How Much Time a Week for Tattoo Apprentice Training?
Starting a tattoo apprenticeship means committing serious time and energy. But exactly how much time a week for tattoo apprentice work should you expect? Whether you’re planning a traditional path or considering an online tattoo apprenticeship, the time commitment is bigger than most beginners realize. Let’s break it down.
Key Takeaways:
Tattoo apprenticeships usually require 20–40 hours per week.
Duration ranges from 1 to 3 years, depending on the mentor and structure.
Online tattoo apprenticeships can offer more flexible weekly schedules.
Consistent weekly commitment is essential to becoming a skilled tattoo artist.
How Do Tattoo Apprenticeships Work?
An apprenticeship under a professional tattoo artist is a prolonged learning experience. You'll observe, clean, sketch, assist, and eventually tattoo. The goal: build real-world skills and a solid portfolio.
There’s no shortcut here. You learn by doing and that takes time.
How Much Time a Week for Tattoo Apprentice Work?
Most traditional apprenticeships require 20 to 40 hours per week. Yes, that’s nearly full-time. Why?
Because tattooing isn’t just drawing you’re learning:
Shop hygiene and setup
Equipment maintenance
Skin anatomy and healing
Tattoo linework and shading
Client management and aftercare
Weekly Breakdown Example:
10–15 hrs: Cleaning, observing, and assisting
10 hrs: Drawing practice and design prep
5–10 hrs: Working with or shadowing your mentor
This can stretch even further during busy shop days or when preparing for portfolio reviews.
How Long Does a Tattoo Apprenticeship Last?
Wondering how long do tattoo apprenticeships last? Or how long is a tattoo apprenticeship? Most programs run between one and three years.
1 Year: Rare, usually very intensive
2 Years: Most common length
3+ Years: If done part-time or with breaks
So, how long does a tattoo apprenticeship last? Plan for 24 months of consistent weekly effort.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Tattoo Artist?
This depends on your weekly commitment and how structured your program is. If you put in steady work each week:
You can become licensed or ready for client work in 2–3 years.
So if you’re asking how long does it take to be a tattoo artist or how long does it take to become a tattoo artist, it’s not an overnight journey. It’s a career you build hour by hour.
Online Tattoo Apprenticeship Time Commitment
If you're looking for flexibility, an online tattoo apprenticeship might be ideal. These programs offer structured lessons and mentorship with more control over your schedule.
Weekly Time for Online Apprenticeship:
10–20 hours per week (practice on synthetic skin, self-paced learning, and video lessons)
This makes them perfect for artists who:
Work a day job
Live far from tattoo studios
Prefer flexible, guided learning paths
Can You Do It Part-Time?
Absolutely. Many apprentices begin part-time. But keep in mind:
Progress will be slower
You’ll need more total months or years
Some mentors may prefer full-time dedication
Consistency matters more than hours. Showing up every week with focus builds your skills faster than cramming once a month.
Final Thoughts
To become a professional tattoo artist, expect to dedicate at least 20 hours per week for 2–3 years. Whether you're in a traditional shop or learning through an online tattoo apprenticeship, your weekly effort shapes your progress.
Ready to train like a pro? Start your tattoo artist apprenticeship today with expert-led guidance that fits your schedule.
Frequently ASKED questions
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Most tattoo apprentices commit 20–40 hours per week, especially in traditional shops.
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Yes, but it may extend your total apprenticeship time. Consistency and regular practice are key.
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Most last 1 to 3 years, depending on your mentor, skill level, and weekly time invested.
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Consider an online tattoo apprenticeship. It offers structured learning with flexible hours.
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With steady weekly practice, expect 2–3 years before becoming a fully skilled, independent tattoo artist.
