Should you tip 20% on a tattoo?

Author: Mallie Rosenbaum MD  |  Last update: Friday, March 28, 2025

How Much Should You Tip Your Tattoo Artist? If you decide to tip, the next step is to calculate exactly how much to add to the final tattoo price. The general consensus in the tattoo community is that 20 percent is the typical amount to tip—just like at a restaurant or a hair salon.

Do you tip tattoo artists 20%?

it's customary (and generally good etiquette) to tip 20% for all hands-on services that are well done, ie: tattoo artists, nail techs, brow techs, massage therapists, etc. consider tipping more if you want to return to them over time.

Is it rude to not tip a tattoo artist?

There is no problem, the tip is ALWAYS OPTIONAL, each artist sets their own prices, regardless of the percentage that the studio may or may not take.

How much do you tip for a $500 tattoo?

A good tip for a tattoo artist typically ranges from 15% to 20% of the total cost of the tattoo. If you feel the artist did an exceptional job or provided excellent service, you might consider tipping more than 20%.

Is $40 a good tip for $200 tattoo?

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.

6 Things You NEED To Know when TIPPING For A Tattoo!

Do you tip for a $1000 tattoo?

As we state generally “tips are not required, but appreciated “ because most tattoo artists in a shop minus the owner are making 50-60% of the total cost… on a $1000 tattoo (most likely multiple sessions) I would tip at least $100-$150 for every session done.. so roughly I'd say average a good tip on a tattoo that's ...

Is a $50 tip good for a $300 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.

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

For example, a small wrist tattoo might cost about $100. Therefore, the average tip would be about $20.

Why do tattoo artists prefer cash?

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.

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.

Are tattoo touch-ups free?

While some touch-ups are necessary and are often included in the initial price of the tattoo, tattoo artists are not always obliged to do touch-ups for free. It depends on the specific circumstances of the tattoo and the agreement between the artist and the client.

Is it rude to not talk to your tattoo artist?

Tattoo artists are people, too. Ones who come with a range of personalities. Some may appreciate the light banter to break up their day, while others might prefer to stay focused and let their work do the talking. Ultimately, it's essential that you respect their preferred style.

Is tipping mandatory for tattoos?

Tipping may not be mandatory, but it's a way to show that you appreciate all of the hard work and effort—physical and monetary—that your artist put into your new tattoo. Remember: A tip isn't about you; it's about the artist.

Do you tip a tattoo artist who owns the shop?

Sinatra also recommends tipping all tattoo artists, even if you're getting your ink done by the owner. “Clients often feel they don't need to tip the owner, but if the owner is working alongside others in the studio and their work is valued, a tip is greatly appreciated,” Sinatra says.

How much should I tip on a $600 tattoo?

The tattoo experience should make you feel safe, heard, and respected. Ink is forever - if you don't feel respected or your tattoo experience as a whole didn't feel centered on your needs, you deserve a better artist. Bob Arnold it's typically 10% as a starting point so 10% of $600. 20% would be $120 tip.

How much to tip for a $5000 tattoo?

"While any tip is highly appreciated, a good guideline is to tip 15-20% of the price of the tattoo. However, this amount can be adjusted depending on your personal budget, as well as how happy you are with your tattoo; there definitely isn't a minimum amount," they added.

Do tattoo artists rely on tips?

You want to be treated with dignity and respect, but so does your tattoo artist. Tipping is a part of that, but so is showing up on time and being ready for your appointment. In most instances, tipping is appropriate and encouraged. While you can tip less than 15%, try to avoid it.

Should you negotiate tattoo prices?

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.

Is $50 a good tip for a $200 tattoo?

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

How much do you tip for a $750 tattoo?

However, the average tattoo tip in the U.S. is at least 15-20 percent. “A tip is a tip—we appreciate anything,” says Clifton. “But you can always follow the Golden Rule of tipping 20 percent of whatever your tattoo price was if you're not sure.”

Is $50 enough for a tattoo?

Most tattoo shops have a minimum charge, which covers the cost of their time, materials, and equipment. Minimum charges typically range from $50 to $100, regardless of the size or complexity of the design.

What to know about tattoo aftercare?

-Continue to wash & moisturize at least once per day. -Until the tattoo is healed, avoid prolonged sun exposure and the beach, avoid getting overly sweaty, avoid submerging your tattoo entirely in water (i.e. bath, pool, ocean, etc.), and avoid tight clothing on the area that was tattooed.

How much to tip a hairdresser?

A 20% tip may be standard, but the percentage can vary. More complex jobs or a stylist that went above and beyond might merit a bigger tip. If service was poor, a little less might be appropriate.

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