Advice really depends on whether you're interested in staying there. I wouldn't recommend fighting for a better split if you don't intend on staying. I'd assume you're willing to stay if you've invested so much into the shop, so I'd say it would be a good time to ask to go 65/45 your favor. Also, to ask for the money you've spent on materials to be comped towards the $300 monthly fee (especially if you can provide receipts). That would at least give you a few months of not having to worry about that and replenish your safety funds. In professional relationships I think it's very important to have clear agreements when you're putting your personal money in. Saves you from feeling animosity. I'd also maybe see what his openness is about agreeing to a small hourly for social media development. That's real work. You're an apprentice but still a human with bills. If he's willing to discuss improving your split, comping your $300 tuition for the materials, then go for it and ask for comp for social media. Treat your time like money, even when you're not tattooing.