Apprenticeships
How to get an Apprenticeship
1
Build a Strong Portfolio
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Focus on clean line work, shading techniques, color theory, and human anatomy.
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Create original artwork in different tattoo styles to showcase versatility.
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Recommended resources: Figure Drawing for Artists by Steve Huston, Tattoo Prodigies by Mike DeVries.
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Online courses: Proko’s Figure Drawing Fundamentals (www.proko.com), Domestika’s tattoo design classes (www.domestika.org).
2
Learn About the Industry
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Research tattoo history and different styles (Traditional, Japanese, Black & Grey, etc.).
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Study sterilization, hygiene protocols, and tattoo machine mechanics.
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Recommended books: The Tattoo History Source Book by Steve Gilbert, Basic Fundamentals of Modern Tattoo by C.R. Jordan.
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Watch documentaries: Tattoo Nation (2013), Skin Deep: The Art of Tattoo (2019).
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Follow professional artists on social media for industry insights.
3
Visit Tattoo Shops
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Show respect when asking about apprenticeships—avoid walking in unannounced and demanding a spot.
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Observe artists at work, ask thoughtful questions, and be genuinely interested in learning.
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Some shops offer paid seminars or guest lectures—check local studios for opportunities.
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Recommended approach: Ask about mentorship opportunities after building a relationship with the shop.
4
Network & Make Connections
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Attend art events, tattoo conventions, and workshops.
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Follow and engage with artists on Instagram and TikTok.
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Join online forums: Tattooing 101 (www.tattooing101.com), Tattoo Artists Only Facebook group.
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Build relationships before requesting an apprenticeship—many artists prefer to mentor someone they know and trust.
5
Be Prepared to Work Hard
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Apprenticeships often start with cleaning, running errands, and assisting artists before touching a tattoo machine.
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Many apprenticeships are unpaid, requiring a part-time job to support yourself.
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Stay patient—learning proper techniques takes years.
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Recommended mindset: Treat the apprenticeship like an unpaid college education—it’s an investment in your future career.
At this time, Obscura Ink is not offering any apprenticeships.
below are some general tips, tricks, advice on how to prepare and search for an apprenticeship.
Youtube is a great resource for learning more about drawing techniques
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We do not recommend teaching yourself to tattoo. Getting an apprenticeship is really important to learning the fundamentals and proper techniques of tattooing.
Drawing and Painting
Here are a few videos that can get you started on learning to master each of these concepts. Definitely continue to learn and study each of these things. Youtube is a great place to learn each of these concepts for free.
Linework
Linework is essential to the fundamentals of tattooing from completing clean, crisp lines to knowing when to use certain line weights
Shading
Techniques
Hatching, cross-hatching, circle, stippling, gradient, etc.
Color Theory
Color theory, contrasting colors, complementary colors, etc
Lighting/Shadows
& Contrast
Important concepts to learn to make your drawing dimensional and dynamic
Perspective & Composition
Composition is really important when designing on a body.
Anatomy
Learning anatomy is super important to understand the flow of the body, muscle structure and skeletal structure. This is all to be considered when designing a tattoo
Tattoo Styles
There are a lot of different tattoo styles. Find one that you love and you can link to your own original drawing design
Customer Service / Client Interaction
Customer service and client interaction are crucial to the tattoo experience because getting a tattoo is deeply personal and often emotional. Building trust and making clients feel comfortable leads to clearer communication and a more enjoyable process. Clear expectations about design, pain, and aftercare prevent misunderstandings, ensuring satisfaction. Positive interactions encourage repeat business, referrals, and a strong reputation, while professionalism helps navigate difficult situations with ease. A great client experience also makes the tattooing process smoother, allowing the artist to focus on their craft. Ultimately, excellent customer service elevates both the artist and the industry, turning a good experience into a great one.