Written by Jim Belt in Tattoo
When you get a tattoo, understanding tipping etiquette is as important as choosing the right design and artist. This article provides tips based on tattoo size, complexity, and service. Use this guide to understand what's expected for tipping tattoo artists.
Tipping etiquette for tattoos suggests giving a tip of 15-20% of the total cost of the tattoo. This is a way to show appreciation for the artist's skill, time, and service provided.
Tipping Customs
Tippping is customary
Summary
- Tipping your tattoo artist is a sign of gratitude for their skilled work.
- The amount you tip reflects the value you place on the artistry and service received.
- Consider tipping as part of the overall budget for your tattoo experience.
On this page:
- Understanding Tipping in Tattoo Industry
- When and How Much to Tip
- Showing Appreciation Beyond Money
- Budgeting for Your Tattoo
- Aftercare and Follow-Up
- Navigating Tipping in Different Scenarios
Understanding Tipping in Tattoo Industry
When you get a tattoo, tipping is a practice that not only shows your appreciation for the artist's skill and dedication but also helps sustain the community-oriented nature of the tattoo industry.
Historical Perspective
Did you know that tipping your tattoo artist is a tradition rooted in the broader service industry? Tattoo shops typically view tips as a standard part of the transaction–much like dining at a restaurant or visiting a hair salon. However, unlike these other services, social media has highlighted the personalized nature of tattooing, often leading clients to feel a stronger impulse to tip well for a service that is both personal and permanent.
Why It's Important
Tipping is a direct way of expressing appreciation for your tattoo artist's time and expertise. Gratuities contribute significantly to their income and acknowledge the creative and technical effort involved in your tattoo. Beyond the financial aspect, a generous tattoo artist tip can foster a positive relationship that encourages artists to continue crafting bespoke pieces. As a rule, people often recommend tipping between 15 to 20% of the tattoo cost, but more if the work exceeds your expectations. In doing so, you're investing in the community and ensuring the vibrancy of this unique art form.
When and How Much to Tip
When you receive a tattoo, the etiquette surrounding tipping can be similar to services like hairdressing or dining out. Understanding when and how much to tip your tattoo artist is an essential part of the tattoo experience.
Standard Tipping Rates
Standard tip rates for tattoo artists generally hover around 20% of the total cost of the service. Just as you would with a server at a restaurant or a hair stylist, acknowledging the personal service you receive from your tattoo artist with a tip is a common practice. If your artist has provided an exceptional service, you might consider a higher percentage to show your appreciation.
Factors Influencing Tip Amount
Several factors can influence the tip amount. Consider the complexity of the design and whether it's a custom design that required additional pre-tattoo artwork. The expertise of the artist can also dictate a higher tip, especially if they have a significant amount of experience or specialization. Reflect on your tattoo experience: if your artist spent extra time ensuring your comfort or executed the tattoo skillfully, your tip could reflect that attentiveness.
When budgeting for your tattoo, remember to include the tip in your total anticipated expense. If you received your tattoo from a Korean tattoo artist, you might be questioning if the tipping practice aligns with their custom. Should you tip them? Considering cultural expectations may guide you on appropriate tipping practices in such instances.
Showing Appreciation Beyond Money
While monetary tips are standard, expressing your gratitude through actions can strengthen the positive relationship with your tattoo artist. These gestures highlight appreciation for their personal artistry and the business they provide.
Gifts and Tokens of Gratitude
A well-thought-out gift can be a heartfelt sign of gratitude. Consider items that reflect your tattoo artist's interests or needs, such as high-quality art supplies or unique accessories related to tattooing. Your token of appreciation shows that you value their work beyond the financial exchange.
Social Media and Online Support
In today's digital age, offering exposure through social media is a powerful way to support your tattoo artist's business. Share photos of your new ink and tag your artist's professional profile or studio page. A well-crafted review on platforms like Yelp or Google can attract potential customers and helps to broaden the artist's clientele. This form of support does not go unnoticed and can contribute significantly to their reputation and success.
Budgeting for Your Tattoo
When preparing for a tattoo, it's important to include tipping as part of the total cost. Consider both the artist's skill and the complexity of the design in your budget to show gratitude for their work.
Incorporating Tips into Tattoo Cost
The price of your tattoo will vary depending on size, complexity, and the artist’s hourly rate. As is standard in tattoo etiquette, tips are a way to express gratitude for the artist’s dedication to their craft. It is customary to tip between 15% to 25% of the tattoo’s total cost. To avoid any financial surprises, calculate the potential tip beforehand and include it as a line item in your budget.
- Example: For a tattoo costing $200, a 20% tip would be $40.
- 15%: $(0.15 \times [Tattoo Cost])
- 20%: $(0.15 \times [Tattoo Cost])
- 25%: $(0.25 \times [Tattoo Cost])
Discussing Tipping with Your Artist
Communication is key, especially regarding your budget and finances. During the consultation, discuss tipping with your artist to understand their expectations. Some artists might have specific policies in place. Clear communication ensures there are no misunderstandings about the price and can help build a good client-artist relationship for future tattoos.
Aftercare and Follow-Up
After you've received your tattoo, proper aftercare is crucial and expressing gratitude is a key part of maintaining a good relationship with your tattoo artist. Showing appreciation can extend beyond a simple 'thank you', and involves actions that support their craft in the tattoo community.
Maintaining a Positive Relationship
To maintain a positive relationship with your tattoo artist, follow their aftercare instructions diligently to ensure your tattoo heals well. This shows respect for their work and dedication to preserving the art they've created on your skin. Exhibit gratitude by returning for any recommended follow-up sessions, and acknowledging the personalized service they provided. If your artist has done exceptional work, make a note to thank them. This could mean booking your next session with them, as continuity is highly valued in the service industry.
Referring New Clients and Giving Back
Referrals are a powerful way to give back and support your tattoo artist's business. If you're pleased with the aftercare and final result, referring new clients helps build their reputation and supports the community. Share your positive experience and recommend their specialized services. Remember, your referrals are a testament to the artist's skill and are a significant form of gratitude in the tattoo industry.
Navigating Tipping in Different Scenarios
When it comes to tattoos, tipping etiquette can vary depending on the size of the tattoo and the nature of the session. It's about showing appreciation for the artist's skill and time.
Tipping for Small vs. Large Tattoos
Small Tattoos: A small tattoo might seem quick and simple, but your tattoo artist still puts in a lot of effort and expertise. Consider tipping at least 20% of the total cost.
Large Tattoos: The work that goes into large tattoos is extensive, often requiring multiple sessions. It's customary to tip for each session, perhaps a slightly larger amount due to the complexity and time involved.
Group Tattoo Sessions
In a group tattoo session, each person should consider the individual attention they received. You might decide on tipping together, or each tip separately based on your personal tattoo experience. Whether as a group or individual, the standard tip amount of around 20% is a good benchmark.
Remember, tipping your tattoo artist is a gesture of gratitude for their personalised service within the industry.
Published: 06-01-2024