Are You Supposed to Tip Tattoo Artists? — Certified Tattoo Studios (2024)

FAQs

Are You Supposed to Tip Tattoo Artists? — Certified Tattoo Studios? ›

While there's no hard and fast rule, most people tip between 10% - 20% of the total cost of their tattoo. If you're unsure, you can always ask your artist for their opinion. It's important to remember that tipping is not mandatory, but it's always appreciated.

Sinatra also recommends tipping all tattoo artists, even if you're getting your ink done by the owner.

A general guideline is to tip between 15-20% of the total cost of your tattoo. However, you can adjust this amount based on your personal budget and level of satisfaction with the service. It is important to note that tattoo artists are not paid a regular salary.

Here, you might find that while the quality of work is top-notch, the tipping rates hover around the 15-20% range. A tattoo costing $300 might get a tip of around $45 to $60.

Many people choose to tip about 20% of the overall price of their tattoo – just like at a barbershop or massage appointment.

If you're getting a larger piece that requires multiple sessions, you might be wondering when and how many times you should tip your artist. "Most people tip a little after each session, and then a bigger tip when the project is done," explains Shuliar.

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. However, consider this number a baseline, as some tattoos require more or less work than others.

Generally, you should tip the tattoo artists around 20% to 30% on top of the final tattoo price. The tattoo community usually presents these numbers as the most common tipping amount. But, 20% or 30% are just the basic numbers; you should always tip taking into consideration all the aforementioned factors.

Is it rude to not tip a tattoo artist? ›

Both Gomez and Dim say that tipping isn't essential, but it is a kind way of showing your artist appreciation for their service and for their work. "I don't believe it's necessary for you to provide a tip. In fact, it doesn't make a difference if you choose not to tip — even if you enjoyed the tattoo," says Dim.

Many tattoo artists charge an hourly rate, ranging from $50 to $300 per hour or more, depending on their skill level and reputation. Hourly rates may be more common for custom designs or larger, more detailed pieces.

In 2022, Tattoo Artists are Charging ~$150/hr

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.).

Plus, many artists offer free touch-ups after the tattoo is completed. (Just make sure to tip your artist, even for a complementary touch-up session!)

Cash Is King

Many tattoo shops will ask you to pay cash, so you'll need cash for a tip. In some instances, shops will honor debit and credit cards for the tattoo itself, but you should still tip the artist with cash.

Many people agree that it is customary to tip tattoo artists 15-20% of the total cost of the tattoo.

Just give them what extra you can spare, if you feel like they're cutting you a great deal and you're happy. Give them more etc…. because their price is a higher rate and you're going to be getting a piece that will ultimately be pricey, common etiquette would be 10%. if it was a 500$ or less tattoo i'd tip 20%.

Cash is King: Tattoo artists often prefer cash tips because they receive them immediately and in full. If you're unsure whether the studio accepts credit card tips, it's best to have cash on hand.

Plus, many artists offer free touch-ups after the tattoo is completed. (Just make sure to tip your artist, even for a complementary touch-up session!)