How much should you tip a tattoo artist?
How much should you tip a tattoo artist?
15% – 25% of the total tattoo cost
$25 – $125 for a medium tattoo
How much do you tip a tattoo artist?
Tipping your tattoo artist is a common practice that shows appreciation for their skill and effort. While not mandatory, it's generally expected in the industry. A standard tip is often 20%, but some clients tip as low as 15% or as high as 25% based the complexity of the design, the artist's experience, and overall satisfaction with the work.
The following table shows common tip amounts for various tattoo prices:
| Tattoo price | 15% tip | 20% tip | 25% tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| $50 | $7.50 | $10 | $12.50 |
| $100 | $15 | $20 | $25 |
| $150 | $22.50 | $30 | $37.50 |
| $200 | $30 | $40 | $50 |
| $250 | $37.50 | $50 | $62.50 |
| $500 | $75 | $100 | $125 |
| $750 | $112.50 | $150 | $187.50 |
| $1000 | $150 | $200 | $250 |
Rounding up your tip to the nearest $5 increment is common practice, as it simplifies the process and shows generosity. For instance, if your calculated tip is $37.50, rounding up to $40 is appreciated.
Factors affecting how much to tip a tattoo artist
While a 20% tip is standard, the amount you tip for a tattoo depends on several factors, such as the quality of service you receive. Consider how well the artist communicated, the comfort of the environment, and your satisfaction with the final product. Other factors to think about include:
Design complexity: If your tattoo design is particularly intricate or detailed, it's worth considering a higher tip. This kind of work requires more time and skill, so showing extra appreciation is a nice gesture.
Time & effort: If your tattoo session was especially long or challenging, think about tipping a bit more. Artists put in extra effort for these pieces, and a generous tip reflects that.
Artist experience & skill: More experienced artists often bring a higher level of expertise to their work. If you're impressed with their skill, a larger tip is a great way to show your appreciation.
Studio location & cost of living: Artists in areas with a higher cost of living might rely more on tips to make ends meet. Keeping this in mind can help you decide on a fair tip.
Studio ownership: Whether the artist owns the studio or rents a chair can affect their income. Studio owners set their own pricing to cover overhead costs, while renters might rely more on tips.
Tipping for multiple tattoo sessions
For multi-session tattoos, you have the flexibility to tip after each session or save up for a larger tip at the end. Some clients prefer to tip a bit after each session, acknowledging the progress and effort. Others wait until the piece is completed and give a more substantial tip based on their overall satisfaction.
Tipping for tattoo touch-ups
If the touch-up is included in the original price, you're not obligated to tip, but it's still a nice gesture to show appreciation for the artist's work. However, if you're getting a touch-up from a different artist, treat it like a new tattoo.
Even if it's just a touch-up, consider the complexity and quality of the work when deciding on a tip. This ensures you're recognizing the artist's skill and effort.
Tipping for tattoo corrections and fixes
If your artist makes corrections to your tattoo, consider tipping based on the effort and quality of the work. Even though corrections might be part of the service, tipping shows appreciation for the artist's dedication to getting it right. It acknowledges their commitment to ensuring you're satisfied with the final result.
Tipping a tattoo apprentice
When working with an apprentice or less experienced artist, the tipping approach can vary. For free work, a tip of $20 to $50 is appropriate, depending on the tattoo's size and complexity. If they charge a reduced rate during their training, tipping 25% to 30% shows appreciation for their efforts.
How to tip a tattoo artist
Tipping your tattoo artist is a way to show appreciation for their skill and service. While the tip amount often depends on the tattoo price, other factors can influence how you tip. Follow these guidelines:
Exceptional service: A 15% tip is acceptable for good service. However, for exceptional work or if the artist went above and beyond, consider tipping 20% to 25% or more.
Larger tattoo sizes: For larger, more expensive tattoos, a percentage-based tip might be excessive. In these cases, consider tipping a flat rate or an hourly amount instead of a percentage. For example, if your tattoo costs $2,000 or more, you might tip $100 to $200 per session or $50 to $100 per hour of work.
Consider tipping in cash: While most shops accept credit card tips, cash tips are preferred as they go directly to the artist without processing fees. Alternatively, using peer-to-peer payment services like Venmo, CashApp, or PayPal can ensure the artist receives the full tip amount without transaction fees.
FAQs about how much to tip for a tattoo
Are you supposed to tip tattoo artists?
While tipping tattoo artists is not required, it is generally expected in the industry. Tipping shows appreciation for the artist's skill, time, and effort, especially considering that not all of the tattoo price goes directly to the artist due to shop fees and overhead costs.
Do you tip a tattoo shop owner?
Generally, you do not need to tip a tattoo artist who owns the shop, as they set the price for their services and typically do not rely on tips as much as artists who rent space or work for a commission. However, if you're extremely satisfied with their work, a small tip can still be a nice gesture of appreciation.
Do you tip for a tattoo when using a gift certificate?
Yes, you should still expect to tip when using a gift certificate for a tattoo. The gift certificate typically covers only the base price of the tattoo, not the additional gesture of gratitude that a tip represents.
Do you tip a tattoo artist after every session?
For tattoos requiring multiple sessions, it's common to tip after each appointment. Many clients choose to give a smaller tip after each session and then provide a larger tip when the project is completed. However, it's best to ask your artist about their preference for tipping on multi-session projects.
Do you tip a tattoo artist for a touch up?
Yes, tipping for tattoo touch-ups is generally recommended. Even if the touch-up is included in the original price, a tip is appreciated as it acknowledges the artist's dedication to ensuring a high-quality, lasting tattoo.
Should I tip if I’m dissatisfied with the tattoo?
If you're dissatisfied with your tattoo, you're not obligated to tip. However, it's considerate to communicate your concerns with the artist or studio directly, as they may appreciate the feedback to improve their services. Consider a minimal tip of 10% if you still want to show some appreciation for their effort.
Choosing a tattoo shop
Choosing the right tattoo shop and artist is crucial for ensuring that your tattoo turns out as hoped and that you have a positive experience. Follow these tips:
Look for shops with good reputations and read reviews from past clients on Fash and Google to get an idea of their overall quality and customer service.
Check the portfolios of artists within the shop to see if their styles align with what you want. Pay attention to detail, consistency, and overall quality.
Ensure that you can communicate effectively with the artist about your design ideas and any concerns you might have.
Make sure the shop maintains high hygiene standards to minimize health risks.
Consider the experience and specialization of the artists in the type of tattoo you want.
Schedule a consultation at the shop to discuss your design and get a feel for the artist's approach and personality.
Questions to ask a tattoo artist
When consulting with a tattoo artist, ask these questions to ensure that you're well-prepared and confident in your choice:
What experience do you have with this type of tattoo?
Can I see examples of your previous work?
How long will the tattoo session take?
What aftercare instructions will you provide?
Are touch-ups included in the initial price?
What kind of equipment and ink do you use?
Can I schedule a consultation before the tattoo session?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.