How to Land a Tattoo Apprenticeship

I was mentored the old way in tattooing, or what I call the "Biker" way. Like in Biker culture, you "hang around" enough to become a "prospect" before you finally deserve to become a member of the club. Many tattoo shops were owned by bikers, and the apprenticeship was very similar to the prospect period. I cleaned the restroom floor tiles with a toothbrush. I soldered my own needles. I did all assisting services and favors like fetching their lunch and do their dishes. This was all to show respect not only to my mentor but also to the craft and culture of tattooing, like a Kung Fu student showing respect for its master and the entire essence of martial art.

I was lucky.

I got my apprenticeship.

It's harder now. It's out there. It's not just bikers, criminals, and sailors getting tattoos anymore. More shops, but even more creative and talented artists who want to start tattooing. Some stand out in the crowd and get an apprenticeship just by their social media numbers. But some are truly blessed with talent, are hard workers, and have the best intentions, but never get that opportunity. And sadly many of those start on their own without the proper mentor teaching them a safe, smart, and effective way to become a successful tattoo artist. After working 20 years as a tattoo artist, mentoring many apprentices into success, I finally created the InkMentor tattoo coaching program. I wanted to personally teach the ones who truly want to become a tattoo artist in a respectful way. This way I can teach you wherever you are located in the world.

More about me: https://www.electriclinda.com/site/about