Thanks for stopping by!

Quick intro:

My name's Nick Young. Nicholaus Allen Young if we're being formal, but let's be real – nobody calls me that. I've been a licensed tattoo artist here in Kansas City since 2014 (Missouri License #2014042818 for anyone keeping track).

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Look, I put some serious effort into putting these FAQs together because as the person who's gonna be responsible for your success as a tattoo or body piercing apprentice, I want to make sure we're actually gonna be a great fit. If you're TRULY READY to start your apprenticeship, read this whole page. Don't skim it – actually read it.

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If you've got questions I didn't cover here, shoot me an email at info@nickyoungtattoos.com and I'll do my best to get back to you within 48 hours.

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Let's do this.
- Nick

 

 

 

The Basics​

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What is a tattoo apprenticeship and how long does it take?

A professional tattoo apprenticeship is the gold standard for learning the art and business of tattooing. At Learn to Ink in Kansas City, you’ll train under an experienced, licensed artist rather than relying on YouTube or DIY guides.
You’ll master:

• Proper sanitation and sterilisation

• Tattoo machine setup and needle depth

• Line work, shading, colour packing and stencil application

• Client communication and after‑care

• Business skills like pricing, scheduling and marketing
  Traditional apprenticeships take 1–3 years. Our structured tattoo apprenticeship programme in Kansas City helps most students become licensed in just 3–6 months, depending on dedication and progress.

Do I need to already know how to draw?

Absolutely. Here's the deal – I can teach you how to tattoo, but I cannot teach you how to be an artist. That foundation needs to already exist. If you can't draw, this program isn't for you. You should have a solid portfolio with at least 50 pieces that shows you've got real talent. Polished, completed work – not napkin sketches from last week.

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How old do I have to be and what are the requirements?

You gotta be at least 18. You'll need CPR + First Aid Certification and Bloodborne Pathogens Training. This isn't optional – you can't touch equipment until these are done. This is regulated by the State of Missouri Office of Tattooing, Body Piercing and Branding because we're working with needles and bloodborne pathogens.

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Can I work or go to school while doing the apprenticeship?

Yeah, most of my apprentices do. I offer flexible scheduling with morning, afternoon, and evening sessions. Most people keep their day jobs or stay in school while they're training. You'll need to manage your time well, but it's definitely doable.

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Money & Refunds

 

How much does this cost?

The program fee is $5,950. Application Fee is $59. That covers your structured training, curriculum, mentorship, and access to the shop for hands-on learning. This doesn't include separate costs like state licensing fees (around $60-$150), certifications, health certificates, equipment (machines, needles, inks), and possibly relocation costs. Budget accordingly because this stuff adds up.

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Do you offer payment plans or scholarships?

Yeah, I've got payment plans available and there are private student loan options. I also have some scholarship opportunities for people dealing with financial hardship. Ask me about it specifically during your application – if you need help, let's talk about it.

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What's your refund policy?

Unlike the old "no refunds" bullshit you see everywhere, I built a fair refund system based on how far you've gotten in the program. You can withdraw at any time by giving me written notice (email works). Here's the breakdown:

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• 0-25% coursework completed: You get 75% back ($4,462.50)

• 26-50% coursework completed: You get 50% back ($2,975.00)

• 51-75% coursework completed: You get 25% back ($1,487.50)

• 76-100% coursework completed: No refund ($0)

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The refund is based on how many of the online lessons you've completed. Refunds are processed within 30 business days. Costs you paid separately for certifications, state registration fees, or other third-party fees are non-refundable. Any equipment you bought stays yours.

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Can I get kicked out? What happens then?

Yes, I can terminate you for cause, but you'd still get the refund you're entitled to based on your coursework completion. Reasons for immediate termination include safety violations (breaking sterilization protocols, working without supervision, showing up impaired), three or more unexcused absences in 30 days, professional misconduct (harassment, theft, breaching client confidentiality, criminal conduct), or major contract violations. For less serious stuff, I'll give you 7 days to fix it before terminating.

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Training & Licensing

 

What will I actually learn?

Everything you need to be a competent tattoo artist. Machine operation, needle selection, proper depth techniques, line work, shading, color packing, stencil application, skin stretching, and troubleshooting. You'll study multiple styles including traditional, realism, tribal, lettering, and cover-ups. Plus business skills – pricing strategies, booking systems, client communication, portfolio building, and social media marketing. And customer service – consultations, managing expectations, handling nervous clients, and aftercare instructions.

