protocols, professionalism, and turning your passion into a profitable tattoo career. And let’s not overlook job security—programs like Ink Different Tattoo School’s include a guaranteed job offer, giving you the confidence to focus on your craft without worrying about your next steps.

Apply for the apprenticeship program at our Tattoo School! Find a tattoo apprenticeship near me

Why Look for Tattoo Apprenticeships in the Midwest?

The Midwest may not be the first region that comes to mind when you think about tattooing, but it’s quickly becoming a powerhouse for the tattoo industry. Cities like Chicago and St. Louis offer the perfect combination of affordability, culture, and opportunity that’s hard to find in coastal cities.

First, the cost of living in the Midwest is significantly lower than in cities like New York or Los Angeles. As a tattoo apprentice, you can focus on honing your craft without the financial strain of sky-high rent. Affordability allows you to invest in your training and tools, which are crucial during your early career.

Beyond affordability, the Midwest is rich in artistic inspiration. Chicago’s street art and St. Louis’s historic charm provide an ideal backdrop for creative growth. And let’s not forget the welcoming communities—Midwesterners are known for their warmth, making it an inviting place to build your tattoo career.

Looking for a guaranteed job offer as a Tattoo Artist? Start your tattoo apprenticeship today!

Why Is St. Louis Making Noise in the Tattoo World?

St. Louis is quickly gaining recognition as a hub for aspiring tattoo artists, thanks partly to the city’s growing tattoo scene and industry leaders like Shawn Smith at Immortal Ink Gallery. Immortal Ink is part of our extended friends and family, sharing our mentorship and professional excellence values. Shawn has been instrumental in guiding tattoo apprentices to refine their craft and succeed in the industry.

St. Louis also offers a unique advantage for new tattoo artists: a thriving tourism industry. Visitors often seek tattoos to commemorate their trip, creating a steady flow of clients for artists in the area. This makes St. Louis an excellent city for tattoo apprentices to gain real-world experience and build a diverse portfolio.

On top of that, St. Louis’s affordable lifestyle allows apprentices to focus on their training without financial stress. The city offers plenty to explore when you’re not tattooing, from the iconic Gateway Arch to its live music scene.

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.

Is Chicago Still a Hotspot for Tattoo Apprenticeships?

Who is @iHeartInk_ ? Absolutely. Chicago has long been a creative hub, and its tattoo scene reflects this reputation. The city’s diversity is mirrored in its tattoo studios, which cater to various styles and cultural influences. Whether you’re drawn to bold traditional tattoos, intricate black-and-gray designs, or modern minimalist art, Chicago has it all!

Our Ink Different Tattoo Studio in Chicago, led by mentor Ellis, stands out in the city’s tattoo landscape. Ellis brings years of experience and a passion for teaching, making this location ideal for aspiring artists. As an apprentice under Ellis, you’ll receive hands-on training in a professional studio, learning technical skills and how to connect with clients and create meaningful work.

Chicago’s bustling population and steady influx of tourists provide endless opportunities for apprentices to gain experience. The city’s art scene—from world-class museums to vibrant street art—offers constant inspiration. For anyone serious about pursuing a career in tattooing, Chicago is a no-brainer.

Looking for information for parents of young Tattoo Artists? Continue reading about parents who want to help their children become Tattoo Artists.

How Much Do Tattoo Artists Earn in the Midwest?

Let’s talk numbers. The income potential for tattoo artists in the Midwest is impressive, especially when you consider the lower cost of living in the region. According to ZipRecruiter, tattoo artists in Chicago earn an average of $110,167 per year, while in St. Louis, they can earn $103,891. These figures highlight the earning potential for artists in the Midwest, where the demand for tattoos continues to grow.

Compared to other professions, income potential in Illinois varies significantly between professions. Tattoo artists, who typically complete an 18-month apprenticeship, can earn an impressive $102,784 per year. This means that after a shorter education period, tattoo artists make approximately 101% more than teachers and 72% more than accountants, highlighting the distinct earning potential in the field of tattooing.

In Missouri, income potential varies greatly across professions. Tattoo artists, who typically complete an 18-month apprenticeship, earn an impressive $101,392 annually. This is slightly lower than their counterparts in Illinois, where tattoo artists earn $102,784 per year. However, tattoo artists in Missouri still earn about 132% more than teachers, who make $43,676, and 46% more than accountants, who earn $69,339 annually. Comparatively, in Illinois, tattoo artists earn 101% more than teachers (earning $51,000) and 72% more than accountants (earning $59,596), highlighting the distinct earning potential in the field of tattooing across both states.

Beyond the averages, successful tattoo artists with strong portfolios and a loyal client base can earn even more, particularly in thriving markets like Chicago and St. Louis. The key to maximizing your income is building a reputation for quality work and professionalism—skills that a structured apprenticeship can help you develop.

Learn more about the profession on our website or read how to change careers and become a Tattoo Artist!

Why Choose Ink Different Tattoo School?

At Ink Different Tattoo School, we’re dedicated to helping apprentices achieve their goals. Our program is designed to prepare you for a long and successful career in the tattoo industry. From hands-on training to a supportive learning environment, we provide everything you need to succeed.

Our 18-month apprenticeship program focuses on mentorship, inclusivity, and real-world experience. You’ll work closely with experienced mentors like Ellis in Chicago, learning techniques, client interaction, and studio management. We believe in creating a safe space where all apprentices feel valued, regardless of their background or skill level.

What sets us apart? Our guaranteed job offer. When you complete our program, you’re not just a trained tattoo artist—you’re an employed one. This ensures you can start earning and building your career immediately after graduation.

What’s the Deal With a Guaranteed Job Offer?

Breaking into the tattoo industry can be intimidating, but our guaranteed job offer removes the guesswork. This isn’t just a promise—it’s a commitment to your success. By the time you graduate, you’ll already have a job lined up, giving you the confidence to focus on your craft.

This guarantee reflects our belief in the value of our training program. We’re not just teaching you to tattoo; we’re preparing you to excel in the industry. Whether you want to work in a studio or eventually open your own, our program provides the foundation you need.

Speaking Your Language: Spanish and Portuguese Locations

At Ink Different Tattoo School, inclusivity is a cornerstone of our mission. That’s why we offer tattoo apprenticeship programs in multiple languages. For Spanish speakers, we have locations in New York City, Chicago, Tampa, Greenville, Orlando, and Miami-Fort Lauderdale. Portuguese speakers can find programs in Dallas and Orlando.

Language should never be a barrier to pursuing your dreams. Our multilingual programs ensure that all apprentices have access to high-quality training and mentorship regardless of their background. This commitment to inclusivity makes Ink Different a leader in the industry.

Why Should You Start Now?

The tattoo industry is booming, and there’s never been a better time to jump in. With the best tattoo apprenticeships in the Midwest, Ink Different Tattoo School gives you the tools, training, and confidence to succeed. Whether you’re inspired by the energy of Chicago or the welcoming community in St. Louis, your future as a tattoo artist begins here.

Starting your apprenticeship now means you’ll be ready to step into the industry as it continues to grow. With the right training, mentorship, and guaranteed job placement, you’ll be well-equipped to build a career that’s as fulfilling as it is creative. Don’t wait—your dream career is closer than you think.