These days, tattooing is exploding in popularity, and that includes more people looking to join the industry as a career. But getting started isn’t easy, especially if a traditional apprenticeship is out of budget, hard to find, or doesn’t fit into your schedule. 

That’s why so many new artists are turning to online courses (including apprentices who are looking to improve faster). 

We get a lot of questions from new artists trying to figure out where to start with online education, and one of the most common is about Tattooing 101. 

We’ve collaborated with them in the past, and after working with their team and seeing firsthand how dedicated they are to helping beginners break into the industry the right way, we’re confident sending new artists their way, and we recommend them to any of our customers looking for quality training in tattooing. 

Why We Like the Program They’ve Put Together

Tattooing 101’s Artist Accelerator Program stands out because it’s built specifically for people who want real, professional skills that build a career, not just how-to-tattoo basics that leave you with skills but not a clear path forward.

1. They Update Their Content Regularly

The program covers everything from tattoo design theory and sanitation to the techniques you need to start working in a studio like lining, shading, and color packing. Each lesson is laid out in a clear follow-along format. That way, you’re building on what you learned last and you don’t have to guess at what to do next.

The mentors inside the program actively update the course. The most recent round of videos was published this year. For artists wanting to get into the industry today, the information about updated tattoo machines and equipment can provide an extra boost.   

2. Taught by Real Tattoo Artists = Multiple Mentors

Every lesson comes from professionals who’ve spent years tattooing clients, so you’re getting to learn the exact methods they use in the studio every day.

Also, because there’s a few different artists working behind the scenes, you get multiple perspectives on the craft. 

The main mentors you’ll meet inside the course are Brandon, Nathan, and Jay. They’ve spent years building a platform that stands out because they genuinely care about their students getting to the next level. 

Here’s a little bit about each of the guys: 

Brandon lives in Tennessee and runs his own tattoo studio. He’s been tattooing for over 10 years and mostly takes on custom work (usually Neo Trad, Traditional, and Realism) and films a lot of the tattooing content you see in the course and on their YouTube channel.  

Nathan serves as the Lead Instructor at Tattooing 101 and brings another decade of tattooing experience to the table. He has a knack for helping new artists find their “style” and voice when it comes to tattoo design, which is why he covers most of their design-related content.  

Navy veteran and the original founder/instructor of Tattooing 101 back in 2016, Jay has been involved in the industry for over 12 years. With additional marketing expertise, Jay helps studios and artists learn to get more clients. 

3. Focus on Real-World Skills You’ll Actually Use in a Shop

Most “how to tattoo” videos skip right to the techniques, but that leaves out huge portions of education that working tattoo artists need. For example, Tattooing 101 walks you through how to set up your workspace, work safely, talk to clients, and avoid mistakes that could cost you time and money. 

This is one of the reasons we feel comfortable sending new artists their way because they don’t just stop at tattoo technique. They make sure you’re ready to step foot in a shop and feel confident working as a professional. 

Alongside the Artist Accelerator Program, Tattooing 101 has a built-out system for graduated artists ready to take the next steps in their career. This includes step-by-step courses for marketing and getting clients, in-depth style-specific seminars with trailblazing guest artists, as well as the option for intensive coaching for artists who want more hands-on help. 

One of the biggest advantages is the program’s built-in community where you can ask questions, get feedback, and connect with other artists who are on the same journey. 

This is also where the mentors you watch in the course give personalized feedback on your work and hop on weekly live calls to help you through your journey, discussing everything from tattoo design walkthroughs to marketing yourself and your own studio as a professional. 

4. Proven Results

Over 7500 students have already gone through the program, using the tattoo classes inside to carve out their place in the industry.

Start Tattooing Professionally

Tattooing isn’t just an art. It’s a career that deserves solid training and real guidance. The Artist Accelerator Program from the artists at Tattooing 101 stands out because it goes far beyond surface-level tutorials. It’s built by professionals who want to help the next generation succeed, avoid costly mistakes, and step confidently into the tattoo industry.

If you’re serious about becoming a tattoo artist or leveling up faster in your apprenticeship, Tattooing 101’s Artist Accelerator Program has the knowledge, support, and community to help you get there.