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I'll list some of the cons first:
-consider whether you are okay with doing a bunch of tattoos that do not interest you in the least bit for a while.
A lot of apprentices/newly graduated tattoo artists don't start tattooing things that fit in their 'niche' on the regular for a few years, unfortunately. It takes time to get a solid clientele who come to you for projects that excite you. Fine line tattoos are the most lucrative type of tattoo at the moment, as a lot of people dig the tiny tattoo vibe rn. There's not a huge market for colorful/large tattoos at the moment, but that is always subject to change as trends float through.
-you will have to stick up for yourself...a lot.
Customers can be a real pain in the ass when it comes to scheduling and pricing. They want an original Monet for the price of the AI slop from Hobby Lobby, and they want to get in IMMEDIATELY. The social media/emailing/DMs aspect of this can be a bit overwhelming at times too, as most people don't understand that you can't be available 24/7.
-I would highly recommend working at female-owned shops.
a lot of male artists are huge into the whole hustle culture bullshit, and believe that apprentices should go through hell to be able to graduate.
Here is the Pros:
-You get to meet insanely talented like-minded people who inspire you to be a better artist.
Most artists are always happy to lend a hand when you are having trouble or feeling doubt in your work.
-You will meet a wide variety of people from all walks of life.
I've seen all types of people walk through these doors, all with endless stories. From priests, to sex workers, to teenagers, to 70 year old's. You will never get bored of all the different personalities that you will create art for. If you are a conversationalist, you will have the time of your life chatting with people as you tattoo them.
-Non-Monetary tips
its always the best when clients bring in baked goods, books, etc. for their tips.
-You can always sell art prints and such on the side.
People do buy them if they are good quality prints, especially when they have a connection with you and your art.
Getting an apprenticeship might be hard. Do a lot of different types of art and create a portfolio of your best work. I would recommend looking into different tattoo styles and creating work with pencil/pen and also digital art. Showing your versatility is going to be your best asset in finding a shop that will take you in. And also physically bring your portfolio into shops in your area.
Best of luck, friend!
Getting an apprenticeship might be hard. Do a lot of different types of art and create a portfolio of your best work. I would recommend looking into different tattoo styles and creating work with pencil/pen and also digital art. Showing your versatility is going to be your best asset in finding a shop that will take you in. And also physically bring your portfolio into shops in your area.
Best of luck, friend!
May 21, 2025
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πStart by finding a highly rated studio and then look at the artists portfolios- see whose art you vibe with the most and ask about pricing. With those Iβve found some really good people and finally found my go to artist for things because of great experiences in studio. On your first tat ask as many qs as you have and be honest about whether you like sketches or not- they build restencils and reworking into your time with them so speak up then tip well!
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πWhy tattooing over selling prints/ originals? Definitely look into getting some tattoos/ talking to artists. Itβs not an easy go of it especially in the economical climate right now
May 20, 2025
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π¨it has been a blast! It is super chill, I have time to fuck around on the computer, chat with the artists and their clients who come in, decorate my desk, and overall have a great time. it has its faults (not enough hot people come in, boss has a temper, etc.) But I love it.
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You don't always have to be doing something productive or creative. Sometimes it is okay to just take a step back and exist.
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πΆI've posted about this once before and will post about it again, I'm sure. One of the things that I have noticed since getting letterboxed last year is how afraid people are to admit they like something. that new animated k-pop movie on netflix made me notice this again when three of the people that I have on there prefaced their reviews with a variant of "i consumed this ironically, but it was actually kind of good..."
...LAME... and a little bit pathetic to see tbh.
We really need to remember that you only live once. just fucking enjoy the stuff you like, and stop asking the world for permission and acceptance to do so! being so afraid of what others will think when you post a review under a kid's movie is more cringe than admitting you like a kid's movie.