What Tattoo Shops Look for in an Apprentice: Real Tips from Tattoo Artists
Why It’s Hard to Get a Tattoo Apprenticeship
There’s no shortcut into the tattoo industry. Most artists only take one apprentice at a time, and many shops turn down dozens of applicants every year. If you're serious about becoming a tattoo apprentice, you need to know exactly what shops value before they trust you with the craft.
What Do Tattoo Shops Look for in an Apprentice?
Based on real interviews with artists and shop owners, here are the traits and skills they expect before taking someone under their wing:
1. Strong Drawing Skills
Every artist said the same thing: You must know how to draw on paper, not just digitally. Your tattoo apprenticeship portfolio should show:
Clean line work
Balanced shading
Original flash designs
Consistent style and improvement
You don’t need to be perfect, but you do need to prove you’ve put in time and practice.
2. Willingness to Start at the Bottom
Tattoo apprentices don’t begin with skin they start with cleaning tubes, mopping floors, and organizing supplies. Shops are looking for people who understand that tattooing is earned, not given.
If you’re asking “how much do tattoo apprentices make” before you ask how to sterilize a machine, you're not ready.
3. Respect for the Craft
Shops want apprentices who value tattooing as a lifelong skill not a quick way to go viral on Instagram. Artists often say:
“We can teach someone to tattoo, but we can’t teach them to respect the process.”
That means learning hygiene, history, client interaction, and safety, not just cool designs.
4. Professional Attitude
Yes, tattooing is creative. But it’s also business. Shops want people who:
Show up on time
Take criticism without ego
Don’t talk over experienced artists
Dress and act appropriately in front of clients
This isn’t about being boring, it’s about being dependable.
5. Consistency Over Flashiness
Some applicants bring flashy portfolios filled with stylized art copied from Pinterest. But what artists really want is consistent skill. That includes:
Clean sketches
Proper line weight
Understanding of tattoo placement
Drawing pieces that would actually work on skin
6. Good Communication Skills
Tattooing is client-based. If you’re quiet, that’s okay but you should be able to talk to clients, explain your work, and take directions clearly.
7. Dedication and Patience
Most tattoo apprenticeships last 1–3 years. Many are unpaid. The shop is investing in you. In return, they want to see someone committed someone who shows up even when it’s not exciting.
What Not to Do When Looking for an Apprenticeship
Don’t send DMs like “yo, you hiring?”
Don’t ask to “skip the cleaning part”
Don’t submit copied art
Don’t ask to get paid in month one
Don’t assume it’ll be quick
Final Advice from Tattoo Artists
Artists don’t want someone perfect. They want someone hungry to learn, willing to work hard, and serious about the art form. If you bring in a clean apprentice tattoo portfolio, show respect, and accept the learning curve; you have a real shot.
Frequently ASKED questions
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Clean line drawings, flash sheets, color pieces, and a few anatomy-based designs.
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Most value hand-drawn work first, with digital as a bonus.
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Yes, but always be honest and respectful in your approach.
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You probably won’t be paid at first. Focus on showing value and learning.
