Tattooing is a highly skilled service industry. Just like you would tip a server for good service at a restaurant, it's customary to tip your tattoo artist for their time, skill, and artistry. A tip shows your appreciation for the permanent piece of art they've created on your body. It acknowledges the hours spent designing, preparing, and executing your tattoo, as well as the cost of supplies and studio overhead.
How Much Should You Tip for a Tattoo?
The standard tipping range for a tattoo is between 15% and 25% of the total cost. However, this can vary based on several factors.
15-20%: This is a solid, standard tip for a job well done where you are happy with the final result and the overall experience.
20-25%: A tip in this range is appropriate for an exceptional experience. Perhaps the artist went above and beyond on a complex custom design, was incredibly patient, or provided an outstandingly clean and comfortable environment.
30% or more: For a truly mind-blowing piece of art or an artist who worked extensively with you on a large-scale project (like a full back piece or sleeve), a higher tip is a great way to show immense gratitude.
Example Calculation
Let's say your new tattoo cost $500, and you were very happy with the artist's work and want to leave a 20% tip.
Tattoo Cost: $500
Tip Percentage: 20%
Tip Amount Calculation: $500 * 0.20 = $100
Total Cost: $500 (Tattoo) + $100 (Tip) = $600
In this scenario, you would pay the artist a total of $600.
Factors That Influence Your Tip Amount
When deciding on the final tip amount, consider the entire process:
Design Complexity: Did the artist spend a lot of freehand drawing time or make multiple revisions to a custom design for you?
Size and Placement: Larger tattoos and those in difficult-to-reach spots require more skill, time, and physical effort from the artist.
Artist's Experience: You are paying for years of honed skill and artistic talent.
Studio Cleanliness and Professionalism: A clean, safe, and welcoming environment is a key part of the service.
Using our calculator can help you quickly determine an appropriate tip based on the cost of your tattoo and your level of satisfaction. It's a simple way to ensure you're properly thanking your artist for their permanent mark on your life.
function setTip(percentage) {
document.getElementById('tipPercentage').value = percentage;
}
function calculateTattooTip() {
var costInput = document.getElementById('tattooCost');
var tipInput = document.getElementById('tipPercentage');
var peopleInput = document.getElementById('numberOfPeople');
var resultDiv = document.getElementById('result');
var tattooCost = parseFloat(costInput.value);
var tipPercentage = parseFloat(tipInput.value);
var numberOfPeople = parseInt(peopleInput.value, 10);
if (isNaN(tattooCost) || tattooCost <= 0) {
resultDiv.innerHTML = 'Please enter a valid tattoo cost.';
return;
}
if (isNaN(tipPercentage) || tipPercentage < 0) {
resultDiv.innerHTML = 'Please enter a valid tip percentage.';
return;
}
if (isNaN(numberOfPeople) || numberOfPeople <= 0) {
resultDiv.innerHTML = 'Please enter a valid number of people.';
return;
}
var tipAmount = tattooCost * (tipPercentage / 100);
var totalCost = tattooCost + tipAmount;
var costPerPerson = totalCost / numberOfPeople;
var resultHTML = 'Tip Amount: $' + tipAmount.toFixed(2) + '';
resultHTML += 'Total Cost: $' + totalCost.toFixed(2) + ";
if (numberOfPeople > 1) {
resultHTML += '';
resultHTML += 'Total Per Person: $' + costPerPerson.toFixed(2) + '';
}
resultDiv.innerHTML = resultHTML;
}