Become A Tattoo Artist in Detroit, MI

Detroit, MI Tattoo Apprenticeship

Tattoo Apprenticeships in Detroit, MI

Learn from Ink Master Finalist Sebastian Murphy at Dark Horse Tattoo

Thinking about becoming a Tattoo Artist? If you’re ready to take your passion seriously and start your tattoo career in a real shop with real clients, welcome to Detroit!

At our Detroit location, we’ve partnered with the legendary Dark Horse Tattoo, one of the city’s most respected tattoo studios with over 12 years of industry experience. Leading your mentorship is none other than Sebastian Murphy, award-winning Tattoo Artist and finalist on Ink Master Season 2.

This is your chance to train with a pro and learn in a real shop, all while building your skills the right way, through a structured and supportive tattoo apprenticeship program.

WARNING! You can’t learn to tattoo in two weeks! You can't learn in even two months. Our tattoo apprenticeship programs with guaranteed job offers provide up to 2,000 hours of training to ensure career success.

Washington Full Tattoo Apprenticeship Program Tattoo Artist Certification

Your Path to Career Success in the Tattoo Industry. 

Ink Different's Tattoo Artist Certification Guarantees a Job Offer and Becoming a Licensed Tattoo Artist for each apprentice who completes the Full Tattoo Apprenticeship Program.

Our Full Tattoo Apprenticeship Tattoo Artist Certification Program is based on the traditional model with an increased focus on long-term success in the tattoo industry through the only tattoo industry training program that guarantees a job offer.

Dark Horse Tattoo

Guaranteed Job Offer

SPEAK WITH A REAL HUMAN!

Text or Call +1 586-510-6200.

3 Step Process

1. Interview with an Advisor!

Apply by submitting your artwork. If your artwork is approved for enrollment, you will be invited to interview with an Admissions Advisor.

2. Start From Home - Finish In Our Studios

As a tattoo apprentice, you’ll start online in a live virtual classroom, where you will work one-on-one with your trainer. Once you pass your virtual classroom requirements, you’re ready to complete your apprenticeship in one of our studios. Apprenticeships generally take 1 year to complete.  

3. Guaranteed Job Offer

Upon completion of the full tattoo apprenticeship, Ink Different's Tattoo Artist Certification Program, we welcome you to tattoo at one of the Ink Different-owned or Affiliated tattoo studios. You will have all the skills necessary to provide quality custom tattoos with world-class customer service to your clients.

Why Choose Our Tattoo Apprenticeship Program in Detroit?

We’re not your average tattoo apprenticeship. At TattooApprenticeship.com, we’ve created a national program that combines professional training, personal mentorship, and a clear pathway to becoming a licensed Tattoo Artist, with no guesswork or gatekeeping.

In Detroit, you’ll learn everything inside one of the city’s most iconic tattoo shops. You’ll get:

  • Hands-on experience in a real studio (not a classroom).
  • One-on-one mentorship from a top-tier artist.
  • A clear, guided curriculum from beginner to licensed pro.

A guaranteed job offer upon successful completion of the program.

Meet Your Mentor: Sebastian Murphy

Ink Master Finalist | Award-Winning Tattooer | Detroit OG

Ink Master Finalist | Award-Winning Tattooer | Detroit OG

With over 20 years of tattooing experience, Sebastian Murphy knows what it takes to build a lasting, respected career in the tattoo industry. As a finalist on Ink Master Season 2, his work has been celebrated by artists and fans alike. But what makes him a great mentor is his dedication to elevating the next generation of artists.

When you tattoo apprentice under Sebastian, you’re not just learning technique; you’re gaining insight, industry knowledge, and the confidence to carve your own path.

Your Training Ground: Dark Horse Tattoo

Dark Horse Tattoo has been a staple of the Detroit tattoo scene for over a decade. Known for its professionalism, cleanliness, and unmatched creativity, this shop is where countless unforgettable tattoos (and careers) have been born.

Located in the heart of Detroit, Dark Horse is:

  • Clean, safe, and client-focused.
  • Home to experienced artists and supportive staff.
  • A real working shop where you’ll learn how to tattoo real people, not just practice on paper or rubber skin.

Follow Toye Shop Ink @darkhorsetattoo

Ready to be inspired by a safe tattoo community? Check out Dark Horse Tattoo Instagram, to see the team's work on clients and their tattoo studio in Detroit, MI. 

Tattoo Apprenticeship Blog

Dive into all the information, insights, interviews, videos, and resources you need to understand tattoo apprenticeships and tattoo artist training! 

July 9, 2026

The Best Tattoo Styles to Learn First as a New Tattoo Artist

The Best Tattoo Styles to Learn First as a New Tattoo Artist In this article Key Takeaways American Traditional: The Foundation Almost Every Tattoo Artist Needs Black and Grey: Where Shading Skills Really Develop Fine Line: Precision Practice That Pays Off Blackwork: Building Confidence With Bold, Solid Shapes Script and Lettering: Small-Scale, High-Stakes Practice Where Can You Start Your Tattoo Apprenticeship? Why Choose Ink Different Tattoos How to Apply for our Traditional Tattoo Apprenticeship Fifteen Years In, Ink Different Is Celebrating With You Ready to Learn the Best Tattoo Styles? Frequently Asked Questions Related guides The Best Tattoo Styles to […]
November 4, 2024

