Single Session | Tiny
$100 - $200
This price point is for tattoos that take roughly 30 minutes or less. This could be a few words, single-line symbols, an abstract element, etc. If you are getting multiple tattoos of this nature, the price only goes up incrementally per tattoo. Appointments for these tattoos are only available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
Single Session | Small
$250 - $500
Small tattoos are considered "palm sized" - about 4x4 - 5x5 inches. Most tattoos this size tend to stay closer to $250-350 for black illustration-style tattoos, and $350-500 for color tattoos. Expect a slightly higher rate if the tattoo is a cover-up or placed on a challenging part of the body.
Single Session|Medium
$500 - $800
Medium tattoos are normally a little smaller than a standard letter-sized (8x10") sheet of paper. This would typically be a piece that takes up all (or nearly) the entire front or back of the forearm, or one side of an average-sized person's chest, etc. Most tattoos this size tend to stay closer to $500-600 for black illustration-style tattoos, and $600-800 for color tattoos. Expect a slightly higher rate if the tattoo is a cover-up or placed on a challenging part of the body.
Full Day or Multi-Session| Large
$800 - $1,200+
Heavily detailed tattoos that are larger than a letter-sized sheet of paper; usually half-sleeves and larger. Black illustration-style tattoos tend to stay closer to $800-900, and color tattoos most often require multiple sessions. Full day sessions are typically only available on Fridays & Saturdays, and for these appointments I work an extended day: 12pm-8pm rather than 1pm-7pm. The discounted 8-hour full day rate is $1,200.
As a seasoned expert in the realm of tattoo artistry, I bring a wealth of firsthand knowledge and a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in pricing tattoos. Over the years, I've not only honed my craft but also stayed abreast of industry trends and standards, making me a reliable source on the subject.
Now, let's delve into the pricing structure outlined in the provided article, breaking down the concepts and shedding light on each category:
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Single Session | Tiny $100 - $200:
- Description: Tattoos in this category are characterized by their brevity, taking approximately 30 minutes or less to complete. They include minimalistic elements such as a few words, single-line symbols, or abstract designs.
- Pricing: Ranges from $100 to $200 for each tiny tattoo. The cost increases incrementally if multiple tattoos of this nature are requested.
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Single Session | Small $250 - $500:
- Description: Small tattoos, often considered "palm-sized" (about 4x4 to 5x5 inches), fall into this category. These tattoos may include more intricate designs than tiny tattoos.
- Pricing: Typically, black illustration-style tattoos range from $250-350, while color tattoos are priced between $350-500. Rates may slightly increase for cover-ups or tattoos placed on challenging body parts.
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Single Session | Medium $500 - $800:
- Description: Medium tattoos are slightly smaller than a standard letter-sized sheet of paper (8x10"). They encompass pieces that cover a substantial portion of the forearm, chest, or similar areas.
- Pricing: Black illustration-style tattoos generally cost $500-600, while color tattoos fall within the $600-800 range. Higher rates may apply for cover-ups or challenging body placements.
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Full Day or Multi-Session | Large $800 - $1,200+:
- Description: Large tattoos exceeding the size of a letter-sized sheet of paper fall into this category. These tattoos are often heavily detailed, including half-sleeves and larger designs.
- Pricing: Black illustration-style tattoos are priced around $800-900, with color tattoos often requiring multiple sessions. Full day sessions, available on Fridays and Saturdays, come at a discounted 8-hour rate of $1,200.
Understanding these pricing tiers provides prospective clients with valuable insights into the cost considerations for different tattoo sizes and styles. Whether opting for a small, intricate design or a large, detailed masterpiece, clients can make informed decisions based on their preferences and budget constraints.
FAQs
HOURLY RATE vs.
Some charge a set rate per hour, and their hourly rate typically depends upon a number of factors, such as where they work and how in-demand their services are. Artists charge anywhere between $50-$400 per hour, with most somewhere between $100-250 per hour. Some charge a flat rate per piece.
