200+

YEARS


of Combined Experience
20+

LOCATIONS


across the Globe
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How to Become a Tattoo Artist

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Traditional Tattoo Apprenticeship Program

Setting the Standard for Tattoo Education
from Coast-to-Coast

Ink Different Tattoo stands head and shoulders above the competition when preparing aspiring Tattoo Artists for a successful career. Unlike other programs that cut corners or fail to deliver on their promises, Ink Different offers a comprehensive and supportive learning environment in cities nationwide that prioritizes tattoo apprentice success. Here’s what makes Ink Different the gold standard in tattoo education:

Comprehensive Program Structure

Industry-Leading Mentorship

Modern, Apprentice-Centered Approach

Unmatched Return On Investment

Business And Marketing Training

Entrepreneurial Focus 

Ink Different teaches apprentices not just how to tattoo but also how to run a successful business. Topics include marketing, client management, and shop ownership—where most competitors fall short.

Career Development 

Graduates leave with the skills to create stunning tattoos, build a loyal client base, and manage their careers effectively.

A Community of Success

Guaranteed Support Beyond Graduation Nationwide

 Ink Different supports apprentices after completing the program through their Guaranteed Job Offer, ensuring a seamless transition into the world of professional Tattoo Artists from Florida to New York, California, Texas, Illinois, Georgia, South Carolina, and beyond.

Strong Alumni
 Network

Graduates become part of a growing community of successful Tattoo Artists making their mark in the industry and extending and receiving requests for guest spots nationwide.

Cost and Accessibility of Tattoo Education

Cost and accessibility are critical factors when choosing a tattoo apprenticeship program. Many promise affordable tuition and financial support but often include hidden fees or fail to deliver real value. Ink Different Tattoos offers an inclusive pricing structure for the entire apprenticeship program, ensuring apprentices receive an exceptional return on their investment for complete career training.

Transparent Pricing at Ink Different Tattoos

Ink Different Tattoos offers competitive tuition rates with no hidden fees, making its programs accessible to many aspiring artists. Unlike competitors, who inflate costs with unexpected add-ons or surcharges, Ink Different is upfront about what apprentices will pay and receive. This transparency builds trust and ensures apprentices can focus on their education without financial surprises.

Student Loans and 
Financing

Recognizing that education is a significant investment, Ink Different provides flexible payment plans, private student loans, and financing options to make its programs accessible to talented apprentices from all backgrounds. These options ensure that cost is not a barrier to pursuing a career in tattooing, a stark contrast to other programs outside of Oregon and Virginia, where the steep tuition, limited training, and limited financial support leave many apprentices struggling to start their careers.

Tattoo Apprenticeship

Traditional Tattoo Apprenticeship Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1How to become a Tattoo Artist?
Ink Different Tattoos offers tattoo apprenticeships that provide graduates with a Guaranteed Job Offer, to tattoo artists from all walks of life in our tattoo studios and our affiliate partner studios across the country. Talk to Your Advisor Learn more about our tattoo apprenticeships and what it takes to be a successful tattoo artist by speaking with an Advisor. Start From Home As a tattoo apprentice, you’ll start online in a live virtual classroom, where you will work one-on-one with your trainer from the comfort of your own home. Once you pass your virtual classroom requirements, you’re ready to complete your tattoo apprenticeship in one of our studios. Apprenticeships generally take 1 year to complete. Tattoo at Our Studios Upon completion of your apprenticeship, we welcome you to tattoo at one of our exceptional tattoo studios. You will have all the skills necessary to provide quality custom tattoos with world-class customer service to your clients. Call 9172272842 to speak with an advisor who can help you determine whether a tattoo apprenticeship is right for you.
2Where are our studios located?
Ink Different Tattoo studios offer tattoo apprenticeships at our locations in: -Manhattan, New York. -Chicago, Illinois. -Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. -New Haven, Connecticut. -Tampa, Florida. -Miami, Fort Lauderdale; Florida. -Los Angeles, California. We also have partner studios at -Atlanta, Georgia. -Austin, Texas -Broward County, Florida. -Columbia, SC. -Dallas, Texas. -Corpus Christi, Texas. -Fort Myers, Florida. -Greenville, SC. -Miami, Florida. - Pensacola, Florida. -Phoenix, Arizona. -North Jersey, NJ. -Orange County, CA. -Orlando, Florida. -Palm Beach, Florida. -Providence, RI. -San Francisco,CA. -St Louis, Missouri
3How do I start my tattoo apprenticeship?
Email a minimum of 4 - 5 images of your artwork to [email protected]. An Admissions Advisor will be assigned to you to guide you through the application process.
4What do I learn as a tattoo apprentice?
Tattoo apprenticeships at Ink Different Tattoos are based on the traditional tattoo apprenticeship model with an increased focus on ongoing professional development, practice assessments, and real work experience. You will learn how to create a beautiful tattoo portfolio of expertly executed tattoos, how to provide wonderful customer service, and how to build and grow your personal brand as a tattoo artist. Call 9172272842 to speak with an advisor who can help you determine whether a tattoo apprenticeship is right for you.
5What kind of artistic background do I need to start my tattoo apprenticeship?
You do not need any formal art education to start your tattoo apprenticeship, and it is open to artists from all walks of life. As the program is self-paced, your passion for art will drive the process. We believe that anyone with the right passion, drive, and perseverance can become a successful tattoo artist. Call 9172272842 to speak with an advisor who can help you determine whether a tattoo apprenticeship is right for you.
6I already go to school or work full-time, can I start a tattoo apprenticeship?
Absolutely! Most of our apprentices have obligations outside of their apprenticeship. As a result, we’ve created flexible schedules that allow you to attend when it’s most convenient for you. We offer apprenticeship sessions in the morning, afternoon, and night, Monday through Saturday. Call 9172272842 to speak with an advisor who can help you determine whether a tattoo apprenticeship is right for you.
7How long will my apprenticeship last?
Tattoo apprenticeships are self-paced based on the quality of the work produced, so actual completion time varies. An estimated completion time is 12 months. Call 9172272842 to speak with an advisor who can help you determine whether a tattoo apprenticeship is right for you.
8How much does a tattoo apprenticeship cost?
The cost of a tattoo apprenticeship is different for each apprentice and is based on the actual time the apprentice takes to complete the program. Your schedule and tuition will be tailored specifically for you depending on the program you select. Call 9172272842 to speak with an advisor to learn more.
9How do I get my tattoo license?
Tattoo licensing requirements and procedures vary by state and county. Our tattoo apprenticeships prepare you for state licensing exams through extensive blood borne pathogen and cross contamination training, hands-on training with tattoo machines, and recorded studio hours that typically fulfill the minimum hours required in order to obtain a license.

