How Much to Tip a Tattoo Artist: Do You Tip and How Much? - 🫰 GiveHowMuch (2024)

Written by Jim Belt in Tattoo

When it comes to showing your tattoo artist appreciation for their work, tipping is a common practice. This article explains if and how much to tip tattoo artists. It provides percentage tips based on design size and complexity.

The standard tip for a tattoo artist is typically 15-20% of the total cost of the tattoo. This is a way to show appreciation for the artist's time, talent, and service.

Tipping Customs

Tippping is customary

Summary

  • Tipping is a way to express gratitude specifically in the tattoo industry.
  • Several factors impact how much to tip, and there's guidance available to help decide.
  • Besides tips, support for your tattoo artist can also be shown through referrals and promotion.
How Much to Tip a Tattoo Artist: Do You Tip and How Much? - 🫰 GiveHowMuch (1)

On this page:

  1. Understanding Tipping Etiquette
  2. Calculating the Tip
  3. Factors Affecting Tip Amount
  4. Additional Ways to Show Appreciation
  5. Payment Methods and Practices
  6. Tattoo Tipping FAQs

Understanding Tipping Etiquette

When you get a tattoo, it's customary to tip your artist, much like you would tip waiters in a restaurant. It's a gesture that not only shows appreciation for their service but also acknowledges their artistic skill.

Tipping Customs in the Tattoo Industry

In the tattoo industry, it's typical to tip at least 15% of the total cost of your session; yet, many opt to give more. For instance, if you spend $600 on your tattoo, a tip of $90 to $120 is within the expected range. Good service, custom designs, and personal satisfaction can justify tipping at the higher end. To understand the tipping customs among tattoo artists, it's helpful to consider how intricate and demanding the artwork can be.

Comparison to Other Service Industry Tips

In comparison to other service industries, a tattoo artist's tip may align with what you'd give a hairdresser or a massage therapist. The typical 20% you'd leave at a restaurant also translates well into the tattooing scene, assuming the service met or surpassed your expectations. Just like dining out or getting your hair styled, if you're thrilled with the service, tipping generously is a way to show it.

Calculating the Tip

When deciding on a tip for your tattoo artist, consider the value of the artistry and personal service you're receiving. Tipping is a way to show your appreciation for their time, skill, and dedication to your piece.

Percentage of the Service Cost

Tipping MethodSuggested Tip Amount or Percentage
Percentage of Service Cost20% of total tattoo cost
Flat Amount for Small Tattoos$20 to $50
Percentage for Large/Complex TattoosAdjust percentage to reflect service value

The most common approach to tipping is to offer a percentage of the total cost of your tattoo. The industry standard is typically around 20%. For instance, if your tattoo costs $300, a 20% tip would be $60.

Flat Amount vs. Percentage

You might prefer to give a flat amount as a tip instead of a percentage. This can be more straightforward, especially for smaller tattoos. As a guideline, consider a tip of $20 to $50 for smaller work. However, for larger and more complex tattoos, a percentage may better reflect the value of the service provided.

Dealing with Multiple Sessions

For tattoos that require multiple sessions, it’s important to budget for tipping each time. While you could wait and tip a lump sum at the end, tipping after each session ensures that the artist is recognized for their ongoing effort and time invested in your tattoo.

Factors Affecting Tip Amount

When deciding on a tip amount for your tattoo artist, consider the intricacy of the design, the artist's experience, and local customs. These elements play a pivotal role in how much you may want to show your appreciation for their service.

Tattoo Complexity and Custom Designs

Custom designs often require more time, creativity, and hard work from the artist. A complex tattoo taking multiple sessions could mean you tip more to reflect the intensive effort put into your personalized ink. If the artist has created a unique design just for you, tipping generously is a good way to recognize their passion and commitment to your tattoo.

Artist Experience and Reputation

An artist's reputation and level of experience in the industry can influence how much you might tip. Highly sought-after artists who have spent years honing their craft may warrant a higher tip for their exceptional work and expertise. As they often deliver beyond expectations, their dedication to the art is reflected in their pricing and the commission they earn.

Regional Tipping Standards

Different regions have varying customs when it comes to tipping. In some places, it may be customary to tip at least 15-20% of the total cost, while in others, like Scotland, tipping etiquette can differ. It's important to consider these regional standards to ensure you're following local practices and showing respect for the artist's work in their cultural context.

Additional Ways to Show Appreciation

Beyond monetary tips, showing your tattoo artist appreciation can come in various personal and public forms. These gestures let your artist know their work is not just financially rewarded, but genuinely valued.

Gifts and Tokens of Gratitude

While cash is king, sometimes a personal gift can convey your gratitude in a unique way. If you've developed a rapport with your tattoo artist, consider gifts that align with their interests or needs. For example, a piece of artwork, a book on tattoo designs or even tattoo care supplies can be a thoughtful way to say thanks. Remember, it's not about the price tag but the sentiment behind the gift.

Social Media and Online Reviews

In today's digital age, a five-star review on platforms like Yelp or Google can be incredibly beneficial. Taking the time to write a sincere and enthusiastic review is a powerful way of saying thanks. Additionally, a social media shoutout can also boost your tattoo artist's visibility and attract new clients. Sharing a picture of your new ink and tagging the artist's social media account shows your personal endorsement of their talent.

Payment Methods and Practices

When it comes to showing appreciation for a tattoo artist's work, your choice of payment method for their tip can be as important as the amount. Let's explore the options and why some methods might be better than others.

Cash Tips vs. Credit Card Payments

Cash tips may seem traditional, but they remain a mainstay in the tattoo industry. When you hand over a cash tip, you're ensuring the artist receives their gratitude immediately. On the other hand, credit card payments often require processing time and might involve additional fees. If you're unsure, ask your artist or the business how they prefer to handle tips.

Why Cash is Often Preferred

Cash is king for several reasons in the tattoo world. It's not only a matter of tradition but practicality. Cash ensures that artists get their tips directly, and it helps them manage personal finances with more immediacy. Moreover, dealing with cash can simplify tax reporting for both the artist and the business. Consider bringing at least the tip portion of your payment in cash to support your artist's preferred payment process.

Tattoo Tipping FAQs

When getting a tattoo, it's not just about choosing the right design or artist. Understanding the etiquette of tipping can enhance your tattooing experience and show appreciation for the artist's work.

Should You Always Tip a Tattoo Artist?

Yes, you should consider tipping your tattoo artist. Much like the service industry, tipping is a way to express your satisfaction and acknowledge the personal service and skill involved. A standard tip is often between 15% to 20% of the total cost, but feel free to adjust that amount based on the comfort and quality of service provided.

How to Approach Tipping for Walk-in Tattoos

For walk-in tattoos, the tipping principle remains the same. Although these appointments are not scheduled in advance, the artist still provides a professional service that requires time and effort. After your session, a 15% to 20% tip is appropriate, but always consider the complexity and time spent on your tattoo.

Addressing Unsatisfactory Tattoo Experience

If you're not satisfied with your tattoo, it's okay to reflect this in your tip, but address the issue directly and politely with the artist first. It's important to communicate your concerns; they might offer to fix the issue or explain the situation. Tipping is not obligated if the service was truly unsatisfactory, but always try to resolve any issues amicably.

Published: 06-01-2024

How Much to Tip a Tattoo Artist: Do You Tip and How Much? - 🫰 GiveHowMuch (2024)
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