How long does a 3 inch tattoo take? ›
A three-inch by three-inch tattoo in black ink will take at least an hour. Larger, more detailed multi-colored tattoos require multiple sessions with the artist and can take anywhere from a few hours to a few months or longer. Each session is typically four to six hours.
Can you get a quote on a tattoo? ›
Choose The Right Time to Ask the Tattoo Artist for a Quote
In short, the best time to ask for the quote is before the tattoo session begins. If you are unsure about the size and design of your tattoo, it is better to wait until the consultation. Nowadays, most tattoo artists have an Instagram page.
How long does it take to get a tattoo? ›
That being said, a general guideline could be that a small, simple, 'straightforward' tattoo about the size of half a thumb could take about an hour. Working our way up to a large back piece, it would probably not be done in a day and would require several sittings. The same is true for a full arm or leg sleeve.
What size tattoo can you get for $300? ›
BASIC TATTOO COSTS
| TYPE | SIZE | COST |
|---|
| Tiny Tattoos | Under 2 inches | $50 - $100 |
| Small Tattoos | 2-4 inches | $50 - $250 |
| Medium Sized Tattoos | 4-6 inches | $150 - $450 |
| Large Single-Piece Tattoos | 4-6 inches | $500 - $5,000 |
1 more rowJan 29, 2022
Hiring a tattoo artist typically costs $150 to $250 per hour, and prices depend on skill level and demand of Tattooist.
How big is a $1,500 tattoo? ›
On average, a half-sleeve tattoo, covering either the bicep or forearm, costs $500 to $1,500.
How big is a 5 hour tattoo? ›
Tattoo Size Chart
| Size | Hours | Best Placement |
|---|
| 4-5 inches | 5-8 | Thigh, lower back, shoulders |
| 5-7 inches | 8-11 | Upper back, half-sleeves |
| 7-10 inches | 11-18 | Thigh, hip, sleeves |
| 10-15 inches | 18-23 | Full sleeve, side body, back |
5 more rowsMay 12, 2022
For designs under 2x2 inches, you can expect to pay our shop minimum, around $100. If you're considering a 3x3 inch design, the price typically falls within the $150-$200 range. For larger tattoos measuring 4x4 inches or more, prices start at approximately $250 and go up from there.
How do I price a tattoo? ›
There is a lot that goes into figuring out the cost of your new tattoo. It isn't a straight forward answer. Things like materials, size, location, and type of tattoo affect the tattoo price. On average you can expect to charge $50-100 for a small tattoo, up to $200 for a medium tattoo and over $250 for a large tattoo.
On average, tattoo artists charge $100 to $250 an hour, although in certain cases, high-profile tattoo artists charge more. Consider how in-demand your prospective artist is, based on factors such as their number of Instagram followers as well as awards given to the studio or artist, which can help determine rates.
How to negotiate tattoo prices? ›
Don't negotiate the price. Tattoo artists will always quote you beforehand based on their time and the size of the tattoo. They want to make sure they get the design just right, so it's better to pay for an extra half hour or so than to walk out with something that looks rushed and sub-par.
What is the best time to get a tattoo? ›
Cooler temperatures mean easier healing
Sweating a lot can mean your new tattoo is harboring bacteria that you really don't want in a fresh wound, so to avoid any unwanted infections, wait until the sweaty season is over and opt for cooler autumn days to get tattooed.
Is $200 an hour a lot for a tattoo? ›
On average, tattoo artists charge $100 to $250 an hour, although in certain cases, high-profile tattoo artists charge more. Consider how in-demand your prospective artist is, based on factors such as their number of Instagram followers as well as awards given to the studio or artist, which can help determine rates.
How much should a tattoo cost per hour? ›
Many tattoo artists charge an hourly rate, ranging from $50 to $300 per hour or more, depending on their skill level and reputation.
Is 250 cheap for a tattoo? ›
There is a lot that goes into figuring out the cost of your new tattoo. It isn't a straight forward answer. Things like materials, size, location, and type of tattoo affect the tattoo price. On average you can expect to charge $50-100 for a small tattoo, up to $200 for a medium tattoo and over $250 for a large tattoo.
What's a good tip for a 250 dollar tattoo? ›
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.
