Tattoo Apprenticeship vs Online Tattoo Course
Which path is right for you? Let’s break it down.
For decades, the only way to become a tattoo artist was to land a traditional apprenticeship — often unpaid, long-term, and difficult to get. But times have changed. Modern tattoo training courses offer an accessible, structured way to learn the craft faster, without gatekeeping.
Apprenticeship Model (The Old Way)
- ❌ Extremely hard to find — most studios reject beginners
- ❌ Often unpaid or requires working as a cleaner/shop assistant for years
- ❌ No structured learning path — you’re at the mercy of the mentor
- ❌ Many never get a chance to actually tattoo
- ✅ Can work for people with strong industry connections and lots of patience
Online Tattoo Training (The Modern Way)
- ✅ Start immediately — no approval or waiting lists
- ✅ Learn at your own pace from anywhere in the world
- ✅ Structured modules with video lessons, practical assignments, and feedback
- ✅ Get certified — proving your skills and hygiene knowledge
- ✅ Option to add in-person practicals when you’re ready
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Apprenticeship | Online Tattoo Course | |
|---|---|---|
| Start Date | Depends on mentor | Anytime |
| Cost | Usually unpaid, but may involve years of unpaid labor | Once-off or monthly payments |
| Learning Format | Unstructured, mentor-dependent | Step-by-step curriculum |
| Access to Tattooing | May take months or years | Practice starts early on fake skin |
| Certification | None | Internationally recognized |
| Support | Depends on mentor | Ongoing instructor support and feedback |
Which Path Is Right for You?
If you have connections in the industry and years to spare, an apprenticeship might work for you. But for most people — especially those looking for a flexible, proven, and accessible way to learn — online and in-person courses offer a faster, more empowering route.
Real Success Stories
“I waited a year trying to get an apprenticeship and got nowhere. The Skinart course gave me structure, confidence, and a real certificate — I started tattooing within 3 months.”
— Ash M., South Africa
“My mentor made me clean floors for months before letting me touch a machine. This course taught me more in 4 weeks than my apprenticeship did in a year.”
— Shaun P., UK
Learn from a Trusted Trainer
Gary Erskine has helped thousands of students avoid years of unpaid labor by offering practical, accessible, and certified tattoo training — both online and in person. With 23+ years of experience and dozens of studios opened, he brings real-world skills to every lesson.
Choose Your Path
If you’re ready to stop waiting and start tattooing, Skinart’s professional tattoo courses are built for you. Join the thousands who have already made the switch.