"Understanding the Experience: Getting Tattooed by an Apprentice"

A tattoo apprenticeship is a method by which a student learns how to become a skillful and respected tattoo artist. An apprentice typically begins by learning proper sanitation, safety, and basic tattoo techniques (on fake skin). While an apprentice begins by tattooing fake skin, there comes a time when they must transition to real skin to improve their tattoo skills.

During this transition, a tattoo apprentice will advertise either free or discounted tattoos. This is because they are still learning and there may be flaws in their work. Everyone must start somewhere, and yes, that means tattoo artists too. Even the most incredible artists started with imperfections in their tattoos.

Supporting aspiring artists is extremely beneficial to their apprenticeship. The tattoo industry needs people who are willing to support apprentices. I mean, that is how we produce skillful artists who create excellent tattoos. Just like becoming a hair stylist or barber, apprentices must have hands-on experience.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN GETTING AN APPRENTICE TATTOO?

If you're considering getting tattooed by an apprentice, there are some things you should understand and be prepared for:

• This person is a student, they are learning.

• The session may be longer than expected.

• An experienced artist may jump in and help execute the tattoo to demonstrate certain techniques.

• There may be minor flaws in the tattoo, such as inconsistent linework and patchy color.

• You may need to come back for a touch-up.

• Your tattoo may take multiple sessions.

• It's unlikely that an apprentice will take on custom designs unless they are simple and approved by a senior artist.

COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT TATTOO APPRENTICES

What can an apprentice tattoo?

A tattoo apprentice may tattoo designs within the parameters determined by a senior artist. Typically, an apprentice is allowed to tattoo basic designs which grants the opportunity for them to learn concepts hands-on. An apprentice should only tattoo smaller designs until a senior artist permits them to move on to larger designs.

What does an apprentice charge?

An apprentice begins by tattooing free designs until they've gained enough experience to charge discounted rates. An apprentice's rate will continue to increase as they learn and become skillful artists.

How does an apprentice learn?

There are several styles of learning when it comes to tattoo apprentices, traditional, tattoo school, and self-taught. In a traditional apprenticeship, the student learns from one or multiple established artists. Traditional apprenticeships differ depending on the teaching artists and shop. Each apprentice's experience will be unique in structure and timeline.

Tattoo School allows apprentices to learn in a classroom setting. This style of learning is much more structured and follows a specific program. Think of it as going to college to be a tattoo artist. Typically, there's a strict timeline where tattoo principles and techniques are broken up into stages. Check out Patch Tattoo Therapy on Instagram to see more about how a tattoo school operates.

A self-taught artist doesn't learn from or work with an established artist. A self-taught artist typically relies on the Internet to learn how to execute tattoo techniques. Due to the lack of mentorship, this style of learning may take longer to become a skillful artist.

What does an apprentice learn?

The type and quality of apprenticeship will determine exactly what an apprentice will learn. In general, an apprentice will learn:

• proper sterilization/sanitation and safety

• lining techniques

• coloring techniques

• shading techniques

• color theory

• black and grey

• varying art concepts

• anatomy concepts