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National Tattoo Day: The Perfect Time to Start Your Tattoo Career

Published by Paul Anthony on July 17, 2025

Nothing Like the Present To Start Tattooing

It’s National Tattoo Day this July 17th. Tattoo machines are buzzing, flash sheets are flying off the walls, and there’s new ink everywhere. Ever wonder what it would feel like to be the Tattoo Artist everyone’s waiting for? If so, this National Tattoo Day is the perfect time to start your tattoo career.

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve thought about becoming a Tattoo Artist yourself. (Possibly for years!) Here’s the truth: National Tattoo Day isn’t just a holiday. It’s a massive, blinking neon sign that says 'START NOW.'

Let’s talk about why this National Tattoo Day is the perfect time to stop fantasizing and start building your tattoo career.

What Is National Tattoo Day, Anyway?

First, a quick primer for anyone new to the tattoo scene: National Tattoo Day is celebrated every year on July 17. It’s not just a random date. It’s a day when the entire tattoo community comes together to celebrate the art, culture, and history of tattooing.

Tattoo shops run flash specials, Tattoo Artists post their best work, and clients share stories behind their ink. It’s a day for Tattoo Artists and enthusiasts alike to honor the traditions and evolution of tattooing.

But here’s what most people don’t realize: National Tattoo Day isn’t just about celebrating the art on your skin. It’s about celebrating the Tattoo Artists who make it all happen.

And that could be you!

National Tattoo Day: The Perfect Time to Start Your Tattoo Career

Why It’s More Than Just a Celebration

On National Tattoo Day, the energy in the tattoo industry is different.

Tattoo Artists get to show off their best work, connect with peers, and honor the traditions they’re a part of. Clients who haven’t been in a shop for years come back for something new. People who have been on the fence about getting a tattoo finally take the plunge.

Tattooing is in the spotlight.

It’s the perfect moment to step back and ask yourself: “Do I want to keep watching from the sidelines, or do I want to be part of this world?”

Because here’s the thing: you don’t have to just love tattoos. You can live tattooing and become a Tattoo Artist that people celebrate on National Tattoo Day.

The Power of Marking a Date to Start Your Journey

Starting something is hard. Really hard. Whether you’re 18 and just graduated from high school or 38 and ready to switch careers, taking that first step toward becoming a Tattoo Artist is scary.

Raise your hand if you’ve told yourself any of these excuses:

“I’ll start soon.”
“I’ll wait until I’m better at drawing.”
“I’ll do it when life calms down.”
“I’ll wait after (insert life event here).”

Honestly, there’s never going to be a “perfect” time. Well, except for the time you pick out to make perfect. There’s power in picking a meaningful date to start. It becomes a milestone you’ll never forget.

“I started my tattoo journey on National Tattoo Day.” Imagine telling yourself that one day. It’s a promise to yourself you’ll actually remember.

If you’ve been waiting for “the right moment,” this is it!

Facing Common Fears and Uncertainties

Let’s get real for a second. If you’re reading this, there’s probably a small voice in your head throwing out objections like candy. Let’s tackle them head-on.

“I’m Not Good Enough Yet”

No one is “good enough.” At least not at the start. Every Tattoo Artist you admire was once a beginner with shaky lines. If you don’t believe us, ask them.

You don’t need to be perfect to start. You just need to be willing to learn. Find a legit and quality tattoo apprenticeship. Keep on practicing even if you think you’re good enough. Listen to your tattoo mentor and apply what you learn from them. You’ll get better by doing, not waiting.

“I Don’t Know Where to Start”

That’s okay. That’s completely normal. Most people don’t, anyway. The good news is, you don’t have to figure it all out alone.

Hoping someone in a tattoo shop would toss you scraps of knowledge? Those days are gone. Today, there are real, structured paths designed to help you succeed, including:

Tattoo apprenticeship programs that teach you proper technique, along with safety, professionalism, and how to build lasting relationships with clients.
Mentorship opportunities with Tattoo Artists who want to see you thrive.
Online and in-person communities where you can share your work, ask questions, and get genuine feedback.

If you’re reading this, you’re already on the path.

“It’s Too Late to Switch Careers”

This one’s big for a lot of people. It’s easy to think, “I missed my window. I should have done this when I was younger.”

But here’s the thing: tattooing doesn’t have an age limit.

People in their 30s, 40s, and even 50s can still chase what they’ve always wanted. And their life experience will actually make them better Tattoo Artists and professionals.

It’s not too late. It’s only too late if you never start.

Why Now Is the Best Time to Learn

Let’s zoom out a bit. Why is now, specifically, a great time to train as a Tattoo Artist?

