Apprentice Information

Inkognito Tattoo is committed to fostering the next generation of talented tattoo artists. Our comprehensive apprenticeship program provides a structured learning experience to guide you through every step of your tattooing journey. 

The program is divided into three distinct phases: Trial, Internship, and Apprenticeship. Each phase is designed to build upon the previous one, equipping you with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in this demanding profession.

Trial (1 Week)

• Tuesday-Saturday

• Full-time (10 AM - 6 PM)

• Unpaid

The trial period is designed to assess your suitability for a career in tattoo artistry. You will be evaluated on your ability to:

• Perform basic physical tasks

• Multitask and manage stress

• Follow instructions effectively

This intensive week will involve:

• Drawing exercises

• Cleaning duties

• Assisting with administrative tasks (as needed)

The purpose of these exercises is to gauge your physical stamina, focus, and ability to retain information.

Important Notes:

• The trial period is unpaid, and applicants are not considered employees/contractors.

• Take responsibility for your learning during this time. There will be no reminders or repetition of lessons. Take notes!

• You will be assigned tasks that you are solely responsible for completing.

• We DO NOT apprentice people we don't know or have not tattooed before.

• We are looking for individuals with:

  • Strong attention to detail

  • Desire to constantly learn and improve your craft. We know perfection is not achievable, but it should be your goal.

  • Willingness to listen to criticism and take advice

Internship (6 Months continuous or 365 Days intermittent)

• Full-time or Part-time options available (duration will be longer for part time)

• Full-time: Tuesday-Saturday (10 AM - 10 PM)

• Including occasional traveling Thursday thru Sunday for conventions out of town. 

• Part-time applications accepted in October only

• Unpaid

It is HIGHLY recommended to have a part time job during your internship to finance your education. 

The internship phase introduces you to the daily operations of a tattoo studio, including:

• Cleaning and sterilization procedures (adherence to strict protocols is essential)

• Administrative tasks

As tattoo artists are independent contractors, you will also learn about and be responsible for:

• Personal inventory management

• Booking and scheduling

• Marketing and advertising

• Financial management and paperwork

• Time management and STRONG work ethic

• Self motivation and discipline

Important Notes:

• The internship is unpaid, and interns are not considered employees/contractors.

• Tattooing clients is not included during the internship. 

  • You will instead focus on building upon the skills introduced during the trial period.

• The internship is designed to assess your endurance and tenacity. Tattooing requires a strong work ethic and the ability to persevere through challenges.

• We will provide honest feedback and guidance throughout the internship.

• The internship introduces tattooing on synthetic surfaces to prepare you for working on human skin.

• All lessons are cumulative and build upon each other.

Apprenticeship

The apprenticeship program is the culmination of your training journey. Here, you will gain hands-on experience under the mentorship of our experienced tattoo artists.

• Apprenticeship starts unpaid until you can demonstrate proficiency on synthetic skin and have procured appropriate licensing.

• Licensing is $400+processing fee per year for Orange County, NC

• Orange County does not allow tattooing on skin without proper licensing. 

• Pay transitions to a commission-based structure (40% apprentice, 60% shop) upon meeting specific milestones.

• You can only tattoo designs approved for your skill level. 

• You will have the opportunity to:

  • Develop your tattoo design portfolio

  • Create tattoo-ready stencils

  • Identify and rectify mistakes in tattoo execution and composition

  • Begin tattooing under direct supervision

Important Notes:

• Apprenticeship completion is determined by the quality of your work and successful task fulfillment.

• Your mentor will provide guidance and support to help you refine your skills.

• This phase requires a significant commitment and dedication. Be patient and persistent in your learning.

• Take initiative and ask questions. Do not hesitate to seek clarification if needed.

• Write down your questions if you cannot get immediate attention.

• Remember, this is a PROFESSIONAL setting. Take responsibility for your assignments and complete them on time.

• YOU are responsible for your well-being, no exceptions, no excuses. 

• Expect revisions to your work. Use this feedback as an opportunity to improve.

• Apprenticeship is a voluntary position. Both you and your mentor have the right to terminate the relationship at any point.

Additional Considerations

• Throughout the program (trial, internship, and apprenticeship), you are not considered an employee or contractor unless an independent contractor agreement has been drafted, reviewed and signed by both you and Inkognito Studio.

• Success in this program requires a high level of commitment and hard work.

• We are dedicated to providing our apprentices with the necessary foundation for a successful and rewarding career in tattoo artistry - if you match our energy and drive, we're confident you will succeed.

• Inkognito Tattoo provides FREE apprenticeship to trade for labor and time from the apprentice. We DO NOT provide artist supplies or tattoo supplies. The apprentice must provide their own tattoo machine, needles, inks, fake skin, and a digital tablet for designing. 

• We recognize the importance of technology in our field, however, technology is a tool that increase efficiency, not a replacement. Therefore, digital creations are NOT recognized as physical designs during apprenticeship, as tattoos are done with human hands. 

By clicking "I Understand & Agree" you acknowledge that you have read, understand and agree to all of these rules, requirements and guidelines.