Tattoo Artist Tip Calculator
Calculate appropriate tips for tattoo artists and piercers
Tattoo Artist Tipping Guide
Tipping tattoo artists is standard practice and expected. Good tips build relationships for future work and show appreciation for their craft.
Tattoo Tipping Standards
- 15-20%: Standard tip for quality work
- 20-25%: Excellent work, complex design, long session
- 25-30%+: Exceptional artistry, custom design, or artist went above expectations
- Minimum Tip: $50-100 even for small tattoos
- Large Projects: Can tip per session or lump sum at completion
Special Tipping Considerations
- Multi-Session Tattoos: You can tip 15-20% per session OR save and give larger tip at final session.
- Shop Owner vs Artist: Traditionally owners aren’t tipped, but modern etiquette is to tip 15-20% regardless.
- Touch-ups: If free, tip $50-100 or 15-20% of original cost to show appreciation.
- Custom Design Work: If artist creates custom design, tip extra or give separate design fee tip.
Piercing Tips
- Body Piercings: $5-20 depending on complexity (simple ear piercing vs complex body piercing).
- Multiple Piercings: $5-10 per piercing.
- Jewelry Changes: $5-10 for service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about tipping for this service
Tip 15-20% for quality work, 20-25% for excellent work, and 25-30%+ for exceptional artistry. Minimum tip should be $50-100 even for small tattoos. For a $500 tattoo, tip $100-150 (20-30%).
If touch-ups are free, tip $50-100 or 15-20% of the original tattoo cost. The artist is still using time and supplies. This maintains a good relationship for future work.
You can tip 15-20% at each session OR save and give a larger total tip at the final session. Either is acceptable. Discuss with your artist what they prefer.
Traditionally owners weren't tipped, but modern etiquette is to tip 15-20% regardless. Many owner-artists now expect tips. When unsure, always tip.
Tip $5-20 depending on piercing complexity. Simple ear piercings warrant $5-10, while complex body piercings deserve $10-20. Multiple piercings: tip $5-10 per piercing.