Here’s what’s happening in the tattoo industry right now:

Growing Demand: Tattooing is more popular and accepted than ever. Clients want work that is safe, clean, and beautiful.
Professional Standards Are Rising: Scratchers and kitchen-table “tattooists” are out. Clients are more educated. They want trained, certified professionals.
More Accessible Education: Gone are the days when you had to beg a shop owner for scraps of knowledge. There are now structured tattoo apprenticeship programs, such as Ink Different, that can help you achieve your goals.
A Need for New Tattoo Artists: Older Tattoo Artists slow down and retire eventually. The tattoo industry needs new talent, voices, styles, and stories.

Tattooing is not a dying art. It’s a growing art that needs passionate, committed people like you.

Using National Tattoo Day as Your Launchpad

So, let’s get practical. What can you do on National Tattoo Day to get your career moving? Here are a few ideas.

Sketch, Sketch, Sketch

Set aside dedicated time this National Tattoo Day to draw. Try new styles you don’t typically attempt. Start building your tattoo portfolio.

Visit Local Tattoo Shops

Get to know your local tattoo community. Observe the art on the walls. Ask questions. Watch how professional Tattoo Artists work and interact with clients. Build connections, understand shop culture, and get a real feel for the environment you want to work in.

Research Tattoo Apprenticeships

Check out reputable tattoo apprenticeship programs in your area. Browse their official websites, social media profiles, and online reviews. Scan their Tattoo Artists’ portfolios. Read up on their offerings and approach.

Approach Potential Tattoo Mentors

Don’t be afraid to DM Tattoo Artists you admire. Many professionals are more willing to share advice than you might think, especially with respectful, motivated beginners. National Tattoo Day is the perfect excuse to make that first contact.

Make a Promise to Yourself

This step might be the most important of all. Make a commitment: “Today I’m starting my journey to become a Tattoo Artist.” Don’t just think it. Act on it.

Supporting Your Tattoo Career from Day One

At Ink Different, we know exactly what it feels like to dream about becoming a tattoo artist but not know where to start. We built our tattoo apprenticeship programs with one mission in mind: to make tattoo education accessible, structured, and genuinely supportive for anyone willing to put in the work.

We believe everyone deserves a path to learn tattooing with real mentorship, proper education in safety and technique, and guidance in building a professional, client-ready career. We’re here to guide you to become the Tattoo Artist you want to be.

A Hands-On Path to Mastery

If you’re serious about making National Tattoo Day the starting point of your career, you’ll want more than just a vague promise of “learning on the job.” That’s why our Traditional Tattoo Apprenticeship Program is structured, clear, and genuinely hands-on.

You’ll work directly in real, licensed tattoo studios and with mentors who are invested in your growth. You’ll learn the practical, technical, and creative skills you need through real tattooing experience, all under expert supervision.

Guaranteed Job Offer for Graduates

We know one of the biggest fears aspiring Tattoo Artists face: “What happens after I finish my tattoo apprenticeship? Will anyone actually hire me?”

Successful graduates of our Tattoo Apprenticeship Program receive a guaranteed job offer to work with us. You’ll have a clear path from tattoo apprentice to working Tattoo Artist.

Level Up with the Best

If you want to learn directly from some of the tattoo industry’s most respected names, our Master Mentorship Program is where you should be. In this advanced, in-person tattoo apprenticeship, you’ll work directly with celebrity Tattoo Artists like Liz Cook, Jordi Pla, and Marcel Oliveira.

This program doesn’t include a guaranteed job offer, because it’s about something even more valuable: unmatched guidance and mentorship from the best in the business.

Making Tattoo Education Inclusive

Everyone deserves access to tattoo education and mentorship, no matter what language they speak. That’s why we offer:

💬 Spanish-speaking support in Brooklyn, Chicago, Tampa, and Miami–Fort Lauderdale
💬 Portuguese-speaking support in Dallas and Orlando.

Whether you’re fluent in English or feel more comfortable in Spanish or Portuguese, we’re here to make sure you can access the knowledge and mentorship you need to thrive.

Celebrate National Tattoo Day by Starting Your Tattoo Journey

Look, you could spend National Tattoo Day getting a tattoo, or you could spend it becoming a Tattoo Artist. Imagine a year or two from now: It’s National Tattoo Day again, but this time, you’re on the other side of the chair. You’re the Tattoo Artist clients trust.

That’s not some unreachable fantasy, but it will only happen when you decide to start. This National Tattoo Day, give yourself permission to chase the thing you’ve always wanted.

