Tattoo Apprenticeship
At The Sanctuary Tattoo Studio, we believe becoming a great tattoo artist takes more than knowing how to draw. It takes dedication, patience, creativity, and a genuine desire to keep learning.
Our apprenticeship program is designed to give aspiring artists hands on experience in a working tattoo studio. You'll learn the fundamentals of tattooing, develop your artistic abilities, work alongside experienced artists, and gain an understanding of what it takes to build a career in the tattoo industry.
We're not looking for someone who already knows everything. We're looking for someone who's excited to learn. You learn at your pace.
What to expect
A hands-on approach to learning the art and business of tattooing.
01. Learn the fundamentals
Before picking up a tattoo machine, you'll build a foundation in the essentials of tattooing. Some of these include infection prevention, shop safety, tattoo equipment, machines, needles, supplies, drawing, design, tattoo composition, stencil placement and more.
02. Practice, practice, practice
You'll begin developing your skills through drawing assignments, exercises, and practice on synthetic skin. As your skills progress, you'll work toward tattooing on real skin under supervision.
Every apprentice progresses differently. Advancement is based on demonstrated skills, consistency, and readiness rather than simply completing a certain number of weeks or months.
03. Learn in a working tattoo studio
You'll have the opportunity to observe professional artists, ask questions, and experience the day to day operations of a busy tattoo shop.
You'll learn more than tattooing. You'll also develop skills in client communication, consultations, scheduling, professionalism, and building relationships with clients. You will have guidance in managing and paying your taxes, book-keeping, marketing, and the important pieces of becoming your own independent business.
04. Develop your own style
Our goal isn't to create copies of our artists. We want to help you discover your strengths, explore different tattoo styles, build your portfolio, and develop your own artistic identity.
What we expect from you.
Show up. Stay curious. Take initiative. We want people who want to be here.
You don't need to have a huge social media following or know exactly what kind of tattoo artist you want to become. We just want to see genuine enthusiasm for the industry and a willingness to participate.
Our ideal apprentice is someone who:
Takes initiative instead of waiting to be given something to do.
Is excited to attend conventions, events, and educational opportunities when possible.
Actively observes artists and asks questions.
Practices consistently and wants to improve.
Is comfortable receiving constructive criticism.
Supports other artists and contributes to a positive studio environment.
Shows an interest in both the artistic and business sides of tattooing.
Wants to build a long-term career, not just someone looking to make some quick cash.
We understand that everyone has responsibilities outside the studio. What matters to us is communication, reliability, and making the most of the time you're here.
THIS IS MORE THAN JUST AN APPRENTICESHIP.
At The Sanctuary, we're building more than a tattoo studio. We want to create an environment where artists are constantly learning, pushing their creativity, supporting one another, and making a name for themselves in the tattoo industry.
We're looking for apprentices who want to be part of that. People who are excited about new experiences, willing to step outside their comfort zones, and interested in growing alongside our team.
Minimum Requirements:
18 Years of age or older.
Full-time availability: Tuesday-Saturday 12:00pm-8:00pm.
Attend shop events such as flash sales.
Artistic ability and foundation in drawing or art of any medium.
Customer service experience to some degree.
Maintain professionalism at all times.
Be a part of the team!
Follow Ryan’s travel schedule as needed (*see below!)
*Tattoo Conventions & Travel Requirements
We regularly participate in tattoo conventions, giving our artists opportunities to travel, network, compete, and experience the industry outside our own walls.
We want apprentices who are excited about these opportunities. For our current opening for full time apprentice, you must attend a minimum of one tattoo convention per month and be willing to travel out of state for these weekends. This will be essential in maintaining momentum and growth. You will have say in the ones you are able or willing to attend, but traveling based on Ryan’s schedule is the only way to keep up with him and learn.
Conventions can involve long days, busy schedules, and plenty of work behind the scenes. We expect apprentices who attend to be willing to help, stay engaged, and represent our studio professionally.
Still interested? Click here to apply.