Tattoo Pricing Explained
Tattoo pricing is typically based on how long your tattooist estimates it will take to complete your design, multiplied by their individual daily or hourly rate. Artists set their rates according to various factors, including their years of experience, the studio they work in, and how far in advance they are booked. Since every artist works and prices differently, I’ve outlined my approach below to help you know what to expect.
Small and Medium Tattoo Pricing
For the smallest and simplest tattoos, usually smaller than palm-sized, my minimum charge is £100. This can be paid by cash or card at the studio. You may also need to pay a deposit to secure your appointment, which will be deducted from the cost of your tattoo.
Medium-sized tattoos are priced individually and typically include designs that will take less than a day. These range from palm-sized to about the size of a small plate, with a maximum charge of £600. Factors influencing the price include detail, placement, size, color/shading, and design complexity. Since I work with various styles and techniques, tattoos of similar sizes can differ greatly in the time and skill required, and thus in cost.
Larger, Multi-Session Tattoo Pricing
For larger tattoos that take more than a day, I estimate costs based on full-day rates. The time needed depends on many variables, including the size and complexity of the design, your skin’s response, and how well you can sit during the session. Estimates are always approximate, so the actual tattoo may take more or less time—and cost—than initially quoted. My day rate for larger tattoos is £600 per day.
Design Fee or Deposit?
Because many of my designs are custom-crafted, the design process can take longer than the tattooing itself. For larger or cover-up tattoos, especially multi-session projects, I charge a non-refundable design fee of £150. This fee serves as a deposit for your final session but does not go toward the cost of your tattoo.
The design fee covers an additional consultation, separate from the initial one, where we discuss your design in greater detail. More information on this process can be found here.
For smaller designs or flash tattoos (pre-drawn designs), I charge a standard deposit of £100, which will be applied to the tattoo's cost. On the day of your appointment, you’ll pay the quoted price minus the deposit.
When Will I See My Design?
For most projects, I aim to send your design about a week before your appointment, giving you time to request tweaks. I’m happy to make changes, and specific feedback with reference images is always helpful. Minor adjustments can often be made on the day of your session, but larger revisions or last-minute reworks outside our initial consultation may require rescheduling.
Keep in mind that tattoo designs can look different from the final tattoo, as certain effects aren’t replicable in a drawing. If you’re unsure about anything, please feel free to ask.
The Legal Stuff
Deposits will be forfeited if:
- You miss an appointment or reschedule without 48 hours’ notice,
- Arrive more than 30 minutes late,
- Reschedule three or more times for the same tattoo, or
- Fail to rebook within 60 days of a canceled appointment.
Billing Policy
I’ll provide a rough estimate during our consultation. However, adjustments to size or design afterward may affect the final price.
For multi-session tattoos, I may offer full-day or half-day rates (£600 or £300, respectively). Full-day sessions typically run from 10 am to 5 pm, with about six hours dedicated to tattooing and preparation.
A typical full-day session includes:
- Design adjustments and style confirmation,
- Stencil application, adjustment, and/or freehand drawing,
- Setup, medical assessment, and consent forms,
- Breaks you request and a quick lunch break (about 30 minutes),
- Tattoo application and wrap-up.
You must be 18 to get tattooed. No exceptions.
IN ALL CASES PHOTO ID WILL BE ASKED FOR