If you’re ready to see what that looks like, we’re here to help. Reach out today, and let’s talk about how you can make this National Tattoo Day the first day of your new career.

What’s the Ink Different Community Like?

At Ink Different Tattoo School, we’re all about community. We don’t just want to train you and send you off into the world. We want you to be part of our family—a family that’s as passionate about tattoos and creativity as you are. We’re here to support you, inspire you, and make sure you succeed every step of the way.

From Ink Master to Industry Leaders: How Reality TV and Social Media Are Shaping Tattooing Today

Tattoo Apprenticeship at Ink Different

Ink Different Tattoo School prides itself on offering a comprehensive tattoo apprenticeship program that sets aspiring Tattoo Artists on the path to success. Our program is designed to provide hands-on training, guidance, and support to help our apprentices develop their skills and artistic vision. With experienced Tattoo Artists as mentors, apprentices at Ink Different learn the art of tattooing in a creative and inspiring environment.

Enrolling in a tattoo apprenticeship with Ink Different Tattoos can be highly beneficial for aspiring tattoo artists looking to break into this vibrant industry. Ink Different Tattoos is renowned for its commitment to excellence and its dedication to nurturing emerging talent. Under the guidance of experienced artists, apprentices at Ink Different Tattoos can learn not just the technical skills of tattooing but also gain insights into client interactions, design principles, and studio management. This comprehensive training prepares apprentices not only to create beautiful tattoos but also to thrive in the competitive world of tattooing.

Apply for Traditional Tattoo Apprenticeship now

Master Mentorship Program

Boost Your Tattoo Career with Elite Training

For aspiring tattoo artists looking to refine their craft, expand their skill set, and push their careers to new heights, the Master Mentorship Program offers an unparalleled opportunity. This exclusive program connects you with world-renowned tattoo artists like Liz Cook, Robbie Ripoll, Gabe Jaksich, and other industry legends for personalized, high-level mentorship.

Whether you want to perfect your technique, develop a signature style, master new tattooing methods, or prepare to open your own studio, this program provides hands-on guidance and insider knowledge to help you achieve your goals. With expert feedback, tailored instruction, and real-world business insights, you'll gain the tools and confidence needed to stand out in the competitive tattoo industry.

Join the Master Mentorship Program and unlock your full potential as an artist. Your next level starts here.

Apply Now

The Future of Tattooing

The tattoo industry is constantly evolving, shaped by reality TV and social media. While Ink Master introduced tattooing to mainstream audiences and provided exposure to tattoo artists, social media has now taken over as the dominant force in self-promotion. However, no matter how much technology changes, one thing remains constant: authenticity matters.

For aspiring tattoo artists, the best path forward is a balance of tradition and innovation. Learning the fundamentals, networking with real clients, and staying true to their artistic identity will always be more valuable than chasing viral trends.

As the industry moves forward, the most successful artists will be those who can blend old-school craftsmanship with new-school marketing without losing the soul of the art form.

Submit your art today and start your journey toward becoming a professional Tattoo Artist!

Call/Text

National Tattoo Day: The Perfect Time to Start Your Tattoo Career

One Bold Step: Azalea Sandoval’s Tattoo Apprenticeship Journey

Where To Start: The Easiest Spots To Tattoo on a Human Body

One Bold Step: Azalea Sandoval’s Tattoo Apprenticeship Journey

Where To Start: The Easiest Spots To Tattoo on a Human Body

Nothing Like the Present To Start Tattooing

What Is National Tattoo Day, Anyway?

Why It’s More Than Just a Celebration

The Power of Marking a Date to Start Your Journey

Facing Common Fears and Uncertainties

“I’m Not Good Enough Yet”

“I Don’t Know Where to Start”

“It’s Too Late to Switch Careers”

Why Now Is the Best Time to Learn

Using National Tattoo Day as Your Launchpad

Sketch, Sketch, Sketch

Visit Local Tattoo Shops

Research Tattoo Apprenticeships

Approach Potential Tattoo Mentors

Make a Promise to Yourself

Supporting Your Tattoo Career from Day One

A Hands-On Path to Mastery

Guaranteed Job Offer for Graduates

Level Up with the Best

Making Tattoo Education Inclusive

Celebrate National Tattoo Day by Starting Your Tattoo Journey

What’s the Ink Different Community Like?

Tattoo Apprenticeship at Ink Different

Master Mentorship Program

Boost Your Tattoo Career with Elite Training

The Future of Tattooing

Submit your art today and start your journey toward becoming a professional Tattoo Artist!

1-917-227-2842

Paul Anthony