Become A Tattoo Artist in Milwaukee, WI

Tattoo Apprenticeship Program in Milwaukee, WI

Learn from a Master at Planet Artz Studio and Start Tattooing with Confidence

Learn from Ink Master Finalist Sebastian Murphy at Dark Horse Tattoo

Looking to launch your tattoo career in a city buzzing with creativity, culture, and raw artistic energy? Welcome to Milwaukee. More than just beer and bratwurst (though we love that too), this city is home to one of the Midwest’s most inspiring tattoo communities, and now, you can be part of it.

At the center of it all is Planet Artz Studio, downtown Milwaukee’s go-to hub for bold tattoos and inclusive creativity. Through our partnership with Jai Romel, a second-generation Tattoo Artist with 15+ years of experience, we’re bringing our renowned Tattoo Apprenticeship Program to Milwaukee, and that means your chance to learn from the best is here.

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.

Planet Artz Studio

Guaranteed Job Offer

SPEAK WITH A REAL HUMAN!

Text or Call +1 4142266864.

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 Our Milwaukee Tattoo Apprenticeship Is a Game-Changer

Let’s face it: getting into tattooing the traditional way isn’t easy. Gatekeeping, inconsistent training, and outdated mindsets are real obstacles for new artists. That’s why we created something better, a structured, inclusive, and professionally guided tattoo apprenticeship that helps artists of all backgrounds break in and thrive.

At our Milwaukee location, you’ll:

  • Learn directly from experienced Tattoo Mentor Jai Romel.
  • Train inside the respected Planet Artz Studio.
  • Work toward a guaranteed job offer at the end of your program.
  • Build your tattoo career step-by-step, with no guesswork.

Meet Your Mentor: Jai Romel

Founder of Planet Artz Studio | MFA | 15+ Years of Experience

When it comes to artistry, Jai Romel is the real deal. A second-generation Tattoo Artist, Jai is known for his mastery of black & grey realism, neo-traditional, cover-up work, and color realism, all infused with the creativity of a fine artist.

With a background in oil painting, photography, and carpentry, he brings a unique, multi-disciplinary perspective to every tattoo he does. As your mentor, he’ll do more than show you technique; he’ll help you discover your voice as an artist.

His goal? To pass on everything he’s learned, so you can grow into a confident, successful, and skilled Tattoo Artist in your own right.

Train Inside Planet Artz Studio: Milwaukee’s Creative Powerhouse

Planet Artz Studio isn’t your average tattoo shop, it’s a community-driven, culturally-rich creative space where art lives on skin, canvas, and in connection.

Located in Downtown Milwaukee, the studio features:

  • A clean, modern, and welcoming space.
  • A collective of professional and guest Tattoo Artists.
  • A commitment to client safety, comfort, and self-expression.
  • A mission to celebrate uniqueness through tattoo storytelling

Whether you’re doing your first stencil or your first real tattoo, you’ll feel at home in an environment that supports creativity, collaboration, and growth.

Follow Toye Shop Ink @planetartzstudio

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 Milwaukee, WI. 

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 […]
October 22, 2024

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 You'll Learn in Our Tattoo Apprenticeship Program

Our program isn’t just about ink; it’s about setting you up for long-term success. That’s why we take you through four structured phases, building your skills and confidence at every step.

You’ll learn:

  • Tattoo design & flash creation.
  • Skin prep, sterilization, and studio safety.
  • Machine setup and maintenance.
  • Linework, shading, color packing, and more.
  • Licensing, client care, and shop professionalism.
  • Branding and how to attract clients.

By the end, you won’t just be ready to tattoo, you’ll be prepared to thrive in the industry.

And yes, we’ll even back you with a guaranteed job offer after successful completion. That’s how confident we are in our program (and in you).

Why Milwaukee is the Perfect City to Start Tattooing

How Milwaukee Fuels Your Creativity

Milwaukee’s blend of historic charm, street art, and buzzing creative energy makes it the perfect playground for new Tattoo Artists. Walk the Third Ward or Brady Street and you’ll find murals, galleries, and creative energy that keep your sketchbook full and your imagination inspired.

How Milwaukee’s Food Scene Inspires Artists

You can’t create on an empty stomach, and luckily, Milwaukee delivers. From iconic cheese curds and fish fries to global cuisine, this city’s flavors are as bold and diverse as your future tattoo flash sheets. Creative expression starts with culture, and here, it’s everywhere.

How Milwaukee’s Culture Elevates Tattooing

Milwaukee’s community is full of passion, pride, and individuality, all key ingredients for powerful tattoo storytelling. From Summerfest to the Milwaukee Art Museum, there’s inspiration in every event, space, and person you meet. Tattooing here isn’t just about ink; it’s about making real connections through art.

Ready to Tattoo Apprentice with Us in Milwaukee?

Here’s how to get started:

  1. Apply now 
  2. Get matched with Jai Romel at Planet Artz Studio.
  3. Begin your hands-on training in a real studio.
  4. Build your skills, your confidence, and your portfolio.
  5. Graduate with a Guaranteed Job Offer.

Spots Are Limited! Secure Yours Today!

If you’re ready to stop dreaming and start tattooing, we’re ready to train you. This is your chance to learn from a true master, inside one of Milwaukee’s most respected tattoo studios, and build a career that lasts a lifetime.

📍 Planet Artz Studio — Downtown Milwaukee
✏️ Applications open now — Click here to apply
📩 Questions? Email us at  info@becomeatattooartist.com