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

Artist Spotlight w/ Shamain Hardy NOW PLAYING NOW PLAYING Artist Spotlight w/ Brandon Mendes NOW PLAYING I went from Tattoo Apprentice to MENTOR NOW PLAYING Artist Spotlight w/ Kevin Ryman NOW PLAYING Artist Spotlight w/Rina Peseleva

Phase-by-Phase
Program Guide

Phase 1 - Art and Design Principles

This phase is a starting point to lay the foundation of where tattoos derive from and how they are created from a visual perspective. The student apprentice will begin by learningabout the concepts and eventually begin to explore these concepts in a hands-on approach. Working with drawing lines and shading on paper allows studentapprentices to get a grasp on hand control and what is needed to create a goodtattoo. From here the student apprentice will begin to explore digital work andbegin to understand the digital modes of tattoo development. By the end of phase one student apprentices will use traditional and digital media to create a portfolio rooted in best practice techniques.

Phase 2 - Machine Mastery and Practice Tattooing

Due to the high physical demand of a professional Tattoo Artist, Phase 2 apprentices will repeat many exercises to assist them in strengthening their hand control. The goal of Phase 2 is to assist student apprentices in developing several tattoo skills necessary for their future careers, introduce them to the basic operation of a professional tattoomachine and prepare them for working with clients. student apprentices willexplore the physical tattooing techniques of lining, shading/gradients, and solidcolor packing. In addition, acclimation to tattoo machines will be a heavily addressed concept and technique study. A large portion of this level is staggered as it is occurring at the individual student apprentice’s pace.

Phase 3 - Supervised Tattoos

This phase is focused on In-studio-on-skin tattooing under the direct supervision of a lead Trainer. Student apprentices are required to submit a tattoo submission form before booking an appointment. Technical skill level, the ability to work independently, artistic ability, knowledge of safety and sanitation, communication skills, and overall professionalism are all heavily taken into consideration during this phase.

Phase 4 - Junior Artist Externship

This phase is the student apprentice’s next step in transitioning from apprentice to a professional Tattoo Artist. It allows you to start earning an income while continuing to refine your skills and develop as a Tattoo Artist in a real-world setting. With a focus on building client relationships, executing quality tattoos, and advancing your tattooing skills, this phase sets the foundation for a successful career.

Upon successful completion of our Traditional Tattoo Apprenticeship Program, you are Guaranteed a Job Offer from Ink Different Studio or its partner studios.

Ink Different Tattoo Artist Certification

GUARANTEED JOB OFFER
GUARANTEED TATTOO LICENCE
GUARANTEED STUDENT LOAN OFFER

Become a Tattoo Artist in USA

Join the $2.2B Tattoo Economy – Your Journey to Artistic Success Starts Here!

The tattoo industry is booming, with a global market value of $2.2 billion and growing. It offers endless opportunities for aspiring artists to turn their passion into a lucrative career. From creative expression to financial independence, the industry is thriving like never before.

$51511

Average First-year Income of a Tattoo Artist in USA

21000+

Tattoo Studios in USA and Growing !

$106868

According to Zip Recruiter, Average Annual Income of a Tattoo Artist in USA

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