How to Become an Apprentice

Landing an apprenticeship with a top artist is a feat very few accomplish though many wish to. Freshly Inked’s July cover artist Carlos Rojas broke it down for those aspiring to shine in the competitive field tattooing has become. Apprenticeships have developed far beyond the “hazing” practices they once were, “It was kind of being in a sorority and today it’s just learning, like a college course or something,” Rojas says. “Back then they wanted to see if you were cut out for the lifestyle.” Before all else, your avenue to success is playing clean, “You don’t want to put anyone in harm’s way as well as yourself.”

Six steps to get in the game follow, be warned: your rise to the top won’t come easily, but progression is guaranteed. Good luck, tattooist hopeful.