Think of this beforehand and make sure you bring enough cash or be prepared to add it onto your card. Also, give a fair tip – something between 20-25% will do.
Many tattoo artists prefer to be paid in cash as it simplifies the transaction and allows for a seamless commission payment to the studio. Invoicing or involving banks and payment sites can introduce unnecessary complications to an already busy workflow.
For every $100 spent on the tattoo most would say $20-$25 but I think most artists agree there is a reasonable limit to that. Probably anything over a $250 tip for one's days worth of tattooing might be unnecessary however greatly appreciated.
A standard tip is 15-20% of the total cost of the tattoo, but feel free to give more if you're really happy with the results. But, do you love getting tattoos but hate having to carry around cash? Well, have no fear! Most tattoo shops take credit cards.
This goes for large, colored tattoos and small, minimal ones alike. It doesn't matter what you're getting, you have to leave a tip. Think of this beforehand and make sure you bring enough cash or be prepared to add it onto your card. Also, give a fair tip – something between 20-25% will do.
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.
Many people choose to tip about 20% of the overall price of their tattoo – just like at a barbershop or massage appointment.
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.
Here's the golden rule: always ask. It's simple tattoo etiquette. Before plugging in and tuning out, ask your artist if they're okay with it. You wouldn't want to come off as disrespectful. And don't forget to keep the head-nodding and foot-tapping to a minimum; remember they're working on a living canvas here!
Tattoo artists are professionals who should be treated with respect and consideration. There are certain questions you should never ask your tattoo artist. For example, you should never ask your tattoo artist to negotiate on the price or copy another artist's work.
Some artists will fix the tattoo free of charge. However, you should still consider tipping even if you ended up not loving the final result, especially if they: Created a custom design. Did their best to keep you comfortable and answer all questions.
Stay Still: Talking is fine during you session, but please do not talk with your hands, nod your head, or excessively move other body parts as this can cause the area being tattooed to move as well. Most importantly: Relax and have fun!
Getting a new tattoo can take anywhere from a few hours to a few months. In some cases they can take over a year. Each session is typically 4-6 hours. How long your tattoo takes depends on size, complexity, care, and artist skill.
In the past year, most tattoo artists have increased their prices to $150-$210/hr, depending on location. This is to cover the increasing prices of everything around us (groceries, rent, etc.). Note: In many places, tattoos were cheap during the COVID-19 pandemic to get clients in the door.
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.
Forearms (this is the number 1 least painful spot) Outside of upper arms. Outside of shoulders. Outside upper thigh.
Please note: $50 tattoos are generally sized at 1 inch by 1 inch on arms and legs. Size, placement, and addition of color is available for an additional charge to be determined at the time of your visit.
Tipping in cash is fine. That way your tattoo artist gets the entirety of the tip and avoids any service fees or taxes. If adding your tip to a credit or debit transaction, add a bit more to cover those fees. The best time to tip is after your appointment when you're paying for your services.
A common guideline: 15 to 20% of the total cost of the tattoo. This range reflects the quality of work and the overall experience provided. For instance, if your tattoo costs $200, tipping 15 to 20% would mean a $30 to $40 tip.
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.