Common rates: $75 -$150 hour. However, it's not unheard of to see hourly rates as low as $50-$60 or even well above $200-$250 an hour. For certain in-demand artists, $350-$500+ per hour should be expected as the minimum rate. In comparison, think about the cost of tattoo removals for a moment here.
Common rates: $75 -$150 hour. However, it's not unheard of to see hourly rates as low as $50-$60 or even well above $200-$250 an hour. For certain in-demand artists, $350-$500+ per hour should be expected as the minimum rate. In comparison, think about the cost of tattoo removals for a moment here.
That being said, $500 can get you a decent-sized tattoo, depending on the above factors. For example, a small-to-medium-sized tattoo (palm-hand size) on your arm or leg could cost around $300 to $600, while a larger design that covers your back or chest could cost upwards of $1000.
According to PayScale, the average hourly rate for tattoo artists is about $100. This is typical for experienced, non-apprentice tattoo artists with solid portfolios, but some popular tattooists charge as much as $300 per hour.
Large tattoos, such as full sleeves, back pieces, or expansive designs that cover multiple body parts, can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000, or more. The price will depend on the design's detail, the artist's rates, and the number of sessions required to complete the tattoo.
$50 tattoos are approximately one inch by one inch in black ink on arms or legs. Other areas of the body start at only $70. Actual size may differ from listing on this page depending on your browser settings. Please consult your artist for actual sizing.
“Some tip less, and some are very generous." For instance, you might wonder how much to tip for a $500 tattoo. In this case, tipping anywhere from $75 to $125 would be appropriate. If you're getting smaller art done or maybe a touch-up for $100, tipping anywhere from $15 to $25 fits the bill.
A small, simple quarter-sized tattoo could take an hour, whereas a large backpiece could take seven or 10. Size matters in this equation, and it's important to remember that time is also money. The longer it takes to finish, the more your piece will cost.
Negotiating or Criticizing the Tattoo Price
Don't negotiate the price. Tattoo artists will always quote you beforehand based on their time and the size of the tattoo.
A full sleeve tattoo can cost anywhere from $1000 to $6000, depending on the hourly rate of the artist and how much time the art takes to complete. For a design in full color, expect to spend at least two full days sitting for the piece, or be prepared to sit for multiple sessions. How much does tattoo removal cost?
Tattoo artists charge $100 to $250 an hour on average. Some tattoo artists charge a flat rate for pre-existing designs. Depending on the size and other factors, they are typically in the $100 to$200 range. For a large tattoo like a full sleeve tattoo cover-up or backpiece, half-day or full-day rates may apply.
Things like materials, size, location, and type of tattoo affect general tattoo prices. On average you can expect to charge $50-100 for a small tattoo, up to $200 for a medium tattoo and over $250 for a large tattoo. The sky is the limit though when it comes to very large pieces.
Forearms (this is the number 1 least painful spot) Outside of upper arms. Outside of shoulders. Outside upper thigh.
Lotus flower. Flower is a symbol of wealth and prosperity in Eastern cultures.
Luck and Fortune: Ironically, while 13 is traditionally viewed as unlucky, many choose to ink this number as a token of good luck and positive energy, flipping the narrative to suit their personal outlook. Mystery and Magic: The number 13 is often associated with the mysterious and the arcane.
Tip what you are comfortable with based on time in the shop. You are already paying the artist for their space, ability, and materials. Anything else is simply a “I am grateful for you” type of thing. I think $50 is sold, $100 at best.
HELLS ANGELS. Hells Angels Death's Head symbol super- imposed over a “1%” tattoo. The “1%” signifies that the individual is a member of an outlaw motorcycle gang (OMG).
Tattoo tipping etiquette is a topic of ongoing discussion among artists and clients. Many people agree that it is customary to tip tattoo artists 15-20% of the total cost of the tattoo. For a $4,000 tattoo, this would amount to a tip ranging from $600 to $800, significantly higher than the $200 tip given by the client.