What does a "Good" Apprenticeship consist of?

I'm hoping that someone out there can shed some light on what to look for in an apprenticeship. A lot has been said about how to earn an apprenticeship, but what about the other half of that deal? I know that every person teaches differently and every situation is unique...and a lot of the responsibility is your own as far as the drive to learn goes...but surely there are some key things that you should be taught. I also know that it varies in whether you are taught for free or for a particular dollar amount and that amount also varies. With that said...what would a "reasonable" price be for an apprenticeship in the North Carolina area and should you expect to be given any equipment during your apprenticeship? I just want to make sure that I don't walk blindly into a bad situation or get taken advantage of. Thanks for any info in advance!

Hey Nikki- Well when I first meet someone who is looking to learn I first ask things like, " What do you want out of it?" Where do you see yourself going? and Do you have any tattoos yourself? You would be suprised how many don't have tattoos who want to learn anyways...its crazy I know. There are a few other things I take into consideration as well, but keeping it out of here for obvious reasons. IF they get past that part I will take them on. From there I start them on homework, and they have to keep drawing, every day something new, no color just lines. As they are doing this I expect them to learn and study EVERYTHING about bacteria, viruses, cross-contamination, bloodborne pathogens and how it applies to our industry-they quickly learn that I am a fan of the CDC site and well read, and it doesn't hurt that I teach it as well for OSHA etc...Sucks for them-but they are better for it. If they get past that part or show genuine promise and commitment I will move on and show them set up and tear down which they will do for me from that point on. I also expect them to watch me tattoo, understand the front desk and customer service etc. They also still need to draw...and show progress. I will sit with them on a drawing, show them how to change it up, make it theirs etc. No growth in the drawing aspect they end up either working at the front desk or just as my assistant. Some stay, some go...I look at it this way it is my studio's reputation and one which I work hard to keep in good standing...and they know it. I can go on and on- but the good ones end up going to conventions with me, get gifted their first machine, and eventually move into tattooing as they wanted to all along. How long is the process depends on how long it takes, there is no time limit or schedule to keep...could be a year-could be longer-could be less. They control that part by how much they want it. How much does this cost them? Nothing at my studio, just dedication to the art, to learning and to to be honest with themselves. I choose my apprentices carefully though, and treat them with respect as I expect to be treated as well. They cannot be into drugs, heavy drinking, abundance of foul mouth sydrome, and need to act as the professionals they are and will become. That right there weeds out 95% of anyone who walks into my studio looking to apprentice. I have heard of shops that charge anywhere from 2,000 to 10,000 for their apprentices to learn, which is fine as well. Take time looking and don't take the first one that says "Yeah I will show ya for blah blah amount...now CLEAN MY shop." If your investing in your training moneywise you should look for someone who is willing to invest in you as equally. Best of luck!

what happens you clean a lot and draw and more cleaning.and dont think u get any cash or eqipment. you should be happey just to get one. i done 2 years before i started to make any cash.all in the game

Wish I would have done an apprenticeship, but I deployed with the Army too damn much so I had to teach myself and I had hundreds of soldiers to practice on. Bottom line is if you are extremely good at drawing and have half a brain to learn Blood borne pathogens and cross contamination (which 12 year old girls interested in babysitting can get through the RED CROSS) Than tattooing is really not that hard. Really getting sick of the people smashing on the new guys... I started on this website here. And nearly got chased away. People act like its some sacred secret that only few should know. WRONG. Too bad but the industry as a whole, i.e."Miami Ink" ect made it too main stream and 10 year olds are buying shit off ebay. Expecting to make money off there buddies. Bottom line I have been tattooing for 3 years, self taught. I learn something new everyday. I developed my own habits likes and dislikes, I respect the people who let me tattoo on them by ensuring all my equipment is sterelized and cleaned to the top notch. All my clients KNOW well before we sit down. That I am self taught and there is always potentiall to mess up but (knock on wood) has never happened. All my clients were very happy when they left my office. They got charged nearly nothing, and they got a great tattoo by a friend. (not a buisness man) I dont plan to make millions off my talent. But i have done nearly 1,500 tattoos in 3+ years. I have been offered dozens of jobs by shop owners but my answers are all the same.... I am in the army and cannot devote that much time to a shop. Look out for yourself. Wish you best of luck.