Question of the Week - Piercing Apprenticeship Fee Good or Bad?
A: The bad news is that there is no "standard" for apprenticeship fees. The good news is that $2000 is a very reasonable price. But I would be concerned about the words "starts at" - the fee should be set. I can't imagine what they could "throw in" to increase the price of the apprenticeship. It is what it is.
The other things you will want to consider is whether this person offering you the apprenticeship is a true professional themselves. How much experience do they have? Do you get the feeling that they want to train you for the purpose of continuing the art form, or are they just out to make money? Do you feel a good rapport with this person? Do you trust them? Do they have a contract for you to sign for your apprenticeship (they should), and is it fair for both parties involved?
If everything is on the up and up, $2000 is a very good price.
Comments
Just how much is a tech school? Associate’s degree? BS/BA? $2000 is dirt cheap for a ‘career’ you can take anywhere. Just like a trade school you should have a curriculm mapped out prior to starting so you have a solid outline of your studies. And who is training you and are THEY qualified to train. Are they just cranking out ‘apprenticeships’ for the money?? Who in their right mind creates their own competition (Ok,fellow tattooers stop laughing now!)
Be smart and do your research prior to signing on!!! (take a look at the Alliance of Professional Piercers website for great information)
$2000?? Ouch, that’s a major rip off. When I was looking, I typically found them to run between $300-$500 as long as you buy your own equipment (which they generally tell you where to get them for the best deal/best quality).
Actually, Sam, the person I’m going to apprentice under charges $2000 as well. But, that includes the equipment.