Body Art Apprenticeship
SNHD-Approved Apprenticeship Program • 6-Month Apprenticeship • $10,000
This state-approved apprenticeship program is designed to fulfill the requirements outlined by the Southern Nevada Health District for obtaining a Body Art Card. Under the mentorship of award-winning paramedical tattoo artist Cheryl Ipiales, apprentices will receive hands-on training, direct mentorship, and real-world studio experience inside a licensed professional environment.
This program combines both artistic development and clinical protocols to help aspiring tattoo and paramedical artists build a strong, professional foundation while preparing for state licensure and real client work.
Supervised Hands-On Instruction
• Minimum 6 months of supervised training
• Observation and guided hands-on practice
• Working on synthetic skin and live models
• Ongoing mentorship and correction
Clinical & Safety Protocols
• Sanitation and bloodborne pathogen protocols
• Sterile setup, breakdown, and infection control
• Client intake, documentation, and consent procedures
• Safe studio practices and client protection
Tattoo Technique Development
• Tattoo machine handling and technique development
• Color theory and pigment mixing
• Skin tone matching and pigment selection
• Understanding healed results and skin behavior
Professional Development
• Client communication and healing support
• Treatment planning and professionalism
• State application guidance and licensing support
• Completing practical checkpoints and training logs
Important Note
By the end of the apprenticeship, students who successfully complete all requirements will be eligible to apply for their Southern Nevada Body Art Card and begin tattooing professionally.
This apprenticeship is ideal for aspiring tattoo or paramedical artists seeking deeper mentorship, structured development, and real-world experience in both artistry and clinical protocols.