How to Get a Tattoo Apprenticeship in 2025 (Without Selling Your Soul or Getting Scammed)

Memphis Mori

Oct 27, 2025

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How to Get a Tattoo Apprenticeship in 2025 (Without Selling Your Soul or Getting Scammed)

So you want to be a tattoo artist in 2025? That’s amazing.
But let’s get one thing straight from the start:

There is no official “Apply Here” button.
Tattoo apprenticeships aren’t handed out like college acceptances. You can’t just DM your favorite artist and expect to be welcomed with open arms.

You have to earn it.
With your art. Your attitude. And your ability to show up and shut up (with respect).

Here’s exactly how to do it.

1. Build a Strong, Tattoo-Ready Portfolio

You need to show that you can draw—but more importantly, that you can draw for tattoos.

What to include:

Black linework—no pencil shading or ballpoint scribbles
Tattooable designs—think simplified forms, clear silhouettes, clean compositions
Your personal style—don’t copy Pinterest or existing tattoos
20+ solid designs, well-presented (printed AND digital portfolio)

🚫 Do not show tattoos you did on people without training. That’s a red flag.

2. Learn Tattoo Culture Before You Step into a Shop

This isn’t a corporate job. You’re stepping into a space with history, tradition, and a ton of unspoken rules. Respect matters.

Do your homework:

Learn basic terminology (liner, shading, cartridges, sanitation, machine not gun)
Understand the risks of tattooing and bloodborne pathogens
Follow artists and listen—don’t interrupt or center yourself

👂 Pro tip: The best apprentices are humble, helpful, and quiet when needed. Be a sponge.

3. Visit Studios In Person (Don’t Just DM)

Yes, it’s terrifying. Yes, it matters.

Here’s how to do it:

Dress presentably (you don’t need to cosplay as a tattoo artist)
Bring your portfolio, printed or on an iPad
Ask to speak to the owner or manager if possible or better yet, BOOK tattoos and speak to the artist who you trust to tattoo you
Say something like:

“Hi, I’m [Name]. I’m hoping to become a tattoo artist and was wondering if you’re open to taking on an apprentice—or reviewing my portfolio for feedback.”
Be polite, thank them even if they say no, and leave them with your contact info

4. Expect to Be Rejected (A Lot)

You might need to ask 10, 20, or even 50 shops before someone says yes.

That doesn’t mean you’re not talented. It means:

Some shops don’t have capacity
Some mentors are burned out
Some just aren’t the right fit

Every “no” gets you closer to the right “yes.” Keep improving. Keep trying.

5. Be Ready to Work—Hard, Long, and Often for Free

Apprenticeships aren’t just about art. You’ll also:

Clean stations
Wrap armrests
Organize needles and stock
Learn sanitation protocols
Observe client interactions
Be in the shop a lot before you even touch a machine

💡 Reminder: This is a skilled trade, not a weekend hobby. The people who succeed treat it like the job it is before they’re getting paid.

6. Be Honest About What You Can Offer

Some apprenticeships are free. Some cost thousands. Some are trade-based.

Ask:

What’s expected of you (time, money, gear)
Who your actual mentor will be
What timeline they see for you tattooing
If they’ve trained other apprentices (and where they are now)

If the answers are vague or sketchy, trust your gut.

7. Start Building Your Name—Even Before You Tattoo

Post your flash and art online, start building a brand before you start tattooing
Build a consistent style and aesthetic
Use platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or even a personal website
Start networking in the tattoo community (without being pushy)

💻 2025 tip: Having a solid online presence can help you stand out to potential mentors and future clients.

What NOT to Do

🚫 Don't cold-DM artists “Hey are you taking apprentices?”
🚫 Don't copy other people’s work and pass it off as yours
🚫 Don't get pushy or defensive if someone critiques you
🚫 Don’t tattoo people without proper training—it’s dangerous and illegal in many areas