Do most tattoo shops do free touch ups?

Author: Jaime Jones II  |  Last update: Monday, January 12, 2026

Being offered a free or low-cost touch-up doesn't mean you shouldn't take care of your new ink. It also doesn't mean you'll definitely need a touch-up. Most professional tattoo artists will offer a free or low-cost touch-up for your new tattoo.

Are touch-ups free for tattoos?

Touch ups are generally free but the most respectful thing to do is ask for it when you're getting your next tattoo. That way the artist isn't setting everything up and making no money on the materials they used. If you're already getting another tattoo, just have them do the touch up in the same session.

Does every tattoo artist do cover ups?

Yes all tattoo artists can do cover ups. The problem is that not all artists are good at it. Definitely do more research before choosing an artist. Travel if you have to and can.

Do you tip a tattoo artist for a free touch-up?

Yes, Any time a tattoo artist does work on you, if you are pleased with the work, you should tip. Plus, many artists offer free touch-ups after the tattoo is completed. (Just make sure to tip your artist, even for a complementary touch-up session!)

Is it OK to ask tattoo artist for touch-up?

Requesting a touchup is proper etiquette. Adding onto the piece may require you to pay for the time, but it's not against etiquette. Doubtful you'll offend the artist as long as you're willing to pay for any extra work beyond touching up the existing piece.

All About Tattoo Touch Ups

How common are tattoo touch ups?

A tattoo touch-up is a very common aspect of getting tattooed, but one most people seem to neglect. Much like most other artworks, with time, tattoos fade, and sometimes they might not heal exactly how we had hoped.

What not to ask a tattoo artist?

5 Things You Should Never Say to a Tattoo Artist
  • “Can't you give me a discount?”
  • “Can I bring my friends in?”
  • “Can't you just make it work?”
  • “Can you please copy this tattoo?”
  • “Can you do this while I'm drunk?”

How much should tattoo artist charge for touch up?

The answer, of course, depends on the artist and the size of the tattoo. However, touch ups typically start at around $50 and can go up from there. So, if you're looking to keep your ink looking fresh, be prepared to spend a little extra cash. But touch ups are worth it!

Is it rude to not tip a tattoo artist?

Generally, tipping in the tattoo industry is customary and expected. It's an easy way to acknowledge your artist's creative skill, effort, and time spent on your tattoo.

How much to tip on a $200 tattoo?

Tattoo tipping rates

But as a rule of thumb, a 15-20% tip is usually a good place to start. So, if you spent a total of $200 on a tattoo, tipping anywhere from $30 to $40 shows your artist that you appreciate their handiwork.

Do all tattoo artists do touch ups?

It depends on the specific circumstances of the tattoo and the agreement between the artist and the client. Well, not all the rumours are true and here we will expose a myth: tattoo artists are not always obliged to do touch-ups to tattoos.

What kind of tattoos are hard to cover-up?

It is difficult to cover up a black tattoo with any color other than black. Other dark tones like navy or brown might work, but lighter colors won't be effective in covering up an original black tattoo.

Does tattoo removal leave scars?

Yes, some types of tattoo removal can cause scars. You can prevent the likelihood of scarring by taking care of your skin after a removal procedure or session and following your healthcare provider's aftercare instructions.

How long does a tattoo retouch take?

How long do touch-ups take? They can take five minutes, or several hours, depending on the size of the tattoo, and on the way that the tattoo has healed. Visit your artist a few weeks after the tattoo has finished peeling, to allow them to assess the need, if any, for touch ups.

What is a free tattoo consultation?

Now, your consultation under most circumstances will be free. Kind of like asking someone out on a date- asking is free, the date will cost you. What should expect out of your consultation? You can expect your artist to bring you to a quiet part of the shop to discuss the tattoo you want to get.

Do fine line tattoos usually need touch ups?

Due to their delicate nature, fine line tattoos tend to fade more quickly than traditional tattoos, and will need to be touched up over time.

Is $20 a good tip for a $100 tattoo?

Generally, 15-25% should be the amount you tip.

What do tattoo artists refuse to do?

Tattooing minors, offensive hate symbols, or copyrighted designs without permission are examples of requests that can be legally refused.

Should I tip my tattoo artist for a touch-up?

If you're getting smaller art done or maybe a touch-up for $100, tipping anywhere from $15 to $25 fits the bill. Some regular or return clients also give gifts to their tattoo artists, such as restaurant gift cards, theater tickets and doughnuts for the shop.

Are tattoo touch ups usually free?

But sometimes, they're just not what you wanted. If you find yourself in this situation, don't fret. Most tattoo artists are more than happy to touch up a tattoo that's too small or too big for your liking. They may even offer to do it for free.

Is it OK to ask for a tattoo touch up?

Touch-ups are fairly common, and needing or wanting a touch-up isn't a bad thing at all. Even experienced artists do touch-ups on their work. Once a tattoo is fully healed, everyone can see what it looks like much better, and it's easier to tell if it needs a little extra oomph.

Is it rude to ask how much a tattoo artist charges?

I think you'd be fine asking, politely, what an artist's rate is, maybe including a note about wanting to budget properly for their work. That said, don't let the cost of a tattoo you really want deter you, save up until you can get what you want done correctly.

What annoys tattoo artists?

Tattoo Etiquette: 11 Annoying Things People Say and Do In Tattoo Shops
  • Not Showering Beforehand. If you're going on a date, you shower. ...
  • Comparing an Artist's Work to Someone Else's. Sometimes, people disrespect a tattoo artist without even meaning to. ...
  • Bringing a Bunch of Friends. ...
  • Walking in Wasted. ...
  • Skipping the Tip.

Is it rude to tell a tattoo artist your budget?

If the price quoted feels out of your budget, it's fine to discuss this with the artist.

What tattoo designs to avoid?

If you don't want to regret your body art, read this list of tattoos that you should never get.
  • White Ink Tattoos. White ink tattoos are the latest trend. ...
  • Face Tattoos. ...
  • Partner's Name. ...
  • A Cheap Tattoo. ...
  • Any Tattoo While Intoxicated. ...
  • An Offensive Tattoo. ...
  • What to Do If You Don't Like Your Tattoo.

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