How do apprenticeships work at Hammersmith Tattoo London?

Apprentices assist with station prep, cleaning, admin, stock management and supporting artists. In return they receive training, guidance and opportunities to progress into a full artist role.

Why aren’t tattoo apprenticeships usually paid?

They are considered education rather than employment. Early stages prioritise learning safe, professional practice over generating revenue, hence most are unpaid.

Do apprentices start earning later?

Yes, once they can safely tattoo clients, apprentices may take on small or discounted designs and move to a commission structure.

Are Tattoo Apprenticeships Paid?

Ziggy
20 hours ago
2 min read

Tattooing is one of the most respected and skill-based trades in the art world. But if you’re thinking about becoming a tattoo artist, you’ve probably asked yourself: “Are tattoo apprenticeships paid?”

Let’s clear up the confusion and explain how tattoo apprenticeships usually work — and how they work specifically at Hammersmith Tattoo London.

Tattoo artist inking a client's back in a studio with colorful ink bottles and art on walls. A relaxed atmosphere with detailed artistry.

What Is a Tattoo Apprenticeship?

A tattoo apprenticeship is hands-on training under professional tattoo artists. It’s the traditional way to learn the craft — covering everything from hygiene and machine setup to drawing skills and customer service.

Unlike short courses, a true apprenticeship lasts 1–3 years and requires full dedication.

Are Tattoo Apprenticeships Paid?

In general, across the tattoo industry:

Most tattoo apprenticeships are unpaid.
Some may even charge fees or expect apprentices to buy their own supplies.
Paid apprenticeships exist, but they’re rare.

At Hammersmith Tattoo London (W14), our apprenticeships are unpaid, but we make sure our apprentices gain as much as possible in return.

How Apprenticeships Work at Hammersmith Tattoo London

While our apprenticeships are unpaid, we support apprentices in other ways. In return for helping the studio run smoothly, apprentices receive valuable training, mentorship, and growth opportunities.

Apprentices assist with:

Studio support: helping artists prepare stations and keeping the space clean.
Admin tasks: assisting with emails, bookings, and reception duties.
Stock management: keeping supplies organised and ordering when needed.
Artist support: learning directly by helping established tattooists day to day.

In return, the studio provides:

Mentorship and guidance from professional tattoo artists.
Hands-on experience in a busy London tattoo studio.
Opportunities to grow into a fully-fledged tattoo artist.

Why Apprenticeships Are Rarely Paid

Tattooing is unlike most trades — apprentices are still in the learning stage and not yet earning income for the studio. The early apprenticeship years are an investment: the artist invests their time and knowledge, while the apprentice invests their energy and commitment.

This is why most apprenticeships worldwide remain unpaid.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do tattoo apprentices get paid in the UK?

Most do not. At Hammersmith Tattoo London, apprenticeships are unpaid, but apprentices receive training, mentorship, and hands-on experience in return for their help.

Why aren’t apprentices paid?

Tattoo apprenticeships are seen as education, not employment. Until an apprentice can confidently tattoo clients, they are still learning rather than earning.

What do apprentices gain instead of pay?

Experience in a real studio, guidance from experienced tattooists, portfolio growth, hygiene training, and insight into how a professional tattoo shop runs.

Can apprentices start earning later?

Yes — once an apprentice reaches the level where they can safely tattoo clients, they may begin taking small designs and start earning commission.

Final Thoughts

So, are tattoo apprenticeships paid?

Not usually — and at Hammersmith Tattoo London, ours are unpaid.

But the knowledge, mentorship, and experience gained make it a worthwhile path for those serious about tattooing.

👉 Interested in opportunities? Keep an eye on our contact page or follow us on Instagram for apprenticeship updates.