What do you talk about with a tattoo artist?

Author: Prof. Nicolette Gutmann IV  |  Last update: Saturday, July 12, 2025

10 Questions To Ask Your Tattoo Artist
  • Ask About Their Experience. ...
  • Discuss Your Design Ideas. ...
  • Find Out What They Specialise In. ...
  • Ask About Pricing. ...
  • Ask How Long It Will Take. ...
  • Check Out Their Social Media. ...
  • Ask About Hygiene and Aftercare. ...
  • Ask If You Need ID.

Is $50 a good tip for a $350 tattoo?

You honestly don't need to tip. You can give like $20-$50 it doesn't need to be a percentage. For the tattoo you're getting, a $20 bill is a great tip.

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

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.

What questions should I ask a tattoo artist?

Here are some thoughtful questions you can ask about someone's tattoo: What inspired you to get this tattoo? Does the design have a special meaning or significance to you? Where did you get it done, and how was your experience with the tattoo artist? How long did the tattoo take to complete?

What do you talk about at a tattoo consultation?

Tattoo Consultation Tips: What to Ask Your Artist
  • Can you help me refine my tattoo idea? ...
  • How long have you been tattooing, and what styles do you specialise in? ...
  • Where do you recommend placing the tattoo, and what size would work best? ...
  • What colours and shading techniques do you recommend for my tattoo?

How I Got My Tattoo Apprenticeship | In-Depth | Tips for Success

Are you supposed to talk to your tattoo artist?

See What the Artist Comes Up and Keep an Open Mind

While it's fine to get ideas from pictures of other tattoos, talk to your artist about what their ideas are for creating it. Tell them what you would like to change so the piece is uniquely yours.

How do I prepare for a tattoo consultation?

Clients should come prepared with a clear idea or imagery they want to incorporate into their tattoo. They can bring reference images, describe symbols or themes, and articulate the meaning behind the design.

What is an acceptable tip for a tattoo artist?

As with tipping waitstaff, 20-25% percent is a good standard. An easy way to include tipping in your budget is to add it in when getting the estimated costs for having your work done. So, if your tattoo is expected to cost $200, with a 20-percent tip, that's $240.

How do I ask the price for a tattoo?

How to Ask Tattoo Artist for Price
  1. Be prepared. When you know what kind of design and size you want, it is easier to ask tattoo artist for price without feeling embarrassed or awkward. ...
  2. Ask for a consultation before booking. ...
  3. Be upfront and clear about your budget.

What not to do when asking for a tattoo?

Here's a handful of bad habits that are top of the list of things tattoo artists hate.
  1. Not Showering Beforehand. ...
  2. Micromanaging the Process. ...
  3. Comparing an Artist's Work to Someone Else's. ...
  4. Negotiating or Criticizing the Tattoo Price. ...
  5. Acting Like a Know-It-All. ...
  6. Bringing a Bunch of Friends. ...
  7. Asking an Artist to Copy Someone's Work.

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 ...

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.

Do you tip for a free tattoo touch up?

When it comes to tattoo touch-up appointments, the general rule of thumb is yes, you should tip for the extra work required. Showing appreciation for the additional effort illustrates your understanding of the artist's commitment to ensuring your tattoo looks its best.

Do you tip on a $3,000 tattoo?

The best rule of thumb you can follow is to tip at least 20 percent of the total cost of your service and tip even more for custom, intricate tattoo styles.

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.

What not to say in a tattoo shop?

Things You Probably Shouldn't Say to Your Tattoo Artist
  • “Can you go any faster?” – If you want a crappy tattoo, maybe.
  • “If I don't like it, can I get a refund?” – No, sorry. ...
  • “I've only had a few drinks before I came in.” – Well, I guess you're not getting your tattoo then.

Do you tell your tattoo artist your budget?

If you can't afford the tattoo you want, talk to your artist beforehand in private & ask if he can do the work staying within your budget or see if there's a way to work out a payment plan (multiple session/pay-as-you-go) or wait and save up.

What to talk to a tattoo artist about?

10 Questions To Ask Your Tattoo Artist
  • Ask About Their Experience. ...
  • Discuss Your Design Ideas. ...
  • Find Out What They Specialise In. ...
  • Ask About Pricing. ...
  • Ask How Long It Will Take. ...
  • Check Out Their Social Media. ...
  • Ask About Hygiene and Aftercare. ...
  • Ask If You Need ID.

What to do before a tattoo appointment?

What to do before getting a Tattoo
  1. Get a Good Night's Sleep. The last thing you want is to come in and be completely exhausted for your tattoo session. ...
  2. Stay Hydrated. ...
  3. Shave. ...
  4. Shower. ...
  5. Moisturize your Skin. ...
  6. Eat and Bring Snacks. ...
  7. Dress for you Session. ...
  8. Do not show up Intoxicated.

Can you get a tattoo touched up by a different artist?

It is very common for a tattoo artist to finish another artist's work. Sometimes this decision comes down to practicality. For example, the original artist might be overbooked or realize that the concept you envision is something they feel uncomfortable completing.

How much do tattoo artists make without tips?

Average Tattoo Artist Salary

The average tattoo artist is charging a $150 hourly rate for their tattoos. If 40% goes to the tattoo business, then the tattoo artist's real income is $90/hr. For example, for a 3-hour tattoo, the artist makes $270.

What to say in a tattoo consultation?

Discussing the design details with your tattoo artist is crucial to ensure that the final artwork aligns with your vision. Key questions to consider include asking about the feasibility of your design idea, the recommended size and placement, and any potential modifications that might enhance the overall look.

How long is a typical tattoo consultation?

Consultations generally take 15-40 minutes, depending on how involved the tattoo is. The consultation itself is free, but if you do decide to book a tattoo appointment once we've talked, I have you put down a deposit to secure your spot.

Do I need to bring anything to a tattoo appointment?

Bring snacks - Food helps regulate your blood sugar and stamina while you are getting tattooed. If you start to feel weak at any point during your appointment, let your artist know and eat something to avoid loss of consciousness.

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