How to Find Your Tattoo Design Style

How to Find Your Tattoo Design Style By Paul-Anthony Surdi · Updated August 2, 2026 In this article A Guide for Tattoo Apprentices To Find Their Tattoo Style Learn to tattoo with Ink Different Related guides The Art of Custom Tattoo Design 6 Resources To Help You Stay Updated on Tattoo Trends 8 Tattoo Trends for Summer 2024: What’s Hot in the Ink World 6 Tattoo Design Trends in Tampa for 2024 7 Tattoo Design Trends in Miami for 2024 A Guide for Tattoo Apprentices To Find Their Tattoo Style So, you’ve decided to get into tattooing, fantastic choice! But […]
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How the Yankees’ World Series Run Inspires Tattoo Artists in New York City

How the Yankees’ World Series Run Inspires Tattoo Artists in New York City By Paul-Anthony Surdi · Updated July 29, 2026 In this article Inking Baseball’s Greatest Moments: How You Can Become a Tattoo Artist in Midtown Manhattan Learn to tattoo with Ink Different Related guides Why New York City’s Halloween Parade Is the Ultimate Event for Tattoo Lovers Why are Halloween Tattoos so Popular How Can Parents Help Their Kids Become Tattoo Artists in New York City Dragon Tattoos: Games of Thrones-Inspired Designs Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Licensed Tattoo Artist in New York Inking Baseball’s Greatest Moments: How […]
September 24, 2024

Best Tattoo Design Apps

Best Tattoo Design Apps In this article Essential Features to Look for in a Tattoo Design App Related guides How to Find Your Tattoo Design Style The Art of Custom Tattoo Design 6 Resources To Help You Stay Updated on Tattoo Trends 10 Best Design Apps Tattoo Apprentices Should Know Must-Have Reference Books for Tattoo Artists The Best Tattoo Design Apps for Tattoo Artists: Supercharge Your Creative Process! Hey, Tattoo Artists! Let’s talk tech! You’re already crushing it with your skills, but what if adding digital tools to your creative arsenal could elevate your work even more? If you think […]
September 5, 2024

The Art of Custom Tattoo Design

The Art of Custom Tattoo Design By Paul-Anthony Surdi · Updated August 10, 2026 In this article What makes a custom tattoo design unique? Why should clients choose custom tattoos over flash? How should artists collaborate with clients for custom designs? What are the key elements of a stand-out custom tattoo design? How can custom tattoos be designed to age gracefully? What is the process like from concept to completed tattoo? How much should clients expect to pay for a custom tattoo? Are custom tattoos only for serious designs? How can clients make sure their custom tattoo represents them? Why […]
August 28, 2024

6 Resources To Help You Stay Updated on Tattoo Trends

6 Resources To Help You Stay Updated on Tattoo Trends By Paul-Anthony Surdi · Updated July 29, 2026 In this article Discover the Top 6 Tools to Keep You Ahead of the Latest Tattoo Trends Learn to tattoo with Ink Different Related guides How to Find Your Tattoo Design Style The Art of Custom Tattoo Design 8 Tattoo Trends for Summer 2024: What’s Hot in the Ink World 6 Tattoo Design Trends in Tampa for 2024 7 Tattoo Design Trends in Miami for 2024 Discover the Top 6 Tools to Keep You Ahead of the Latest Tattoo Trends Being a […]

What Will You Learn in Our Tattoo Apprenticeship?

Our 4-phase program walks you through everything you need to know, including:

  • Design fundamentals & drawing for tattoos.
  • Tattoo equipment setup & safety protocols.
  • Stencil prep & placement techniques.
  • Tattooing on fake skin & eventually real clients.
  • Shading, linework, and color theory.
  • How to run your business and grow your client base.

And the best part? We don’t leave you hanging after graduation. You’ll leave with a job offer in hand and support to help you continue building your career.

Why Detroit Is the Perfect Place to Start Your Tattoo Journey

Detroit is creative, gritty, and overflowing with talent, and that’s exactly the kind of energy that fuels tattoo artistry.

How Detroit Fuels Creativity

From the massive murals of Eastern Market to the indie galleries scattered across the city, Detroit pulses with artistic inspiration. You’ll find creative influence in the architecture, music, and history that surrounds you every day.

How Detroit’s Food Scene Inspires Tattoo Artists

Detroit's food scene is a mashup of bold flavors and creative culture; the perfect mix to keep your creative juices flowing. From soul food to street tacos, it’s all part of the vibe that helps artists tap into their best work.

How Detroit’s Culture Elevates the Tattoo Industry

This city is full of stories, and tattoos are one of the most powerful ways to tell them. Detroit’s cultural richness and diversity create an ideal environment for artists to grow, connect, and create meaningful art that lasts a lifetime.

Apply Now and Ink Your Future

If you’ve been dreaming of becoming a Tattoo Artist and you’re ready to commit to real training in a real shop, this is your chance.

Here’s how to get started:

  1. Apply online through this link.
  2. Speak with our admissions team.
  3. Get matched with Sebastian Murphy at Dark Horse Tattoo.
  4. Start your journey to becoming a professional Tattoo Artist.

📍 Location: Dark Horse Tattoo – Detroit, MI
🎓 Mentor: Sebastian Murphy, Ink Master Finalist
💼 Job Offer Guaranteed Upon Completion
📅 Apply Today – Limited Spots Per Month

👉 Apply Now or email us at info@becomeatattooartist.com

From passion to profession — this is where it all begins. Let’s ink the future, together.