Chicago, Illinois
Chicago has an estimated 160 tattoo studios and we've rated competition for tattoo apprenticeships as 'Extremely High' in this region. This competition has however been increasing. In the past few years as tattooing has grown in popularity, it has become harder and harder to find studios in Illinois and much of the Midwest willing to take on apprentices.
What do I need before I apply?
Getting an apprenticeship within a tattoo studio takes solid preparation and hard work whether you're applying in Chicago ….or Athens! Before applying, at Tattooing 101 we encourage all our students to take the time to prepare properly:
For more detail read our comprehensive article on How to Get a Tattoo Apprenticeship.
Physically approaching tattoo shops in Chicago
There are approximately 160 tattoo studios in Chicago, and most will have 1-2 apprentices in the shop. Not every shop will have an open spot, so you will need to spend the time approaching each shop directly. Ideally, you want to start with known, high-quality shops and artists. Our team has compiled a list of the best shops in Chicago below:
Top Studios in Chicago
Name | Address | Rating |
|---|---|---|
1456 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States | ||
3513 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60657, United States | ||
1062 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60642, United States | ||
1147 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States | ||
3700 N Cicero Ave, Chicago, IL 60641, United States | ||
1935 1/2 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States | ||
3527 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60609, United States |
Top Studios in Chicago
Name | Address | Rating |
|---|---|---|
1456 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States | ||
3513 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60657, United States | ||
1062 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60642, United States | ||
1147 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States | ||
3700 N Cicero Ave, Chicago, IL 60641, United States | ||
1935 1/2 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States | ||
3527 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60609, United States |
Other Online Resources to find a Tattoo Apprenticeship in Chicago
There are also a number of other places to check for a Tattoo Apprenticeship. We've gathered a list of the places that might help below
Local Facebook Groups
Local Job Boards
Tattoo Licensing Laws & Certifications in Chicago
Although not absolutely required to get your apprenticeship, it's always a good idea to be proactive and understand the licensing laws and certifications
Visit Tattooing 101's Licensing Law & Certification Hub to learn more about Illinois Tattoo licensing laws and the requirements needed to become professional certified.
What if I can't get an apprenticeship?
Is there another way into the tattoo industry?
Traditional tattoo apprenticeships do not suit everyone. The spots are limited and many people are unable to accept a full-time job without pay. The good news is there is another way to become a professional tattoo artist.
Tattooing 101 is the largest online tattoo artist education platform in the world, now with over 3,000 graduates - Turning beginners into professional tattoo artists within 90 days. Many of our students go straight into shops as paid artists or end up starting their own!
