Boom... we lost another apprentice. Andy has left us to pursue other things.... or we are just to hard on apprentices. Jon is is still with us though, cranking out some good work. Keep it up, Jon. A word of advice to those who are thinking that they want a career in tattooing (not to get on a soapbox):

Make sure that this is really your life-long dream and what you want to do with your life. Apprenticing is not easy work; there is always something that needs to be done (or at least something you should be doing).  Your balls will definetly get busted, you will have to pay attention to every detail, and be willing to work harder than you may have thought. Even after finishing an apprenticeship, things may not get easier for you. There is still a rough road ahead establishing yourself, building up clientele, and constantly trying to better your skills. You have to put up with a lot, but if you can weather the storm, the payoff is worthwhile. You get out of the experience what you put into it.

But as someone once said, "When you do something you truly love, you'll never work a day in your life."

 Well, we had some changes with our apprentice situation. Unfortunately, Jim had to drop out due to personal circumstances. But, we wish him the best and are sorry to see him go. Andy is still with us and we find ways to bust his balls on a daily basis.... keep working Andy!

 But, we do have another apprentice who started with us just a short while ago. Jon Elliott is now a full-time apprentice and will be doing tattoo work. He does have some tattooing experience and is an excellent artist. Jon is available for smaller pieces and flash, if you are a walk-in customer and don't want to wait. Good luck to Jon!