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When can I start tattooing on real people?

Not until you've proven you know what you're doing. Usually around 1-2 months in, after you've demonstrated you can handle safety protocols, operate your machine properly, and you've done extensive practice on artificial skin (we're talking hundreds of hours). I'm not letting you near a real person until I'm confident you won't hurt them. You'll start with simple stuff – basic black line work, simple lettering, small designs – then gradually work up to more complex pieces.

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Do I need a license to tattoo professionally?

Yes. Every state requires licensing. In Missouri, you'll need to complete approved training, pass written exams, and meet health department standards. After you finish the program, you'll submit your training certificates, pass the exams, and pay licensing fees. I'll help guide you through the Missouri process. Most states require annual license renewal with continuing education, updated health certificates, and renewal fees between $50-$200.

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What are the stages of the program?

Here's how it breaks down:

• Stage 1: Safety, hygiene, and basic skills

• Stage 2: Observations, set-ups, and stencils

• Stage 3: Basic tattooing on practice skin

• Stage 4: Intermediate tattooing on actual clients under supervision

• Stage 5: Independent practice

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Career & Jobs

 

Will you help me get a job after I finish?

I offer job placement assistance and depending on how you do, there might be opportunities to work here. I can't guarantee you a job – that's on you to prove you're good enough. But I'll help you get your foot in doors.

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How much money will I make?

New artists typically make 40-50% commission on tattoos. Realistically, you're looking at $30,000 to $60,000 a year starting out, depending on where you work and how fast you build your clientele. Some people make more, some make less. It depends on how hungry you are and how good your work is.

 

Can I open my own shop right after getting licensed?

Legally? Sure. Should you? Absolutely not. Work for an established shop first. Build your skills, grow your client base, and learn how to actually run a business before you blow your savings trying to open your own place. Most successful shop owners spent years working for someone else first.

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How do I build a client base?

Do good work and treat people right. Social media helps a lot. Network with other artists. Word-of-mouth referrals are gold. A lot of new artists start with friends and family to build their portfolios. Post your work online consistently. Be professional and reliable. Clients will come if you're good and people actually like working with you.

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Choosing This Program

 

What makes your program different from other apprenticeships?

Most traditional apprenticeships are long as hell (1-3 years), unstructured, and you're just doing whatever your mentor feels like teaching you that day. Mine has an actual curriculum with clear milestones and completion requirements in 3-6 months. Plus, I have a fair refund policy instead of the "no refunds" trap most places have. You get structured learning, not just free labor disguised as training.

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How do I know if this is a legit program?

Come visit the shop. Meet me in person. See how clean we keep things. Look at the equipment quality. Talk to former students if you want. Check with the state licensing board. I'm licensed (Missouri License #2014042818), and this program follows all Missouri regulations for tattoo apprenticeships. If someone won't let you visit before you commit, that tells you everything you need to know.

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What are red flags I should watch out for in other programs?

Run from anyone who just wants free labor without actually teaching you anything. If a program keeps stretching on forever with no clear progress or milestones, that's bullshit. Same if they never let you work on real clients. Watch out for mentors who've never successfully trained anyone before, and avoid places with harsh "no refund" policies that trap you even if the training sucks. Trust your gut – if something feels off, it probably is.

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What's the most important thing I need to succeed?

Never stopping. Dedication to continuous learning, maintaining high safety standards no matter what, constantly developing your artistic and customer service skills, and building a reputation through consistently good work. Talent gets you in the door. Work ethic keeps you there. This isn't easy, but if you're talented, dedicated, and willing to put in the work, I'll teach you everything I know.

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Ready to Start?

 

If you've made it this far and you're still interested, that's a good sign. This isn't an easy path, and I'm not gonna bullshit you and tell you it is. But if you've got the talent and dedication, let's make you a tattoo artist.

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Got questions I didn't answer here? Email me at info@nickyoungtattoos.com and let's talk.

- Nick

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Additional Programs Offered

 

Missouri Hybrid Body Piercing Apprenticeship Program

This program is 100% aligned with the rules and regulations created by the Missouri Office of Tattooing, Body Piercing & Branding. 300 hours total. You'll complete 10 online coursework modules, then begin your required 50 procedures in-studio.

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Duration: 90 to 180 days

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Disclaimer: This information is compiled from industry standards, state licensing requirements, and professional practices. For specific Missouri licensing requirements and program details, contact Learn to Ink Kansas City directly. Always verify current information with your state health department and training providers.