The Painted Lady Tattoo Shop
Tattoo Apprenticeship
Program
Learn the art and craft of professional tattooing under the mentorship of Kyla Wall. Hands-on training, real-world experience, and a clear path from beginner to working artist.
Inquire About the ProgramAbout the Program
Kyla Wall has trained and mentored multiple professional tattoo artists who now work in studios across the region. Her apprenticeship program at The Painted Lady is built on the same principles that shaped her own career — strong fundamentals, relentless practice, and a deep respect for the craft.
This is a comprehensive, hands-on program. Apprentices work in the shop daily, learning everything from sterilization and safety to advanced techniques and client management. It's not a weekend course — it's a real commitment that produces real artists.
The program is selective. Kyla takes on a limited number of apprentices to ensure each one receives the personal attention and mentorship needed to succeed. Artistic background is a plus, but the most important qualities are dedication, humility, and a genuine desire to learn.
What Makes This Program Different
Quality Over Speed
We don't rush the process. Every apprentice progresses at their own pace — you move forward when you're genuinely ready, not on a calendar.
Real Mentorship
This isn't a YouTube tutorial. You work alongside Kyla daily, getting direct feedback, watching techniques up close, and learning the things that only come from experience.
Safety First
Before you ever touch a machine, you'll understand sterilization, bloodborne pathogens, and proper safety protocols inside and out. No shortcuts.
Creative Development
Technique is only half the equation. We invest in developing your artistic eye — composition, color theory, design flow, and finding your own voice as an artist.
Program Curriculum
A structured path from fundamentals to professional-level tattooing. Timeline varies by individual.
Foundation
Months 1–3- ✦Health, safety & bloodborne pathogen certification
- ✦Sterilization protocols & cross-contamination prevention
- ✦Equipment knowledge — machines, needles, inks, supplies
- ✦Skin anatomy & how tattoos heal
- ✦Drawing fundamentals — line weight, shading, composition
- ✦Stencil application techniques
- ✦Shop operations & client communication
Skill Development
Months 4–8- ✦Practice on synthetic skin — lines, shading, color packing
- ✦Machine setup, tuning & maintenance
- ✦Needle depth control & hand speed
- ✦Color theory & ink selection
- ✦Tattoo design principles — flow, placement, sizing
- ✦Observing live tattoo sessions with Kyla
- ✦Building a portfolio of practice work
Supervised Tattooing
Months 9–12+- ✦First tattoos on real skin under direct supervision
- ✦Client consultation & custom design process
- ✦Learning to manage a full appointment
- ✦Developing your personal style & specialty
- ✦Building a professional portfolio
- ✦Business fundamentals — pricing, scheduling, social media
- ✦Graduation when both mentor and apprentice agree you're ready
What We Look For
Dedication and consistency — this is a daily commitment
A portfolio or examples of your artwork (any medium)
Willingness to start from the basics, even if you have experience
Respectful attitude and ability to take constructive feedback
Genuine passion for tattoo art and culture
Reliability — showing up on time, every time
Must be 18 or older
Located in or willing to relocate to the St. George, UT area
Proven Track Record
Kyla has successfully trained multiple apprentices who have gone on to become professional tattoo artists working in studios across the region. Her teaching approach combines traditional mentorship with modern techniques, producing well-rounded artists who are ready to build their own careers.
5+
Artists Trained
100%
Working Professionally
8+
Years Experience
Interested in the Apprenticeship?
The apprenticeship program has limited spots and is offered on a selective basis. Contact Kyla directly to learn more about availability, requirements, and next steps.
Reach out directly
Kyla Wall
Owner & Lead Artist — The Painted Lady
Include your name, a bit about yourself, why you're interested, and any artwork you'd like to share.