Join The Ink Different Affiliate Community.
Mentor the Next Generation. Elevate the Industry. Get Paid for It.
🎥 Watch This Short Story
From Veteran Mentors.
It's a behind-the-scenes look at how Tattoo Artists like you are already making a difference and getting paid for it.
Your Experience Is
Valuable.
Your time is respected. Your craft deserves protection.
At Ink Different, we believe tattoo mentorship should be a win-win; for shop owners, for the tattoo apprentice, and for the future of tattooing. That's why we created a different kind of Nationwide Tattoo Apprenticeship: one that supports the next wave of artists without wasting your time or compromising your standards.
And just to be super clear right off the bat:
So… What's This
Really About?
The Ink Different Affiliate Community connects seasoned, professional Tattoo Artists with serious, pre-trained tattoo apprentices who are ready for the final phase of their tattoo education, working under real-world mentorship in a real studio like yours.
This is not about babysitting beginners. These tattoo apprentices have:
- 01 Passed our rigorous training program (Phases 1 & 2).
- 02 Completed curriculum in drawing, flash design, hygiene, fake skin tattooing & setup.
- 03 Shown they're committed, coachable, and technically capable.
14 Years In. Still
Committed To You.
We've been doing it for 14 years, and we're committed to giving you the tools, insights, and relationships you need to grow your business and succeed in today's tattoo industry. Here's what makes our affiliate community stand out:
You Get Paid
We compensate you for your time, mentorship, and guidance. Whether it's filling gaps in your schedule or bringing extra income on slower days, your time is respected and rewarded.
You're Not Starting From Scratch
These tattoo apprentices are already trained. You're not teaching the basics; you're mentoring real future professionals who've proven their commitment.
You Stay In Control
Want to review their portfolio first? Done. Want to say no to a placement? Totally fine. Want a short commitment? That works too. You stay in the driver's seat.
We Handle The Admin
We handle apprentice support, check-ins, and documentation. You just focus on mentoring someone ready to learn from you.
Common Questions.
(We Know You've Got 'Em)
Nope. In fact, it's the opposite. Our program raises the bar by setting high standards for both tattoo apprentices and mentors. We're tackling the very real problems of oversaturation and poor training by offering a structured, accountable pathway into tattooing.
Yes. Your mentorship matters, and you'll be paid for it. Plus, you have the option to bring that tattoo apprentice onto your team later… If it's a good fit.
We're proud to work with some of the most respected names in tattooing, including:
- TLC's Tattoo Girls Liz Cook
- Ink Master Jordi Pla
- Ink Master Boneface
- Spike TV's Tattoo Rescue Joey Tattoo
- Master in Bright and Bold Tattoos Crush Captain
- World-Renowned BillyJack Gunther
- Ink Master Ryan Eternal
…and dozens more across 30+ cities.
That's cool too. Just schedule a quick, no-pressure call with our founder, Paul-Anthony Surdi, or someone from the team. We'll answer all your questions honestly.
Here's The Big
Picture.
Tattoo apprenticeships can be amazing, but they've also been known for…
- ✕Gatekeeping
- ✕Favoritism
- ✕Sexism, racism, and homophobia
- ✕Lack of structure
- ✕No real progress
The Ink Different Apprenticeship Program gives aspiring Tattoo Artists from all backgrounds a fair shot, while protecting the integrity of the industry by training them the right way.
When they reach your shop, they've already jumped through multiple hoops. They're ready for mentorship. They're not just testing the waters.
Why Join The Affiliate
Community?
Whether you want to earn supplemental income, give back to the craft, or grow your studio with real potential, we'd love to talk.
- ✔️ You get paid.
- ✔️ You mentor serious, pre-trained tattoo apprentices.
- ✔️ You stay in control.
- ✔️ You help raise industry standards.
- ✔️ You give someone their shot, just like you once got.
This is how we protect the craft. This is how we pay it forward. This is Ink Different!
Let's build the future of tattooing, together!
You In? Join Now →Let's Talk
Tattoos.
Questions about the affiliate program, our studios, or your first tattoo — reach out and a real human will get back to you.